Thang-Ta tradition behind fencing glory

Guwahati, Feb 17 (UNI) Manipur's dominance in fencing event was so complete that it snapped up all the 12 gold medals up for grabs in the 33rd National Games but it seems another traditional form of game is the reason behind the tiny North Eastern state's success.

Although there is no denying that practice makes one perfect. But only practice alone is not sufficient for a team to be so proficient and consistent. So, what is the secret behind Manipur's fencing glory ? ''It is Thang-Ta, a traditional martial art in Manipur.

Thang-means sword and Ta-means spear. It is a martial art form of sword and spear fighting. Our player's expertise in the traditional game of Thang-Ta comes handy while wielding the fencing sword in Foil, Epee and Sabre events,'' said H Hemjit Meetei, a technical officer for the Manipur team and a former Sports Authority of India (SAI) coach.

As many as 19 out of the 20 members of Manipur fencing team that included nine girls and 11 boys, are international players. It reflects the state's dominance in fencing that was approved by the Sports Authority of India (SAI) only in 1989.

Manipur has been dominating all the national events in Fencing in recent years. It won eleven gold medals in the last National Championship and topped the table in the last National Games held in Hyderabad. Manipuri fencing players representing India won gold medal in the last Thailand Open held in December 2006.

The state will have its first specialized fencing hall next year.

The first specialized fencing hall in Manipur was under construction and will be completed next year. Till date players have to practice in multipurpose indoor halls. But that does not come in the way of regular practice for these players who are taught to acquire the steely resolve not to bow down to their opponents.

UNI