In another outstanding performance, Kashmir’s top long-distance runner Muzamil Hussain Mir brought laurels to Jammu & Kashmir and the nation by securing third place at the 52nd Ciaspolada–2026 International Snowshoe Race in Italy.

Competing in the toughest category of the event, Muzamil faced elite snowshoe runners from across the world. Battling sub-zero temperatures and extremely challenging conditions, he delivered a remarkable performance to clinch the bronze medal, making the entire region proud.
Despite the harsh weather, Muzamil ensured he did not leave Italian shores without a medal. This achievement adds to his illustrious career, which includes a bronze medal at the World SnowShoe Championship in Japan (2020), multiple medals at the Khelo India Winter Games, several National Championship podium finishes, and recently emerging as J&K’s top marathon runner at the Kashmir Marathon 2025.
Facing difficulties in securing sponsorship from major corporate houses in Kashmir, Muzamil received crucial support from NITians Career Institute, along with assistance from J&K SnowShoe Association Vice President Advocate Suhaib Mir and Joint Secretary Amandeep Singh. He was ceremonially flagged off from Kashmir by MLA Zadibal Tanvir Sadiq.
India had an impressive outing overall, winning four more positions in the event:
Dhani Malhotra – Junior Girls Champion
Aashna Chaudhary– Junior Girls Runner-up
Ankit Khokhar– Junior Boys, 4th position
Akshir Singh Kush – Junior Boys, 5th position
Anjum Chaudhary – Senior Women, 5th position
Sharing his experience, Muzamil said,
“This was the toughest race I have ever done. The conditions were extremely challenging, and the competition was of top quality. I ran better than my best-ever timing and pace. Temperatures were below zero, making it very difficult, but the atmosphere helped a lot.”
He added,“Winning a medal in the world’s oldest and biggest snowshoe race is a huge achievement for me. I am extremely happy and thankful to Tanvir Sahab, NITians’ Sheikh Mubashir, and J&K SnowShoe Association officials Advocate Suhaib Mir and Amandeep Singh for their support.”