Tanvir Sadiq flags off Muzamil Hussain for Italy Snowshoe event

Srinagar, Dec 29: As a gesture of support for Kashmir’s top long-distance athlete, MLA Zadibal and Jammu and Kashmir National Conference spokesperson Tanvir Sadiq on Monday flagged off Muzamil Hussain Mir of Srinagar for participation in the 52nd Ciaspolada 2026, an international snowshoe running event in Italy.

Muzamil Hussain, as per a statement issued, a bronze medallist at the World Snowshoe Championship 2020 in Japan, is part of the Indian Snowshoe Team and is the only athlete from Jammu and Kashmir in the contingent. The Indian team comprises 12 members, and Muzamil is expected to deliver a strong performance in what is considered the world’s oldest and largest snowshoe running event.

Tanvir Sadiq congratulated Muzamil and encouraged him to bring laurels to the country and Jammu and Kashmir. He also assured him of all possible support in the future.

Recently, Muzamil emerged as J&K’s top marathon runner at the 2nd Kashmir Marathon.  He has also participated in a Guinness World Record marathon event in Leh-Ladakh, is a regular marathon runner, and has won medals at the Khelo India Winter Games in snowshoe running.

His participation in Ciaspolada 2026 highlights both his personal resilience and the urgent need for structured and timely institutional support for athletes representing India at international platforms.

Despite securing his Italy visa well in advance, Muzamil said he approached several leading corporate houses in the Kashmir Valley for partial sponsorship to cover travel and participation expenses. However, none extended support, and repeated visits to their offices adversely affected his training.

“Unfortunately, Gulzar Khan had to withdraw from the event entirely due to lack of support. I somehow managed to book my air tickets after borrowing money from a friend,” Muzamil said.

While he has received positive feedback from the Department of Tourism, Kashmir, he added that the assistance is yet to be formally confirmed.

“I am highly indebted and thankful to Tanvir Sahab for the support over the years. I will give my best and make the country, J&K, and him proud,” Muzamil said.