DIMAPUR, MAY 7 (NPN): The District Athletics Associations of Kohima, Dimapur, Chümoukedima, Peren, Noklak and Wokha commemorated “World Kids Athletics Day 2026” on May 7 in collaboration with the Nagaland Athletics Association. The programme was celebrated simultaneously across various districts of Nagaland along with the rest of the world, reaffirming the state’s commitment to promoting and developing grassroots athletics.
The celebration aimed to encourage children to actively participate in sports and physical activities from an early age while instilling values of fitness, teamwork, discipline and healthy living. Fun-based and age-appropriate athletics activities and competitions were organised under different age categories, creating an atmosphere of enthusiasm, excitement and learning.
As part of the official calendar of the Athletics Federation of India, the event formed a nationwide initiative to promote athletics among children and strengthen grassroots sports development. Across the participating districts, around 700 children took part in the programme, which also saw active involvement from coaches, technical officials, volunteers, parents and well-wishers.
The Nagaland Athletics Association expressed appreciation to all district associations for their efforts and commitment, while also acknowledging the support of schools, parents, volunteers and local communities in making the celebration meaningful.
Meanwhile, the Mokokchung Athletics Association postponed its scheduled programme due to poor weather conditions, informing that the event would be conducted at a later date subject to favourable conditions.
Reiterating its commitment, the Nagaland Athletics Association assured that it will continue to strengthen grassroots athletics and nurture young talents across the state through regular developmental programmes, competitions and awareness initiatives in collaboration with its affiliated district units.
In Wokha, a total of 64 young athletes from various schools participated in the programme, which aimed to promote grassroots participation in athletics, encourage physical activity among children, and identify emerging talent. Competitions were held across three age categories: Under-8 (50m race), Under-10 (standing long jump), and Under-12 (javelin throw).
Winners were awarded medals and certificates, while all participants received certificates of participation.
The programme concluded with the support of schools, officials, volunteers and well-wishers. The WAA expressed gratitude to all contributors and acknowledged the guidance and support of the Nagaland Athletics Association in ensuring the smooth conduct of the event.
Meanwhile in Chümoukedima, the Chümoukedima Athletic Association organised World Kids Athletics Day at St. Joseph Higher Secondary School under the aegis of the Nagaland Athletics Association.
A total of 90 young athletes participated across Under-12, Under-10 and Under-8 categories for both boys and girls. Competitions included Shot Put, Long Jump, and the 50 Metre Race.
In the U-12 Boys Shot Put, Sunjai Kumar secured first place with a throw of 8.48m, followed by Bendangzulo Longkumer and Neilhousalie Rame.
In U-12 Girls Shot Put, Apenla Sangtam won with a throw of 5.95m. In the U-10 Long Jump, Sumo P clinched first in the boys’ category with 2.60m, while Lucy topped the girls’ category with an equal distance of 2.60m. In the U-8 50 Metre Race, Kupuka Rouvin Swu won the boys’ category with 8.70 seconds, while Somaksha emerged first in the girls’ category clocking 9.81 seconds.
The programme was chaired by Imli Sunup Ao, with invocation and exhortation delivered by Father George Rino, who encouraged young athletes to cultivate perseverance, discipline and determination in both sports and academics. A brief note on the significance of World Kids Athletics Day was presented by Tokuho Kibami.
The event witnessed participation from children, parents, teachers and officials, promoting fitness, discipline, and sportsmanship among young athletes. The organisers expressed gratitude to the school administration, volunteers and supporters for their contribution to the successful conduct of the programme.
