Srinagar, Apr 21: Demonstrating exceptional endurance and lifelong dedication to trekking, Zahoor Ahmad from Jammu & Kashmir carved a niche for himself at the Surya Dev Bhoomi Challenge 2, a high-altitude endurance event hosted by the Indian Army. Notably, he was the only participant from J&K among 300 candidates.
Zahoor sharing details with Greater Kashmir said the event was held in the challenging terrain of Badrinath, the three-day endurance challenge that covered a total distance of 113 kilometres.
Zahoor Ahmad finished with All India Rank of 147, while securing 14th position in his age group.
Zahoor said his journey into adventure sports dates back to his school days at Tyndale Biscoe School, an institution known for promoting outdoor activities like trekking, swimming, and mountaineering. “It was here i developed a passion for exploration under the guidance of mentors,” he said.
He said that he begin his trekking pursuits as early as in 1978, gradually transitioning from small local hikes to more demanding expeditions, including treks to peaks like Mahadev Peak, which rises to nearly 4,000 metres.
He said that over the years, he not only honed his own skills but also mentored and inspired a new generation of trekkers in Kashmir. “By promoting low-cost, accessible trekking routes around Srinagar, i encouraged youth to take up the sport,” he said.
He said that at the Surya Dev Bhoomi Challenge 2, participants underwent rigorous screening, including medical evaluations, before being selected. “The event itself was divided into stages of 34 km, 40 km, and 34 km, with GPS tracking ensuring precise monitoring of performance,” he said.
