Ariha Pangambam Makes History at Asian Aerobic Gymnastics Championships

Historic Win for Manipur's Ariha Pangambam

Imphal, Aug 8: Ariha Pangambam from Manipur has etched her name in history by becoming the first Indian to secure a gold medal in the senior women's individual category at the Asian Aerobic Gymnastics Championships, which took place in the Philippines in 2026.

During the event held at the UCI-certified Tagaytay City Velodrome from August 4 to 7, Ariha achieved an impressive score of 19.100 points in the finals. Her performance was characterized by remarkable artistry, impeccable execution, and a challenging routine, marking India's first gold in this category.

The championship, hosted by the Gymnastics Association of the Philippines under the Asian Gymnastics Union, saw participation from over 400 athletes and officials representing 11 nations, including India, Japan, South Korea, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, Mongolia, Cambodia, Chinese Taipei, Hong Kong, and the Philippines.

Ariha's groundbreaking victory has been celebrated throughout Manipur, with Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh expressing that this achievement is a source of great pride for both the state and the nation.

He emphasized that the gold medal showcases the talent, perseverance, and dedication of Manipuri athletes, hoping that her success will motivate young sports enthusiasts to strive for excellence on the global stage.

Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla also extended his congratulations to Ariha, labeling her win as a historic achievement for Indian gymnastics. He remarked that her accomplishment as the first Indian to win gold in the senior women's individual event at the Asian Championships has brought significant honor to the country.

The Governor praised Ariha's coach for their invaluable guidance and commitment, which played a crucial role in her success. He expressed his wishes for Ariha to continue her winning streak and anticipated that she would bring home many more international accolades for India.