Meghalaya Inter-School Karate Tournament Draws Record Crowds

Shillong: A record 802 karatekas from 126 schools descended on Shillong for the 32nd Meghalaya State-Level Inter-School Karate Tournament. The three-day event started July 23 at the Sports Authority of India centre on the NEHU campus. This turnout beats last year’s count of 748 students from 104 schools. The All Meghalaya Karate-Do Association runs the show with help from the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs.

St Anthony’s Higher Secondary School returns to defend its title in the boys’ division. Auxilium Girls’ Higher Secondary School holds the girls’ crown. The stakes are high. Meghalaya hosts the 39th National Games next year, and officials see this event as a prime hunting ground for the state squad.

MSOA Working President John F Kharshiing and General Secretary Finely L Pariat attended the opening. Kharshiing lauded the organizers. He said it is "one of the few state associations to have an inter-school programme."

The association also honored two stars who medaled at the South Asian Karate Championship in Dhaka. Daniel Dabiangbha Warjri took gold in the Boys’ Junior -68kg Kumite. Gideon Tympuin grabbed bronze in the Men’s Under-21 Individual Kata. Pariat announced cash incentives for both athletes. After Daniel led the oath, Kharshiing officially opened the games.