Three young Indian alpine skiers, Sahil Thakur, Syed Zain, and Faizan Ahmad Lone, share a mentor and a dream of success. Under the guidance of Mohammad Arif Khan, the first Indian to represent the country twice at the Winter Olympics, they trained in Italy to enhance their skills. Sahil Thakur, with a family legacy in skiing, eyes the 2030 Winter Olympics in the French Alps after his success at the Winter Youth Olympic Games.
In contrast, Syed Zain, raised in Humhama, Srinagar, away from traditional skiing hubs, has shown remarkable progress, winning gold medals at national events. Faizan Ahmad Lone, a multiple-time national champion, highlights the financial challenges in skiing and the crucial role of support in his journey.
These athletes, beyond their medals and dreams, share a symbolic connection through their helmets bearing the signature of Federica Brignone, an Italian Olympic champion. Their journey symbolizes India’s growing presence in alpine skiing, guided by mentors like Arif Khan and Shiva Keshavan.
