Kohima Bureau
Mezoma, Dec. 29: Keneiselie Khawakhrie was crowned as the champion of the 42nd Mezoma wrestling meet held on December 29 at Phehinu, Mezoma village.
The new champion, son of Vihulie Khawakhrie, emerged as the winner following his victory against veteran wrestler Zapusazo Sirie in the final.
On his way to lift the title, the upcoming wrestler Keneiselie defeated another fellow clansman and a title contender Kekhriekolie Khawakhrie in the semifinals, while he overcame Rokovi Khawakhrie in the quarters.
Veteran wrestler Zapusazo, former wrestling champ of the Western Angami Sports Association in 1996, made a successful comeback after a gap of 21 years as he performed exceptionally well to reach the final from among 56 wrestlers who took part in the competition. Sirie cruised into the final with his victory against Lhousavilie Kehie in the semis; however, he went down fighting in straight sets in the final match.
The champion fetched a cash award of INR 15,000, followed by the runner-up with a cash award of INR 10,000. The third and fourth position winners both received INR 7,000 and INR 5,000 respectively.
The wrestlers who qualified for the quarters were Visedelhou Chüsi, Rokoseto Kehie, Keviu Kehie and Rokovi Khawakhrie. All four of them received INR 2,000 each.
Earlier, the inaugural function was graced by Kevisekho Kruse, retd chief engineer, PHED, Government of Nagaland, as the chief guest.
In his address, Kruse encouraged the wrestlers to partake in games and sports with seriousness, so as to reach the highest level of competitions.
“Your commitment and sincerity is what we demand from you. Aim for the highest level as you strive to make sports a career,” he said.
Kruse also challenged the youth to spearhead and provide the leadership to take the Naga society ahead.
Stating that the Naga society is at a critical juncture, he advised the youth not to lose hope, but strive with a determined vision and a positive approach.
“We are marching towards a new era and towards a new dispensation. Together let us do something for people and our society,” Kruse said.
Mentioning the existing problems of the Naga society, he however, told the youth to wisely tackle the problems. “It may be difficult, but it’s not impossible,” he added.
The 42nd MYO wrestling meet will culminate on December 30 with Kevilesie Senotsu, vice president, Angami Sports Association as the guest of honour.
