By Our Reporter
Shillong, Feb 16: The Meghalaya State Kickboxing Association (MSKA) delivered an impressive performance at the 5th India Open International Kickboxing Tournament, clinching a rich haul of 23 medals at the prestigious event held from February 4 to 8 at the Indira Gandhi National Stadium Complex.
The tournament, organised by the WAKO India Kickboxing Federation, witnessed participation from top kickboxers across the country and abroad. The Meghalaya contingent returned home with seven gold, nine silver and seven bronze medals, underlining the steady rise of the sport in the state.
In the women’s category, the kickboxers secured 10 medals, comprising four gold, four silver and two bronze. The men’s section accounted for 13 medals — three gold, five silver and five bronze — reflecting an all-round team effort across senior, junior, children and cadet divisions.
Five international kickboxers from the state — Babit Kharsahnoh, Daniella I W Mylliemngap, Medari Phylla Lyngdoh Niongbri, Ibadarishisha Mukihm and Belldona Pakyntein — once again showcased their class by retaining their titles. Together, they contributed four gold medals and one silver to the overall tally.The medal winners were accorded a warm welcome and felicitated at Hotel Assembly upon their arrival in Shillong from New Delhi, with officials and well-wishers lauding their achievement on the national stage.According to MSKA, since August 2017, the association has amassed an overall total of 280 medals — 99 gold, 78 silver and 103 bronze — including 76 international-standard medals. Additionally, the state’s athletes have secured nine medals (one gold, one silver and seven bronze) for NEHU at the All India Inter University Games since 2019.Encouragingly, the seven gold medallists from this tournament are currently ranked to represent India in future international open kickboxing events and World Cup tournaments.
