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Manipur's hockey team has defied all odds to reach the semifinals of the Hockey India-14th senior National men's championship in Chennai. Despite facing obstacles such as ethnic violence and financial constraints, the team has showcased remarkable resilience and determination.The team's journey began in October, when preparations were hampered by ongoing violence in Manipur. Practice sessions were frequently canceled, and the team's participation in the Nationals was uncertain due to lack of funds. However, through the support of well-wishers, including businessmen, individuals, and politicians, Manipur managed to secure the necessary resources to travel to Chennai.On the field, Manipur has played with a combination of skill, passion, and strategy. They upset Bengal in the group stage and then stunned defending champion Punjab in the quarterfinals. This victory was particularly sweet for Manipur, as they had lost to Punjab at the same stage last year.Midfielder Nilakanta Sharma, a Tokyo Olympics bronze medalist, has been a key figure for Manipur. He guided the younger players and provided valuable experience. Sharma emphasized the team's strong mentality and the importance of securing jobs for the players."It was very satisfying to reach the semifinals. My boys must get a job. That will be even more satisfying," said Sharma.Manipur's success has not only brought pride to the state but has also highlighted the challenges faced by athletes in conflict-ridden regions. The team's determination to overcome adversity serves as an inspiration to all who aspire to achieve their dreams.

Pakistan Contingent Departs for South Asian Athletics Federation Junior Championships in ChennaiA 12-member Pakistani contingent has embarked on a journey to Chennai, India, to participate in the South Asian Athletics Federation (SAAF) Junior Championships. The contingent received visas from the Indian High Commission on Saturday, paving the way for their departure.The contingent, comprising athletes and officials, crossed the Wagah border into India and proceeded to Amritsar. From there, they boarded a flight to Chennai, where the SAAF Junior Championships will be held from September 11 to 13.The Pakistani contingent will compete in various track and field events, including sprints, hurdles, jumps, and throws. They will face stiff competition from athletes from other South Asian countries, including India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, and the Maldives.The SAAF Junior Championships serve as a platform for young athletes to showcase their talent and gain international experience. The event also provides an opportunity for athletes to qualify for regional and global competitions.Pakistan has a strong tradition in athletics, having produced several world-class athletes over the years. The contingent will be hoping to continue this legacy by performing well in Chennai and bringing home medals.

Chennai, the vibrant capital of Tamil Nadu, is gearing up to host India's first-ever Formula 4 night street racing event from August 30th to September 1st. This groundbreaking spectacle will take place in the heart of the city, around the iconic Island Grounds, on a 3.5-kilometer stretch near the picturesque Marina Beach.The event will feature two distinct categories: the Indian Racing League (IRL), an IPL-style franchise-based race, and Formula 4 (F4) racing, designed for junior drivers. The IRL will see teams from various cities compete for a prize pool of 1.5 crores, while F4 drivers will earn crucial Super Licence points, essential for their progression to Formula 1.Among the team owners are renowned cricketer Sourav Ganguly and Bollywood star Arjun Kapoor. The racing will commence at 4:30 PM and continue for approximately five hours, with traffic being diverted during this period. Tickets are priced from Rs. 299 onwards, making it accessible to fans from all walks of life.The Marina Beach stretch will be transformed into a challenging circuit with 19 turns, multiple chicanes, and tricky elevations, promising an adrenaline-pumping experience for both drivers and spectators. The Tamil Nadu government has invested around 30 crores to develop exclusive roads that meet racing standards.Tamil Nadu has a rich history in motorsports, having produced India's first Formula 1 racing driver, Narain Karthikeyan, and Karun Chandok. The state is also home to several car manufacturers, making it an ideal location for this prestigious event."This event will elevate Chennai's global branding," said Meghanath Reddy, CEO of the Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu. "We will join the ranks of only 14 cities worldwide that host Formula 4 races and become one of the five to hold night street racing."Despite initial concerns about noise pollution, organizers have assured that noise levels will be within permissible limits and that evacuation points and ambulances will be strategically placed along the track."Ticket pricing is affordable, so ordinary fans can witness this thrilling spectacle," said Abhinandan, Director of Racing Promotions Pvt Ltd (RPPL), the event organizer.The Indian Racing League championship carries a prize pool of 1.5 crores, while F4 racers will earn Super Licence points, crucial for their progression to F1. Akbar Ebrahim, President of the Federation of Motor Sport Clubs of India, expressed his excitement, saying, "This event brings motorsports to the doorstep of the general public. If successful, India and Tamil Nadu will be firmly placed on the global map."Revenue streams for the organizers include sponsorship, television and OTT rights, and advertisement boards along the track, with a portion of the proceeds going to the state government.Politically, this event is the brainchild of Sports Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, who has played a key role in hosting major sporting events such as the Chess Olympiad, Asian-level Hockey, and international surfing. The ruling party is expected to leverage this event to build a narrative around Stalin amid speculation of his elevation to Deputy Chief Minister.