Junagadh: In a spectacular display of endurance and determination, 516 athletes from 12 states across India competed yesterday in the 18th Girnar Ascent-Descent Competition to conquer Gujarat’s tallest mountain in the historic city of Junagadh. The event witnessed fierce competition with Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat emerging as dominant forces.
In the senior women’s category, Uttar Pradesh’s Tamsi Singh clinched first place with a timing of 32.14 minutes. Among senior men, Gujarat’s Vasava Anil secured the top position in 58.16 minutes. In the junior women’s category, Uttar Pradesh’s Bandana Yadav finished first with a time of 37.20 minutes, while Gujarat’s Divakar Rajbhar claimed first position in the junior men’s category with a timing of 60.52 minutes.
In the senior women’s category, Uttar Pradesh’s Neha Mishra secured second place in 38.55 minutes, while Gujarat’s Vegad Kajal finished third in 39.26 minutes. Among senior men, Gujarat’s Vasava Inesh took second position with 59.16 minutes, and Diu’s Vignanesh Chimanlal secured third place with 60.19 minutes. In the junior women’s category, Gujarat’s Kathesiya Asmita finished second with 37.36 minutes, while Gujarat’s Solanki Kajal claimed third position in 38.7 minutes. In the junior men’s category, Gujarat’s Vimal Vanjara took second place with 64.10 minutes, and Uttar Pradesh’s Ankurbhai secured third position with a timing of 65.19 minutes.
The All India Girnar Ascent Competition, organized by the Youth Services Cultural Department and Junagadh District Administration, commenced at 6:45 AM with the first phase of the men’s competition flagged off by the Collector and other dignitaries. The women’s competition followed thereafter. The prize distribution ceremony was held at Mangalnath Ashram Bhavnath, where cash prizes, certificates, and trophies were presented to winners by officials.
However, the event was marred by controversy as allegations of doping surfaced during the competition. Some female competitors recorded hemoglobin levels as high as 21, sparking disputes. A competitor from Haryana alleged that normally, hemoglobin levels in young women should range between 12 to 16, but some participants showed levels reaching 21, which is unnatural. Allegations were also made that such performance-enhancing drugs prevent athletes from experiencing fatigue or breathlessness.
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