*Sachin Tendulkar conveys best wishes to organizers
Excelsior Sports Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Feb 19: Gulmarg, the world-famous ski resort, is brimming with anticipation as it gears up for the much-anticipated 4th edition of the Khelo India Winter Games, slated to commence on February 21.
With fresh snowfall draping the famous ski resort in a white cloak, this winter wonderland is all set to mesmerise and welcome approximately a thousand athletes, officials, and support staff ready to engage in a variety of winter sporting events, including snowboarding, Alpine skiing, Nordic skiing, and snow mountaineering. The excitement is palpable, with the backdrop of snow-covered mountains.
Representatives from 20 states and Union Territories are vying for top honours in Alpine Skiing, Nordic Skiing, and Snowboarding, while ten states are set to compete in Ski Mountaineering competitions.
The event, a collaborative effort by the Department of Youth Services and Sports, Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council, Tourism Department, Gulmarg Development Authority, and other key stakeholders, will commence with the unveiling of the event’s mascot and anthem. “The choice of the Snow Leopard as the mascot underscores the region’s commitment to addressing mountain development issues and promoting environmental conservation,” an official said.
While giving details of the event, he added that the opening and closing ceremonies will showcase the rich cultural heritage of the region through captivating performances by local artists. “Additionally, a special cultural evening on February 20th will provide an opportunity for participants, tourists, and locals to immerse themselves in the region’s cultural tapestry,” he said.
Officials said that having successfully hosted the previous editions, Jammu and Kashmir anticipates an even greater turnout, bolstering winter tourism and showcasing the region’s culture and cuisine on a national stage.
With preparations in full swing and a focus on safety amidst adverse weather conditions, the stage is set for the Khelo India Winter Games in Gulmarg to be a celebration of talent, sportsmanship, and unity. With over 650 athletes set to participate, the event promises to captivate audiences and leave a lasting impact on the winter sports landscape. Speaking about the preparations, Deputy Commissioner Baramulla, Minga Sherpa, expressed confidence in the readiness of Gulmarg to host the prestigious event and said that the district administration has left no stone unturned to ensure every aspect of the Khelo India Winter Games in Gulmarg is meticulously planned and executed, even amidst challenging weather conditions.
The DC further said that the end goal is to provide athletes, visitors, and other guests with a world-class experience and showcase the beauty and potential of winter sports in the region. Meanwhile, the DC issued stern directions to the concerned departments to ensure snow clearance from the roads leading to Gulmarg, uninterrupted electricity supply, and other facilities are in place given the inclement weather conditions.
Meanwhile, logistical arrangements, including accommodation and transport for participants, have been meticulously planned, with Secretary of Youth Services and Sports, Sarmad Hafeez, and Secretary of Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council, Nuzhat Gull, overseeing the final preparations. Cricketing icon Sachin Tendulkar, during his recent visit to Kashmir, extended his best wishes to the organisers and advised athletes to cherish their time in the picturesque locale.
During Sachin Tendulkar’s recent visit to Jammu & Kashmir, he encountered a deeply moved fan whose emotional interaction with the cricket legend went viral.
“On the day you retired, you shed two tears, but I cried all night,” he told Tendulkar. Meeting his idol was a dream come true for him, describing it as one of the best days of his life.
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