Ganderbal, June 24: In a groundbreaking development, the Indian Kayaking & Canoeing Association, in collaboration with the J&K Water Sports Kayaking & Canoeing Association, organized the inaugural Canoe Slalom trials for the Asian Games at River Sindh in Sonamarg area of Central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district.
The event witnessed the participation of approximately 90 talented water sports athletes from various states across India, including Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Karnataka, Kerala, and Delhi.
These trials held immense significance as the top five athletes who showcased exceptional skills and performance secured coveted spots to represent India at the prestigious Asian Games, scheduled to be held in China this September. The participants demonstrated unwavering determination, a testament to their countless hours of dedicated training for this remarkable opportunity.
The collaboration between the Indian Kayaking & Canoeing Association and the J&K Water Sports Kayaking & Canoeing Association underscores their unwavering commitment to providing a robust platform for athletes to showcase their extraordinary abilities and drive the growth of Canoe Slalom throughout the country. This initiative aims to encourage wider participation, foster active engagement in water sports, and contribute to the overall development of the discipline in India.
The successful execution of this momentous event was made possible with the invaluable support of J&K Tourism, the District Administration of Ganderbal, J&K Sports Council, and the Colour Curve International Foundation. Their unwavering backing played a crucial role in ensuring flawless execution of the trials, enabling athletes to compete at their absolute best. Enthusiastic tourists and locals were treated to an exhilarating display of talent as the athletes skillfully navigated the challenging Canoe Slalom course. The captivating performances of the participants served as a testament to the growing interest in water sports within the region.
Chief Guest Ilyaas Ahmad, the Chief Executive Officer of the Sonamarg Development Authority, J&K Government, expressed his profound admiration for the athletes and their unwavering dedication. He acknowledged their remarkable efforts as a source of inspiration for aspiring athletes across the country. Prashant Kushwaha, President of the Indian Kayaking & Canoeing Association, expressed his heartfelt appreciation to Mr. Syed Abid Rasheed (IAS), Secretary of J&K Tourism, for his invaluable support in ensuring the successful execution of the event in J&K. Mr. Kushwaha also revealed plans for the upcoming National Canoe Slalom, to be organized in J&K in collaboration with the J&K Water Sports Kayaking & Canoeing Association in September 2023.
The event saw the presence of notable personalities, including Ms. Bilquis Mir, an international player of Kayaking & Canoeing and Chairperson for IKCA, Dr. Burhan Bazaz, President of J&K Rowing and Sculling Association, Mr. Farooq Ganderbali, Vice President of the J&K Water Sports Kayaking & Canoeing Association, Mr. Lateef Bhat, Director of the Colour Curve International Foundation, and Mr. Shahid Ali Khan, the Youth Welfare and Cultural Officer of the University of Kashmir. Their presence and encouragement further inspired the participants to strive for greatness.
The successful conclusion of the historic Canoe Slalom trials marks a significant milestone for water sports in India, as talented athletes gear up to represent the nation at the highly anticipated Asian Games. With unwavering support from various organizations and the continued dedication of the athletes, the future of Canoe Slalom in India looks brighter than ever.
