Nagaland wrestling
Kohima, March 11: Defending champion Huvesu Puro of the Chakhesang Wrestling Association beat Hukhoniyi Suho of Phek to retain his title in the 19th Nagaland wrestling championship here today.
The 74-kg grappler, a favourite from the beginning, displayed his superior technique as he defeated his heavier opponent.
The 2002 winner from Porba village edged out two-time champion — Suho won in 1988 and 1996 — in the title clash before a capacity crowd here. Braving heavy showers, hundreds of spectators had turned up for the match.
Huvesu walked away with cash prize of Rs 70,000, while Hukhonyi won Rs 35,000.
Neibou Rio from Chiechama village in Kohima district kept the Angami Sports Association (ASA) flag flying by bagging the third place. He beat Veyi Dozo of Thevopisumi village under Phek district.
Neibou received a cash prize of Rs 25,000, while Veyi received Rs 10,000. Earlier, Suho beat Neibou in one of the longest bouts of the tournament.
In traditional Naga wrestling, a match is not declared over until one of the contestants is floored. This means either the head, shoulders or back should touch the floor. As a result, many bouts last for long periods.
The quarterfinalists and pre-quarterfinalists received Rs 3,000 and Rs 2,000 respectively.
The winners in the men and women’s freestyle categories received Rs 5,000 and Rs 3,000 respectively. The other contestants received a consolation prize of Rs 1,000 each.
The Chakhesang Wrestling Association bagged the running W. Krome team champion’s trophy by securing 123 points. They were followed by Angami Sports Association (ASA) with 114 and Zeliang Wrestling Association with nine points. The prizes were given away by guest of honour Khutovi, Nagaland minister for roads and bridges.
Shantipur AC win
Shantipur AC will take on Guwahati Cricket Coaching Centre in the final of the Riverine Club-organised limited overs 10th Guwahati Challenge Trophy to be played at the Latasil Ground in Guwahati tomorrow, says a staff reporter.
The winners of the 35-over final will go home richer by Rs 10,000 and the runners-up by Rs 5,000. Assam Cricket Association panel umpires Dipak Boro and Khagen Das will officiate at the match. GCCC beat NF Railway by 80 runs in the semi-finals, while Shantipur AC got past New Star by one wicket.
The organisers said there would be a cash prize of Rs 1,000 for the Man of the Series and Rs 500 for the Man of the Match. Deputy commissioner (metropolitan) A.K. Absar Hazarika will be chief guest in the final.
