Early Times Report JAMMU, June 6: In a vibrant celebration of women's sporting excellence and the spirit of cycling, the Cycling Association of Jammu & Kashmir (CAJK), under the aegis of the Cycling Federation of India, successfully organized the ASMITA City Women League 2026 at the historic MA Stadium, Jammu, on Saturday. The event emerged as a significant platform for encouraging women's participation in sports, bringing together more than 30 talented women cyclists from different age groups and categories. The league showcased determination, athleticism, and the growing interest of women in competitive cycling across Jammu & Kashmir. Adding further momentum to the occasion, a World Bicycle Day Rally was organized alongside the competition, attracting over 60 cyclists, fitness enthusiasts, and cycling advocates. The rally carried a powerful message promoting physical fitness, environmental sustainability, healthy living, and the adoption of bicycles as an eco-friendly mode of transport. The event was inaugurated by Yudhvir Sethi, MLA Jammu East, who graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Anisa Nabi, Deputy Director, Urban Local Bodies, Jammu, attended as the Guest of Honour. Both dignitaries applauded the efforts of the organizers in promoting women's sports and encouraging healthy lifestyles through cycling. Addressing the participants, the dignitaries emphasized the importance of sports in empowering women, building confidence, and fostering a culture of fitness among youth. They congratulated the cyclists for their dedication and sporting spirit and distributed medals to the winners in various categories. The competition was formally flagged off by Ravinder Singh, Chairman of the Cycling Association of Jammu & Kashmir and Joint Secretary of the Cycling Federation of India. He highlighted the association's commitment to nurturing cycling talent and creating more opportunities for women athletes to excel at regional and national levels. The successful conduct of the ASMITA City Women League underscored the remarkable growth of women's cycling in Jammu & Kashmir and reflected the increasing enthusiasm among young girls and women to pursue sports as a means of personal development, fitness, and competitive achievement. In the Sub-Junior Category, Hiranya secured the gold medal, while Aditi claimed the silver medal and Praznath earned the bronze medal. In the Junior Category, Kumari Jyoti emerged as the gold medal winner. Chandani Kumari finished second to take the silver medal, while Viva Sharma secured the bronze medal. In the highly competitive Elite Category, Anu Talwar clinched the gold medal. Harpreet Bhalla won the silver medal, while Payal Jain finished third and was awarded the bronze medal. Among the prominent officials present on the occasion were Sarwant Singh Gill, Chief Coordinator; Om Parkash, General Secretary; Tejinder Singh, Treasurer; Ravi Salgotra, Chief Executive Officer, CAJK; Vikesh Sharma, Director Physical Education; and Sahil Raina from the Rajouri Cycling Association, along with several sports enthusiasts, coaches, and supporters. The event concluded on a highly positive note with participants and organizers reaffirming their commitment to promoting women's participation in sports. The league not only celebrated sporting excellence but also reinforced the message of women empowerment, healthy living, environmental consciousness, and sustainable mobility through cycling. The organizers expressed hope that such initiatives would inspire more girls and women across Jammu & Kashmir to embrace cycling and actively participate in sports, contributing to a healthier and more progressive society. |