Khelo India Winter Games 2025: Army, Ladakh Set to Renew Rivalry as Second Leg Begins in Gulmarg

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Gulmarg, (J&K), Mar 8: The much-anticipated second leg of the Khelo India Winter Games 2025 will commence on Sunday (March 9) at the breathtaking Kongdoori slopes of Gulmarg, with the Indian Army aiming to reclaim its dominance after Union Territory (UT) of Ladakh topped the first leg.

The competition, which has grown into a marquee event for winter sports in India, promises thrilling action as athletes take on the snow-laden slopes in their pursuit of excellence.

Ladakh Leads After First Leg; Army Looks for a Comeback

The first leg of the competition saw UT of Ladakh emerge as the overall leader, securing seven medals, including four golds. Tamil Nadu followed with five medals, including three golds, while Maharashtra won a total of 10 medals but with only two golds, finishing third. Now, with the final leg set in Gulmarg, the Army is determined to bounce back and defend its overall title.

With over 350 athletes representing 11 states, 2 Union Territories, and central forces such as the Indian Army, Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), the stakes are high.

The competition features four key disciplines: Alpine Skiing, Nordic Skiing, Ski Mountaineering, and Snowboarding. Delayed earlier due to insufficient snowfall, the event now returns with pristine white slopes, setting the stage for a grand spectacle.

Athletes Excited to Shine on the Big Stage

For many participants, the Khelo India Winter Games serve as a career-defining platform. Wasim Bhat, an Alpine Skiing athlete from Jammu & Kashmir, spoke about how the mountains of Kashmir have taught him to be fearless.

"Khelo India Winter Games are bringing focus on top athletes and performers of Jammu and Kashmir as well as athletes across the country. The mountains of Kashmir have taught me to be fearless and adaptable. I am excited to put my skills to the test and make J&K proud,"said Wasim to SAI Media.

Captain Amit Kapoor, a Ski Mountaineering athlete from Delhi, stressed on the mental toughness required for winter sports. "Ski mountaineering is about endurance, skill, and mental toughness. Tackling the slopes of Gulmarg may be tough, but the strength and resilience of the athletes participating in Khelo India Winter Games is exemplary," he stated.

Vakar Ahmad Lone, a National Games gold medallist in snowboarding, highlighted the significance of the Winter Games in giving local talent an international platform. "For me, snowboarding isn't just a sport, it's a way to connect with nature and push my limits. I am excited to be competing in Khelo India Winter Games and showing the world what Kashmiri athletes are capable of," said Vakar.

KIWG 2025: Day 1 Schedule

• Alpine Skiing: Men's Slalom
• Nordic Skiing: Men's 10km, Women's 5km
• Ski Mountaineering: Men's & Women's Sprint
• Snowboarding: Men's Slalom

Where to Watch?

• Catch the action LIVE on DD Sports from 9 AM onwards.

With the snow-covered peaks of Gulmarg providing a perfect backdrop, the final phase of Khelo India Winter Games 2025 is set to deliver electrifying performances and further elevate the status of winter sports in India.