India to Host Asian Open Short Track Speed Skating Trophy 2025 for the First Time

India is set to make its debut on the global winter sports map by hosting the Asian Open Short Track Speed Skating Trophy 2025. This historic international event will take place from 20 to 23 August 2025 at the Maharana Pratap Sports College in Raipur, Dehradun, Uttarakhand. For a country where winter sports are still developing, this marks a significant leap in both visibility and participation.

Event Highlights: What to Expect

Organized under the leadership of the Ice Skating Association of India (ISAI), the event will feature high-speed, action-packed races on ice. It is recognized as the biggest winter sports event ever hosted by India.

Key Features

• Dates: 20–23 August 2025
• Venue: Maharana Pratap Sports College, Raipur (Dehradun)
• Discipline: Short Track Speed Skating
• Events: 9 race categories ranging from 222 meters to 5000-meter relay

This format demands not just speed, but also strategy, balance, and endurance on ice.

Participation from Across Asia

More than 11 Asian countries will participate in this prestigious tournament. As per ISAI President Amitabh Sharma, the participating nations include,

• China
• Japan
• Hong Kong
• Indonesia
• Singapore
• Thailand
• Chinese Taipei
• Vietnam
• Malaysia
• Philippines
• India

This broad participation reflects the growing enthusiasm for winter sports across Asia and affirms India’s emerging role as a capable host for international competitions.

Significance for India

Hosting this event brings several advantages to India’s sports landscape,

• Boost to Winter Sports Infrastructure: Establishes India as a serious contender in organizing and promoting cold-weather sports
• Global Recognition: Puts Dehradun on the map for international sporting events
• Inspiration for Indian Athletes: Encourages young Indian skaters to take up the sport professionally
• Tourism and Local Economy: The event is expected to draw national and international visitors to Uttarakhand

This aligns with India’s broader goal to diversify its sporting identity beyond cricket and build capabilities across all Olympic disciplines.