Faheem Zahoors Double Gold Triumph at National Pencak Silat Championships

Faheem Zahoors Double Gold Triumph at National Pencak Silat Championships

By : Bilal Ganie

Ganderbal, 20 January 2025: In a breathtaking display of skill and sportsmanship, Faheem Zahoor, a prodigious talent from Hill Top Educational Institute, clinched two gold medals at the recently concluded 2nd All India Pencak Silat Championship and the 12th Pre-Teen Sub-Junior National Pencak Silat Championship, held at the prestigious Sher-e-Kashmir Indoor Stadium. These remarkable victories not only add to Faheem’s impressive portfolio but also highlight the growing prominence of Pencak Silat, a traditional martial art originating from Indonesia.Pencak Silat combines elements of self-defense, physical fitness, and cultural heritage, showcasing a rich tapestry of techniques that emphasize fluid movements, agility, and strategic combat. Participants are trained in a variety of styles, blending physical prowess with spiritual discipline, making it a holistic discipline. Over recent years, Pencak Silat has gained traction across the globe, with increasing numbers of athletes representing their countries in international competitions. In India, particularly in the Kashmir Valley, the sport has become a beacon of hope for youth, promoting discipline, health, and resilience.Faheem’s journey in this martial art form has been nothing short of inspirational. The son of Zahoor Ahmad, he has garnered acclaim as a vigorous competitor, demonstrating razor-sharp reflexes and exceptional technique. Prior to this, Faheem had already made headlines by securing four national medals in Pencak Silat, marking him as a formidable presence in the sporting arena. “I am incredibly proud of what Faheem has achieved. His victories resonate beyond medals; they inspire young athletes to embrace both education and sports competitively,” remarked the school’s principal. Faheem attributed his success to a supportive family, particularly his brother Ashiq Zahoor, who served as a motivational pillar during his training. “Without my brother’s encouragement, I wouldn’t have reached this point. He believed in me when self-doubt crept in,” Faheem expressed.The pivotal role of mentorship cannot be overstated, with Coach Murtaza Bhat instrumental in honing Faheem’s combat skills and building his competitive mindset. Additionally, the guidance from Nasir Diggo, President of the Pencak Silat Association, has been crucial in fostering young talent and encouraging participation in this invigorating sport. Event organizers, such as Iqbal Sir, who managed the championships seamlessly, and sports in-charge Gazala Ma’am, who consistently nurtures student-athletes, have also contributed significantly to this vibrant sporting environment.The community and educational institution have rallied behind Faheem’s accomplishments, which symbolize hard work and relentless perseverance. His father, Zahoor Ahmad, expressed overwhelming pride in his son’s achievements. “With six national medals now, including these two golds, Faheem has not only lifted our family’s spirits but also raised the bar for aspiring athletes in our community,” he stated with heartfelt appreciation.As a rising star in Pencak Silat, Faheem Zahoor is increasingly becoming a role model for young athletes, embodying a balance between academic excellence and athletic prowess. With dreams of representing India on international shores, his eyes are set on future championships where he aims to showcase his skills on a global platform.For Faheem, these latest victories are not merely successes; they are milestones in a promising journey as he continues to inspire a new generation of athletes in Kashmir and beyond. As Pencak Silat continues to gain recognition in the sporting world, athletes like Faheem are shining examples of the talent thriving in unconventional sports disciplines, paving the way for greater opportunities and commendation in the future.