Asian U23 Athletics C’ships bronze medallist Bhumeshwory accorded warm reception; calls for disturbance-free training facilities

By Our Staff Reporter
IMPHAL, Jul 22 : Manipur’s one of the rising athletes Huidrom Bhumeshwory has called on the State Government to provide high-quality, disturbance-free training infrastructure to help State athletes excel on National and international stages.
Bhumeshwory recently scripted history by winning a bronze medal in the women’s 800m event at the 2026 Asian U23 Athletics Championships held in Ordos, China.
The rising athletic talent was accorded a warm reception today at the All Manipur Sports Association (AMSA) hall at Mapal Kangjeibung, jointly organized by the Athletics Association of Manipur (AAM) and the Manipur Running Team.
Speaking at the event, Bhumeshwory credited her rapid rise to the unwavering support of the AAM, her coaches, guardians, and well-wishers.
"If an athlete pursues their goals with determination and perseverance, success is bound to come," she said, urging younger athletes to stay focused on their targets.
However, she noted that an athlete's growth is strictly limited by their training environment, expressing regret over the severe infrastructural deficit being faced by State athletes.
She emphasized that proper athletic facilities are foundational for talent development, safety, and long-term competitive success, urging the State Government to work out a proper policy to transform Manipur's enormous sporting potential into podium finishes.
Many concerned personalities also echoed her concerns, criticizing the monopolization of existing facilities.
Ito Tongbram, Secretary of the AAM, flagged unfairness on the part of authorities, highlighting the excessive, long-term usage of the Khuman Lampak Main Stadium for a single, specific sport.
Tongbram noted that the stadium serves as the primary venue for regular practice and competitions for most State athletes, and demanded that authorities ensure unrestricted, year-round access to the facility except during major tournaments.
Khogendra Khomdram, Editor of The Sangai Express, also spoke at the event, emphasizing the need for equitable treatment across all sporting disciplines to sustain Manipur’s rich sporting legacy.
He stated it is unfortunate when massive sports facilities are heavily allocated to one sport, adding that all athletes deserve equal access.
The reception program was attended by several prominent presidium members, including Leishangthem Ajit (President, AAM), retired Youth Affairs and Sports athletic coaches Sapam Rashwori and Soibam Somchandra, and retired Sports Authority of India (SAI) coach Dr. Konthoujam Koshana. As part of the celebration, Bhumeshwory was honored with a memento and gifts for her historic international achievement.