Imphal, March 18 : To keep the Manipuri culture and tradition alive the State Equestrian Championship was recently held at Manipur Polo Ground.

The 6th Director General Assam Rifles Cup was organized by the Manipur Equestrian Association under the aegis of Inspector General Assam Rifles, South.

The tournament aimed at promoting Polo in a big way.

"We have been excellent in horse riding, horsemanship. We have our own breed of Manipur pony and we wanted to nurture to just develop this equestrian event," said Dr. S. Joykumar Singh, President of the Manipur Equestrian Association.

Eight polo clubs from the State including one from Manipur Police Sports Club participated in the event. There were over 60 players participating in the championship.

"Assam Rifles is sponsoring DG cup and if others like the army organize it regularly it will be very good for us," said Premjit Singh, a player of the Thangmeiband Youth Polo Club

"We feel very happy that players are being encouraged through the DG Assam Rifles Cup every year. It has made players feel very happy and we get an opportunity to improve our skills thorough the championship," said S. Bimol Singh, Player, Manipur Police Sports Club.

Manipur Polo Exhibition Gallery was also inaugurated as a part of the event.

Though the British popularized Polo it originated in Manipur and has been known as Sagol Kangjei since time immemorial.

Polo enthusiasts in the state are working towards preservation of the game, which is historically connected to Manipuri culture and tradition. (ANI)