Girls participating in the 100 meter race, under 12 to 14 years category, on the occasion of World Kids Athletic Day in Dimapur on May 9. (Morung Photo)
Nagaland observes World Kids’ Athletics Day in Dimapur
Morung Express News
Dimapur | May 9
In celebration of World Kids Athletic Day falling on May 7, the Nagaland Athletics Association (NAA) organised a sprint race for children under the age groups of 4 to 14 years at State Sports Training Centre, Government Higher Secondary School ground, Nagarjan, Dimapur on May 9. This was in line with the directives of the Athletics Federation of India and was the first time that such an event, centred exclusively on children, was held in Nagaland.
The children were divided three age groups of 4 to 7 years, born between 10 May 2015 & 9 May 2019 (30 meter race), 8 to 11 born between 10 May 2011 & 9 May 2015 (60 meter race) and 12-14, born between 10 May 2008 & 9 May 2011 (100 meter race); and saw the participation of both boys and girls in the event.
During the inaugural programme, special guest, Bithungo Kikon, President of Dimapur Athletics noted that sports and athletics are an integral part of a child’s development and growth along with academics. “Today in Nagaland, 99.3% of children between the ages of six to fourteen years go to school and it is important that their inherent energies are properly channelled in the right direction,” he said.
Moreover if children had limited access to exercise during this stage, it could lead to lifestyle sickness such as Type 2 diabetes or consumption of intoxicants in the long run, he added.
Keeping this in mind, the World Athletics decided to promoted athletics as a sport especially among young school going children. It is also a programme to inspire them to be more active, develop their skills and in still confidence in them, he mentioned.
“You have made the right decision to participate in this event because sports will inculcate discipline and determination in you,” he noted.
Organising such an event will produce future Olympians and athletes for the state so it is crucial that the winners of today’s competition will be given a chance to participate in the National Inter-District Junior athletics meet, he appealed to the NAA.
A total of 152 students from 16 different schools participated in the event. Winners were given medals, certificates and gift hampers of sports equipment while all the children were given participation certificates as well.
WINNERS:
• 30 meter race (girl’s category): First- Zelive; second-Ashiana; third- Lendina
• 30 meter race (boy’s category): First-Zahvi Wotsa; second- Suben; third- Lango Lam
• 60 meter race (girl’s category): First-Pailenshing; second- Kevilenuo; third -Wangshirenla
• 60 meter race (boy’s category): First- Kino; second- Suhzi; third- Kaikhohao
• 100 meter race (boy’s category): First- Elijah Ronren Kikon; second- Anchao; third- Neithenyu Solo
• 100 meter race (girl’s category): First- Neshemaonyu Konyak; second- Mehrin Beck; third- Linovi Yeputhomi
