Valley cyclist bags silver in Indonesian c’ship

M Aamir Khan

Tribune News Service

Srinagar, January 13

Valley teen cyclist Bilal Ahmad Dar, who had set a national record in a cycling event last year, has added another feather to his cap at the Junior Asian Track Cycling Championship in Indonesia.

He won a silver medal for the country in the 3-km individual pursuit event on Saturday after winning a bronze in a team pursuit event on January 10.

“This is a proud moment…. I am thankful to my family and coach VN Singh, who always stood by my side and made me believe that I can win medals at the international level,” Dar told The Tribune over the phone.

A resident of Chek-i-Kawoosa, Narbal, Budgam district, the cyclist had set a national record in the individual pursuit 3-km under-18 category during an event in June last year.

Known for his cycling accomplishments in the past, Dar said he was eyeing to represent the country in more international events. “I want to represent the country in more international events and win medals. I hope people start taking the sport of cycling more seriously,” he said.

Even though cycling is not a very popular sport in the Valley, Dar had shot to prominence after former cricketer VVS Laxman tweeted about his achievements.

“Congratulations Bilal Ahmad Dar from Budgam, Kashmir, for achieving the milestone of winning four gold medals in a single championship. Slowly emerging as one of the top cyclists of the country. Proud !” Laxman had tweeted after Dar won four gold medals in the national school games, besides two gold and a bronze in 2017.

The tweet had brought Dar to the notice of those who were not aware of his feats even as he continues to remain an unsung hero in J&K.