Srinagar, Dec 27: The 15th National Ice Speed Skating Championship is being organized by the Ice Skating Association of India, New Delhi (ISAI) on the country’s best natural Ice Skating Rink at famous winter sports destination Gulmarg from 30th of this month.
In a statement issued here, an ISAI spokesman said: “Scores of participants from different states of the country are expected to take part including J&K State in this scintillating and thrilling championship. Many skaters have already reported at Gulmarg and are taking part in the pre-competition Coaching camp organized by the ISAI.”
“The camp started from 25th and will conclude on 29th December. It is being held under the supervision of Shabir Ahmad Wani, a prominent winter sports athlete and former Asstt Director Youth Services and Sports. Shabir is the local Co-coordinator of ISAI,” he said.
R.K. Gupta, President ISAI has expressed his gratitude to J&K Government, particularly to Gulmarg 
Development Authority for extending its help to freeze and maintain the Skating Rink. Ice Skating has huge potential in Kashmir but needs focused attention from the concerned authorities. “The rink be given some more expansion and modernize it so that the enthusiasts from foreign countries and other states of the country could come here to pursue their sport. The rink is one of the largest natural rinks of the country and meets the length of international standards but still needs further development. Promoting Ice Hockey is also possible here,” the statement quoted Gupta as saying.
