The Himadri Ice Rink in Dehradun witnessed history on Thursday as India hosted the Asian Open Short Track Speed Skating Championship for the first time. The event not only marked a milestone for Uttarakhand and the country’s growing ambitions in winter sports, but also produced moments of international sporting excellence, with skaters from Thailand grabbing early honours.
Winners Steal the Show in Junior-E Category The highlight of the opening medal rounds was the Junior-E (9–10 years) 500-metre race, where Thailand’s Phunisa Srinothai powered her way to the gold medal, closely followed by compatriot Minyada Saenjai, who clinched silver. The Thai skaters’ speed, technique, and composure on the ice earned them admiration from both officials and the audience, many of whom were witnessing such high-level ice skating for the first time in India. The bronze medal in the category went to a promising young skater from Vietnam, signalling the depth of talent across Asia’s emerging winter sports nations.
A Gathering of Nations in Doon Valley The championship has drawn more than 195 athletes from 11 countries, including Japan, Vietnam, Singapore, Chinese Taipei, Malaysia, and China. For Dehradun, a city known more for its scenic beauty and educational institutions, the event has brought a festive international atmosphere. Athletes, coaches, and their families have added a vibrant cultural flavour to the city, underscoring the potential of Uttarakhand as a destination not only for adventure tourism but also for global sporting events.
Himadri Ice Rink: A National Asset The venue itself has been in the spotlight. The Himadri Ice Rink, located in Raipur, Dehradun, is India’s only Olympic-standard indoor ice rink, capable of hosting international competitions. For years, the facility was underutilised, but with this event, it has gained recognition as a strategic sports infrastructure project that could pave the way for India’s participation in global winter games. Sports authorities have hinted that the successful hosting of the championship could encourage more investments in winter sports across Himalayan states.
Boost for Uttarakhand’s Sporting Aspirations Officials have described the championship as a game-changer for Uttarakhand, where the government has been working to position the state as a hub for adventure and winter sports. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, who has recently been pushing for higher investments in sports infrastructure, called the event an example of how Uttarakhand can combine its natural advantages with modern facilities to build a global reputation. Local organisers also noted that the event could provide long-term benefits for the state’s youth, inspiring a new generation to take up competitive winter sports.
International Recognition and Future Prospects The participation of countries like Thailand, Vietnam, and Japan has also given the championship a strong international character. Former Olympians and judges present at the event remarked that such exposure is crucial for young Indian skaters to compete at higher levels. Beyond competition, the event has turned into a platform for cultural exchange, with athletes bonding across nationalities, and visitors sampling the food, music, and hospitality of Uttarakhand.
Looking Ahead With over 24 medal events scheduled across the coming days, the championship promises to deliver more thrilling moments. For now, Thailand has set the tone with its dominance in the Junior-E 500-metre category, but all eyes are on whether Indian athletes can rise to the challenge in other races. Regardless of the medal tally, the event is being hailed as a landmark that positions Dehradun and Uttarakhand firmly on the map of international winter sports.
As the Himadri Ice Rink reverberates with cheers, speed, and youthful energy, this first-of-its-kind championship has already planted the seeds of a new sporting culture in India—one that combines ambition, infrastructure, and international partnerships to take Indian winter sports to greater heights.
The VUK Sports Correspondent provides detailed coverage of sporting events across Uttarakhand, India, and the world. From local leagues to international championships, the correspondent highlights the performances, challenges, and spirit of athletes. Each report aims to capture not just the scores but also the stories behind the game. Readers can rely on consistent updates that bring the excitement of sports directly to them.
