Sonamarg Hosts 10th National SnowShoe Championship
Sonamarg witnessed the commencement of the 10th National SnowShoe Championship on February 14, with approximately 180 athletes representing 20 states participating in the prestigious two-day event. This event showcased the growing potential of Sonamarg for winter sports and adventure tourism, as highlighted by the authorities.
The inauguration of the championship was graced by Director Tourism Kashmir, Syed Qamar Sajad, SDM Kangan Dr. Nazir Ahmad, CEO Sonamarg Development Authority Bilal Mukhtar, SHO Sonamarg, and other civil and police officials, along with various stakeholders.
The competition on the first day of the championship was intense, with participants from different states demonstrating their skills and endurance in the challenging snowy terrain of Sonamarg. The winners will be honored with trophies and cash prizes, encouraging them to pursue their passion for snowshoeing. Director Tourism Syed Sajad emphasized the event’s dual purpose of providing a platform for athletes to showcase their talents and promoting tourism in the region by spotlighting Sonamarg’s natural beauty and adventure opportunities. The support of stakeholders like Hoteliers Association Sonamarg and Beopar Mandal in providing accommodation and hospitality to participants and spectators ensured a comfortable experience throughout the championship.
The Director highlighted the crucial role of national-level winter sports events in positioning Sonamarg as a premier winter sports destination, underscoring its vast potential for adventure tourism and snow-based activities. Drawing a parallel to Gulmarg as the country’s winter capital, Sajad expressed confidence in nearby destinations like Sonamarg to host competitive winter events progressively and systematically.
