In a stunning display of martial prowess, the Arunachal Pradesh karate contingent clinched an impressive 9 gold, 8 silver and 6 bronze medals at the recently concluded KIO Inter-Zone National Karate Championship.
The event was held at Delhi’s Talkatora Stadium on November 15 last.
Organized under the aegis of the North East Sports Karate Federation of India, led by its president Kiran Kumar Thangjam and general secretary Nagen Bongjang, the North East Zone team delivered a stellar performance, solidifying their dominance in the championship.
The Arunachal players’ exceptional showing also secured their spot in the upcoming 7th South Asian Karate Championship, slated to take place in Nepal from November 30 to December 02 next.
Noteworthy achievers from Arunachal Pradesh include Pala Dodum, Lipin Ete, Khyoda Taki and Machi Liyak, who will represent India in various categories.
Despite logistical challenges that hindered the Sikkim team’s timely arrival, players from Assam, Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh showcased their mettle, with 4 out of 8 states qualifying for the prestigious KIO Inter-Zone National Karate Championships.
The Assam team made a significant contribution to the North East Zone’s triumph, securing an impressive haul of 5 gold, 7 silver and 11 bronze medals.
Nagaland also made its mark with 2 medals, including 1 silver and 1 bronze.
Arunachal gold medal-winning athletes were Mepung Langdo who won 2 gold medals, Pala Dodum, Lipin Ete, Renia Veo, Torak Nil, Amirso Khamblia, Veronica Padung and Yali Mimi.
The silver medalists from the state were Khyoda Talik, Lipin Ete, Khyoda Talik, Janulu Mnyu, Michi Dishi, Hinum Mama, Miching Diu and Tyson Krong while Taram Rigam, Bili Lambi, Parbu Mengnia, Hinium Mama, Bai Sangyu and Amirso Yun bagged bronze in the competition.
The coaching duo of Ajay Chetri and Tajar Nilling played a pivotal role in shaping the success of the Arunachal Pradesh team, a statement from the the Arunachal Pradesh Amateur Karate-Do Association (APAKA) said.
In light of this exceptional achievement, APAKA general secretary, John Bagang, expressed pride in the team’s accomplishments and expressed optimism for their success on the international stage.
Also read: Four Arunachal karatekas set to shine at Asian Karate C’ship
