Kargil, Mar 25: The Union Territory of Ladakh witnessed a new chapter in its sporting landscape as the inaugural State Open Snow Ski Championship commenced at the Yakza Ski Slope in Umba Yarzah, Sankoo, on Tuesday. The three-day event has drawn participation from across the region, bringing winter sports into sharper focus in the high-altitude district of Kargil.
The championship was inaugurated by Tahir Hussain Zubdavi, Joint Director of Youth Services and Sports, UT Ladakh, who underlined the need to nurture snow skiing as a competitive discipline in the region. Addressing participants and attendees, he commended the athletes for their commitment and expressed optimism about the future of winter sports in Ladakh.
Mohammed Ali, Nambardar of Ooba village, attended the ceremony as a distinguished guest, reflecting local involvement in the event.
More than 90 athletes, including men and women from various parts of Ladakh, are competing in the championship, which will run until March 26. The opening day featured a series of events, including Snowboard Giant Slalom, Alpine Skiing in both Slalom and Giant Slalom formats, as well as Ski Mountaineering Sprint and Vertical races.
The slopes of Yakza turned lively as residents from Sankoo and neighbouring villages, including Kumbha, gathered in large numbers to witness the proceedings. The turnout added to the atmosphere and highlighted growing public interest in winter sports across the region.
Organisers described the opening day as encouraging, noting that the championship offers a platform for local athletes to compete on familiar terrain while gaining exposure to structured competition. They believe such initiatives can help identify and develop talent suited to Ladakh’s unique climatic and geographical conditions.
The Department of Youth Services and Sports, UT Ladakh, which is hosting the event, aims to use the championship to promote snow skiing, strengthen sporting facilities, and encourage youth participation. Competitions will continue over the next two days, culminating in medal ceremonies at the conclusion of the event.
