Excelsior Sports Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Aug 24: The first-ever Advanced Training Program for Elite Rhythmic Gymnasts in the country commenced here today, with the collaboration between the Gymnastics Federation of India (GFI) and the Gymnastics Association of Jammu & Kashmir.
Running for three weeks, this initiative is a significant achievement for the Sports Department, led by Sarmad Hafiz, Commissioner/Secretary of the J&K Department of Youth Services and Sports (YS&S), Ajaz Asad (Secretary, Planning Development Department, J&K) and Nuzhat Gul (Secretary, J&K Sports Council).
The coaching program features Dilbar, an internationally acclaimed coach from Azerbaijan specializing in Rhythmic Gymnastics (RG), and Krupali Singh, who will assist at the national level. Other coaches from various states and Union Territories are also participating.
The J&K Sports Council is providing comprehensive support, including boarding and lodging for coaches and gymnast participants from across the country. This initiative aims to elevate the performance of gymnasts both nationally and internationally, with the ultimate goal of achieving medals in future competitions.
The program commenced at 12:00 noon with a National Anthem and a warm welcome to the dignitaries, including Sarmad Hafeez, Sudhir Mittal (president, GFI), Nuzhat Gul, Dr C Prabhkar (vice president, GFI), Kiran Wattal (vice president GFI and president, Gymnastics Association of J&K), Nuzhat Gazala (Divisional Sports Officer, Kashmir), Mushtaq Zargar (Manager, Bakshi Stadium, Srinagar), Dilbar, Krupali Singh, and other notable guests.
The event featured a vibrant demonstration by selected gymnasts, which received enthusiastic applause from the attendees.