From training camp to podium — 107 athletes unite in sportsmanship and adventure atop AJK’s highlands
In September 2024, the scenic grassy slopes of Toli Peer (also spelled “Tolli Peer”), Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), hosted the third edition of Pakistan’s National Grass Skiing Championship, putting the spotlight on a growing adventure-sport scene in the country.
The Championship kicked off on 23 September 2024 at Toli Peer — a hilltop about 8,800 feet above sea level, roughly 30 km from Rawalakot, in Poonch district. Organized by AJK Winter Sports Association and Pakistan Winter Sports Federation (WSFP), with support from local tourism and sports departments, it brought together clubs and athletes from across Pakistan.
107 athletes from 14 clubs participated — including 44 female competitors.
The first three days were devoted to a training camp, led by national-level coaches, for both professional and amateur participants.
The competition featured events such as Giant Slalom (GS) and Parallel Giant Slalom (PGS) — traditional ski-style races adapted to grassy slopes instead of snow.
In Parallel Giant Slalom, GBS dominated men’s podium, while Madaklasht swept the women’s podium.
In the men’s category, Gilgit-Baltistan Scouts (GBS) claimed the championship title; runner-up was Pakistan Air Force (PAF).
In the women’s category, Chitral Madaklasht took the top spot, while Adventure Foundation Pakistan (AFP) secured second place.
In men’s Giant Slalom, Zahid Abbas and Mohammad Waqar (both GBS) won gold and silver with times of ~20.72 and ~21.33 minutes; Saifullah (PAF) took bronze.
In women’s Giant Slalom, Muntasha (Madaklasht) clinched gold with a time around 13.67 minutes; silver went to Bushra Javed (AFP) and bronze to Samana Rahim (PAF).
he rising athlete count — especially among women — compared to previous editions, shows that grass-skiing is gaining traction as a legitimate sport in Pakistan. Holding the championship at a scenic spot like Toli Peer promotes adventure tourism and highlights the natural beauty of Azad Kashmir, potentially drawing more tourism and sports interest to the region.
