Shillong, Sep 13: The inaugural True North Open Swimming Competition and Masters Meet concluded on Saturday at the True North Leisure Centre in Lapalang, showcasing emerging swimming talent from across Meghalaya.

The two-day competition featured swimmers ranging from six-year-olds to senior and masters competitors, with more than 100 individual and relay events held during the meet.

Rajya Sabha MP for Meghalaya James PK Sangma was the chief guest on the concluding day and presented the Best Swimmer awards.

Among the young winners were Theodore J Ch Marak and Hanania E Kharkongor, who were adjudged Best Swimmers in Category 1. In the senior category, Banpynshngain Syngwan emerged as the Best Swimmer after a strong medal-winning performance.

Verem Gedaliah Nongsiej, who won a bronze medal for Meghalaya at the 1st Khelo India Tribal Games 2026 in March, also featured prominently. Representing True North, she was named Best Female Swimmer in Category 4.

One of the highlights of the concluding day was a special swimming demonstration by para swimmer Iarapborlang Chyne. Following an accident that resulted in quadruple amputations, Chyne has been undergoing rehabilitation at the PMR Centre in Laban and has started training as a para sprinter.

He recently began swimming and had completed only seven lessons at True North before taking part in the demonstration. He successfully swam an entire 25-metre lap using the backstroke, receiving a strong round of applause from those present.

The performance highlighted the role of swimming not only as a competitive sport but also as an important life skill that can support rehabilitation, fitness and healthier living.

Best Swimmer Awardees

Category 1: Theodore J Ch Marak (Male), Hanania E Kharkongor (Female)
Category 2: Issac FC Kharsati, Asher W Lyngdoh (Male), Naphisa D Ksoo (Female)
Category 3: Ezra A Khonglam (Male), Ira N Wahlang (Female)
Category 4: Meiaipynsan Lyngdoh Tron (Male), Verem G Nongsiej (Female)
Category 5: Elhanan J Kharwar (Male), Tvisha Jalewa (Female)
Category 6: Shaun M Diengdoh (Male)
Senior: Banpynshngain Syngwan (Male)

Masters:
Category A: William Sangma (Male), Glarcenda Z Wahlang (Female)
Category B: Rimiki Lyngdoh (Male), Mebashisha L Lyngdoh (Female)
Category C: Ardonister Lyngdoh (Male), Gracia M Diengdoh (Female)
Category D: Robert Lyngdoh (Male)
Category E: Mario Hek (Male), Merry S Syiem (Female)
Category F: Keith R Syiemlieh (Male)