Kargil’s Shahnaz Parveen Selected for World University Games
Shahnaz Parveen, a talented Taekwondo athlete from Sankoo, Kargil, has once again made her region proud by securing a spot in the World University Games in Germany. This remarkable achievement makes her the first female athlete from Ladakh to qualify for this prestigious competition for the second time.
Shahnaz’s selection is not just a personal victory but also a moment of pride for Ladakh. Her dedication, hard work, and relentless spirit have helped her reach this global platform, inspiring many young athletes in the region to pursue their dreams.
Support from the Ladakh Taekwondo Association
The Ladakh Taekwondo Association (LTA) has played a significant role in supporting Shahnaz on her journey.
Gulzar Hussain Munshi, President of LTA, expressed significant pride in her accomplishments, acknowledging her unwavering dedication and commitment to the sport.
He also recognized the contributions of Maharishi Dayanand University (MDU) and Coach Ashok Kumar, who have provided invaluable mentorship that has shaped Shahnaz into an elite international athlete. Their assistance has been pivotal in enhancing her skills and enabling her to compete at the highest echelons of the sport.
A Journey of Perseverance and Dedication
Shahnaz’s path to success has been anything but easy. Coming from Ladakh’s remote region, she had to overcome several challenges, including limited training facilities, harsh weather conditions, and financial constraints.
To improve her skills and compete at a global level, she moved out of her hometown and enrolled at MDU Rohtak, where she is currently pursuing B.P.Ed (1st year). Despite the struggles, she remained committed to her training and continued pushing herself beyond limits.
Major Achievements in Taekwondo
Shahnaz Parveen has built an impressive sports career, earning multiple accolades at national and international levels. Her consistent performance has made her one of Ladakh’s most celebrated athletes.
She was awarded the State Award in Sports (UT Ladakh 2023), recognizing her excellence in Taekwondo. She has also represented India in the World University Games in Chengdu, China, where she showcased exceptional talent.
One of her most significant achievements includes securing 8th place in the Group Women Under-30 category at the 8th Asian Taekwondo Poomsae Championship in Vietnam. Competing against some of the best athletes from Asia, she proved her mettle with an outstanding performance.
Challenges Faced by Athletes from Ladakh
Athletes from Ladakh often face multiple challenges, including a lack of proper infrastructure, professional coaching, and financial support. Extreme weather conditions also make it difficult for them to train consistently throughout the year.
Despite these difficulties, Shahnaz never let obstacles stop her. She adapted to challenging circumstances, trained rigorously, and remained focused on her goal of making a name for herself in the world of Taekwondo.
Her success story highlights the urgent need for better sports infrastructure and government support in Ladakh. Providing young athletes with proper training facilities, financial assistance, and exposure to international competitions can help them compete on a global stage.
Preparation for the World University Games
With the World University Games in Germany approaching, Shahnaz has intensified her training to ensure she performs at her absolute best. She follows a strict training routine under the supervision of Coach Ashok Kumar, focusing on strength, agility, and combat techniques.
Apart from physical training, she is also working on her mental endurance, an essential factor in high-level competitions. Competing at an international level requires not just skill but also strong mental resilience, and Shahnaz is preparing herself for the challenge.
Impact on Ladakh’s Sports Community
Shahnaz’s success has had a profound impact on Ladakh’s sports community. She has become an inspiration for aspiring athletes, especially young girls, proving that they, too, can achieve greatness despite limited resources.
Her journey has sparked greater interest in Taekwondo and other sports among Ladakh’s youth. Many young athletes now see her as a role model and aspire to follow in her footsteps.
Local sports authorities and organizations are also recognizing the potential of Ladakh’s athletes and are working towards providing better facilities and support. Her achievement is paving the way for a brighter future in sports for the region.
What’s Next for Shahnaz Parveen?
Shahnaz is determined to give her best at the World University Games in Germany. She aims not just to compete but to bring home a medal for India and make her country and Ladakh proud.
Her ultimate goal is to qualify for the Olympics and represent India on the biggest sporting stage in the world. With her dedication, talent, and strong support system, she is on the right path to achieving even greater success.
Beyond her personal achievements, Shahnaz hopes to encourage more girls from Ladakh to take up sports and break societal barriers. She believes that with the right mindset and support, anyone can achieve their dreams, no matter where they come from.