Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, November 23:
Manipur is all set to host an Invitation Four International Tent Pegging Championship from January 10 till 14 at mapal Kangjeibung
here.
Informing on the forth-coming championahip next year, Sports Minister N Biren said the championship would be preceded by a national level competition from December 27 till 30 that will also serve as selection of the Indian team.
According to the Minister, who is also chairman of the championship organising committee, for successful hosting of the forth-coming events the Governor Dr SS Sidhu would be the patron in-chief and the Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh the patron member.
Conveying that praise-worthy performances by equestrian players of Manipur in the last National Games at Guwahati convinced the Indian Federation to award the national competition, N Biren also disclosed that State riders have already begun honing their skills for another brilliant exhibition.
Further mentioning that to enable Manipur riders compete with the best in the sports discipline 8 well trained thoroughbred horses have been purchased and would be brought here soon, the Minister also revealed that Manipur Equestrian Association needs to deposit Rs 2 lakhs for hosting the two events.
Regarding expenditures likely to be incurred by the hosts, he maintained that North Eastern Council and private firms have been approached for monetary assistance/sponsorship.
Speculating that competitors from atleast six countries are likely to participate in the Invitation international championship, the Sports Minister said Oman, United Kingdom and Egypt have already confirmed participation.
The international competitors would be provided horses of only Indian origin and bred, he added.
The media briefing was also attended by functionaries of the Manipur Equestrian Association.