Jammu & Kashmir's Water Sports Talents Shine at All India Inter SAI Rowing Championship
Srinagar, Nov 11: The state of Jammu and Kashmir has emerged as a force to be reckoned with in the realm of rowing and water sports, after showcasing its youthful talent at the All India Inter SAI Rowing Championship held at the Alleppey, Kerala.
In a resounding display of skill and determination, 10 athletes from Khelo India State Centre of Excellence (KISCE) Rowing, Nehru Park, represented J&K and brought home an impressive haul of medals. Notably, Zainab Shafi from Baramulla district claimed bronze in the Senior Women Singles category (W1X), while Irtiza Ali and Muntazir Ali Matoo from Srinagar district secured bronze in the Junior Men Pair category (JM2).
The outstanding performance by J&K's athletes demonstrated its growing capabilities in water sports, with many praising their talents. "We are extremely proud of our young athletes for showcasing exceptional skill and determination," said Minister for Youth Services and Sports Satish Sharma, who extended heartfelt congratulations to all the participating athletes.
Sharma emphasized that Jammu & Kashmir is solidifying its position as a national hub for water sports and assured continued support in terms of coaching, equipment, and other allied facilities to nurture talented aspiring athletes. "We will provide every possible incentive to develop our young athletes into world-class competitors," he stated.
The officials from the department also paid tribute to the achievements, highlighting the growing potential of J&K's water sports talent. Sarmad Hafeez, Secretary of Youth Services and Sports, congratulated the J&K contingent for their victory, saying that the state has immense potential in the domain of water sports.
This victory marked a significant milestone in J&K's journey towards becoming a prominent player at the national level, according to Nuzhat Gul, Secretary of the J&K Sports Council. The officials celebrated this achievement, recognizing its profound impact on the regional pride and future aspirations of talented athletes.