SRINAGAR: The Winter Games Association of J&K held South Kashmir Ski Championship here at Pahalgam on Saturday.
Nearly 35 boys and girls, belonging to almost all districts of south Kashmir took part in this promotional event.
The championship was sponsored by J&K Sports Council and logistic support was provided by JIM&WS. Col I.P Thapa, Principal-JIM&WS was Chief Guest while as, Rauf Tramboo, President ATOAK and CEO- Pahalgam Municipal Committee were Guest of Honor on the occasion.
The winners were awarded medals by the Chief Guest. All the successful athletes will also be awarded the participation certificates.
Muhammad Yusuf, General Secretary-WGAJK informed that the association is regularly holding this kind of feedback events in every district with an aim to encourage a spirit of snow sports amongst local youth with particular focus on Pahalgam, where all facilities are available but the sport is not popular.
He informed that winter sports has enormous score in Lidder valley, particularly the ski mountaineering and nordic ski.
Yusuf further said that there was also possibility of promoting ice events here as well, as the temperature goes down to sub-zero. He suggested that Skating Rink should be allotted to JIMW&S that could make its proper use in all seasons.
Col Thapa assured his all possible help to the WGAJK whenever and wherever required. Meanwhile, the participants complained that in the absence of a ski lift it was difficult to climb steep slope with heavy skis. They demanded that the Ski lift needs to be made functional forthwith. The locals said that this defunct ski lift has become a nuisance here. They suggested that it should be transferred back to Tourism Deptt as the JKCCC has failed to operate it.
Muhammad Yusuf informed that 10 top skiers of this region have qualified for the upcoming Union Territory Championship to be held at Gulmarg from 28th Jan. They have been advised to get in touch with WGAJK on mobile no: 7006041442. Meanwhile, the Senior District Championship for men and women would be held at Gulmarg 27th January.
