Bendangsunep Longkumer wins two gold medals at ICN India’s Goa Supershow 2025; coach highlights financial hurdles.
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DIMAPUR — Bendangsunep Longkumer from Nagaland clinched two gold medals and a silver at the recently concluded three-day ICN India’s Goa Supershow 2025 – The Greatest of All (GOA) and was welcomed by well-wishers upon his arrival at Dimapur Airport on Monday.
The event was held in Goa from November 27 to the 29th. Longkumer secured gold in the Men’s Physique (Novice) and Men’s Classic Physique (Novice) categories and won a silver medal in the Men’s Bodybuilding (Novice) category.
While interacting with media persons, he acknowledged that the achievement would not have been possible without the guidance of his coach, Moakumsuk Ozukum, and expressed gratitude for the support and prayers of his family and friends, which, he said, helped him reach this milestone.
With regard to his preparation for the competition, he shared that the journey was both challenging and enjoyable. He added that he had dreamt of participating since 2022, but financial constraints had prevented him from doing so earlier.
This year, however, with financial support from his parents, he was finally able to pursue that dream. Since it was a national-level event, he approached Moakumsuk Ozukum for coaching, and under his guidance and support, his body underwent a transformation within just two and a half months, he shared.
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He further stated that his victory at a national bodybuilding event will inspire his friends and remind them that with determination, nothing is beyond reach.
When asked about the financial challenges faced by Naga athletes, coach Moakumsuk Ozukum acknowledged that financial difficulties affect almost every athlete.
He added that, as both an athlete and a coach, he knows that bodybuilding is among the most expensive sports.
He explained that without support from family, friends, organisations, or the government, it becomes extremely difficult for athletes to participate in such competitions.
He appealed to the concerned department and authorities to address the financial challenges faced by athletes. He added that many talented Naga youths are emerging in various fields, but unfortunately, lack of financial resources continues to hold them back.