2nd Edition of Sher-e-Gundna Horse Riding Championship Concludes at Godiyan — Doda’s Highest Tourist Destination

VoM News Desk | July 28, 2025 | 11:01 PM IST | Breaking News | Follow on Google News

2nd Edition of Sher-e-Gundna Horse Riding Championship Concludes at Godiyan — Doda’s Highest Tourist Destination

SUBHUK GAASH
Gundna – July 27, 2025:
In a spectacular showcase of tradition, courage, and community spirit, the 2nd Edition of the Sher-e-Gundna Horse Riding Championship concluded with great enthusiasm and festive energy at the picturesque Godiyan, Gundna — proudly known as one of the highest tourist destinations in District Doda.

The championship was organised by the Horse Riding Committee Ponyalla, in close collaboration with NARBO NGO Gundna and the esteemed support of the J&K Police Post Gundna, whose presence added a sense of honour and patriotism to the event.

Presiding over the occasion was Dr. Hamid Parray, who graced the event as the Chief Guest, lending his words of encouragement to the spirited participants. Joining him were NARBO NGO President and TLR News Owner Sulinder Singh Parihar as the Special Guest, along with Bashir Ahmed Batt, who was warmly welcomed as the Guest of Honour.

We express our deepest gratitude to the Deputy Commissioner Doda, Shri Harvinder Singh (IAS), and the Senior Superintendent of Police Doda, Shri Sandeep Mehta (KPS), whose unflinching support, administrative guidance, and encouragement made this grand event possible. Their continuous efforts to promote sports, tourism, and youth engagement in the remote regions of Doda have not only empowered local communities but also revitalised the cultural spirit of the Chenab Valley. Their leadership is not just commendable — it is inspiring.

The true force behind the seamless execution of this grand event was Mohd Shafi Sheikh, who served as the Chief Organiser, ensuring every detail reflected local pride and discipline. The backbone of the competition — the referees — included dedicated individuals such as Zaheer Abass Parray, Teacher Mohd Isaq Batt, Yawer Abass Batt, Teacher Shoket Ali Batt, Teacher Mohd Shafi, Mohd Ayoub lone and Yasir Phalsore, whose fair judgment and sporting spirit uplifted the tournament’s credibility.

The organisational excellence was further highlighted by the commendable work of Mr. Riaz Ahmed Shamsi, who played the pivotal role of Event Secretary, ensuring smooth coordination and flawless scheduling from start to finish.

As gallant riders raced across the alpine expanse of Godiyan’s rolling meadows, cheers echoed through the valleys — celebrating not just the strength of the horses or skill of the riders, but also the enduring legacy of Gundna’s rich cultural heritage.

Winners of the Horse Riding Championship were:

1st Prize: Jamal Din from Korna Keshwan

2nd Prize: Shabir Ahmed from Korna Keshwan

3rd Prize: Mohd Shafi from Kuntwara

In addition to the thrilling horse riding competition, the event also hosted six action-packed Kabbadi matches, showcasing local athleticism and teamwork. Zamindara Youth Club, Ludna, emerged as the champions, while the team from Ponyalla claimed the runner-up position after a series of intense and closely contested matches.

This vibrant championship did not just mark a sporting event; it reaffirmed the region’s growing tourism potential, its youth engagement in traditional sports, and the community’s commitment to reviving forgotten glories of the hills — made possible through the visionary support of our district’s top leadership.

VoM News Desk

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