Romesh Sharma Powers J&K to Glory at Masters Games

 

Ace shuttler bags triple gold as team wins 11 medals

Jammu April 23: In a remarkable and inspiring achievement, the Masters Badminton team from Jammu and Kashmir proudly brought home eleven medals from the 7th Masters National Games held in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh. The prestigious event, organized by the Masters Games Association Himachal Pradesh under the aegis of the Super Masters Games and Sports Federation (India), saw fierce competition from masters athletes across the country, but it was the spirited contingent from Jammu and Kashmir that emerged as a shining example of experience, resilience, and sportsmanship.

At the heart of this historic performance was Romesh Sharma, a seasoned and highly respected badminton player who showcased his exceptional skills and determination by winning three gold medals. Competing in the Men’s Singles 60–64 age category, he delivered a commanding performance to secure gold, then paired with Joginder Paul Sharma to win the Men’s Doubles 60–64 title, and finally teamed up with Khema Gupta to triumph in the Mixed Doubles 55–59 category. His incredible hat-trick of gold medals set the tone for the team's success and inspired fellow players to raise their game.

Adding to the gold medal tally, Khema Gupta claimed victory in the Women’s Singles 50–54 age category, displaying her own brand of dominance and finesse on the court. Joginder Paul Sharma earned a well-fought silver in the Men’s Singles 60–64, complementing his gold with Romesh in the doubles. The pair of Amit Singh and Akashdeep clinched silver in Men’s Doubles 30–34, while Sandeep Gupta and Khema Gupta earned silver in Mixed Doubles 45–49.

The team’s strength and depth were further demonstrated by four bronze medals. Akashdeep secured a bronze in Men’s Singles 30–34, Ankush Jamwal took bronze in Men’s Singles 35–39, Jaswinder Singh earned bronze in Mixed Doubles 55–59, and Jai Swroop Sharma won bronze in Men’s Singles 55–59. Tanu Sadhotra participated in Women’s Singles 35–39. These results reflect a balanced team effort, where each athlete contributed to a collective performance marked by grit and commitment.

Ranjeet Singh Chib, President of the Jammu and Kashmir Masters Games Association (JKMGA) and an ex-international handball player, expressed immense pride in the team’s achievements. He emphasized that their success is not only a personal triumph for the players but also a proud moment for the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. He highlighted the vital role played by institutions like the Directorate of Youth Services and Sports, led by Sh. Rajinder Singh Tara, JKAS, the J&K Police, and the Secretary of the J&K Sports Council, whose consistent support and proactive efforts have created a thriving environment for athletes to grow and compete at the highest levels.

Chib further noted that the accomplishments of these master players serve as a powerful reminder that excellence in sport is ageless and that with the right encouragement and infrastructure, athletes can continue to achieve greatness regardless of the stage in their career. The 12-medal haul by Jammu and Kashmir’s Masters Badminton team is more than just a victory—it is a celebration of enduring spirit, dedication, and the unbreakable bond between passion and performance.