KATHMANDU: Mahendra Jyoti Ex-Students' Forum, Farak, won the 15th Khumbu Lhosar Cup Football Tournament on Saturday, defeating Namche Youth Club 4-1 in the final at the ANFA Complex in Satdobato.

The tournament, organized to mark Lhosar — the Sherpa community's cultural festival — has been held continuously for the past 18 years, bringing together youths originally from Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality of Solukhumbu who currently reside in Kathmandu.

Chief Guest Sonam Gyalzen Sherpa awarded the winning team a trophy, medals, certificates, and a cash prize of Rs 150,000 during the closing ceremony.

Runners-up Namche Youth Club received a trophy, medals, certificates, and Rs 80,000, while third-placed Khumjung Youth Club was awarded a trophy, medals, certificates, and Rs 40,000.

National player Priti Rai was also felicitated with a certificate and Rs 50,000 in recognition of her achievements in football.

The tournament, which began on February 7, featured eight teams competing across 16 matches. Participating teams included Mahendra Jyoti Ex-Student Forum Farak, Namche Youth Club, Khumjung Youth Club, Khunde Community Club, Thamichhowa Football Club Thame, Ama Dablam Youth Group Pangboche, Khumbu Yambu Sherpa Society, and Khumbu United.

This year's edition was organized by Mahendra Jyoti Ex-Students' Forum, Farak. The main sponsor was 14 Peaks Expedition Pvt. Ltd., with co-sponsors Heli Everest Pvt. Ltd. and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality.

The tournament has become a fixture in the Kathmandu sports calendar, providing a platform for the Sherpa community's youth to celebrate their cultural heritage while promoting football.