Coaches observed that students were seen huddled around bonfires and wrapped in heavy woolens until the moments before their matches.
69th National School Games: Double Gold for Punjab in Taekwondo
In an impressive display of athletic prowess at the 69th National School Games, Punjab's Harshita and Jashita clinched gold medals in their respective Taekwondo categories. The event was organized by the School Education Department at Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) in Ludhiana, drawing athletes from across the country despite a severe cold wave sweeping through the region.
Key Achievements and Results
According to the tournament results, the Under-14 (U-14) Taekwondo segment saw dominant performances by the home state. Harshita secured the first position in the Under-16 kg category, successfully defeating Tamil Nadu’s Jayshri, who took the second spot. In the Under-18 kg category, Jashita continued Punjab's winning streak by claiming the gold medal, while Meenakshi from Haryana secured the silver.
Victory Over Harsh Weather
The competition was marked by "nail-biting cold," which posed a significant challenge for the young participants. The Tribune noted that athletes, particularly those from warmer regions like Gujarat, struggled to adapt to the plummeting temperatures. Coaches observed that students were seen huddled around bonfires and wrapped in heavy woolens until the moments before their matches. Despite these grueling conditions, officials remarked on the high level of enthusiasm, discipline, and honesty shown by the competitors.
Official Encouragement and Administration
The event was attended by prominent educational and sports officials. District Education Officer (Secondary) Ludhiana, Dimple Madaan, alongside Youth Sports Coordinator Kulvir Singh Saloudi, visited various venues to encourage the participants. They emphasized the vital role of sports in maintaining a "disease-free and healthy" body, urging parents to motivate children toward physical activities from a young age.
Additionally, The Tribune highlighted the contributions of SP Shukla from the Tae Kwon Do Association and various school principals in ensuring the smooth execution of the games. The arrangements at the event also received praise. These National School Games continue to serve as a critical platform for identifying budding talent in martial arts and other disciplines.
Source: The Tribune
