TODAY -
Polo International kicks off
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, November 24 2012:
The 6th Manipur Polo International 2012 was kicked off today at Imphal Pologround which significantly is the oldest pologround in the world.
The international polo tournament being organised by the Manipur Horse Riding and Polo Association as a part of the Manipur Sangai Festival was declared open by Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam.
Teams from France, England, Germany, Thailand and India are participating in the polo tournament which would conclude on November 29 .
Participants of the tournament, particularly foreigners were welcomed in Manipuri traditional style and they were greeted with a spectacular performance of pung cholom.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam stated that Sagol Kangjei, that is polo, is one of the cultural heritages of the people of Manipur which has spread all over the world as a competitive sport.
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In Manipur, polo or sagol kangjei has been a common man's game during the ancient past and even during the colonial days.
Whereas Government of Manipur has allotted 30 acres of land for integrated development of polo in greater Imphal area, the Manipur Horse Riding and Polo Association is breeding a pony breeding farm under sponsorship of the State Government.
He further announced that the Government of Manipur has sanctioned Rs 30 lakhs for organising the polo tournament.
In his presidential speech, Veterinary and Animal Husbandry Minister K Govindas announced that the annual grant of Rs seven lakhs given to the pony breeding farm would be raised to Rs 10 lakhs.
The opening match was played between India TeamB (Manipur) and England.
English player Paul De Rivaz said that he felt privileged to play in the world's oldest pologround where the game of polo evolved.
He added that polo players have much to learn from Manipuri players about the intricate moves of the game of polo.
MP Dr Th Meinya, MP Thangso Baite and Hurlingham Polo Association, England chairman Nicholas Denvers were also present at the opening ceremony as guests of honour.
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