Excelsior Sports Correspondent
JAMMU, Aug 13: In a momentous achievement for Jammu and Kashmir, Mohammad Yasser, a 14-year-old boxer from Rajouri, clinched the gold medal at the 4th Sub-Junior National Boxing Championship, held in Noida, Uttar Pradesh from August 6 to 13.
A trainee of the Khelo India Boxing Centre Rajouri, Yasser displayed extraordinary grit, discipline and technical brilliance throughout the championship. Competing in the 52-55 kg weight category, he won five successive bouts before outpunching Nelson Khwairakpam of Manipur in a thrilling final, ultimately emerging as National Champion.
What makes Yasser’s triumph even more inspiring is his remarkable journey of resilience. Coming from a humble background, Yasser lost his father six years ago and has been raised by his mother, Nasim Akhtar, who works as a domestic help in local households to support her family.
“I didn’t even know he had won until someone came and told me,” Nasim told local media with tears of joy. “We don’t have a mobile phone at home. Yasser is very hardworking and this is all due to his dedication and focus.”
Yasser’s coach, Ishtaq Malik, a former national-level boxer himself, played a pivotal role in grooming the young athlete. The victory has sparked widespread celebration in Rajouri and beyond. Rajan Sharma, veteran boxer and former Divisional Sports Officer, J&K Sports Council, hailed the achievement, calling it a “moment of immense pride for the entire Union Territory.”
“His discipline, hunger to learn, and commitment to the sport is commendable. He is a future star,” said Mohd Tariq. People from various quarters, including sports enthusiasts and locals have called upon the Government and sports authorities to extend financial and institutional support to Yasser so he can continue his journey without limitations. Yasser’s gold medal not only brings pride to J&K but also shines a light on the untapped talent in border and rural regions, proving that with proper guidance and support, even the most challenging circumstances can give rise to champions.
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