KOHIMA, Oct 21: Nagaland has stepped up its preparations for the 39th National Games 2027, with 14 wrestlers winning gold medals at the state-level championship-cum-selection trials held at Viswema, Kohima.
The Nagaland Wrestling Association (NWA) conducted the trials in freestyle, Greco-Roman and women’s wrestling at the Multi-Purpose Hall on Tuesday, as the state begins identifying athletes for the national sporting event.
The championship, organised in collaboration with the Nagaland Olympic Association and the Department of Youth Resources and Sports, also marked the conclusion of a two-month coaching camp. Selected wrestlers are expected to undergo further training outside the state shortly.
Director of Youth Resources and Sports Kethosituo Sekhose, who attended the event as special guest, urged the wrestlers to pursue their goals with discipline, dedication and punctuality. He was accompanied by Joint Director Nyuwitho Nyuthe.
Gold medallists across three disciplines
In freestyle wrestling, Aswayibo won gold in the 57 kg category, Kaiswang Nring in 65 kg, Meleciyi in 74 kg, Peinachi Kegwang Kereu in 86 kg, Pakingsongwibo Ntung in 97 kg and Venuto Nyekha in 125 kg.
The Greco-Roman gold medallists were Thejanguzo Pfukha (60 kg), Vekru Khamo (67 kg), Keneiselie Khawakhrie (77 kg), Pukiye G. Shohhe (87 kg) and Venuzo Dawhuo (97 kg).
In women’s wrestling, Helevi Sheqi won gold in the 50 kg category, Vekhonielu Curhah in 67 kg and Cuhulu Hiese in 68 kg.
The results will help shape Nagaland’s wrestling contingent as preparations gather pace for the 2027 Games.
NWA acknowledges support for wrestling
The NWA thanked the Wrestling Federation of India for providing three sets of world-class wrestling mats and gym equipment valued at over ₹2 crore. It also acknowledged the support of Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and the Department of Youth Resources and Sports in developing wrestling in the state.
NWA Publicity Secretary Seyielhouvi Nagi chaired the programme, while association president Vivolie Kezo delivered the keynote address. Krovil Bendict Vistu, senior catechist of St. Joseph Catholic Church, Viswema, invoked blessings for the championship.
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