Touseef Wani
Ganderbal, Feb 05: Soliha Zahoor, a youngcyclist from Wanipora Saloora in Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir, is fast gaining recognition on the national sports circuit after representing the UT in four major cycling championships across India. Balancing school with rigorous training, the Class 12 student is now being seen as one of Kashmir’s rising faces in competitive cycling.
Her rise in competitive cycling reflects not just personal excellence but a broader shift toward greater participation of girls in sports from rural Kashmir.
Driven by an unwavering passion for cycling, Soliha has represented Jammu & Kashmir in four national-level cycling championships held across different states of India.
Her participation in prestigious events such as the Road Cycling Championship in Puri (Odisha), the Mountain Bike Championship in Panchkula (Haryana), and the Track & Road Cycling Event in Vijaypur (Karnataka) highlights her growing stature in the sport.
Training relentlessly, often starting her day before dawn, Soliha exemplifies discipline, resilience, and commitment qualities that define true athletes.
Making history as the first girl cyclist from Ganderbal, Soliha has broken social and geographical barriers, becoming a beacon of hope for aspiring young athletes, especially girls.
Her achievements have earned her recognition at the highest levels, including an honor from the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu & Kashmir, who awarded her a cash prize in acknowledgment of her outstanding contribution to sports.
Adding to her list of accomplishments, Soliha secured first position in a prestigious cycling race organized by the Indian Army, covering the challenging route from Baramulla to Kaman Post (Aman Setu).
For this remarkable feat, she was felicitated with a cash award and a memento by senior Army officials, further cementing her reputation as a rising star in Indian cycling.
Soliha’s journey has also taken her to national youth platforms, including the Cyclothon, Pedal for Peace, where she interacted with leading figures from the sports fraternity.
Her dedication impressed the Minister for Youth Services and Sports, Satish Sharma, whose words of encouragement have further strengthened her resolve to pursue excellence.
Beyond medals and accolades, Soliha Zahoor stands as a role model for young girls in rural Kashmir, inspiring them to dream big and challenge stereotypes.
She has been widely appreciated by schools, local media, and youth organizations for promoting a culture of fitness, discipline, and inclusivity through sports.
With clear aspirations, Soliha aims to receive advanced professional training, represent India on the international cycling stage, and mentor young girls to pursue sports fearlessly. Her journey is a powerful reminder that talent, when supported by hard work and determination, knows no limits.
As she continues to push boundaries and chase her dream of donning the Indian colours internationally, Soliha Zahoor is undoubtedly poised to leave an indelible mark on the world of cycling. The road ahead is challenging but for Soliha Zahoor, every challenge is just another race waiting to be won.
