UKHRUL: India witnessed yet another proud and significant moment in the sporting community as Ariha Pangambam clinched gold in the senior women’s individual event of the 10th Aerobic Gymnastics Asian Championships, held in Tagaytay City, Philippines, from August 4 to August 7.
Pangambam, scoring a total of 19.100 points, secured the title of becoming the first Indian gymnast to top the continental podium in this event. The 22-year-old’s winning performance included 8.650 points for artistry, 7.600 for execution and 2.850 for difficulty.
The Gymnastics Federation of India president Sudhir Mital stated, “A great achievement for us. Did very well. Kudos to her and her coach,” reported PTI.
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Manipur chief minister Yumnam Khemchand congratulated the athlete on Facebook, stating, “Your remarkable achievement is a moment of immense pride for Manipur and the entire nation. May you continue to inspire generations and bring many more laurels to India.”
The tournament witnessed participation of junior and senior aerobic gymnasts from Cambodia, Chinese Taipei, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, South Korea, Thailand, Vietnam and host Philippines.
Pangambam, who was a student of Kendriya Vidyalaya, Imphal, first represented India when she was in class XI at the Aerobic Gymnastics World Championship (2016) in Incheon, Korea. She then secured third position at the Aerobic Gymnastics Asia Cup (2018) in Mongolia, and went on to clinch gold at the Aerobic Gymnastics National Championship (2017).
