KD NEWS SERVICE
KARGIL, Jan 27: The Union Territory of Ladakh etched its name in the national sporting arena with a stellar performance at the recently concluded Khelo India Winter Games (Ice Hockey), as its men’s and women’s teams returned home with prestigious medals, underscoring the region’s growing dominance in winter sports.
At the highly competitive national event, the Ladakh Men’s Ice Hockey Team secured the Bronze Medal, while the Women’s Ice Hockey Team delivered an impressive campaign to win the Silver Medal, competing against some of the strongest teams from across the country. The twin achievements marked a proud moment for Ladakh and highlighted the immense potential of athletes nurtured in the harsh yet sport-friendly climatic conditions of the region.
The success assumed even greater significance due to the decisive contribution of players from Kargil, who formed the backbone of both teams. Demonstrating exceptional skating skills, tactical awareness, discipline, and team spirit, the Kargil athletes played a crucial role in steering Ladakh to the podium. Their performances reflected years of rigorous training on frozen lakes and makeshift rinks, often under extreme weather conditions.
A historic milestone was achieved during the tournament when Rigzin Yangdol of Kukshow became the first-ever woman ice hockey player from Kargil to captain the Ladakh Women’s Ice Hockey Team. Her leadership on the ice not only guided the team to a silver medal finish but also marked a landmark moment in the sporting history of Kargil. Her achievement stands as a powerful symbol of empowerment and serves as a source of inspiration for young girls across Ladakh, particularly in remote and border areas.
The women’s team featured a strong contingent from Kargil, including Rigzin Yangdol (Kukshow – Captain), Rinchen Dozang (Kukshow), Mehroon Nissa (Shargole), Samina Khatoon (Trespon), Hasina Banoo (Wakha), Aqeela Banoo (Karit), and Leela Banoo (Pashkum). Their collective effort, resilience, and determination played a vital role in Ladakh’s remarkable run in the tournament.
Similarly, the men’s team benefitted immensely from the presence of seasoned players from Kargil. The Kargil contingent comprised Mohammad Ali Baba, Sajjad Hussain, Irfan Ali, and Nawaz Ali from Pashkum, along with Wasim Billal and Muhaib Mir from Drass. These players showcased outstanding endurance and tactical play, helping the team clinch the bronze medal at the national level.
Congratulating the medal-winning athletes, General Secretary of the District Kargil Olympic Association, Syed Mehraj Uddin Shah, extended heartfelt appreciation to the Kargil players in particular and Team Ladakh as a whole. He lauded their dedication and perseverance and expressed strong confidence that these athletes would continue to shine in future national and international competitions.
He also congratulated the UT Ladakh Administration, led by Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta, Chief Secretary Ashish Kundra, Administrative Secretary (Sports) Moses Kunzang, Joint Secretary Tahir Hussain Zubdavi, and the entire Khelo India Committee for their unwavering support in promoting winter sports infrastructure and nurturing sporting talent in the region.
The outstanding performance of the Ladakh Ice Hockey teams at the Khelo India Winter Games has not only added another feather to the region’s sporting cap but has also ignited fresh enthusiasm among the youth. The success story is expected to inspire a new generation of athletes from Kargil and other parts of Ladakh to pursue excellence in ice hockey and other winter sports, further strengthening the region’s reputation as a powerhouse of winter athletics.
