Our Correspondent
Kohima | March 10
The Nagaland Wrestling Association (NWA) has been making hectic preparation for the success of the forthcoming 26th Naga style wrestling and 12 senior and 4th junior free style meet scheduled for March 14 and 15 at Khuochiezie (Kohima Local Ground). Unlike the previous meet, this time round freestyle wrestling will take place on March 14 and Naga style wrestling on March 15.
A total prize money of Rs. 10. 57 lakh has been earmarked for the meet, said NWA president Neivikuolie Khatsu while addressing a press conference here today. The champion of Naga style wrestling will receive a cash prize of Rs. 3 lakh while the runners-up will pocket Rs. 2 lakh. The third and fourth place winner will also be awarded with a cash prize of Rs. 1 lakh and Rs. 80,000 respectively. Quarter finalists will also receive Rs. 20,000 each.
Altogether, 54 wrestlers (18 wrestlers each from Angami, Chakhesang and Zeliang) will vie for the coveted title in Naga style wrestling. For freestyle, senior category winner will receive Rs. 10,000 while the runner-up will pocket Rs. 7000.
In junior category, the winner will receive Rs. 7000 while the runner-up will receive Rs. 5000. Apart from three units of NWA, wrestlers from Wrestling Academy will also participate in the free style wrestling. In free style (Senior), weight category for men will be 57, 65, 74, 86 and 97. Women- 50, 55, 59, 65 and 72.
Aadhaar card, birth certificate with recent passport is mandatory for junior participants. Weight measurement will be done on March 13 at 2:00 PM. We are expecting 25,000 spectators,” said NWA president. There will be a briefing for all the tournament officials on March 13 at 2:00 PM at Khuochiezie. All the concerned have been requested to attend the same.
Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, who is also president of Nagaland Wrestling Association, will grace the meet as the chief guest on Day 2. Keku Zeliang, former president NWA will be the inaugural guest. The jury board will comprise Chisazo Dawhuo, Mitwatei Haibwang and Visakhoto Krose. The event will be managed by Angami Baptist Khriesarü Krotho in aid of construction of ABCC Youth Centre at Chumukedima.
