International Cyclist of Kashmir Akber Khan continued his upbeat form in professional cycling circuit winning 2-stage positions in the 110-kilomtre Satara Cyclothon event in Satara, Maharashtra.
After having finished second on Sunday in one of the stages of the 160-kilometer Mumbai-Pune Cyclone event which is considered India’s toughest race, Akber couldn’t replicate the same finish in Sitara but still managed to finish on podium in two stages of the event.
The event witnessed participation of around 200 top professional riders from all over India. Three cyclists from Jammu Kashmir also participated.
Akber who is the brand ambassador of Noora Hospital finished 15th in 50-kilomtre first stage while as finished 14th in 10-kilomtre. Twenty riders in each stage were awarded. Another young rider from Kashmir Parvaiz Ahmad who plays for Celestial Buds finished 20th while as Mansoor couldn’t make it to top 20.
“It is one of the toughest races in the country and almost all the top ranking professional cyclists take part. I am proud of my teammates who finished well beyond their expectations. Though I could have done better but still it is satisfying to be among top finishers. This performance by us will give boost to other cyclists back home to do well in professional circuit,” Akber said.
The event was organized by Maharashtra Cycling Association under the auspices of Cycling Federation of India (CFI). On the occasion while giving away prizes to Akber Khan, CFI Assistant Secretary VN Singh termed Akber Khan as role model of cycling whose achievements at National level have made cycling one of the top sports in J&K.
“He is the player who has revolutionized cycling sport in J&K. After he bagged medal in national championship we have seen continuous medal winning performances from the cyclists of J&K. It is the motivation that Akber’s performances have brought in for the riders of the State. He not only performs as player but has been developing sport back in his State by conducting events and also training youngsters,” VN Singh.
“I am sure that his continuous impressive performance in professional cycling arena will keep motivating riders from J&K and we will soon see more top riders from the State,” he said.