The Ladakh Scouts Regimental Centre (LSRC) emerged champions of the 6th LG Horse Polo Cup 2026, defeating the Animal Husbandry Department, Leh, in the final played at Goshan Polo Ground, Drass, on July 25.

Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena attended the closing ceremony and announced a substantial increase in prize money for the winning and runner-up teams to encourage greater youth participation in sports and motivate athletes across Ladakh.

The Lieutenant Governor announced that the winners of this year's tournament would receive ₹1 lakh, while the runners-up would receive ₹50,000, doubling the earlier prize amounts of ₹50,000 and ₹25,000, respectively. He further announced that from next year's edition, the champions will receive ₹2 lakh and the runners-up ₹1 lakh.

The prestigious Union Territory-level championship, organised from July 21 to 25, witnessed the participation of 18 men's teams and four women's teams from across Ladakh, showcasing the region's rich sporting heritage and enduring tradition of horse polo.

The event was attended by Chairman and Chief Executive Councillor, LAHDC Kargil, Dr. Mohd. Jaffer Akhoon, and Member of Parliament (Ladakh), Mohmad Haneefa Jan, along with senior officials and sports enthusiasts.

Now in its sixth edition, the LG Horse Polo Cup has emerged as a flagship sporting event promoting indigenous sports, preserving Ladakh's unique cultural heritage and providing a competitive platform for talented riders and horses under the challenging high-altitude conditions of the region. The tournament also reinforced Drass's growing stature as a hub for traditional equestrian sports and cultural tourism.

Addressing the gathering, L-G Saxena said it was a privilege to be part of the grand finale of the tournament. Describing horse polo as more than just a sport, he called it a living heritage that reflects Ladakh's warrior spirit, horsemanship and cultural identity. He noted that the game has been played across Ladakhi and Balti villages for generations, with Drass continuing to preserve and promote this rich legacy.

Congratulating all the participating men's and women's teams, the Lieutenant Governor praised their skill, endurance and sportsmanship. He also appreciated the growing participation of women's teams, saying it reflects the increasing empowerment of women in sports and society across Ladakh.

Reaffirming the Union Territory Administration's commitment to promoting horse polo alongside modern sports infrastructure, L-G Saxena highlighted the potential of integrating the sport with adventure tourism and cultural festivals to generate sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities while promoting Ladakh as a unique cultural and tourism destination.

The tournament concluded with the presentation of trophies and awards to the winning teams and outstanding performers.