Asem Bhakta Singh, Special Correspondent North East
Imphal: The Championships being participated by fourteen Equestrian Clubs which will continue till February 2 include Arambai for the first time besides the regular Shower Jumping, Tent Pegging, Lance and Sword.
The Opening Ceremony was graced by Dr Ng Ibotombi Singh, Director, Veterinary and Animal Husbandry Services, Manipur as the Chief Guest and Prof Ch Priyoranjan, President Manipuri Pony Society as the President. Moirangthem Rachandra, Vice-president Manipur Olympic Association and N Tombi Raj, Vice-chairman Manipur Equestrian Association were the Guests of Honour.
While addressing the gathering, Dr. Ng Ibotombi Singh drew the attention of the plights of the Manipuri ponies and highlighted the measures being initiated by the Government of Manipur to ensure the well-being of the animal. He assured that the Veterinary Department would make every effort to support the local clubs, which are the backbone in making such an event successful.
Prof Ch Priyoranjan, the president of the occasion praised the enthusiasm of the young riders who continue to keep the traditional values of the Manipuri ponies. Although the Equestrian events are being held regularly, the inclusion of the Arambai this year, the indigenous style as a sporting event adds a value to the age old horse culture of the people of Manipur.
Earlier, while welcoming the dignitaries and the riders, Dr Thokchom Debendra Kumar Singh, Organising Secretary of the Championships stressed the need to continue the sporting events during difficult times. The overwhelming response of the young riders has encouraged the Manipur Equestrian Association to organize the event within its limited resources.
On the opening day, Show Jumping for Junior Boys and Tent Pegging, Lance women’s qualifying rounds were held. Altogether, fourteen Equestrian Associations are participating in the Championships.
