A snowshoe run and interaction programme was held in Srinagar for the first time during the heavy snowfall season in the state. The event was organised by the Snowshoe Federation of India to boost winter sports in the Kashmir region.
The game that is usually played in regions of Europe attracted athletes from various parts of Kashmir.
Gulzar Ahmad, member of the
Association, said that the snowshoe run was organised in Srinagar keeping in view the scope of the sport in a winter tourism place like Kashmir.
“This is not a very popular game in Jammu and Kashmir but we organised it for the first time in Srinagar. This week we are organising another event for the junior and senior category. game equipment is required in this sport which is common in Gulmarg. The winter season remains for five months in Kashmir which leaves a lot of scope for such event,” said Ahmad.
What is snowshoeing?
Snowshoeing is a type of hiking that involves walking over snow with the assistance of footwear that displaces weight over a larger area. With origins roughly 4,000 to 6,000 years ago, this is the original snow sport. Through the centuries it has played a vital role in remote mountain survival, with trappers and traders utilising snowshoes to traverse the inaccessible regions of the wilderness.
The activity of snowshoeing is growing fast and is a great hobby for those who like to explore snowy areas. It can often be combined with other activities such as glacier hiking, skiing and snowboarding, mountaineering – and even trail running.
Inayat Hussain, member of J-K Society for Trekking and Mountaineering, said, “The youth of Jammu and Kashmir has an abundance of talent. A selection is taking place here today for the Khelo India event for the snowshoe run. The youth of the region are excited about the new sport. I think people here will get a great opportunity to showcase their talent. The Tourism Department and other departments need to step up to further this cause.”
