Naga wrestler Vekhonielü Cürhah wins medal at Asian Wrestling Championship

KOHIMA: Vekhonielü Cürhah, a wrestler from Nagaland representing the Indian team under the aegis of Traditional Wrestling and Pankration Federation (AITWPF), secured a bronze medal in 58 kg category at the Asian Belt Wrestling Championship 2023 at Uzbekistan held from May 22 to the 24th.

Hailing from Phusachodu village under Phek district, Cürhah was the lone wrestler from Nagaland to compete in the championship and won a medal. She was accompanied by Khrievotuo Nicholas (referee) from Nagaland. 

She played in the following events –55 kg Belt Wrestling Freestyle (can use legs), 55 kg Belt Wrestling Classic style (no legs), and 56 kg Qazakh Kuresi (similar to Judo sports). 

Athletes from across 20 countries including India took part in the championship held at Jizzakh, Uzbekistan.

Earlier last week, the Chakhesang Wrestling Association had organised a send-off programme.

This time, many capable wrestlers from Nagaland could not make it for the competition due to the last hour information about the event. As for Cürhah, she managed to go on at her own expense, it was informed.

The AITWPF Indian team was led by its President Omarmukhtar Tamboli along with six athletes and three referees. 

The athletes played in various categories including Men’s Classic style, Women’s Classic Style, women’s freestyle, and Women’s Qazak Kuresi. 

The Asian championship will be the official qualification for the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Patronage World combat Games 2023 which will be held at Riyadh, Saudi Arabia from October 21 to the 30^th , according to the Federation.

Meanwhile, the Chakhesang Youth Front congratulated Cürhah for winning the bronze medal and conveyed best wishes in the days to come.