Defending champion Kezhaseluo-o Pienyü Kewhimia retained his title as the best Angami wrestler in the 52nd Angami Sports Association (ASA) Wrestling Meet 2024, held at the Kohima local ground on Saturday. The reigning champion Pienyü defeated Kezhavizo Thevo in the final match to clinch the title at the historic Khuochiezie (local ground) in Kohima, while Keviser Dzüvichü beat Vaphizo Rutsa to secure the third position.
The champion Pienyu received a cash prize of Rs 2,50,000 along with a belt and citation, while Kezhavizo Thevo received Rs 1,70,000 for the second position. Keviser Dzüvichü and Vaphizo Rutsa were awarded Rs 1,30,000 and Rs 1,00,000 for the third and fourth positions, respectively.
A total of 60 wrestlers from four units – the Northern Angami Sports Association (NASA), Southern Angami Sports Association (SASA), Western Angami Youth Organization (WAYO), and Chakhro Youth Organization (CYO) – participated in the championship.
Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio graced the occasion as the chief guest and Member of Legislative Assembly Dr Tseilhoutuo Rhütso graced the valedictory program as the guest of honor.
Rio proposes establishment of district-based wrestling associations
In his address, Chief Minister Rio rallied wrestlers to excel in their sport, aiming to elevate it to greater heights and enhance its appeal. Emphasizing the significance of belt wrestling as an Asian discipline, Rio stressed the importance of preserving and promoting indigenous games while advocating for the adaptation of international standards. He urged for the incorporation of international rules into Freestyle Wrestling and Belt Wrestling in Nagaland, while also refining indigenous regulations to ensure competitiveness at the global level.
Furthermore, Chief Minister Rio announced Nagaland’s plan to host the Asian Belt Wrestling event scheduled for November this year, marking a significant milestone for the state’s sporting community. He emphasized the unifying nature of Naga wrestling, advocating for its expansion beyond tribal boundaries, thereby fostering inclusivity and unity. Rio proposed the establishment of district-based wrestling associations, transcending tribal affiliations, and advocated for the active participation of women, citing it as a step towards democracy and justice. He envisioned a structured competition format starting from the district level and progressing to the state level.
In closing, Chief Minister Rio conveyed his best wishes to the wrestlers, hoping for a safe and injury-free competition while fostering unity and camaraderie among participants and spectators alike.
34-year old Meguovizo Visenyü was the oldest wrestler while Therhüjavi Terhüja, 17, was the youngest wrestler of the event.
The first and second prize consisting of Rs 250,000 and Rs 170,000 were sponsored by Angami Sports Association.
The third prize consisting of Rs 1,30,000 was sponsored by Dzüvinuo Theünuo, Director, Information and Public Relations.
The 4th Prize with Rs 1,00,000 was sponsored by Neingumeü Kire, Chief Engineer (Mechanical), Public Works Department.
The quarter-finalist prize money of Rs 20,000 each was sponsored by Megolhu Dolie, Additional Director, Youth Resources and Sports.
The Best Tactics Prize Money of Rs 15,000 was sponsored by Kezhalelie Keretsü, former ASA and NWA champion.
During the inaugural, Er Lhoubeizo Kesiyie delivered the presidential address. The program was chaired by Seyievilhou Nagi, while Rev. Vicavor Krose, Mezoma Baptist church pastor blessed the program with invocation.
Lita Kro-u and Lidi Kro-u Kohima village presented folk tune while Visakrol Vitsu administered the oath.
Later in the evening, valedictory program of the 52nd Angami Sports Association wrestling meet was graced by MLA Dr Tseilhoutuo Rhutso at Khuochiezie (Local Ground) Kohima.
In his brief address, MLA Dr. Tseilhoutuo Rhutso highlighted the history of belt wrestling, emphasizing its significance among the Tenyimias. He elaborated that in the olden days, disputes between individuals were often resolved through wrestling matches. He underscored belt wrestling as a unifying game that brings together all Tenyimia communities, urging everyone to promote the sport across different tribes.
Supplementing the Chief Minister’s earlier remarks, he noted the growing popularity of belt wrestling and freestyle wrestling, advocating for their expansion to the international level.
Meanwhile Kedowhesie Meyase declared 18 ASA wrestlers for the NWA meet 2024 which is scheduled to be held at IG stadium Kohima on 26th March 2024.
90-year old Mamho Chakrüno was the Ambassador of the wrestling meet.
