Excelsior Sports Correspondent
JAMMU, Jan 10: The National Aerobic Gymnastics Championship 2024-25 commenced with a grand opening ceremony at the New Indoor Stadium, MA Stadium, here today.
The event was inaugurated by Surinder Choudhary, Deputy Chief Minister alongside Nasir Aslam Wani, Advisor to the Chief Minister. The dignitaries were warmly welcomed with bouquets and mementos, and the ceremony commenced with the lighting of the lamp. The event also featured mesmerizing gymnastics demonstrations, setting an exciting tone for the competition.
Organized by the J&K Sports Council, in collaboration with the Gymnastics Federation of India (GFI) and the Gymnastics Association of Jammu & Kashmir (GAJK), the championship is hosting more than 500 athletes and officials from 20 States, Union Territories, and Boards. The championship, running from January 10 to 13, aims to promote youth participation in sports and provide a platform for budding talents to shine at both national and international levels. The event is part of the ‘My Youth My Pride’ and ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ campaigns, marking the third time that Jammu and Kashmir is hosting this prestigious event.
During the inauguration, Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary expressed his pride in hosting a national championship in the region. He highlighted the importance of channelling the youth’s energy into sports to address societal issues such as drug abuse. “The future of our region lies in our youth. By offering opportunities in sports, we can help shape promising careers and inspire new aspirations,” he said. He further commended the event organizers and extended his best wishes to the athletes.
Nasir Aslam Wani, the guest of honour, spoke about the immense talent present in Olympic sports within Jammu and Kashmir, particularly in gymnastics, water sports, and martial arts. He expressed confidence that local athletes would excel in upcoming Asian and Olympic competitions. He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting Olympic sports by improving infrastructure, coaching, and training to establish J&K as a leading sports hub.
Sarmad Hafeez, Secretary of Youth Services and Sports, warmly welcomed the participants and dignitaries. He lauded the achievements of J&K gymnasts and assured full support to ensure the event’s success. He also praised the efforts of the J&K Gymnastics Association, especially Kiran Wattal, Vice President of GFI and President of the Gymnastics Association of Jammu & Kashmir, for organizing three national events in three consecutive years in Jammu and Kashmir, which he described as a significant achievement.
Sudhir Mittal, President of the Gymnastics Federation of India, appreciated the unwavering support of the J&K Government and commended the region’s infrastructure and talent development in gymnastics. He also praised the athletes’ performances and their commitment to excellence in the sport.
In addition, the Deputy Chief Minister felicitated gymnasts and coaches who had brought home 17 medals from the recently held National Rhythmic Gymnastics Championship in Surat.
Other notable attendees included Rajinder Singh Tara, DG YSS; Nuzhat Gul, Secretary of JKSC; Kiran Wattal, Vice President of GFI and President of the Gymnastics Association of Jammu & Kashmir, along with other senior officials. The championship continues until January 13, promising a spectacular showcase of talent and athleticism.
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