Kashmir’s cycling prodigy, Waheed Ahmad Ganai, has pedalled his way to national recognition, securing a coveted spot in the upcoming 37th National Games of India. With an unwavering dedication to his sport, Waheed’s journey has been nothing short of inspirational.
Waheed’s exceptional achievements have earned him a place in the prestigious national games, scheduled to be held in Goa from October 25 to November 9. He proudly represents Jammu and Kashmir as the sole cyclist from the region, determined to bring honour to his Union Territory.
Remarkably, this marks the second time that Waheed has earned a spot in the national games, reaffirming his prowess as a top-level cyclist. Not only did he successfully navigate the rigorous selection process, but he also secured an impressive 4th rank nationally, solidifying his position as a formidable contender.
The National Games of India are akin to an Olympic-style multi-sport event, where athletes from various states and Union Territories vie for medals and glory. Waheed’s remarkable journey began at the tender age of 17 during his school days when he first participated in cycling races.
Since then, he has amassed an astonishing collection of over 400 medals, including gold, silver, and bronze, at district, state, and national levels. Among his notable accomplishments, Waheed takes pride in his silver medal at the national games.
Waheed’s dedication to his craft has led him to Amritsar, Punjab, where he currently undergoes rigorous training while pursuing a postgraduate degree in Physical Education. His impressive medal haul includes five gold, two silvers, and one bronze.
Reflecting on his journey, Waheed fondly recalls his initial victory in a school race where he clinched second place. This early success fuelled his passion for cycling, propelling him to continue winning consistently at the state and district levels.
However, despite his remarkable achievements, Waheed expresses concerns about the diminishing support from authorities for the sport of cycling. He laments the lack of events and competitions in recent years, which has demoralized aspiring cyclists. Waheed appeals to the J & K cycling association to address these concerns and provide opportunities for budding cyclists to excel.
As the lone cyclist from the Kashmir valley, Waheed remains resolute in his pursuit of victory at the national games. Inspired by world-class cyclist Mark Cavendish, he dedicates six to seven hours daily to intense training, aiming to cross the finish line with a triumphant win and bring more laurels to his beloved Union Territory.
