SRINAGAR- Open SnowShoe selection trials conducted by J&K SnowShoe Association for the National Championship and upcoming 3rd Khelo India National Winter Games were held in Gulmarg on Wednesday.
The open trials were held in senior category in both male and female sections.
In men’s section, large number of long distance runners turned up for the trials while as there was a low turnout in the female section.
The selection was held on time trial basis with athletes competing in different groups. The were held in order to select J&K athletes for the upcoming 5th SnowShoe National Championship and 3rd Khelo India National Winter Games 2022.
The trials were inaugurated by J&K SnowShoe Association President Tariq Ahmad Mir in presence of General Secretary Gulzar Khan, Executive Member Shabir Ahmad and international cyclist Akbar Khan. The trials were conducted under overall supervision of NIS qualified athletic coach, Tahir Ahmed.
In men’s section Gulbadin Hekmatyar with best timing emerged as the first position holder, while Muzamil Hussain had the second best timing. Adil Fayaz had the third best timing.
In girls section, Muskan Shaban qualified with best timing while as Afshana Zehra had second best timing.
“It was open trials and qualification was based on time trial. While we have selected three for the Nationals and Games in men’s section, we have also kept seven in waiting list. In female section only two qualified,” Secretary of the Association Gulzar Khan said.
“Our aim is to provide everyone equal opportunity and be part of Nationals and Khelo India Games. While long distance running is tough sport, SnowShoe is extra difficult owing to tough terrain, weight of the snowshoe and the altitude,” he said. “To compete in it one needs have highest level of fitness and stamina.”
Later, the Association felicitated Assistant Director Tourism, Gulmarg, Javid ur Rehman.
“Tourism department has been supportive from the beginning and without them we will not be able to take this sport to the level that we want,” Khan added.
Follow this link to join our WhatsApp group: Join Now
Be Part of Quality Journalism |
Quality journalism takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce and despite all the hardships we still do it. Our reporters and editors are working overtime in Kashmir and beyond to cover what you care about, break big stories, and expose injustices that can change lives. Today more people are reading Kashmir Observer than ever, but only a handful are paying while advertising revenues are falling fast. |
ACT NOW |
MONTHLY | Rs 100 | |
YEARLY | Rs 1000 | |
LIFETIME | Rs 10000 | |