Excelsior Sports Correspondent
KARGIL, Oct 27: The 3rd UT Ladakh Taekwondo Championship successfully concluded at Badminton Hall, Baroo, Kargil, with over 100 athletes from both districts showcasing exceptional skills in Kyorugi and Poomsae categories. The championship, organized by the Ladakh Taekwondo Association (LTA), received wide appreciation for its grand execution and the high level of competition.
The closing ceremony was graced by Dr. Mohammad Jaffer Akhoon, Chief Executive Councillor (CEC), LAHDC Kargil, as the Chief Guest. Joint Director Youth Services and Sports UT Ladakh, Tahir Hussain Zubdavi, attended as the Guest of Honour, while Advocate Khadim Hussain, Councillor Baroo, served as the Special Guest. Among the dignitaries were LTA President Gulzar Hussain Munshi, LTA General Secretary Anayat Ali, SAI Centre Kargil In-charge Ghulam Mustafa, SAI Coach Parveen, and parents, members, and players of the association.
In his address, CEC Dr. Akhoon commended the efforts of the Ladakh Taekwondo Association in organizing such a large-scale event and praised the association’s achievements on national and international platforms. He emphasized that sports promotion remains a top priority, which is why he retained the Sports portfolio within LAHDC Kargil. He announced that the Ladakh Sports Council Headquarters has recently been sanctioned for Kargil, reflecting the administration’s commitment to developing sports in the region. Additionally, Dr. Akhoon shared that funds have been approved for completing the international-level, all-weather ice hockey rink in Kargil.
In a major gesture of support, Dr. Akhoon announced a grant of Rs. 3 lakh for procuring international-standard Taekwondo mats for the LTA. He also revealed that LAHDC Kargil has allocated Rs. 5 crore for constructing a hostel for specially-abled children and presented a Taekwondo uniform to a specially-abled athlete on behalf of the association.
Tahir Hussain Zubdavi, Guest of Honour, commended the achievements of LTA athletes and assured continued support from the UT Administration. He emphasized that the development of sports infrastructure and athlete support remains a focus, aiming to help Ladakhi athletes excel on national and international platforms.
President LTA, Gulzar Hussain Munshi, submitted a memorandum to the Chief Guest requesting key support for the association, including, A Dedicated Taekwondo Training Hall in Kargil, which would provide athletes with a specialized facility for focused training and hosting events.
Enhanced Infrastructure and Equipment Support, including proper mats, storage, changing rooms, water facilities, and seating, to ensure an ideal environment for training.
Financial Assistance for National and International Competitions, to support athletes with travel, accommodation, and training expenses, facilitating greater representation for Ladakh.
While speaking to the media, Munshi also highlighted that the association will celebrate its 25th anniversary next year, marking the occasion with a grand event to honor its long-standing achievements at the national level.
The Chief Guest, Guest of Honour and others distributed Medals, Mementos and Certificates among players and Members.
The 3rd UT Ladakh Taekwondo Championship not only highlighted the athletic potential in Ladakh but also underscored the need for infrastructure and support to empower local athletes further. The closing ceremony concluded with a promise of future developments, leaving athletes and supporters hopeful for a strengthened Taekwondo presence in the region.
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