In Ladakh, in a thrilling showdown at Khree Sultan Choo Ice Hockey Rink, Kargil, the Drass Warriors clinched victory in the 15th CEC Ice Hockey Cup Championship. Displaying exceptional skill, they secured a resounding win of 7 goals against United Chiktan, with Wasim Bilal earning the prestigious titles of Man of the Series and Man of the Match.
The tournament, organized by the District Youth Service and Sports Department, drew 31 men's teams and 4 women's teams from across Kargil. The Bodhkharbo Women Team also celebrated success, claiming the Women's Cup after defeating Wakha Mulbkeh.
Highlighting the importance of sports in shaping the future, Chief Guest Dr. Mohd Jaffar Akhone, Chief Executive Councillor, Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council, Kargil, expressed optimism that Kargil's youth would embrace sports like Ice Hockey, Archery, Taekwondo, and Horse Polo as viable professions for a healthy living.
To further promote sports, Dr. Jaffar announced plans to establish Ice Hockey Rinks at the Block and village levels, with a focus on completing an International all-weather Ice Hockey Rink. This strategic move aims to catapult local talents onto the national and international stage.
In an interaction with the media, Wasim Bilal, the standout Man of the Series and Match, highlighted the urgent need for enhanced winter sports infrastructure in Kargil. Despite Ladakh's progress in various sectors since becoming a Union Territory, Bilal emphasized that the region still grapples with inadequate facilities for winter sports.
Expressing concern about the untapped talent in Kargil, Bilal stated that with improved infrastructure, aspiring athletes from the region could easily compete at the national and international levels. While acknowledging the strides made in other sectors, he underscored the persistent challenges faced by winter sports enthusiasts.
As Kargil gears up for a promising future in sports, the 15th CEC Ice Hockey Cup Championship stands as a testament to the region's commitment to fostering athletic talent and creating a thriving sports culture.
