Nlumrai Hegwang from Mpai village emerged as the champion after defeating Peinachi, also from Mpai village in the final of the 27th Zeliang Wrestling Championship organised by the Zeliang Wrestling Association at GHSS ground, Jalukie Town, Peren on March 9.
According to a DIPR report, winning the title, Nlumrai received a cash prize of Rs. 80,000, while 1st runner-up Peinachi received Rs. 50,000. Suiriepeu from Kezanglwa village and Isapsi from Kendung village secured 3rd and 4th positions along with Rs. 30,000 and Rs. 20,000 respectively. The quarter finalists were also awarded Rs. 5,000 each.
Gracing the event as the special guest, advisor Urban Development & Municipal Affairs, Zhaleo Rio said Naga wrestling is one of the oldest traditional sports of the Nagas and in earlier days, it was played mainly among three Naga tribes namely Angami, Chakhesang and Zeliang to settle differences between parties during disputes. He said it is the inherent duty of these three tribes to take the sport to another level and encourage among other Naga tribes as well.
Mentioning that the present State government under the leadership of the chief minister was giving special attention to promote young and talented sportspersons by way of providing training and coaching to them, the advisor added that it is the collective responsibility of Sports Associations, village authorities, student’s union and parents to support the government and provide guidance to the youngsters and also let them take advantage of the policies and programmes of the government.
To the young wrestlers, he said that there is no substitute for hard work and to excel in the field of sports, perspiration and commitment is required, therefore, he encouraged them to maintain discipline and display true sporting spirit. Guest of honour, Iherie Ndang who is also the vice president of NDPP (CEB) in his speech stressed on how to take the Zeliang wrestling forward. He also encouraged the young wrestlers to be self-disciplined as it is the key to success.
Earlier, the inaugural session was chaired by advisor ZWA, Perangteilu and hoisting of ZWA flag by the special guest, followed by presidential address delivered by ZWA president, Ada Nsanglung. ZWA advisor, Namcaulakpe administered oath to 45 wrestlers from four zones: Northern, Eastern, Western and Southern, while vote of thanks was proposed by general secretary ZWA, Dileugi. The prizes were given away by associate pastor JTLBC, Ihusing Liegise.