Pampore youth to showcase martial art talent in Philippines
Pulwama: A youth from Saffron town Pampore in south Kashmir’s Pulwama district is all set to showcase his martial arts talent in the Philippines.
Maroof Hilal Sofi (19) son of Hilal Ahmad Sofi resident of Frestabal area of Pampore town has been selected for International Martial art championship scheduled to be held in Philippines from 19 July.
Maroof has been interested in martial arts since childhood and started learning this art at the age of eight years.
“I have participated in different tournaments at state as well as National level and won many medals as well,” Maroof told ‘Kashmir Vision’.
“Playing at international level was my dream which has finally came true,” he said
Maroof has been selected for international martial art championship on the basis of performance shown at national level.
“My performance in the national event in Goa in 2022 was remarkable. That gave me an edge to participate at international level. The Goa championship was organised by Thang Ta Federation of India,” he said.
Maroof is also head coach of Thang Ta academy Pampore where he trains youth interested in this art.
Maroof has won 6 gold medals at national level as well.
“I am confident that I will perform well in the coming international event in the Philippines,” he said.
Meanwhile, his family has extended gratitude to district administration especially Deputy Commissioner Pulwama Baseer-Ul-Haq and Tehsildar Pampore Zubair Ahmad Bhat for sponsoring him to participate in the International championship.
“I approached Tehsildar Pampore for sponsorship who forwarded my case to DC Pulwama to authorize my sponsorship,” Maroof said.
Jahangeer Ganaie
