Tura, 19th January 2024: The 5th Meghalaya Games captivated audiences with a thrilling showcase of brute strength and intense competition at the Don Bosco Junior College Indoor Arena. The adrenaline-pumping arm-wrestling action in the final matches heated up the battle for the strongest, as competitors vied for supremacy. Elucidating power and technique, athletes from across Meghalaya converged to participate in this exhilarating spectacle of the Arm-Wrestling competition.
East Khasi Hills and South-West Khasi Hills secured their positions at the top with two golds each, while West Khasi Hills, Eastern West Khasi Hills, West Jaintia Hills, and East Garo Hills each shared one gold.
In the female category, below 55 kg, 60 kg, and above 60 kg, Pynsuklang Lyngdoh (EWKH), Olivia Dkhar (WJH), and Rikka Ch Marak (EGH) dominated the list with their sheer strength. Meanwhile, in the male section, Brandon Tariang of East Khasi Hills displayed dominance and conquered the below 85 kg bout, whereas Mebansan Sangma of South-West Khasi Hills dominated the above 85 kg bout, clinching gold.
The title of Champion of Champions (COC) was awarded to Pynskhemborlang Marngar from West Khasi Hills in the male category, in the below 75 kg bout. In the female category, below 60 kg, Olivia Dkhar of West Jaintia Hills received the title, respectively.
Speaking on the sidelines of the 5th Meghalaya Games, Deputy Commissioner, Jagdish Chelani, IAS, expressed, “This is the first time that arm wrestling has been added to the Meghalaya Games. One can see the enthusiasm and participation we are witnessing. Overall, the 5th Meghalaya Games has brought in a positive environment, for the athletes, sportspersons and I am glad to have the opportunity to host them from across the state on behalf of Government of Meghalaya and they had the chance to experience Garo Hills.”
the inaugural instance of arm wrestling being integrated into the event, and its introduction has effectively cultivated a heightened sense of sportsmanship and competitiveness throughout all the districts of Meghalaya. The overall impact on the participants has been remarkable, fostering a spirit of healthy competition and camaraderie across the diverse communities represented in the games.”