Arya inaugurates 20th National Short Track and Figure Skating Championship at Himadri Ice Rink

PIONEER NEWS SERVICE/Dehradun

Sports minister Rekha Arya inaugurated the 20th National Short Track and Figure Skating Championship 2025 at the Himadri Ice Rink in Maharana Pratap Sports Stadium here on Friday. This event marked a significant milestone for Uttarakhand, as it hosted the country’s first Indoor Ice Skating National Championship. Teams from 19 States are participating in the championship which will conclude on June 30.

During the inauguration, Arya said that all previous national championships for ice skating in India were held outdoors in hilly areas during the snowfall season. This is the first time the National Championship of Ice Skating is being organised in an indoor stadium. Arya emphasised that this development takes Uttarakhand a step closer to becoming a hub for sports in the country. She also said that the ice rink is open for training and practice for athletes from across India, expressing hope that this infrastructure would help Indian players excel in ice sports globally.

Arya highlighted the recent achievement of the Indian women’s ice hockey team, which won a bronze medal at the Asian Championship Cup held in the UAE. Prior to their departure for the UAE, the team trained for a month at Himadri Ice Rink. The players later credited the rink in Dehradun for playing a crucial role in their preparation. Arya stated that Uttarakhand’s sports infrastructure is now contributing to team India’s success in winning international medals, which is a point of pride for all residents of the state.

During the event, the ice skating athletes showcased remarkable skills, leaving the audience in awe. The balance, speed and movements displayed by the participants were exceptional.