Srinagar: Athletes from the Khelo India State Centre of Excellence (KISCE) Rowing, Water Sports Centre, Nehru Park, were honored for their outstanding performance at the All India Inter SAI Rowing Championship, held at the SAI National Centre of Excellence in Alleppey, Kerala.
The athletes were felicitated on their return, recognizing their dedication and accomplishments.
Following the directions of the Secretary, J&K Sports Council, Nuzhat Gul, a felicitation ceremony took place at the Secretary’s Office, Sports Complex, M.A. Stadium, Jammu. The event was attended by Chief Sports Officer, Mohammad Hanief, JKAS, Chief Accounts Officer, Dilawar Singh, JKAS, and PRO, Jehangir Mir. The officials presented flower bouquets to the athletes and commended their exceptional achievements at the championship.
Among the standout performances, Zainab Shafi from District Baramulla secured a bronze medal in the Senior Women Singles (W1X) category, while Irtiza Ali and Muntazir Ali Matoo, both from District Srinagar, clinched another bronze in the Junior Men Pair (JM2) category. A total of 10 athletes from KISCE Rowing, Nehru Park, represented Jammu and Kashmir at the prestigious event, earning widespread recognition for their hard work and skill.
The Minister for Youth Services and Sports, J&K, Satish Sharma, praised the athletes for their excellent performances and expressed his confidence that their success would inspire many more young people in Jammu and Kashmir to pursue water sports. “We are immensely proud of their achievements and remain committed to enhancing the state’s facilities to develop world-class athletes,” he stated.
Sarmad Hafeez, IAS, Secretary, Youth Services and Sports, congratulated the athletes, adding, “The performance of our athletes speaks volumes about the growing potential of Jammu and Kashmir in water sports. Their success serves as a beacon of hope for future generations.”
Nuzhat Gul, Secretary, J&K Sports Council, highlighted the athletes’ achievement in competing against top-tier talent from renowned institutions like the SAI National Centre of Excellence. “This victory is a testament to their hard work, perseverance, and the bright future of water sports in J&K,” she said.
