Mumbai, August 26, 2025: The Asian Open Short Track Speed Skating Trophy 2025, held in Dehradun from August 21–23, concluded with thrilling displays of speed, stamina, and strategy on ice. Athletes from nine countries, including Japan, Thailand, Chinese Taipei, Vietnam, Singapore, and the Philippines, competed fiercely in this Olympic winter sport, making the tournament a milestone for India’s growing ice-skating community.
For India, the spotlight belonged to Gia Girish Shetty, the 11-year-old prodigy from Maharashtra, who emerged as the country’s most decorated skater of the event. Competing in Group D (Under-12), Gia stunned the audience with her consistency and fearlessness on ice. She bagged two gold medals in the 333-meter and 500-meter races, a silver in the 777-meter race, and added another silver in the mixed relay, taking her overall medal tally to four. With this performance, she not only topped India’s medal chart but also positioned herself among Asia’s most promising young talents.
Other Indian Medalists from Maharashtra
India’s campaign also saw strong performances from:
Vardhan Laddha (Group E), who won two silvers in the 333-meter and 500-meter races.
Kamlakar Swara, who clinched two gold medals in the 333-meter and 222-meter categories, displaying both speed and composure.
Anvayi Deshpande, who secured a bronze medal in the 777-meter race, further strengthening India’s presence on the podium.
Together, these performances highlighted the depth of India’s emerging talent pool in ice skating, a sport that is gradually finding its footing in the country.
A Boost for Winter Sports