Neshe Maonyu Konyak (left) and Lhanti Konyak (right), who were respectively, conferred the titles of ‘Outstanding Sportswoman’ and ‘Outstanding Sportsman’ in the Nagaland Olympic & Paralympic Games 2024.
Sovima, February 18 (MExN): Sporting events serve as the perfect stage for uncovering emerging talents and breakout stars, and the recently concluded Nagaland Olympic & Paralympic Games (NOPG) 2024 was no exception.
According to the Nagaland Sports Association (NOA), two standout performers emerged amidst the array of talent showcased during the State’s premier sporting event held from February 12-17.
Thirteen-year-old Neshe Maonyu Konyak and 17/18-year-old Lhanti Konyak, both from the same district but representing different teams, claimed the titles of ‘Outstanding Sportswoman’ and ‘Outstanding Sportsman’ respectively as the curtains fell on the 2024 games on February 17.
Neshe Maonyu Konyak: A Young Prodigy
Hailing from Wangshu in Tobu under Mon district, Neshe represented Peren district in the athletics games.
Born on April 2, 2010, to Kossam Konyak and Nengmai Konyak, Neshe’s athletic journey began at a tender age, driven by her passion for running.
Representing Government Higher Secondary School, Peren district, Neshe made a mark at NOPG 2024 by clinching the gold medal in the fiercely competitive 100m race women’s category with an impressive time of 13.89 seconds.
Her stellar performance continued at NOPG 2024, where she once again led her team to victory, securing another gold medal.
The NOA hailed Neshe as a young prodigy in Nagaland athletics, capturing the hearts and admiration of sports enthusiasts across the region.
Despite her youth, Neshe’s achievements serve as both inspiration and a shining beacon of hope for the future of Nagaland sports, showcasing her potential as a future star in Indian athletics, it added.
Lhanti Konyak: Sepak Takraw Sensation
Originating from Yonghong Village in Mon district, Lhanti distinguished himself with remarkable achievements in Sepak Takraw, garnering widespread admiration.
Born in 2006 to P Anchao and Pangying, he showcased undeniable prowess on the Sepak Takraw court, representing Mon district at the 2024 games.
His contributions helped secure a Bronze medal in the Men’s Regu Sepak Takraw and a gold medal in the fiercely contested Quad event, maintained the NOA.
Beyond his achievements at NOPG, Lhanti’s dedication to Sepak Takraw extends to national-level competitions, including the Senior National Championships and the National Games 2023.
Lhanti’s serves as an aspiring role model in Mon and beyond, embodying the values of sportsmanship, excellence, and determination, the NOA stressed.
 (1).jpg)
