LEH: Ladakh ran out of luck as ITBP women reclaimed the Khelo India Winter Games (KIWG) ice-hockey gold at the Nawang Dorjay Stobdan (NDS) Stadium here on Sunday evening. In a thrilling final—a repeat of last year’s summit clash—ITBP scored in the opening seconds of extra time after regulation time ended 1-1.
Ladakh had taken the lead in the 17th minute through Shamina Khatoon and looked on course to defend their title in a low-scoring, high-intensity contest. However, ITBP’s India international player Stanzin Dolkar, nicknamed “Tani,” scored a sensational equaliser in the third period to force the match into extra time.
Within nine seconds of the extra period, Dolkar was at it again, scoring the golden goal from a goalmouth melee to leave the home crowd stunned and seal the gold medal. The win ensures ITBP will not go empty-handed from these Games.
There was small consolation for the hosts as the Ladakh men’s team redeemed themselves by winning the bronze medal. After a shock semifinal defeat to Chandigarh on Saturday, Ladakh showed purpose to defeat ITBP 3-2 for a podium finish.
The final day of the Games was also highlighted by the conclusion of the speed skating events. Army’s Akash Aradhya and Maharashtra’s Shruti Kotwal dominated the rink, both finishing with two golds each (individual and relay).
