Itanagar 15 July 2023: The closing ceremony of the 5th Junior Boys National Boxing Championship took place on 14th July 2023 at Don Bosco College, Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh. The event was graced by several distinguished personalities, including the Chief Guest Shri Kiren Rijiju, Hon’ble Union Minister for Earth Science, Govt of India, and the Guest of Honour Er. Taba Tedir, Hon’ble Minister, Education & Cultural Affairs, Govt of Arunachal Pradesh.
In addition to the chief guest and guest of honour, the ceremony was attended by special guests, namely Shri Mama Natung, Hon’ble Minister, Sports and Youth Affairs, Govt of Arunachal Pradesh, Shri Goker Basar, Hon’ble MLA 29-Basar Assembly Constituency, Arunachal Pradesh, and Shri Gyamar Karbak, Hon’ble MLA, Advisor to the Dept of Home, Arunachal Pradesh.
During the event, the organizers highlighted the significant contribution of Don Bosco College, which generously provided all the necessary facilities for the championship to take place without any charges. This gesture allowed the accommodation of 367 boxers, over 100 coaches, and team managers on the college campus from 8th July to 15th July 2023.
The closing ceremony also recognized the remarkable performance of the reigning champions, the Services Sports Control Board (SSCB), who once again showcased their excellence by finishing on top of the championship. SSCB secured a total of 10 medals, including eight gold, one silver, and one bronze.
One of the most celebrated moments during the championship was when Nenthok Hodong from Arunachal Pradesh claimed the gold medal in the Bantamweight category, securing the state’s first gold medal in the championship. Arunachal Pradesh concluded its campaign with a notable tally of one gold, three silver, and two bronze medals.
Acknowledging his outstanding performance, Nenthok Hodong was honoured with the best boxer award for his impressive victory in the 54kg category.
Furthermore, the spirit of sportsmanship and fair play demonstrated by Team Arunachal earned them the Fair Play Award, a testament to their commitment to integrity and respect throughout the championship.
The closing ceremony served as a platform to celebrate the achievements of these young boxers and inspire future generations of athletes in their respective states and sports boards. It marked the successful conclusion of the 5th Junior Boys National Boxing Championship, fostering camaraderie and encouraging the pursuit of excellence in the sport of boxing.
(IND Webmaster and Fr Jose George SDB)
