SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 22 (KNS): The 10th National Pencak Silat championship for Senior and master (Men and Women) was today inaugurated amid enthusiasm and fervour at Sheri Kashmir Indoor Stadium, here.

The event sponsored by J&K Sports Council is being organized by the Pencak Silat Association of J&K under the banner of the Indian Pencak Silat Association.

The Joint Secretary J&K Sports council, Bashir Ahmad Bhat was the chief guest while Shiekh Riyaz Ahmad, Administrative Officer was the guest of honour on the occasion.

The three-day event is hosting 1200 participants including officials and match referees from 34 States and UTs, in addition to teams of Indian Police and Para-Military.

Speaking on the occasion, the chief guest hailed the efforts of Pencak Silat Association J&K and said that they have been very active on the ground. Referring to the recent international Pencak Silat event at the same venue, Bhat said that the Sports Council is ready to support all such associations that work sincerely and meticulously to tap the talent and groom it for bigger stages like national and international platforms.

During the championship, events in different weight categories of Trending, Tunggal, Ganda Solo, and Regu shall be held.

Among the others present at the inaugural ceremony, included Kishore Kumar Yawley and Mufti Hamid Yaseen, President and Secretary General of Indian Pencak Silat Federation, besides Maqsood Ahmad Khan, Manager Sheri-Kashmir Indoor stadium and other officials from Sports Council and other departments.

The event shall conclude on the 24th of this month.(KNS)