Shillong, Sep 13: Two days, over 100 races and an unforgettable moment of courage — the 1st True North Open Swimming Competition and Masters Meet wrapped up at True North Leisure Centre, Lapalang.
The meet drew swimmers from across the state, from 6-year-olds to senior masters.
Rajya Sabha MP James P K Sangma attended as chief guest on the final day and presented the Best Swimmer trophies.
Theodore J Ch Marak and Hanania E Kharkongor topped Category 1, while Banpynshngain Syngwan emerged as the star in the senior category with multiple golds. Verem Gedaliah Nongsiej — Meghalaya’s bronze winner at the 1st Khelo India Tribal Games in March — clinched Best Swimmer (female) in Category 4 under the True North banner.
The loudest cheer, however, was reserved for para swimmer Iarapborlang Chyne. The quadruple amputee, who is rehabbing at PMR Centre, Laban and training as a para sprinter, took to swimming just weeks ago. After only seven lessons at True North, he completed a full 25m lap in backstroke, leaving the crowd emotional and on its feet.
Organisers said it underlined True North’s mission — not just recreation, but life-changing, health-building skills.
