(L-R) Avikali V Sheqi and Kevin. (Photo Courtesy: Nagaland Pencak Silat Association)
Dimapur, May 23 (MExN): Nagaland athletes Kevin and Avikali V Sheqi have qualified to represent India at the 10th Asian Senior Pencak Silat Championship 2026 to be held in Dong Nai Province, Vietnam, from July 15 to 23.
The qualification was secured during the Open Selection Trials conducted in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, from May 16 to 19, where top Pencak Silat athletes from across the country participated.
Representing Nagaland, both athletes earned their places in the Tanding (sparring) category after strong performances in their respective weight divisions, the Nagaland Pencak Silat Association informed in a press update.
The association also stated that Kevin, Avikali V Sheqi and Chithuviyo Kaiho successfully completed the Indian National Referee, Jury and Coaches Training Course 2026 organised by the Indian Pencak Silat Federation under the guidance of the International Pencak Silat Federation (PERSILAT).
The certification programme was conducted under the leadership of international technical expert Mdm Titih Hayati of Indonesia, popularly known as the “Coach of the Coaches”.
According to the association, the course focused on enhancing international standards of refereeing, judging, coaching professionalism, technical excellence, discipline and fair play in Pencak Silat across India.
The Nagaland Pencak Silat Association described the qualification for the continental championship and successful completion of the technical certification course as a landmark achievement for the state and the association.
It also extended its best wishes to the athletes as they prepare to represent India at the championship and strive to bring laurels to the state and the country.
