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Srinagar: The participation of two young athletes from Kupwara, Rifat Rasool and Snobar Fayaz, in the 6th Asian Savate Championships has brought pride and recognition to the region. Their remarkable performance highlights the immense potential of aspiring athletes from remote areas and underscores the transformative power of sports.
The championship, held at the prestigious Talkatora Indoor Stadium in New Delhi, witnessed intense competition from athletes representing over 16 countries. Organized by the Asian Savate Confederation (ASC) under the aegis of the International Savate Federation (FISAV), the event showcased the growing popularity of the sport across Asia.
Representing India at the championship, Rifat Rasool and Snobar Fayaz, both students of the Olympians Faisal Martial Art Academy in Handwara, Kupwara, demonstrated skill and determination in the two-day tournament.
Impressive Performances from Rifat and Snobar
Rifat Rasool, hailing from Mawer — located 32 kilometres from Kupwara district headquarters and 80 kilometres from Srinagar — competed in the 56 kg weight category. She put up a strong fight against her opponents and secured a silver medal after a series of challenging bouts. Despite losing in the third round to a tough contender from Nepal, Rifat’s performance was commendable.
“This was my first time competing outside my district. Although I couldn’t secure a gold medal, the experience was invaluable. I have learned so much and now understand what areas I need to improve,” Rifat shared.
Snobar Fayaz, from the remote village of Khandi Khass in Kupwara, also competed in the 56 kg category. She displayed great resilience in her matches, taking on opponents from different countries. However, she faced defeat in the third round against a more experienced competitor.
“I fought with all my strength, but in the third round, I lost my grip. This experience has been a great learning opportunity, and I now know my strengths and weaknesses,” Snobar reflected on her journey.
The achievements of Rifat and Snobar mark a significant milestone for women’s sports in Kashmir. Sumaya Nazir, a trainer at the Olympians Faisal Martial Art Academy, expressed pride in their accomplishments.
“We celebrate their victories as our own. Our academy is playing a crucial role in bringing change to society, and we are thrilled to see our students excelling at such a prestigious level,” she added.
Head coach Faisal Nazir, who has been training young athletes in Handwara for the past two decades, emphasized the importance of sports in shaping the future of youth.
“Our aim is to engage young people in sports and keep them away from negative influences”.
A sound mind resides in a sound body, and proper exercise is essential for a healthy life. I am immensely proud of my students, who are not only excelling locally but making a mark on the international stage, Nazir stated.
The participation and success of these young athletes serve as an inspiration for aspiring sportspersons in the region, proving that with dedication, training, and the right support, even athletes from remote areas can compete on the global stage.
