By Our Reporter
Shillong, Aug 22: The 30th Inter School and 12th Inter College Karate Tournament, hosted by the All Meghalaya Karate-Do Association (AMKA), kicked off today at the Sports Authority of India campus at NEHU in Shillong.
This year’s tournament has set a new record with 609 participants, marking an increase of around 100 from last year’s event. Competitors come from 95 schools and seven colleges across Meghalaya.
The three-day event, supported by the Directorate of Sports & Youth Affairs, will showcase both kata (form demonstration) and kumite (sparring) as the young karatekas display the skills they have honed over months of rigorous training. Notably, nearly half of the participants are under 10 years old, highlighting the sport’s widespread appeal among the younger generation, a fact acknowledged by the dignitaries at the opening ceremony.
The chief guest for the inauguration was Isawanda Laloo, Secretary of Sports & Youth Affairs, who was joined by John F Kharshiing and Finely L Pariat, Working President and General Secretary of the Meghalaya State Olympic Association, respectively.
Laloo praised AMKA’s significant achievements, noting that the association has produced numerous national medallists and athletes who have represented India at prestigious events like the South Asian Games and Asian Games.
“Investing in our children today will yield success in the future,” Laloo stated. “Our focus is on identifying and nurturing young talent, with the support of the government, MSOA, and sports associations.”
Kharshiing also commended AMKA for its longstanding commitment to the sport, celebrating the milestone of the 30th edition of the inter-school karate championship. “AMKA’s dedication to hosting this event year after year is commendable,” he said. “The association’s growth and the number of participants reflect its success and deserve recognition.”