State-Level Gymnastic Championship in Manipuri motivates gymnasts

Manipur organised a gymnastics tournament for the first time with an aim to encourage young aspiring gymnasts. The parents of gymnasts took an initiative and organised the state-level championship so that their children can hone their skills and prepare for various national and international events.

The popularity of gymnastics has grown tremendously across the nation and especially in Northeastern states since Dipa Karmakar from Tripura became the first Indian female to compete in the Olympics. Like any other sports, gymnastics requires precision, focus, and determination. But lack of infrastructure is preventing youths of the region reach their maximum potential despite being talented.

Realising the need Manipur Gymnastic Parents Association organised a state-level Gymnastics Championship in the main Stadium Khuman Lampak."It is the first state-level invitation gymnastics championship. We have organized this championship with a motive to develop and reconstruct gymnastic speed in Manipur. In Manipur, we are not having much chance to go out and participate in the national level championships and I think through such grassroots level championship will develop our gymnasts." said Rameshwoe Khuman, president, Manipur Gymnasts Parents Association.

The two-day long championship witnessed participation of 77 players (both boys and girls) from six districts. There were nail-biting matches between the budding gymnasts and Imphal West secured 4 gold, 2 silver and 2 bronze medals taking a lead in the state-level championship.

"I want to get popular someday, and I want to seek help from the government and also want to further pursue a course. This first gymnastic championship organised by the Manipur Gymnastic Association is a good initiative," said Bibiyana Panme a participant gymnast in the tournament.

The northeastern states are known for their achievements in sports. The youths of the region are heavily inclined towards various sports like football, tennis, weightlifting, boxing, and archery. Manipur has produced many notable athletes and in recent years various sportspersons from the state have represented India at various International competitions.