NWA holds state wrestling championship, selects wrestlers for National Games

DIMAPUR — The Nagaland Wrestling Association (NWA) held its state-level championship-cum-final selection trials for Greco-Roman, freestyle and women’s wrestling at the Multi-Purpose Hall, Viswema, Kohima, on Tuesday as part of preparations for the 39th National Games 2027.

According to a press statement issued by the NWA Media Cell, the championship was held under the aegis of the NWA in collaboration with the Nagaland Olympic Association and the department of Youth Resources and Sports.

Director of Youth Resources and Sports, Kethosituo Sekhose, attended the event as special guest and encouraged wrestlers to strive forward with discipline, dedication and punctuality. He was accompanied by Joint Director Nyuwitho Nyuthe.

The NWA expressed gratitude to the Wrestling Federation of India for providing three sets of world-class wrestling mats and gym equipment worth more than INR 2 crore. It also thanked Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and the Department of Youth Resources and Sports for their support.

The championship-cum-selection trials saw wrestlers compete across various weight categories.

In freestyle wrestling, the gold medallists were Aswayibo (57 kg), Kaiswang Nring (65 kg), Meleciyi (74 kg), Peinachi Kegwang Kereu (86 kg), Pakingsongwibo Ntung (97 kg) and Venuto Nyekha (125 kg).

In Greco-Roman wrestling, the 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.

Earlier, NWA Publicity Secretary Seyielhouvi Nagi chaired the programme, while NWA President Vivolie Kezo delivered the keynote address. Krovil Bendict Vistu, senior catechist of St. Joseph Catholic Church, Viswema, invoked God’s blessings for the championship.