In a proud moment for north Kashmir, two young girls from Kupwara district have won silver medals at the 6th Asian Savate Championship held in Delhi.
Competing against top athletes from 16 countries, Rifat Rasool and Snobar Fayaz showcased remarkable skill and determination to make their mark on the international stage.
The competition, organised by the Asian Savate Confederation (ASC) under the aegis of Fédération Internationale de Savate (FISAV), witnessed participation of athletes from over sixteen countries. Representing India at the prestigious event, Rifat Rasool and Snobar Fayaz, both students of the Olympians Faisal Martial Art Academy in Handwara, went on to show exceptional skills and determination.
Rifat Rasool, a native of Mawer Handwara competed in the 56 kg weight category. She prevailed over the opponent in multiple rounds and bagged a silver medal.
“This is the first time I competed outside my district, and though I didn’t secure gold, I gained invaluable experience and insight,” Rifat told Greater Kashmir.
Snobar Fayaz, from the Kandi Khass area of Kupwara, competed in the same weight category and was able to win a silver medal. Reflecting on her performance, Snobar said that she put up a strong fight against two international opponents but struggled in the third round against a more experienced competitor. “This experience has been a great learning opportunity for me,” she added.
Sumaya Nazir, a trainer at the Olympians Faisal Martial Art Academy, has expressed immense pride over the success of these athletes. “We consider their achievements as a victory for the entire Kupwara district. It happens to be inspiring to see that sports can bring positive change in society,” she said.
Head coach Faisal Nazir, who has been training athletes in Handwara for the past two decades, emphasised the role of sports in youth development.
“Our aim is to keep youth engaged in constructive activities so that they can be away from negative influences. I am trying to shape the youth of this region into not just athletes but role models,” he said.
“The success of Rifat and Snobar will certainly prove a beacon of hope for young athletes in Kupwara,” he added.
