Vekhota is Seceku wrestling champ

EMN ZHAVAME, JANUARY 15 Taking forward the most popular indigenous sport of Nagaland, a total of 59 wrestlers from several villages under Seceku area today participated in the 24th Meet of the Seceku Wrestling Association at Zhavame village. Vekhota Chiero emerged champion in the Naga style category, while Shetsüyi Vadeo came second and Kuku-o Getsa and Niepoyi Chiero were placed in the third and fourth place respectively. The first four winners walked away with cash prizes of Rs. 50,000, Rs. 30,000, Rs. 20,000 and Rs.10000/-. Parliamentary Secretary for Higher Education and SCERT, Deo Nukhu, who graced the inaugural function as chief guest exhorted the gathering comprising of wrestling enthusiasts by saying that sports require a lot of discipline that includes healthy food and eating habits. He also impressed upon the importance of practice and exercise for players and went on to state that sportsmen must have perseverance at all times. Stating hope that the players who participated today also have given importance to these qualities, he expressed optimism that they will go on to represent not only the area, district and state level but also represent the country and further play at the international level. In the meantime, he encouraged the players to think about taking up wrestling professionally as they persevere to keep the indigenous sport alive. Highlights of the inaugural event included unfurling of the flag and lighting of the flame with reigning champion, Zanü-o Vadeo as the torch bearer, invocation by Thezü Shupao and administration of oath by President, Seceku Wrestling Association. The closing function was graced by Lhiwepelo Mero, Additional Director, Agriculture. The 24th meet was hosted by the Zhavame Wrestling Association. Mention may be made here that the prize money for the quarter finalists included an award of Rs. 4000 and Rs.2000 while the winners in the free style category carried a cash prize of Rs. 3000 for the first position and Rs.2000 for the second position respectively. WINNERS Naga Style First: Vekhota Chiero Second: Shetsüyi Vadeo Third: Kuku-o Getsa Fourth: Neipoyi Chiero Free Style (Below 66 Kg) First: Kudeto Vadeo Second: Pfukholu Movi Free Style (Below 60 Kg) First: Ngutsu Hesu Second: Lucas Dukru Free Style (Below 55 Kg) First: Besuhta Lohe Second: Cekrove Medeo Free Style (Below 51 Kg) First: Munuvolu Vadeo Second: Zhonelu Kezo