SRINAGAR: Sonamarg, a picturesque meadow nestled in the heart of Kashmir, witnessed a historic moment as it played host to the inaugural National wintersports event, marking a significant milestone in the region’s sporting landscape. The 8th National SnowShoe Championship 2024 kicked off amidst great enthusiasm and fervour, signalling a new era of sporting excellence in the winter wonderland.
The decision to keep Sonamarg open for winter activities this season by the Jammu and Kashmir Administration paved the way for this momentous occasion. Collaborating with the Directorate of Tourism Kashmir, the Jammu and Kashmir SnowShoe Association, and the Sonamarg Hoteliers Association, the event organizers orchestrated a grand spectacle that drew participants from 13 states across the country.
Under the watchful eye of the District Commissioner of Ganderbal, the championship commenced with a ceremonial flag-off, setting the stage for a thrilling display of athleticism and determination. With around 150 athletes vying for glory, the event promised fierce competition and camaraderie against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks.
Reflecting on the significance of the occasion, the DC Ganderbal lauded the collective efforts that made the event possible, hailing it as a historic milestone that bodes well for Sonamarg’s future as a premier destination for wintersports. He expressed delight at the diverse participation, noting the growing popularity of wintersports across the country, transcending geographical boundaries.
The presence of dignitaries from various organizations underscored the collaborative spirit driving the event forward. Representatives from the Sonamarg Development Authority, the SnowShoe Federation of India, and local associations voiced their support, emphasizing the importance of expanding the footprint of wintersports beyond traditional hubs like Gulmarg.
The championship witnessed thrilling competitions across various categories, with athletes showcasing their prowess in long-distance events and sprints. From seasoned veterans to budding talents, participants from different corners of the country left their mark on the snow-covered terrain, embodying the spirit of sportsmanship and resilience.
As the championship unfolded, it became evident that Sonamarg’s emergence as a wintersports hub holds immense promise for the future. With its natural beauty and untapped potential, the meadow stands poised to become a beacon for enthusiasts seeking adventure and excellence in the realm of wintersports.
Winners
Senior Men Long Distance:
Gold: Gulbadin Hekmatyar (Jammu and Kashmir)
Silver: Athletes from Ladakh
Bronze: Athletes from Ladakh
Junior Boys Long Distance:
Gold: Ghulam Haider (Ladakh)
Silver: Zaid Bin Mushtaq (Jammu and Kashmir)
Bronze: Sulieman (Jammu and Kashmir)
Senior Women Long Distance:
Gold: Sarojni (Uttarakhand)
Silver: Zareena (Ladakh)
Bronze: Lata (Karnataka)
Junior Girls 400-Meter Sprint:
Gold: Abinaya (Pondicherry)
Silver: Tamana (Jammu and Kashmir)
Bronze: Fareeda Batool (Ladakh)
Sprint Men 800-Meter:
Gold: Gulbadin Hekmatyar (Jammu and Kashmir)
Silver: Ghulam Ali (Jammu and Kashmir)
Bronze: Aadil Pundit (Jammu and Kashmir)
Senior Women 400-Meter Sprint:
Gold: Zareena Bano (Ladakh)
Silver: Nusrat Sakeena (Ladakh)
Bronze: Bavithra (Pondicherry)
Junior Boys 400-Meter Sprint:
Gold: Umar Mohiuddin (Jammu and Kashmir)
Silver: Hashim (Jammu and Kashmir)
Bronze: Javed Ahmed (Ladakh)
