Asian Open Short Track Speed Skating Trophy 2025 in Dehradun

The championship will be held from 20 August to 23 August 2025. The venue is the Himadri Ice Skating Rink in Dehradun. This is the only Olympic size ice rink in India. For many years, this rink was closed because of high maintenance cost. Recently it was reopened after hosting the national championship in June 2025. Now the same stadium is all set to welcome international players.

Event Dates and Venue

• • Dates: 20 to 23 August 2025

  • Venue: Himadri Ice Skating Rink, Dehradun

  • Speciality: Only Olympic size ice rink in India

  • History: The rink was closed earlier due to high maintenance cost but reopened in June 2025 after hosting the national championship.

Countries Taking Part

This event is attracting skaters from all over Asia. A total of 11 countries will participate. These are India, China, Japan, Hong Kong, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, Chinese Taipei and Philippines.

In total, more than 240 skaters and officials will be present in Dehradun during the event. India will be sending its largest ever team of 95 athletes. Hong Kong is sending 27 players, Thailand 25, Japan 13, China 18 and others are also sending good numbers.

The Competitions

The Asian Open will have races in nine different distances. These races will start from 222 metres and go up to 5000 metres. Both junior and senior level skaters will compete. The events include individual sprints, long-distance races and team relays. The short track format is always full of thrill because of speed, sharp turns and close finishes.

Who is Organising

The Ice Skating Association of India (ISAI) is organising the event. This body was formed in 2002 and is responsible for promoting ice skating in the country. The event is being conducted under the rules and permission of the International Skating Union (ISU), which is the global authority for ice skating sports.

India’s Future Plans in Winter Sports

According to ISAI President Amitabh Sharma, this event is just the beginning. He said that India has now started its journey in winter sports on an international level. The target is very big. By 2027, India wishes to host the Junior World Cup. By 2029, the aim is to bring the Asian Winter Games. And by 2036, India even dreams of hosting the Winter Olympics.

This is a very bold vision. But the Asian Open in Dehradun is the first practical step towards that dream.

Coach and Indian Team

For this event, India has appointed Mohammed Abdul Quadeer as the coach of the national team. He has been working with young skaters for many years. His focus is to prepare Indian athletes for world class competitions. He also wants to give good exposure to players from different states, especially Telangana, and help them reach the World Championships.

Why This Event is Important for India

This championship is very important for India in many ways:

• • It is the first time India is hosting an international ice skating event.

  • It will give Indian athletes the chance to compete with the best of Asia.

  • The Himadri rink will now get regular use and attention.

  • It will increase interest in winter sports among Indian youth.

  • Tourism in Dehradun and Uttarakhand will also get a big boost.

  • Media coverage will highlight India as a new winter sports destination.

Winter Sports in Uttarakhand

Uttarakhand is slowly becoming the face of winter sports in India. Dehradun is now known for ice skating with the Himadri rink. And if you travel further into the Himalayas, you will find Auli.

Auli is one of the best skiing destinations in India. It has snow-covered slopes, ski schools, cable car rides and beautiful Himalayan views. I have already written a detailed article about Auli on my website. That guide will help you with travel planning, hotels, skiing options and local experiences. Auli is perfect for anyone who loves snow adventure.