In the breathtaking valleys of Gulmarg, often hailed as paradise on earth, the Khelo India Winter Games 2026 kicked off with adrenaline-pumping action on Day 1. As poet Amir Khusro once described, “If there is paradise on earth, this is it.” Nestled amid snow-capped peaks in Jammu and Kashmir, Gulmarg set the perfect stage for India’s premier winter sports extravaganza. Broadcasted by Doordarshan Sports, the highlights captured the essence of determination, skill, and sheer willpower as athletes from across the nation battled it out in the Ski Mountaineering Men’s Sprint event.
A Spectacular Venue and Opening Vibes
Gulmarg’s pristine slopes, part of the Kangri shoulder of the Afarwat mountain, transformed into a hub of excitement for the games. The event, organized under the Khelo India initiative, aims to nurture young talent and promote winter sports in India. Day 1 focused on the Ski Mountaineering discipline, where competitors combine endurance climbing with high-speed descents. Commentators Rajesh Kumar and Darpan brought the action to life, welcoming viewers with enthusiasm: “I am Rajesh Kumar, welcome you all to DD Sports, and with me is Darpan.”
The atmosphere was electric, with 38 sportspersons representing states like Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Delhi, and Ladakh, alongside teams from the Army, ITBP, and CRPF. Names like Santosh from J&K, Mehul Thakur from Himachal Pradesh, Tariq Hussain from the Army, and Sonam from Ladakh dotted the lineup, showcasing India’s diverse sporting talent.
The Men’s Sprint: A Test of Strategy and Stamina
The Men’s Sprint event unfolded in multiple runs, with athletes released in batches for a fair and thrilling competition. The course demanded a blend of speed, technique, and mental fortitude. As Darpan explained, success in such events hinges on four pillars: mental preparation, physical fitness, technique, and tactics—plus an extra dose of willpower.
The Race Breakdown
- The Uphill Climb: Athletes kicked off with a 50-meter sprint before transitioning to a steep walk. “Some people walk and some people run because they want to complete their journey very quickly,” noted Rajesh. Muscle power was key here, as skiers pushed their limits in the thin, high-altitude air where “breath is like currency—you have to spend it wisely.”
- Transition Zone: At the blue flag marker, competitors removed the “skins” from their skis—a fabric that provides grip for climbing but must be peeled off for the descent. This step, weighing 4-5 kg per ski, tested efficiency. “Every second matters,” emphasized the commentators, as athletes hoisted their gear onto their shoulders and prepared for the downhill.
- The Downhill Dash: Gravity took over as skiers crouched low, balancing their weight perfectly between the skis to maintain control. “If your weight is a little bit backward, you lose control; slightly forward, and you dive ahead,” warned Darpan. Core strength shone through, with athletes navigating curves by instinct and experience. Poles tucked under armpits, they hurtled toward the finish line, judged solely on timing—the least time wins.
One standout moment saw a skier finish with “a very beautiful style,” crossing the line ahead of the pack while others peeled skins uphill. The event’s format, with interval releases, ensured non-stop action, building suspense as batches overlapped.
Key Insights and Athlete Challenges
Ski mountaineering isn’t just about speed; it’s a holistic challenge. Athletes must “walk the first time, let skills carry you the second, and finish downhill the third.” The high altitude amplified the difficulty, making every breath count. Rajesh highlighted the importance of judging curves on the fly: “Decisions have to be made in split seconds.”
Participants like Zuber from ITBP, Mohammad Hussain from Ladakh, and Javed from J&K embodied the spirit of the games. Their performances underscored Khelo India’s role in unearthing talent from remote areas, fostering a new generation of winter sports stars.
Looking Ahead: More Excitement in Store
Day 1’s highlights set a high bar for the Khelo India Winter Games 2026, with Alpine Skiing events teasing even more “fast and furious” action. As the games continue in Gulmarg, expect more stories of perseverance and triumph. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast or a casual viewer, this event reminds us: To realize big dreams, you must perform with heart and hustle.
Video Source: YouTube
