Onlykashmir.in News Desk
Srinagar, Aug 23: Three young athletes from Dal Lake’s Mir Bahri community—Mohsin Ali, Sajad Hussain, and Muhammad Hussain—brought glory to Jammu and Kashmir at the Khelo India Water Sports Festival (KIWSF) 2025.
Mohsin won gold in K-1 1000m men’s kayaking, Sajad took silver in C-2 500m canoe slalom, while Hussain secured silver in C-2 500m and bronze in C-1 1000m. Their efforts helped J&K finish 7th among 28 states/UTs.
Despite financial struggles, their families encouraged them, with crucial support from the SAI Centre at Nehru Park, Dal Lake. Coaches, particularly Zulfkar Ali Bhat, not only trained but even ensured students reached school after practice.
The athletes credited SAI for facilities, guidance, and keeping youth away from drug addiction. Mohsin, who supports his family by rowing a shikara, said without SAI’s help he could not have won gold.
Coach Bhat said the centre is preparing long-term talent for India’s 2036 Olympic bid, aiming to turn local hardship into global achievement.
