The much anticipated 52nd Angami Sports Association (ASA) wrestling championship is set to take place at Khuochiezie (local ground) in Kohima, on Saturday.
Top wrestlers from the Angami community will be gearing up for the prestigious title, with defending champion Kezhaseluo-o Pienyü prepared to face a formidable array of challengers, informed a press release by the ASA.
Representing the four ranges, reigning champions include Kezhaseluo-o Pineyü from the Northern Angami Sports Association (NASA), Atuo Tevo from the Southern Angami Sports Association (SASA), Seyiejalie Gwirie from the Western Angami Sports Association (WAYO), and Keneisetuo Kire from the Chakhroma Youth Organisation (CYO).
The tournament will kick off with WAYO wrestlers facing SASA wrestlers and NASA wrestlers against CYO in the first round. Subsequently, SASA wrestlers will grapple with CYO wrestlers while WAYO wrestlers will face NASA in the second round. In the third round, NASA wrestlers will take on SASA, and CYO will battle WAYO.
With 60 competitors set to vie for victory, spectators can expect thrilling matches and intense competition throughout the event. An estimated crowd of 16,000 wrestling enthusiasts is anticipated to converge, creating an atmosphere charged with excitement and energy.
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The ground management, entrusted to the Angami Catholic Union and led by organising committee convenor Neiba Bernard Pienyü, has meticulously prepared to host the mega wrestling event, ensuring its success.
The event will commence with an inaugural ceremony graced by Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio as the chief guest and Member of Legislative Assembly Dr. Tseilhoutuo Rhütso as the guest of honor. Highlights will include the unfurling of the ASA flag, symbolising unity and sportsmanship within the Angami community.
Prizes for the wrestling title include Rs. 2,50,000 for the winner, Rs. 1,70,000 for the second position, Rs. 1,30,000 for the third position, and Rs. 1,00,000 for the fourth position. Quarter-finalists will each receive Rs. 20,000, best tactics with Rs 15,000 and Rs 2,500 for participation.
Eighteen outstanding wrestlers will be selected to represent the Angami community at the upcoming Nagaland Wrestling Association (NWA) meet on March 26.
Ticket rates for the wrestling event are as follows: Rs. 2000 for donors, Rs. 500 for balcony and Chair A categories, Rs. 200 for Chair B, and Rs. 100 for Chair C.
