Northeast Karatekas making a mark internationally

Imphal/Shillong, Sep.22 (ANI): With a number of sportspersons from the northeastern States in national and international competitions, many people view region as the sports hub of the country.

Karate is among the various sports events in which the region's players have excelled in.

Since 1982, the Karatekas of Manipur have been contesting different Karate championships organized by the different Karate schools in India.

Many Manipuri youth are learning the art from skilled masters.

Manipuri Karatekas have brought many laurels and medals to the state.

"Our students have the talent and the ability to take part in big competitions. They are expected to rank among the top scorers," said Kirankumar Singh, a coach, Manipur.

"I have taken up this particular sport because I like it. Especially, girls could benefit from the self-defense techniques that they learn from this sport," said Hemabati Devi, a player.

Besides, Meghalaya is also all set to go International with three of its women Karatekas-Linza Fenny Syiem, Annie Dahun Warjiri and Basuk-to compete in the upcoming 9th Asian Karate Championship to be held in China between September 25 to 27.

The three Karatekas are optimistic about kicking and boxing their way to the top.

The Sports Authority of India (SAI) is providing equipment and technical training to the players.

"Every year, we are coming up with many promising Karatekas. They are participating in national level competitions and they are bringing laurels. I hope that they will continue to do that," said Stephan Leong, coach in Shillong.

"It feels great to be selected to represent India for the first time. I hope that from this tournament I'll get many experience and from many more international tournaments that I hope I'll be able to participate. I'll do my best and try to get medals," said A. Warjri, a participant in the 9th Asian Karate Championship.

After the recognition of Karate as a sport discipline in 1985 by the International Sports Community, the northeastern Karatekas are making their presence felt both at the national and international level. By D. Henpilen(ANI)