Jammu and Kashmir showcased exceptional talent at the 10th All India Inter-Sports Authority of India (SAI) Kayaking and Canoeing Championships, wrapping up with a commendable fourth overall finish in the senior category. The championship concluded today at the National Centre of Excellence (NCOE), Alleppey, and saw participation from various esteemed regional centres.
Over four days, the championship featured entrants from eight SAI centres across the nation, presenting a platform for some of India’s most skilled athletes in water sports. The local heroes, NCOE Alleppey, emerged as overall champions, closely followed by NCOE Bhopal and NCOE Jagatpur.
Team Jammu and Kashmir left an indelible mark by securing a total of eight medals, including two gold, two silver, and four bronze. This performance stands as one of their best at a national event, highlighting the state’s growing prowess in sports.
The highlight of J&K’s campaign was undoubtedly the remarkable showing by Mohammad Hussain and Sajad Hussain. The duo clinched double gold medals in the senior men’s canoe doubles 200m and 500m races. Their performance followed their success at the Khelo India Water Sports Festival held at Dal Lake, Srinagar, just last August.
The highly competitive Alleppey meet brought together a total of 197 athletes, including 92 girls, and consisted of 96 medal events. Besides J&K, notable SAI centres such as Bhopal, Jagatpur, Port Blair, Bilaspur, Roorkee, and EME also participated vigorously.
Officials expressed optimism that events like the Khelo India Water Sports Festival have significantly boosted the profile of water sports in India. Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the sport’s achievers during his August edition of “Mann Ki Baat,” further motivating athletes across the nation.
NCOE Alleppey firmly dominated the championships, amassing a total of 24 gold and 15 silver medals across both senior and junior categories. Following closely, NCOE Bhopal celebrated a commendable tally of 11 gold medals in the senior events while leading the sub-junior category with seven golds. The performances of Jagatpur cemented its position among the top contenders across all categories.
It is also noteworthy that states like Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, and Kerala exhibited formidable talent at the recent Khelo India Water Sports Festival. Their achievements reflect a growing strength in water sports across the nation, creating a promising future for this athletic discipline.
