Srinagar: The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has decided to help nurture the athletic potential of Maham Khan, the nine-year-old girl from Srinagar’s Qamarwari area who recently completed a 21-kilometre half-marathon during the Kashmir Marathon, an achievement that has drawn widespread admiration across the Valley.
Officials said Maham’s exceptional endurance at such a young age impressed both organisers and security officials who witnessed the event. She has now been chosen for special guidance to refine and channel her running skills under the mentorship of Mrs. Jincy Philips, a renowned Olympian and recipient of the Dhyan Chand Award, currently serving as Deputy Commandant in Srinagar.
Sudhir Kumar, DIG, CRPF, Central Srinagar, who, along with a lady Commandant, had motivated Maham during the marathon, told the news agency Kashmir News Trust that the young girl’s achievement is “an inspiration for all children in the region.”
“After observing her determination and natural running talent, the CRPF decided to extend support to channel her skills from an early stage. Olympian Mrs. Jincy Philips, who represented India at two Asian Games, winning a gold and a silver medal each, will personally guide her,” DIG Kumar said.
Philips, a decorated athlete, has also won gold medals in the SAF Games and Asian Athletics Championships, and represented India in the Sydney Olympics 2000 in the women’s 4×400 metres relay. Her mentorship is expected to provide Maham with structured guidance and exposure to professional athletic training.
Kumar said that facilitating such young talent is part of their broader community outreach aimed at promoting sports culture among Kashmiri youth. [KNT]
