Srinagar, Feb 13: Sonamarg is set to turn into a hub of winter adventure as the 10th National Snow Shoe Championship will begin on February 14. The two-day event, scheduled for February 14 and 15, will bring together 140 athletes from 13 states and the Union Territory of J&K.
The championship is jointly organised by J&K Tourism, J&K Snow Shoe Association and the Snow Shoe Federation of India. Officials said the event aims to promote winter sports and position Sonamarg as a leading snow sports destination in the country.
Athletes will compete in race and endurance categories across marked snow tracks. Participants include seasoned players and young talent who are preparing to showcase their skills at the national level.
An official from J&K Tourism said: “Sonamarg offers ideal natural conditions for snow sports. Events like this will boost tourism and create opportunities for local youth.” A representative of the Snow Shoe Federation of India said preparations are complete and teams have confirmed participation. “We are expecting strong competition this year. The response from states has been encouraging,” he said.
Local residents have welcomed the event and expressed hope that it will attract more visitors during the winter season. Hoteliers and shopkeepers in the area are also preparing for increased tourist footfall. An athlete from Uttarakhand said: “We are excited to compete in Sonamarg. The terrain will test our endurance and skills.” With snow covered peaks as the backdrop, the championship is expected to deliver two days of speed, stamina and sporting spirit, further strengthening India’s growing interest in winter adventure sports. Teams were flagged off from TRC Srinagar by Director Tourism Kashmir, Syed Sajad Qamar, in the presence of Joint Director Tourism Waseem Raja, Deputy Director Recreation, Assistant Director Publicity, Assistant Director Recreation, J&K SnowShoe Association President Dr. Altaf Ur Rehman, Vice President Arif Laigaroo, SnowShoe Federation member Muzamil Dar, and other officials. Welcoming the athletes, the Director Tourism extended a warm reception and assured that all arrangements have been put in place to ensure a smooth and memorable experience for the participants. He stated that athletes will enjoy top-level hospitality in Sonamarg, adding that all departments and officials are fully geared up to provide every possible support to the visiting teams.
