Ladakh athletes shine bright at National Snowshoe Championship

Sonamarg, Feb 20: Against the stunning backdrop of Sonamarg's snow-capped mountains, the 8th National SnowShoe Championships came to a triumphant close on Monday with Team Ladakh stealing the show. In a spectacular display of talent and endurance, the team from the mountainous northern region clinched an impressive 18 medals at the event held for the first time in Ganderbal district.

Led by Coach Sajjad Hussain, the athletes showcased their brilliance in various categories, bringing home a diverse array of accolades.

Notable achievements include Zayidd Khalil and Nasrullah Elya securing silver and bronze respectively in the senior Boys Long Distance category. Ghulam  Ali claimed a silver medal in the Senior Boys Short Distance Sprint. Nusrat Sakina displayed exceptional skill, securing Silver in the Senior Girls Long Distance, while Zareena Batool and Nusrat Sakina added to the glory with Gold and Silver respectively in the Senior Girls Short Distance. Ghulam Haider took home the Gold in the Junior Boys Long Distance, and Javed Ahmed secured Silver in the Junior Boys Short Distance Sprint. Fareeda Batool impressed in the Junior Girls Short Distance Sprint, securing a Bronze Medal. Faizullah also contributed with a Bronze Medal in the Junior Boys Sprint category. Team Ladakh further showcased their teamwork in the Relay 400m events, securing an impressive 4 Gold Medals in the Senior Boys category and 4 Silver Medals in the Senior Girls category.

President Shahnawaz Var of the SnowShoe Association Ladakh commended the team's exceptional performance and recognised Coach Sajjad Hussain's pivotal role in their success. Nasir Hussain Zaidi, the Organising Secretary, received accolades for ensuring the seamless execution of the championship. The athletes expressed their gratitude to the Kargil Administration for their support and dedicated their hard-earned medals to the newly formed Union Territory of Ladakh.