Himalaya Harbinger, Rudrapur Bureau
From May 19 to 24, the first edition of the Khelo India Beach Games was held at Ghoghla Beach in Daman and Diu. In this prestigious event, the Uttarakhand Pencak Silat team showcased an outstanding performance, bagging a total of 6 valuable medals, including 3 silver and 3 bronze medals, thereby bringing glory to the state.
*Organization of Khelo India Beach Games*
The first edition of the Khelo India Beach Games was organized under the leadership of Sports Authority of India (SAI), Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India. In this event, the Uttarakhand Pencak Silat team established its dominance.
*Names of Medal-Winning Players:*
1. Deepak Singh – Silver Medal, Tanding (80-85 kg)
2. Gayatri Negi – Silver Medal, Tanding (45-50 kg)
3. Eshu Bharti – Silver Medal, Tanding (50-55 kg)
4. Reeta Bhandari – Bronze Medal, Tanding (60-65 kg)
5. Kartik Patel – Bronze Medal, Tanding (40-45 kg)
6. Yashodhan Rana – Bronze Medal, Tanding (85-90 kg)
The Uttarakhand team, led by Head Coach Sharika Patel and Manager Rakesh, delivered a remarkable performance in the Beach Games. The team won medals under the guidance of Team Chief de Mission Rashika Siddiqui and Nodal Officer Nirmala Pant from the Uttarakhand Sports Department.
*Statement by the Secretary of Pencak Silat Association:*
Bablu Diwaker, General Secretary of Pencak Silat Association Uttarakhand, stated that this was the first edition of the Khelo India Beach Games where Uttarakhand established its dominance. The success achieved through the hard work and dedication of the players is a moment of pride for the state. He expressed his happiness over this special achievement of the players and said that the Pencak Silat Association Uttarakhand expresses special gratitude to Mohammad Iqbal, Director of Indian Pencak Silat Federation, who represents the players and coaches of Pencak Silat sports across Uttarakhand and India. Due to his consistent commendable work and hard efforts, Pencak Silat sports are now included in major sports platforms globally, providing players with opportunities to build their future.
*A Moment of Pride for the State:*
The entire state is feeling proud of the achievement of Uttarakhand’s players. This outstanding performance by the players has elevated the state’s name at the national level. The Pencak Silat Association Uttarakhand’s officials and sports enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the players’ return to the state. A grand welcome and honor will be given to all upon their return.
