Leh, Apr 04: Former Chairman and Chief Executive Councillor of the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) Leh, Tashi Gyalson, on Saturday congratulated Stanzin Lundup, a young athlete from Hemis Shukpachan, for representing India at the recently held Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy, describing his achievement as a moment of pride for the region.
Lundup competed in the men’s 10 km interval start freestyle cross-country skiing event at the Winter Games, which were held from February 6 to 22 across venues in northern Italy. His participation placed Ladakh on the global winter sports map, with the athlete emerging among a limited Indian contingent at the Games.
Extending his greetings in the presence of Khenpo Dr. Sonam Paldan, Gyalson said that Lundup’s journey from a remote village in Ladakh to the Olympic arena reflects determination and sustained effort. He noted that such representation not only enhances the visibility of Ladakh in international sporting circles but also underlines the region’s potential in winter disciplines.
Lundup, an Indian cross-country skier from Hemis Shukpachan, secured India’s quota for the event and competed against a strong international field, finishing the race in a competitive environment shaped by seasoned athletes. His participation also marked a continuation of India’s presence in cross-country skiing at the global level.
Gyalson observed that the athlete’s Olympic appearance would serve as motivation for young sportspersons across Ladakh, particularly those from remote mountainous areas, to pursue excellence in winter sports. He expressed confidence that Lundup would continue to build on this experience and contribute further to the region’s sporting profile.
Khenpo Dr. Sonam Paldan, while conveying his blessings, commended the athlete’s perseverance and described his participation as an encouraging development for youth in high-altitude regions, where access to professional sporting opportunities remains limited.
With Ladakh increasingly being recognised for its natural suitability for winter sports, Lundup’s Olympic outing is expected to reinforce ongoing efforts to nurture local talent and strengthen training infrastructure, as stakeholders seek to channel growing interest among the region’s youth into competitive sport.
