Kenyan women polo team defeated USA by 5-4 goals in the final to lift the 3rd Manipur Statehood Day Women’s Polo Tournament trophy at Mapal Kangjeibung in Imphal on Sunday.
After the match both the champion and runners-up teams gave their prize money to All Manipur Polo Association for the preservation of Manipuri Pony, a gesture appreciated by all.
Speaking as chief guest Manipur governor Dr Najma Heptulla said, “I really appreciate the gesture of both the team, Kenya and USA, as they gave their prize money to All Manipur Polo Association for the preservation of Manipuri Pony.”
She said the tournament is the pioneering showcase of international women’s polo which goes to establish Manipur as India’s centre for women’s polo. This Tournament is also a flagship event of Manipur Tourism aimed at promoting state as a preferred destination for polo tourism in the world, she said.
It has been made a calendar event, held every year from January 17 to 21 and this edition has added significance as the tournament commemorates Manipur’s 47 years of statehood.
Six teams including USA, Australia, Kenya, Indian Polo Association and two teams representing Manipur participated in the tournament.
The 3 rd Manipur Statehood Day Women’s Polo Tournament was organised by All Manipur Polo Association and sponsored by state tourism department.