Kohima: Kezhaseluo-o Pienyü, a 25-year-old wrestler hailing from Kohima village and representing the Northern Angami Sports Association (NASA), won the 52nd Angami Sports Association (ASA) wrestling title on Saturday, held at Khuochiezie ground in Kohima, Nagaland.
Pienyü, defending champion of the event, now holds three ASA championship titles, solidifying his reputation as a formidable athlete. His latest win further cements his legacy in Nagaland’s wrestling arena.
In the final match, Pienyü triumphed over 26-year-old Kezhavizo Thevo from Chedema village, also representing NASA, marking their third consecutive encounter in the finals with Pienyü emerging victorious each time.
Pienyü received a cash prize of Rs 2.5 lakh along with the championship belt and citations, while Thevo received a cash prize of Rs 1.7 lakh along with citations.
In the battle for the third-place position, 28-year-old Keviser Dzüvichü overpowered 22-year-old Vaphizo Rutsa, both from Kohima village and representing NASA.
Pienyü’s journey to victory included defeating Vaphizo Rutsa in the semi-finals, while Kezhavizo Thevo triumphed over Keviser Dzüvichü in another intense match.
Acknowledging outstanding performances, 23-year-old Khrielabeituo Semou from Nerhema village, representing NASA, was awarded the Best Tactic award, receiving a cash prize of Rs 15,000.
The event also emphasised camaraderie and inclusivity, with losing quarter-finalists receiving Rs 20,000 each, and all wrestlers receiving Rs 2,500.
During the inaugural ceremony, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio shared the importance of preserving indigenous sports like wrestling, recognising its cultural significance and ability to unify communities. He encouraged the promotion of traditional games alongside internationally recognised disciplines like belt wrestling and freestyle wrestling.
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Dr. Tseilhoutuo Rhütso, MLA and guest of honour, reiterated Rio’s sentiments, emphasising the values of respect and friendship inherent in Naga wrestling. He advocated for increased support and promotion of wrestling at local and international levels.
The event, chaired by ASA’s general secretary Er Seyielhouvi Nagi, featured prayers, special performances, and oaths administered to the players, reaffirming the commitment to sportsmanship and camaraderie in Nagaland’s wrestling community.
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