Northeast Desk, 23rd August: The 30th Inter School and 12th Inter College Karate Tournament kicked off on August 22 at the Sports Authority of India (SAI) campus in NEHU, Shillong. The event, organized by the All Meghalaya Karate-Do Association (AMKA), has attracted a record-breaking 609 participants from 95 schools and seven colleges across Meghalaya.
This year’s tournament has seen an increase of about 100 participants compared to last year’s event, with nearly half of the participants under the age of 10, reflecting the growing popularity of karate among the state’s youth.
The three-day tournament, supported by the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs, will feature competitions in kata (form demonstration) and kumite (sparring). Participants have been rigorously training for months to compete at this prestigious state-level event.
Isawanda Laloo, Secretary of the Sports and Youth Affairs Department, attended the inauguration as the chief guest. In her address, Laloo praised AMKA’s achievements in producing national medallists and athletes who have represented India at international events such as the South Asian Games and Asian Games.
“Investment in children today will translate into success tomorrow,” Laloo said, emphasizing the government’s commitment to nurturing young talent in collaboration with the Meghalaya State Olympic Association (MSOA) and various sports associations.
John F Kharshiing, Working President of the MSOA, also spoke at the event, commending AMKA for its consistent efforts in organizing the tournament, which has now reached its 30th edition. He highlighted the significant impact AMKA’s initiatives have had on increasing participation rates and the overall growth of karate in Meghalaya.
The tournament is set to conclude with the finals and prize distribution ceremony, celebrating the skills and dedication of young karatekas across the state.
Read More: Meghalaya: Union Minister Raj Bhushan Choudhary Visits South West Khasi Hills