Jammu and Kashmir’s long-distance runner Muzamil Hussain Mir brought pride to India by securing third place at the 52nd Ciaspolada-2026 International Snowshoe Race in Italy. Competing against elite athletes in the toughest category, Muzamil battled sub-zero temperatures and challenging conditions to clinch the bronze medal.
This achievement adds to Muzamil’s decorated career, which includes a bronze at the 2020 World Snowshoe Championship in Japan, multiple medals at the Khelo India Winter Games and recently being named J&K’s top marathon runner at the 2025 Kashmir Marathon.
Despite difficulties in securing sponsorship, Muzamil received vital support from NITians Career Institute, J&K SnowShoe Association Vice President Advocate Suhaib Mir and Joint Secretary Amandeep Singh. He was ceremonially flagged off by MLA Tanvir Sadiq.
Muzamil described the race as “the toughest I have ever done,” expressing gratitude for the support that helped him achieve this global milestone.
Pertinently, India had an impressive overall outing at the prestigious race. Dhani Malhotra emerged as the Junior Girls Champion, while Aashna Chaudhary finished runner-up in the Junior Girls category. In the Junior Boys category, Ankit Khokhar secured 4th place and Akshir Singh Kush took 5th place. In the Senior Women’s category, Anjum Chaudhary finished 5th.
