Gulmarg, Feb 20 (KNS) : The Chinar Open Winter Games 2026, a winter sports event organised by the Indian Army, concluded here on Friday, witnessing record participation from local youth and reinforcing Gulmarg's status as a burgeoning winter sports destination.
The three-day event, held under the aegis of the Dagger Division of the Chinar Corps, saw a total of 660 athletes from across the Kashmir Valley compete in various disciplines. Organisers reported that the participation included 166 girls and 494 boys, indicating a growing interest in winter sports among the region's youth and a notable increase in female participation.
Competitions were held across eight events, including skiing, snowboarding, and skating, drawing large crowds of locals and tourists who gathered to watch the athletes navigate the snow-covered slopes.
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General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Army's Northern Command, Lt Gen Pratik Sharma, visited the venue and interacted with the participants. He commended the organisation of the Games and the level of sportsmanship displayed by the young athletes.
The event is part of a broader initiative by the security forces to provide a platform for local talent and engage with the community. Officials stated that such activities are aimed at promoting sports and developing the region's potential as a hub for winter sports in the country. The Games concluded with a closing ceremony, marking another edition of the annual sporting event in the valley. (KNS)