Srinagar, Dec 31: NITian’s Career Institute, Downtown Srinagar, has extended support to international snowshoe runner Muzamil Hussain Mir, enabling him to participate in the 52nd Ciaspolada-2026 International Snowshoe Race in Italy after he struggled to secure sponsorship from corporate houses in the Valley.
Muzamil Hussain Mir, as per a statement issued on Wednesday, former World Snowshoe Championship 2020, Japan bronze medallist, is set to represent India in the world’s oldest and largest international snowshoe race, alongside nine other athletes from across the country.
Despite securing his Italy visa well in advance, Muzamil approached several leading corporate houses in the Kashmir Valley seeking partial sponsorship to meet travel and participation expenses. However, he said none extended support and instead made him repeatedly visit their offices, severely impacting his preparation.
“I never asked for full sponsorship. I clearly mentioned that even partial support at any level would help. My plan was to collect small contributions to meet the overall cost, but unfortunately, no one came forward,” Muzamil said.
He added that two athletes from Jammu & Kashmir, himself and Gulzar Khan had secured visas with the hope of receiving support from institutions that publicly claim to promote local talent.
“Unfortunately, Gulzar Khan had to withdraw from the event completely due to lack of support. I somehow managed to book my air tickets after borrowing money from a friend,” he said.
While Muzamil has received positive feedback from the Department of Tourism, Kashmir, he said the assistance is yet to be confirmed.
Amid mounting financial stress and uncertainty about repaying borrowed money, NITian’s Career Institute, a leading educational institute in Downtown Srinagar, reached out to him on its own after learning about his struggles.
“I never approached them. They came forward voluntarily and assured me of support. Even the assurance itself means a lot and has boosted my morale tremendously ahead of the competition. I will always remain indebted to them,” Muzamil said.
Muzamil Hussain Mir recently emerged as J&K’s top marathon runner at the 2nd Kashmir Marathon. He has also been part of a Guinness World Record marathon event in Leh-Ladakh, is a regular marathon runner, and has previously won medals at the Khelo India Winter Games in snowshoe running.
