Mokokchung Athletics bags 12 medals at Nagaland Junior Championships

Imlinungba Kichu to represent Nagaland at East Zone Junior meet in Ranchi

The Mokokchung Athletic Association (MAA), one of the youngest athletics bodies in Nagaland, made a strong mark at the 2nd Nagaland Junior Athletics Championships held in Kohima on September 10, 2025, securing 12 medals out of 19 participants from Mokokchung. Altogether 5 District Athletic Associations participated – Kohima, Dimapur, Mokokchung, Noklak and Mon.

Among the standout performers, Imlinungba Kichu, who won gold in the under-16 boys’ 60m race, has been selected to represent Nagaland Athletics at the upcoming East Zone Junior Athletics Meet in Ranchi, Jharkhand.

“A big achievement” for Mokokchung

Speaking to Mokokchung Times, Rongsentoshi Jamir, President of the Mokokchung Athletic Association, called the feat a “big achievement” considering the association was competing at the state junior level for the first time.

“It is a huge push for Mokokchung at a time when sports are being prioritized both by the Government of Nagaland and the Government of India,” he said.

Officially launched in 2023, the MAA has faced challenges, especially financial ones. “Athletics is one of the most expensive disciplines and we are not financially stable. But parents and sports lovers alike came forward to help us, for which we are very grateful,” Jamir added.

On athletics as a career, he said there is a growing realization among parents, school administrations and students that opportunities extend beyond academics.

“Despite athletics being the oldest discipline, for Mokokchung it is still new. But with initiatives like Khelo India, we can see that there is a bright future in sports and athletics,” he noted.

Medal tally for Mokokchung Athletic Association

• Gold:

1. Lanutemjen Kichu – Under-14 boys Triathlon A
2. Imlinungba Kichu – Under-16 boys 60m race

• Silver:

1. Imjungsunep Ponger – Under-16 boys 600m race
2. Sentionen Jamir – Under-18 boys Shot put
3. Meyijung T. Jamir – Under-16 girls 600m race
4. Imnasenla – Under-18 girls 100m race
5. Imnasenla – Under-18 girls 200m race

• Bronze:

1. Arenlong – Under-14 boys Triathlon A
2. Lanuonen Jamir – Under-14 boys Triathlon B
3. Imliwar Jamir – Under-14 boys Triathlon C
4. Sungjemyongla Jamir – Under-14 girls Triathlon B
5. Meyijung T. Jamir – Under-16 girls 60m race