Tiny Skaters, Big Glory as India seals Second Spot in Asian Ice Short Track Showpiece

Leh/Dehradun, Aug 25: Dehradun turned into a cauldron of cheers as Ladakh’s pint-sized ice warriors froze history in their favour at the Asian Ice Short Track Speed Skating Trophy 2025. The Himadri Ice Rink witnessed raw grit and fearless skating from India’s youngest stars, who powered Ladakh to an unprecedented six-medal haul.

The final day belonged to 11-year-old dynamo Mehvish Fatima, who stormed to silver after pocketing two bronze the previous day. Close on her heels, Madiha Mustafa, just 8 years old, dashed to another bronze, proving age is no barrier on the fast lanes of ice. The youngest of the trio, seven-year-old Fahiem Mehdi from Imamiya Model School Leh, had already set the tone on Day 1 with a bronze, ensuring Ladakh’s medal tally kept ticking.

The youngsters not only made the podium but rewrote Ladakh’s sporting story. Mehvish and Madiha became the first girls from the region to snatch multiple medals at this level, while their combined collection marked the highest international medal haul Ladakh has ever celebrated.

The closing ceremony unfolded in grand style with Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami as the Chief Guest, while Smt. Mallika Nadda, President of Special Olympics Bharat, graced the event as Guest of Honour. The presence of international dignitaries, including ISU Development Commission Chair Ms. Jildou Gemser and Asian Skating Union President Mr. Myong Hi Chang, underscored the growing stature of the tournament.

India’s campaign came to a glittering finish as the host nation secured the runner-up spot in the overall medal standings with 39 medals, comprising 9 gold, 12 silver, and 18 bronze. Thailand topped the table with 30 medals, while Japan claimed third with 23.

The championship brought together more than 180 skaters from 10 nations and was officiated under world-class standards. The technical panel was led by Olympic legends Ms. Hyewon Park and Ms. Sangmi An from Korea, alongside ISU Starter Sonja Chang from Singapore, ensuring fairness and precision in every race.

Much of India’s success story, particularly Ladakh’s emergence, has been credited to National Coach Abbass Nordakh. His tireless mentoring and commitment to nurturing grassroots talent have elevated Ladakh’s young stars to the continental stage, setting the tone for India’s future in winter sports.