Madhya Pradesh Dominates Khelo India Water Sports Festival at Dal Lake
Madhya Pradesh Tops Medal Tally
Srinagar (Jammu and Kashmir) - August 23: Madhya Pradesh showcased exceptional performance at the inaugural Khelo India Water Sports Festival, concluding at Dal Lake on Saturday. The state secured the top position in the medal standings, with Odisha and Kerala following closely behind, thanks to the training provided at the Sports Authority of India (SAI) centers in Jagatpur and Alappuzha.
Impressive Medal Count
On the final day, Madhya Pradesh clinched six additional gold medals, bringing their total to 18, which included three silvers and five bronzes. A total of 24 gold medals were contested throughout the festival, with 14 in kayaking and canoeing and 10 in rowing, as reported by Khelo India.
SAI Athletes Shine
Athletes from Odisha and Kerala, benefiting from SAI training facilities, also excelled. A group of 21 Khelo India athletes participated in rowing events, securing two golds, two silvers, and two bronzes across 10 competitions.
Outstanding Individual Performances
The kayakers and canoeists training at five SAI centers across the nation performed remarkably, with 47 athletes earning five golds, seven silvers, and three bronzes. Jagatpur emerged as the top center, contributing three golds and five silvers, with standout performances from Odisha's Rasmita Sahoo and Madhya Pradesh's Dally Bishnoi.
Local Talent Shines
As the host, Jammu and Kashmir made a notable impact, with Mohsin Ali winning the first gold medal in the men's 1000-meter kayaking event. Young athletes Sajad Hussain and Muhammad Hussain also secured medals, contributing to J&K's overall tally of one gold, one silver, and one bronze.
Notable Performances on Final Day
Shikha Chauhan, Reena Sen, and Pallavi Jagtab drew attention with their performances, especially after their recent success at the Asian Canoe Slalom Championship. Shikha won gold in the kayaking singles slalom, while Pallavi topped the canoeing singles event, with Reena finishing third.
Exciting Races and Upsets
The festival also highlighted emerging talents and unexpected outcomes. Notably, Tokyo Olympian Arjun Lal Jat from Delhi was edged out for gold by Odisha's Aviraj in the men's single scull event, while Shweta Brahmachari from West Bengal won the women's race.
Final Results Overview
Results from the finals included various categories in canoeing, kayaking, and rowing, showcasing the competitive spirit and talent present at the festival.