DIMAPUR — The 7th
edition of the Hornbill International Strongman and CrossFit (men and women)
Competition was held at CT Square, Chümoukedima, on Saturday.
Sedevizo Keretsü emerged as the champion of the Hornbill
International Strongman competition, with Vikas Usham securing second position
and Kevidi Linyü finishing in third.
In the CrossFit men's category, Bisekhoto emerged as the
champion, with Merenso securing second position and Mesaroko finishing in
third. In the women’s CrossFit competition, Manchen emerged as the champion,
with Hatdeiphal securing second position and H Wannya finishing in third.
In the Strongman category, a total of 10 athletes
participated in the competition, while in the CrossFit competition, 27
participants took part, of which 20 were male and 7 were female.
Speaking on the occasion as the special guest, the secretary
of the central executive board of NDPP, Neigutuo Rio, said that fitness is not
just about physical strength or endurance; it is a journey towards health,
self-improvement, and resilience.
He mentioned that since the inception of the Hornbill
Festival, the government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio,
has worked tirelessly to uplift every section of society, especially the youth,
in the fields of sports, music, and art.
He stated that for Naga youth to pursue sports, music, and
the arts as a career is no longer just a dream or wish but has become a
reality. He expressed being overwhelmed to see young Nagas taking fitness to
new heights.
He added that competitions like this serve as a reminder
that the real battle is not against one another but against one's own limits.
He expressed that it is heartening to see such events that not only celebrate
physical strength but also embody the spirit of perseverance, discipline, and
teamwork—values that resonate deeply within the Naga youth.
He expressed the hope that the competition would serve as a
platform that not only showcases talent and inspires greatness but also fosters
unity among participants and spectators alike.