J-K: Army organises inter-village cross-country championship in Kupwara

The event was organised by Rashtriya Rifles (RR) 15 at Villagam Army Camp.

Speaking to ANI, Mehreen Aijaz, a participant, told ANI, "I am very grateful to 15 Rashtriya Rifles (RR) for giving us this opportunity to participate in the race". I also appeal to all those children involved in drug addiction to participate in these events to maintain their health. And it will also be good for us as well."

The championship, conducted for senior boys and girls from classes 8 to 12, saw enthusiastic participation from the villages of Kakrosa, Magam, Gushi, Haphruda, Jaba, and Vilgam block.

Muzamil Zameer Sheikh, a participant who secured the first position, told ANI, "I have been sent from my school to participate in a race... A lot of children participated."

"...Thousands of boys are participating today. It is a good opportunity for all the boys. I am very grateful to 15 Rashtriya Rifles Villagam and the administration," Mohammad Sayed, a teacher, told ANI.

Initial screening of participants was carried out at the school level, with teachers registering the participants at nearby army camps, leading up to the main event at Vilgam Army Camp.

Thanking the 15 RR for allowing them to participate in the event, Tabish Sajad, "I also thank my teachers for supporting us. I had come here for the first time to participate in the race".

"I secured the fourth position. By the grace of God, I will secure my first position in the next year," Sajad added.