The Indian Kayaking & Canoeing Association, in collaboration with the J&K Water Sports Kayaking & Canoeing Association, accomplished a significant milestone by organizing the first-ever Canoe Slalom trials for the Asian Games. Held at the picturesque River Sindh in Sonmarg, this momentous event showcased the exceptional talents of approximately 90 water sports athletes hailing from various states of the country including Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Karnataka, Kerala, Delhi etc
The trials held immense importance as the top Five athletes who whould score a coveted spot would represent India at the prestigious Asian Games, scheduled to be held in China this September. These participants exhibited unwavering determination and showcased their remarkable skills, having dedicated countless hours to training for this remarkable opportunity.
The collaboration between the Indian Kayaking & Canoeing Association and the J&K Water Sports Kayaking & Canoeing Association underscores their unwavering commitment to providing a robust platform for athletes to demonstrate their extraordinary abilities and drive the growth of Canoe Slalom nationwide. This initiative aims to encourage wider participation, foster active engagement in water sports, and contribute to the overall development of the discipline in India.
The success of this momentous event was made possible with the invaluable support of J&K Tourism, the District Administration of Gandarbal, J&K Sports Council and the Colour Curve International Foundation. Their unwavering backing played a crucial role in ensuring the flawless execution of the trials, enabling athletes to compete at their absolute best.
Enthusiastic tourists and locals alike were treated to an exhilarating display of talent as the athletes skillfully navigated the challenging Canoe Slalom course. The participant’s stunning performances captivated the audience and served as a testament to the burgeoning interest in water sports within the region.
Speaking as the Chief Guest, Mr. Ilyaas Ahmad, the Chief Executive Officer of the Sonamarg Development Authority, J&K Government, expressed his profound admiration for the athletes and their unwavering dedication. He acknowledged their remarkable efforts as a source of inspiration for aspiring athletes across the country. Besides , President of the Indian Kayaking & Canoeing Association, Mr. Prashant Kushwaha, expressed his heartfelt appreciation to Mr. Syed Abid Rasheed (IAS), Secretary of J&K Tourism, for his invaluable support in ensuring the successful execution of the event in J&K. Mr. Kushwaha also revealed plans for the upcoming National Canoe Slalom to be organized in J&K in collaboration with the J&K Water Sports Kayaking & Canoeing Association in September 2023.
Notable personalities graced the occasion, including Ms. Bilquis Mir, an international player of Kayaking & Canoeing and Chairperson for IKCA, Dr. Burhan Bazaz, President of J&K Rowing and Sculling Association, Mr. Farooq Ganderbali, Vice President of the J&K Water Sports Kayaking & Canoeing Association, Mr. Lateef Bhat, Director Colour Curve International Foundation, and Mr. Shahid Ali Khan, the Youth Welfare and Cultural Officer of the University of Kashmir. Their presence and encouragement further inspired the participants to strive for greatness.
This landmark event represents a significant milestone in the journey of Canoe Slalom in India. The successful organization of the first-ever Canoe Slalom trials for the Asian Games showcases the country’s growing prowess in water sports and solidifies its position as a formidable competitor on the international stage.
As the trials concluded, the selected athletes are now poised to embark on a journey that holds the promise of representing the nation with utmost honor and bringing glory to India at the upcoming Asian Games.
The nation extends its heartfelt congratulations to the Indian Kayaking & Canoeing Association, the J&K Water Sports Kayaking & Canoeing Association, the participants, and all those involved in the flawless execution of this historic event. Their collective efforts have undeniably elevated the stature of water sports in India and created a lasting legacy for future generations.