Open Air Rifles shooting and Arm Wrestling Competition in Mokokchung from Dec. 19

Our Correspondent

Mokokchung, Nov. 27 (EMN): With the onset of the festive season, the Crayon Club of Kumlong Ward will be organising the second edition of the Open Air Rifles shooting and Arm Wrestling Competition, at Assam Rifles’ ground from December 19 to the 20th.

This was announced by the organisers during a press conference at Hotel Black &White in Mokokchung on Wednesday, November 27.

Nathan Ozukum, the convener of the organising committee, said most of the public are firearms enthusiasts and many have acquired air rifles. However, due to wildlife conservation and protection, the small arms are restricted at many places.

In such a situation, he said the event aims to ‘promote shooting culture’ at the same time ‘conserve and protect wildlife.’ They are expecting more participation from other districts in this edition, the organisers said.

The organiser said that there are many talents among the Naga people when it comes to shooting. However, pursuing the sport professionally needs a huge investment.

Nevertheless, they are hopeful that through the shooting event many young shooters will come to the fore.

Also, Matang said that the arm wrestling competition was being conducted in the awake of health lifestyles and fitness consciousness among the youths these days. He said that such events will promote fitness among the youths.

In the air rifle shooting competition only 0.177 caliber will be allowed. The categories are PCP air rifle with scope (25 yards to 100 yards). The entry fee is INR 1000. The winner will receive INR 15000 and the runner-up INR 8000. In the air rifle with iron sight Nitro/Springer (15 yards) category, with an entry fee of INR 400, the winner will receive INR 8000 while the runner-up will receive INR 4000.

The air rifle shooting competition is open to both men and women. The competitors are to bring their own rifles and pellets.

The arm wrestling competition format is divided into 55kg-65 kg category; 66kg to 75kg category and 76 kg and above with an entry fee of INR 200 per head. The winner will walk home with a cash prize of INR 5000 while the runner-up will receive INR 2000. This competition is open for only male competitors.