KIYC: Shanker clinches historic tennis gold, Radhamani shines in boxing ring, Thang-Ta athletes strike 7 medals
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, May 14 2025: In a landmark achievement, Shanker Heisnam became Manipur's first-ever gold medallist in tennis at the Khelo India Youth Games as Manipur delivered an outstanding performance to scoop 12 medals, including 5 gold, across multiple disciplines on Wednesday.

The state celebrated historic gold medals, particularly in tennis and boxing, as Thang-Ta proved to be a major medal contributor.

The day's most historic moment came from the tennis courts, where Shanker Heisnam scripted a fairytale victory in the boys' singles final.

Shanker dominated the boys' singles final with a commanding 6-2, 6-1 victory over Arjun Rathi of Haryana, marking a significant milestone for the state in a sport where it has traditionally had limited representation.

Meanwhile, the boxing ring also saw success as Radhamani Longjam displayed nerves of steel to clinch gold in the girls' featherweight (54-57 kg) category.

The closely contested bout saw both fighters trading blows until the final bell, with Radhamani eventually prevailing 3-2 in a split decision.

Manipur's indigenous martial sport, Thang-Ta, proved to be the state's most productive discipline, yielding an impressive haul of seven medals across various weight categories.

Thokchom Srinivas Singh (Phunaba Anishuba 56 kg), Konjengbam Parei-henba Singh (Phunaba Anishuba 60 kg), and Thangjam Lembisana Devi (Phunaba Anishuba 52 kg) all claimed fold, while Lourembam Daina Phunaba Ama 56 kg) and Iron Anamika Devi (Phunaba Ama 52 kg) secured silver.

Bronze medals went to Yumnam Malemnganba Meitei (Phunaba Ama 56 kg) and Thoiba Yumnam (Phunaba Ama 60 kg).

The fencing teams also made their mark, with the boys' team foil and girls' team Sabre both earning silver after narrow losses to Haryana in the finals.

Additionally, the boys' team Epee took bronze following a semifinal defeat against Maharashtra.

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