Aliza Shah, a 10th-grade student at Presentation Convent Higher Secondary School Rajbagh Srinagar, has once again brought laurels to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. She clinched the gold medal in the 68th Junior SGFI National Wushu Championship, held in Jammu from the 21st to the 26th of November 2024. The championship saw participation from around 300 players representing 22 states and union territories across India.
Aliza emerged as the only female gold medalist from the Kashmir Valley, marking a significant achievement in her wushu career. Facing some of the toughest opponents from across the country, Aliza showcased remarkable determination and skill. Her journey to the pinnacle was nothing short of arduous, but she never looked back from her very first bout against Orissa, displaying some of the most magnificent performances in the championship.
This victory marks her ninth national medal and her second consecutive SGFI medal. Last year, Aliza participated in her first SGFI Championship in Ranchi, where she won a silver medal. This year, her grit and determination led her to claim the gold medal, despite getting injured during her bronze medal bout. Her remarkable comeback was hailed by spectators and fellow athletes alike.
In the semi-final match, Aliza created a sense of euphoria in the Baqwati Nagar indoor stadium, with the crowd chanting "come on Aliza" as she defeated some of the toughest players from the country. In her final medal bout, she overcame a formidable opponent from Rajasthan to secure the gold.
Aliza had been attending a wushu training camp organized by the J&K Youth Services and Sports Department in Jammu since the 3rd of November 2024.
She acknowledged the efforts of the department, particularly Secretary Sports Council Nuzhat Gul, for their significant contributions to elevating sports infrastructure in the UT. She also expressed her gratitude to Dronacharya Awardee Mr. Kuldeep Handoo for his dedicated efforts towards the advancement of Wushu, ensuring daily visits to the training camp despite his busy schedule.
Aliza praised the support of her school’s management, especially Ajay Paul of the YSS Department, who was the overall in-charge of the championship. She also lauded the efforts of Maqsood Rather, Secretary District Srinagar Wushu Mr. Mushtaq Ahmad Zargar, Manager Sports Council Ms. Bavneet, Mr. Nissar Hussain (PM), Mr. Aijaz Hassan, Rameez Ahmad, Irfan Ahmad, Atul Ji, Kamal, Farooq, and Tanshiv for their unparalleled training, support, and encouragement in Wushu.
Aliza Shah’s victory is a testament to her resilience, dedication, and the unwavering support from her mentors and well-wishers. Her triumph is a proud moment for the Kashmir Valley and an inspiration to young athletes across the region.
Aliza Lauded the role of entire management of her school who encourage students at every step . Ajay Paul of YSS Department who was overall in charge of this championship. Aliza Shah also hailed the efforts of Maqsood Rather ,secretary district Srinagar wushu Mr Mushtaq Ahmad Zargar Manager Sports Council , Ms Bavneet ,Mr Nissar Hussain (PM)Mr Aijaz Hassan , Rameez Ahmad, Irfan Ahmad Atul ji, Kamal, Farooq, Tanshiv for their unparalleled Wushu training , support and encouragement.