Srinagar, Mar 5 (UNI) The picturesque ski resort of Gulmarg is all set to host the Khelo India Winter Games (KIWG) with the athletes excited and eagerly waiting to participate in the mega event.
Gulmarg has transformed into a winter wonderland following recent heavy snowfall, prompting authorities to reschedule the mega event to March 9. Around 1,000 athletes from across India will compete in various winter games.
The athletes are excited and eagerly waiting for the four-day mega event which was earlier postponed due to insufficient snowfall at the Gulmarg which now boasts ideal conditions for the thrilling competitions.
The Athletes have already started training on different slopes, gearing up for intense snow sports events including- ski mountaineering, alpine skiing, snowboard, and Nordic skiing.
Many athletes expressed joy and relief after the official confirmation of the event as their spirits are high, and they are ready to showcase their skills on the snow-covered slopes of Gulmarg.
An athlete Rajesh Punia from Mumbai was excited after seeing the heaps of snow on the slopes of Gulmarg.

“We were disappointed when the dates for the commencement of the Khelo Games were postponed earlier due to insufficient snow at Gulmarg. The recent heavy snowfall not only has ignited a new passion in the athletes but also brought more ski lovers to the wonder land Gulmarg,” he said.
“I am quite happy that the event is now happening” a local athlete Shabir Ahmad said and added “that after the fresh snowfall the athletes are enjoying practicing on the slopes to prepare for the main event”.
Zahoor, another local athlete while expressing happiness said that “it is a great opportunity for all the athletes of the country who are participating in the event to showcase their talent”.
Naima, a local athlete also expressed happiness about the commencement of winter games at Gulmarg and hoped that she would also win a medal during the event.
The athletes from all across the country will start arriving from March 7 to participate in the event.
The first leg of the 5th edition of Khlo India Winter games was held in the Union Territory of Ladakh in January.
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