Kashmiri skiers Ayan, Waseem to represent India in Lebanon

Hailing from the Baramulla district of Kashmir, Ayan Tariq and Waseem Bhat both have been selected to represent India in the 30th Asian Alpine Ski Championship to be held in Mzaar Ski Resort, Kfardebian Lebanon from Feb. 24 - 27.

The championship is organised by the Lebanese Ski Federation in which Ayan and Waseem would represent the Indian Ski and Snowboard Federation.

The Indian contingent comprises 10 members.

The two talented skiers have been selected for the India team on the back of a consistent performance at the National level.

Both Ayan and Waseem are proven skiers, having won multiple medals at the National and State level over the years.

Ayan since 2013 has represented J&K in four national events, bagging one gold and three silver medals so far.

He has been state champion four times, been a runner-up twice, and bagged six gold in district Ski championships.

Waseem has represented J&K in nationals seven times since 2014.

For both these skiers, this is the biggest opportunity that has come their way so far and they intend to take full advantage of it.

Ayan said, "I have been skiing since being a kid. As my father Tariq Zargar is a well-known ski instructor himself, it was normal for me to take up skiing. He has been backing and training me since childhood and now is the time I give something back to him and State."

"This is an Asian championship and to participate in it is a dream for any skier. The conditions in Lebanon are different from what we have seen in India so far but I  am mentally prepared to give my best in the event," he said.

Waseem said that it has always been his dream to represent India on the international stage.

"Whoever takes up any sport, wants to make it to the big stage and represent the country. After so many years I am finally going to represent India in an international event. This is a big thing for me and everyone who has been  supporting me. I am hoping to give my best during the event," he said.