Historic Victory for Home Team in Polo Championship
In an electrifying display of equestrian skill, India B (Manipur) secured a spectacular 8-5 victory against Colombia during the championship final of the 15th Manipur Polo International Tournament. The thrilling match unfolded on Saturday at the iconic Imphal Polo Ground, bringing the week-long sporting spectacle to a dramatic conclusion.
Tournament Details and Distinguished Presence
The prestigious tournament, organized by the Manipur Horse Riding and Polo Association, ran from November 22 to November 29 and served as one of the major attractions of the ongoing 10-day Sangai Festival 2025, which concludes today. The event gained significant prestige with the presence of Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla and his wife Jyoti Grover Bhalla, who attended the high-octane finale.
The final match commenced with Governor Bhalla performing the ceremonial throw-in of the polo ball, officially signaling the start of play. During the closing ceremony, he also released the tournament's official souvenir, adding to the event's significance.
Venue Heritage and International Participation
The competition took place at the historic Imphal Polo Ground, also known as Mapal Kangjeibung, which is widely recognized as one of the oldest polo grounds in the world. This heritage venue provided a perfect backdrop for the international competition that featured teams from across the globe.
The participation of international squads significantly elevated the championship's competitive level, reinforcing Manipur's deep historical connection with equestrian sports. The state is celebrated globally as the birthplace of modern-day polo, and this tournament stands as powerful testimony to Manipur's longstanding association with the sport.
Awards and Closing Ceremony
Governor Bhalla presented medals to both the champions and runners-up, honoring their exceptional performance. The winning team, India B (Manipur), received a cash prize of Rs 2 lakh, while the Colombian team was awarded Rs 1.5 lakh for their impressive runner-up finish.
The final match also saw the attendance of the President of the Manipur Pony Society, alongside numerous members of the public who gathered to witness the thrilling conclusion of this international sporting event. Following the prize distribution, Governor Bhalla formally declared the tournament closed, marking the successful completion of another chapter in Manipur's rich polo history.
