Naharlagun, June 18: The intense Taekwondo (Kyorugi & Poomsae) selection trials for the 19th Asian Games 2023, held at the Sports Authority of Gujarat, Sports Complex, came to a thrilling conclusion today. The event, conducted by the Taekwondo Federation of India under the supervision of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and sanctioned by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, witnessed outstanding performances by the participants.
Representing Team Arunachal Taekwondo, a total of seven skilled athletes showcased their talents at the trials. In a historic achievement for the Arunachal Taekwondo Association, Miss Radha Bangsia from Sangey Lhaden Sports Academy emerged victorious, securing the 1st position and earning the opportunity to represent India at the highly anticipated 19th Asian Games to be held in Hangzhou, China in 2023. Miss Radha Bangsia’s remarkable victory came after defeating the previous Cadet Asian Championship 5th position holder with an impressive margin and she is also previous senior national gold medalist.
In addition to Miss Radha Bangsia’s triumph, Miss Rikpy Nyodu from Army Academy secured the 3rd position and will serve as a stand-by participant for the Asian Games. Although narrowly missing out on the top spot, Miss Rikpy Nyodu’s talent was evident as she lost to Mrunali Harnekar by a mere 0.3 margin.
Both Miss Radha Bangsia and Miss Rikpy Nyodu will undergo rigorous training under the National Coaching Camp for 50 days, scheduled to take place from July to August at the Sports Authority of India (SAI) in Lucknow. Furthermore, they will also participate in a 30-day foreign training camp, sanctioned by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS) and SAI, along with 30 other athletes.
Expressing his pride and delight, Likha Robin, the General Secretary of the Arunachal Taekwondo Association, highlighted that Miss Radha Bangsia’s selection has created history, marking the first time such an achievement has been made in the Arunachal Taekwondo Association since its inception in 1984.
The successful participation of Team Arunachal Taekwondo was made possible by the dedicated leadership of L. Sokun Singh Sr. Vice-President, Taekwondo Federation of India, Tarak Dotang, Technical Director, ATA, and Coach Suraj Kipa Kaha, President, ATA, and Likha Robin, General Secretary, ATA, played instrumental roles in guiding and supporting the team.
The Arunachal Taekwondo Association extends its heartfelt gratitude to the Arunachal Olympic Association, Sports Authority of Arunachal, and the Sports Department of the Government of Arunachal for their unwavering support in making this achievement possible.
The selection of Miss Radha Bangsia and Miss Rikpy Nyodu showcases the exceptional talent and dedication within the Arunachal Taekwondo community, and all eyes will be on them as they prepare to represent India on the international stage at the 19th Asian Games.