PAMPORE:  Zehran Ashiq, son of Ashiq Ahmad Khanday, a resident of Konibal, Pampore, demonstrated remarkable prowess in the 10th National Icestock Championship, culminating on Sunday at Ice Rink Gulmarg. Representing Birla Open Minds International School Pampore, the dedicated 7th-grade student turned stellar athlete clinched an impressive haul of medals, including 3 gold, 1 silver and 1 bronze.

The championship, organized by the Indian Ice Stock Federation in collaboration with J&K Sports Council, J&K Tourism, and the International Olympic Association, unfolded from February 9th to 11th. Zehran’s outstanding performance adds to his previous achievements, as he excelled in the 2023 Icestock Championship held in Gulmarg, securing 2 gold medals and 1 silver medal. Zehran Ashiq expressed gratitude to his parents, coach, and school management for their unwavering support and training. He now aspires to compete at the international level. Proud father Ashiq Ahmad Khanday expressed his joy and satisfaction with his son’s remarkable performance, highlighting Zehran’s dedication and talent in the sport. Zehran’s achievements not only reflect his individual excellence but also bring glory to his school and the region as a whole. In an interview with Kashmir Reader, Zehran Ashiq shared his elation, saying, “I am very happy to have won 5 medals, including two gold medals in team games, one gold medal in team distance, one silver medal, and one bronze medal in team target.”

“The Icestock game is a fantastic sport with minimal risk of injury or dehydration, helping enhance handeye coordination. I am a 7th-grade student at Birla Open Minds International School in Pampore, and my parents have always supported me wholeheartedly in my sports endeavors,” he said. “I would like to express my gratitude to my coach, Sajad Ahmad Bhat, and my parents, who have supported me in every way,” he said. “Sajad Sir has been with me from the beginning, and it is due to his hard work that I have reached this position today.” “My message to other students is to engage in sports alongside their studies because it promotes mental and physical fitness. Sports are essential as they keep one away from negative influences,” he emphasized.

BILAL HABIB