Over 300 athletes compete as canoe sprint, indoor rowing championships kick off in Srinagar

Srinagar, Sep 27: The 11th Canoe Sprint and 7th Indoor Rowing Championships began at the Water Sports Club in Pokhribal, drawing nearly 300 athletes from across Jammu and Kashmir in a spirited showcase of youth talent and sporting zeal.

As per a statement issued on Saturday, the mega sporting event was held under the able supervision and guidance of world-renowned water sports athlete Ms Bilquis Mir, who has been instrumental in promoting water sports at regional and national levels.

Bilquis Mir expressed her heartfelt commitment to the cause: “Water sports are not just about competing; they are about discipline, strength, teamwork and building a healthier society. The youth of Jammu and Kashmir have immense potential, and my vision is to see them rise on international platforms, carrying the flag of our nation with pride. With consistent efforts, proper infrastructure and the right support, J&K can emerge as a hub of water sports excellence in India.”

The event was graced by the presence of several distinguished guests including, SSP Zulfiqar, SP North Khanyar, Showket Dar, Commanding Officer CISF Rakesh, Joint Director Employment, Waseem, Shafqat Watali, President J&K Kayaking and Canoeing Association, Dr Burhan Bazaz, President Rowing and Sculling Association, President District Water sports Bandipora and District President Water Sports  Baramulla, Dr Shahid Ali Khan, note Cultural Officer, University of Kashmir, Latief Ahmad, CEO, Colour Curve, Members of the Mohalla Committee, Pokhribal, District Presidents, Water Sports Bandipora  and Baramulla Faisal  and Muzafar Ahmad respectively .

Welcoming the guests and participants, Shafqat Watali, President of the J&K Kayaking and Canoeing Association, said, “We have taken the initiative to provide opportunities for the youth of Jammu and Kashmir to participate in water sports activities. Our mission is to nurture their talent, keep them connected with healthy pursuits, and guide them towards achieving excellence at the national and international level.”

Speaking on the occasion, SSP Zulfiqar emphasised the role of sports in shaping society: “Drugs have unfortunately captured a section of our society, and it is our collective duty to save the lives of our youth. Activities like canoeing, kayaking and other sports will go a long way in combating this menace and channelling the energy of our young generation in the right direction.” Rakesh, Commanding Officer, CISF, in his address, stressed the need for institutional support: “We need to empower the water sports associations and provide them with the required infrastructure and resources. Together, we must move beyond limitations and bring Jammu and Kashmir to the forefront of water sports excellence. The passion and talent of our youth deserves every possible encouragement.” Noted academician and researcher Dr Shahid Ali Khan, Cultural Officer, University of Kashmir, inspired the athletes with his words: “Today, these young boys and girls are playing in the waters of Pokhribal Lake. Tomorrow, with the right opportunities and platforms, they can shine at the Asian Games and even the Olympics, bringing medals for our nation. The talent of our youth is undeniable; what they need is empowerment, support, and the creation of pathways to achieve global recognition.”

Later, the guests honoured the winning athletes with medals and certificates, applauding their dedication and sporting spirit. At the prize distribution ceremony, Dr Burhan Bazaz, President of the Rowing and Sculling Association, proposed the formal vote of thanks to all the dignitaries, participants, and supporters of the event. Speaking on the occasion, Dr Burhan said, “Today, we have witnessed not only a championship but also the rise of a new sporting culture in Jammu and Kashmir. These young athletes are the torchbearers of hope and resilience. With every paddle stroke and every race, they are proving that nothing is beyond their reach. Our dream is to see them stand tall on international podiums, and with the continued support of our society and institutions, that dream will soon become reality.”