NWA officials during a press conference in Kohima on March 20. (Morung Photo)
NWA to introduce weight category system
Our Correspondent
Kohima | March 20
The Nagaland Wrestling Association (NWA) today announced that it will be introducing weight category system of Naga wrestling at the 13th Open Naga Wrestling Championship 2021 scheduled for April 9 at Kohima Local Ground, Khuochiezie.
Introducing this system for the first time in the history of NWA, it will feature two weight categories – Above 80 Kgs and 80 Kgs & below.
Thereafter, eight quarter finalists each from the two categories will vie for ‘Ultimate Championship.’
Announcing this during a press conference here, NWA President Dr Hiabe Zeliang said that the weight category system is being introduced in the open championship in order to promote the Naga style wrestling among the non-wrestling tribes of the State as well as beyond Nagaland.
The championship is open to all interested wrestlers from within and outside the state.
This time, NWA officials said that it will insist on a character certificate from the wrestlers, which is to be issued by the concerned village authority.
The NWA will also introduce pay and watch system (online) at Rs 150. In this regard, it will consult with Nagaland Olympic Association, the NWA informed.
The Association has also decided to enhance the gallery ticket from Rs 100 to Rs 150.
Tickets for donors and chair stands at Rs 2000 and Rs 500 respectively.
While all SOPs related to COVID-19 would be enforced during the conduct of the championship, with screening of spectators at the main entrances of the local ground, the Association informed that as per the District Task Force regulations on COVID-19, all wrestlers willing to participate in the event will have to undergo COVID-19 testing.
Entry forms have been made available at Sports World, Kohima. Wrestlers have also been informed to contact their respective units or NWA officials. Last date for submission of form is March 31.
The total prize money of Rs 6.90 lakh has been set for the 13th Open Naga Wrestling Championship which will be hosted by Chakhesang Wrestling Association.
