Manipur’s athletes have made a strong start at the 38th National Games, which is being held in Uttarakhand from January 28, 2025. The prestigious event, recognized as the highest multi-sport competition in India, has witnessed an outstanding performance from the state, with Manipur securing a total of 11 medals by the end of the third day, including six gold and five silver medals.
Sarungbam Athouba Meitei Creates History in Triathlon and Duathlon
Manipur’s medal tally was opened by Sarungbam Athouba Meitei, who not only won the state’s first gold medal in Men’s (individual) Triathlon but also scripted history by securing another gold in Men’s (individual) Duathlon. His remarkable feat has cemented his place as a standout athlete in the Triathlon world of Manipur.
Athouba’s compatriot, Telheiba Soram, also contributed to the state’s success by securing a silver medal in the Men’s (individual) Triathlon, adding to Manipur’s growing medal count.
Wushu Athletes Propel Manipur’s Medal Tally :A Legacy of Excellence
Manipur has long been a powerhouse in Wushu since the sport’s debut at the National Games in 2007 in Guwahati. In previous editions, the state’s athletes have consistently excelled:
- 37th National Games in Goa (2023): 9 gold, 4 silver, and 2 bronze medals.
- 36th National Games in Gujarat (2022): 6 gold, 5 silver, and 2 bronze medals.
Notably, four Wushu players from Manipur have been honored with the prestigious Arjuna Award, highlighting their significant contributions to the sport.
In the Wushu discipline at ongoing 38th National Games, Manipur’s athletes demonstrated dominance by securing multiple 4 gold and 4 silver medals:
- Gold Medalists:
- Oinam Malemnganbi (Taijiquan)
- Tongbram Saya Chanu (Women’s Changquan)
- Konjengbam Luxmi (Women’s Nanquan)
- Bonish Yurembam (Men’s Nanquan)
- Silver Medalists:
- Yumnam Rikimbala (Women’s Nandao)
- Marshal Salam (Men’s Changquan)
- Khaidem Panthoi (Women’s Changquan)
- Hanjabam Langlentombi (Women’s Nanquan)
Additionally, Marshal Salam and K. Panthoi Devi bagged silver medals in their respective Wushu events, further reinforcing Manipur’s dominance in the martial art sport.
Wushu: A Consistent Medal Contributor for Manipur
Since its introduction in the National Games in Guwahati (2007), Wushu has remained one of Manipur’s strongest sports disciplines. Over the years, four Wushu players from the state have received the prestigious Arjuna Award, highlighting Manipur’s legacy in the sport.
Celebrations and Reactions from Manipur
Back home in Singjamei Chingamathak, Imphal, celebrations erupted as Sarungbam Athouba Meitei returned as a double gold medalist in Triathlon and Duathlon. His coach, L. Lenin, expressed immense pride:
“Winning gold in the first edition of the Duathlon event is a huge achievement. Adding another gold in Triathlon makes it even more special. I am extremely proud of Athouba.”
His parents also expressed gratitude towards his mentors and coaches. His father, Sarungbam Jiten, emphasized the need for better sports infrastructure and competitive opportunities in Manipur:
“Athouba’s success is a result of the dedication of his mentors and coaches. As parents, we request sports bodies and associations to organize regular competitions and tournaments at the local and state levels to nurture future athletes.”
Moirangthem Rachandra, the Chef-de-Mission of the Manipur contingent, lauded Athouba’s resilience and achievements:
“Athouba has made history with two gold medals at the 38th Uttarakhand Games. Coming from a challenging situation in the state, he has risen above all odds and made Manipur proud. He is truly our hero.”
With a total of 11 medals, including six gold and five silver, Manipur has firmly positioned itself as a sporting powerhouse in the 38th National Games. The athletes’ extraordinary performances not only bring glory to the state but also emphasize the need for continuous investment in sports to nurture future champions.
