NONGPOH:
The leaders of Ri Bhoi People Council (RBPC), headed by President Jayson Nongrum, honoured five boxers of 20th Mile Village on January 9, for their achievements at the National Kick Boxing Championship in New Delhi.
Coached by Thomas Rongthaluh, also the President of Meghalaya Martial Arts Federation, the boxers and the medals in their respective categories include Rimanbha Syngkli (59 kg) – Gold medal in Point Fighting, Wanlamkupar Syngkli (71 kg) – Gold medal in Low Kick, Silver medal in Point Fight, Hynrai Khymdeit – Silver medal in Kick Light, Kyrshan Lyngdoh (54 kg) – Silver medal in Low Kick and Francis Klein (63 kg) – Silver medal in Low Kick.
Speaking during the ceremony, coach Rongthaluh, leading the delegation, highlighted the challenges faced by the athletes, particularly in transportation. He emphasised the lack of proper training facilities, noting that athletes resort to improvised workouts on flat ground, using self-made materials like wood and bamboo.
Rongthaluh strongly advocated for improved facilities, stating that addressing these deficiencies would enhance the athletes’ performance, allowing them to compete more effectively with athletes from other states.