Madhya Pradesh emerges overall champion in ASMITA South Zone Canoeing and Kayaking Championship

Participants paddle their kayaks in the K-4 1000 meters Sub-Junior Girls competition during the first ASMITA South Zone Canoeing and Kayaking League of India 2025-26 at Gambeeramgedda Dam in Visakhapatnam. | Photo credit: KR DEEPAK

Madhya Pradesh emerged as the overall champions at the 2025-26 ASMITA South Zone Women’s Canoe and Kayak Championship, which concluded after two days of competition at Gambeeramgedda Dam in Visakhapatnam on Sunday.

Odisha finished second while Kerala secured the third position in the championship which saw the participation of women representing southern states and other parts of the country. Competitors excelled across various events, winning gold, silver and bronze medals.

Cups, medals, certificates of appreciation and financial rewards were presented to the winners at the closing ceremony.

Speaking on the occasion, Andhra Pradesh Canoeing and Kayaking Association President B. Balaram Naidu said that the Union Government’s ASMITA initiative has proved to be an important platform for women empowerment by providing opportunities for sportswomen to progress to the national and international levels. He said that the successful conduct of the championship will further strengthen the position of Visakhapatnam as the leading water sports destination in the country.

Mr. Naidu thanked the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Khelo India, Canoeing and Kayaking Association of India, Sports Authority of Andhra Pradesh (SAAP), District Administration, SDRF, GVMC, Police, Revenue, Health, Fire, Irrigation Department, Technical Officials, Coaches, Referees, Volunteers and Media for their support in organizing the championship.

SAAP officials, district functionaries, public representatives, members of sports associations, athletes and sports enthusiasts attended the valedictory function.

Published – 05 Jul 2026 20:26 IST