Srinagar, November 11: Athletes from the Khelo India State Centre of Excellence (KISCE) Rowing, Water Sports Centre, Nehru Park, showcased an impressive performance at the All India Inter SAI Rowing Championship held at the SAI National Centre of Excellence in Alleppey, Kerala.
Ms. Zainab Shafi, hailing from District Baramulla, won a bronze medal in the Senior Women Singles category (W1X). Mr. Irtiza Ali and Mr. Muntazir Ali Matoo, both from District Srinagar, secured another bronze in the Junior Men Pair category (JM2). In total, 10 athletes from KISCE Rowing, Nehru Park, represented J&K in this prestigious event, demonstrating exceptional skill and determination.
The Minister for Youth Services and Sports, J&K, Shri Satish Sharma, extended his heartfelt congratulations to all the participating athletes, expressing pride in their achievements. He remarked that Jammu & Kashmir is progressing toward becoming a national hub for water sports and assured continued support in the form of coaching, equipment, and other allied facilities for aspiring athletes.
Shri Sarmad Hafeez, IAS, Secretary of Youth Services and Sports, also congratulated the contingent, underscoring the potential of J&K’s water sports talent and reaffirming the department’s commitment to nurturing world-class athletes.
Secretary of J&K Sports Council, Ms. Nuzhat Gul, celebrated this achievement as a proud moment for the entire region, recognizing the growing impact of J&K’s water sports athletes on the national stage. She applauded the athletes for their resilience and success, particularly in competing against participants from top institutions and triumphing over the athletes of the SAI National Centre of Excellence, Alleppey, which is renowned for water sports training in India.