Drass (The Stellar News): The grand finale of the 5th Edition of the LG Cup Horse Polo concluded with great enthusiasm and celebration at the International Polo Ground, Goshan Drass. The tournament, which has become a hallmark of Ladakh’s equestrian heritage, drew large crowds despite challenging weather conditions over the past few days.
A total of 14 teams, including men’s and women’s squads from different parts of Ladakh, participated in this edition, making it one of the most vibrant sporting festivals of the Union Territory.
In a nail-biting men’s final, Team Ladakh Scouts retained their title by defeating Team D Meadows in a penalty shootout, showcasing skill, courage, and precision. The women’s category also witnessed a thrilling encounter, where Team SECMOL emerged victorious against Team Women’s Ladakh, further highlighting the growing participation of women in traditional sports.
At the outset of his address, the Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh paid heartfelt tribute to the martyrs of the Kargil War, honoring their supreme sacrifice. He praised the Youth Services and Sports Department, UT Ladakh for their exceptional efforts in organizing the tournament smoothly despite the continuous rainfall that posed significant challenges.
The LG expressed deep admiration for all those who have kept the traditional sport of horse polo alive through decades of hardships and assured that he would take up the issue with the Centre to recognize Horse Polo as the State Sport of the Union Territory of Ladakh. He also announced that a comprehensive Sports Policy for UT Ladakh will soon be implemented, aimed at strengthening grassroots sports, preserving traditional games, and nurturing young talent.
Calling horse polo a unique coordination of human and animal, the LG described it as a game that reflects deep trust, harmony, and cultural pride. He urged other government departments and stakeholders to come forward and contribute towards safeguarding this prestigious heritage sport.
Later, the LG distributed trophies and awards to the winning teams, outstanding players, and members of the organizing committee, appreciating their dedication and spirit.
Speaking on the occasion, Joint Director Youth Services and Sports UT Ladakh, Mr. Tahir Hussain Zubdavi, extended gratitude to Akashvani Kargil for the live telecast of the matches through its YouTube channel with the technical support of Team Iliya Productions. He also thanked the team from DD Kashir for providing extensive coverage of the tournament and expressed special appreciation to DDG Abhishek Agarwal for considering his request to produce a special programme on the grand finale.
The closing ceremony was attended by CEC LAHDC Kargil Dr. Mohd. Jaffer Akhoon, Member of Parliament Ladakh Haji Hanifa Jan, Executive Councillor Kacho Mohd. Feroz, Secretary Youth Services and Sports Banhu Prabha, Deputy Commissioner Kargil, Superintendent of Police Kargil, Joint Director Youth Services and Sports, District Officers, dignitaries from the Indian Army, and other officials.
The LG Cup Horse Polo has steadily evolved into a premier sporting festival of Ladakh, not only preserving the region’s equestrian traditions but also inspiring the youth to actively participate in traditional sports. The 5th edition, despite weather-related challenges, will be remembered as a symbol of resilience, unity, and cultural pride of Ladakh.
