SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Sqay Team exhibited exceptional skill and determination at the 37th National Games in Goa 2023, securing nine gold, five silver, and five bronze medals. This historic achievement propelled the team from the 20th to the 12th position in the medal tally.
The Jammu and Kashmir Sqay Association congratulated the players, coaches, managers, and technical officials from the Union Territory. “Their collective efforts have instilled immense pride throughout the entire UT, highlighting the excellence of JK Sqay on the national stage,” they said.
Gold medallists include Sania Manzoor, Aqsa Showkat, Disha Pandit, Shagupta Mehraj, Faizan Ayoub, Aman Naqashbandi, Arsalan Mehraj, Sheikh Hashim, and Irfan Rangrez. Silver medalists are Fatima Adil, Saqiba Altaf, Adnan Farooq, Nasir Ahmad Zargar, and Arooj Ahmad. Bronze medalists include Tazina Maqbool, Humaira Lateef, Jamsheeda Yousuf, Sheikh Uzair, and Raja Younis.
Expressing his joy, Faizan Ayoub from Shopian, a martial artist since the age of 13, stated that winning the gold medal at the national level in martial arts has boosted his confidence for international competitions. “Having already secured three gold medals in international tournaments, he also trains young enthusiasts.”
Aqsa, another gold medallist participating for the first time in a national Games, expressed gratitude to her family, friends, and the Deputy Commissioner of Ganderbal. Overcoming challenges, she emphasised the lack of proper facilities and equipment for young athletes in Ganderbal, highlighting the need for improved infrastructure and training resources.
Coach Sqay Saleem Pathan said that all contestants from Ganderbal district won medals in the tournament, expressing delight and recognising it as a source of pride for the region. “He thanked the Government for its support and urged them to provide necessary facilities for sports enthusiasts to avoid future challenges.” (KNO)
