Kashmir skier selected for international event

Srinagar: A skier from Kashmir, Farukh Usman, has been selected to represent India in the International Ski Federation (FIS) Race to be held in Turkey next month.

"The Winter Games Federation of India has selected a skier, Farukh Usman, of Winter Games Association of J&K to represent the country in FIS Race to be held in Turkey in December this year," a PIB release said here.

Usman has participated in several state and national alpine ski championships. Last year he bagged a gold medal in National Alpine Ski Championship held at Auli, Uttarakhand, the release said.

"His selection is made purely based on his merit. The expenses on his travelling shall be borne by the WGFI," it said.

The Winter Games Federation of India, however, said the state has to provide Usman two sets of prescribed skis for Slalom and Giant Slalom events and ski dress which cost Rs 4,39,000.

"Since the competition skis are not available with any organization in Kashmir, these have to bepurchased afresh. The athlete is not able to buy the kit at his own level nor is it possible for the WGAJK to finance keeping in view its bleak financial position," the Federation said.

The state association has now requested the J&K State Sports Council to facilitate the promising skier, it added.