Jowai, November 13: Senior citizens aged 75 and 85 years demonstrated their enthusiasm for sports as they participated in the first Open to All Badminton Tournament 2026, organised by the National People’s Party (NPP), Loomiongkjam Primary Unit, Jowai, which concluded on Thursday at the Seiñ Raij Indoor Sports Complex.
The two-day tournament witnessed the participation of 68 players across three categories — Open Men’s Doubles, 75 Years and Above Men’s Doubles, and 85 Years and Above Men’s Doubles.
The participation of elderly players, particularly in the 85 Years and Above category, was a major highlight of the tournament, making it a notable sporting event in Jowai and potentially one of the first competitions of its kind to provide such a platform for senior citizens.
The tournament was organised in collaboration with Sports and Youth Affairs Minister and Jowai MLA Wailadmiki Shylla, with the objective of encouraging sporting participation across different age groups. In the 85 Years and Above Men’s Doubles category, Damehi Kyndiah and Arkiyoo Passah emerged as champions.
Meanwhile, Dauru Laloo and Ram Najiar claimed the championship title in the 75 Years and Above Men’s Doubles category. In the Open Men’s Doubles category, Gregoreo Passah and Deilangwa-o Nongpluh secured the championship title.
The prize distribution ceremony was attended by Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Wailadmiki Shylla, who presented awards to the winners. Also present were NPP Loomiongkjam Primary Unit President Dr. D.I. Kjam, NPP Iawmusiang Primary Unit President Eddystone Shylla and other dignitaries.
