Kashmiri cyclist Rafiq Ahmad finishes 4,249 km Kashmir–Kanyakumari ride

Srinagar, Dec 6: Kashmiri cyclist Rafiq Ahmad has completed the 4,249-kilometre Kashmir to Kanyakumari cycling expedition, becoming the only rider from Jammu and Kashmir to finish the nationwide “Ride for Unity” campaign, and now says he hopes to one day pedal all the way to Makkah.

As per a statement issued, Rafiq Ahmad, who works as a physical education teacher at a school in Srinagar, has successfully completed the Kashmir to Kanyakumari (K2K) Cycling Expedition, covering an astounding 4,249 kilometres. The expedition, themed “A Ride for Unity”, concluded on November 16, 2025, bringing immense pride to Jammu and Kashmir.

Flagged off on November 1, 2025, by Secretary of the Sports Council Nuzhat Gul from TRC Srinagar, the event was organised by Dare2Gear Adventure in association with the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports under the Fit India Movement. The nationwide expedition also commemorated the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, promoting unity, fitness, and national integration.

Among 150 participating cyclists from across India, Rafiq Ahmad was the only rider representing Jammu and Kashmir, a distinction that elevated the pride of the entire Union Territory. Over 16 days, he pedalled across challenging terrains, diverse landscapes, and extreme weather conditions, showcasing exceptional resilience, discipline, and mental strength.

After completing the expedition at Kanyakumari, Rafiq Ahmad expressed deep gratitude to the people of Jammu and Kashmir, his school, and the cycling community for their unwavering support. He especially thanked the Chairman of Kashmir Harvard Educational Institute for encouraging and supporting him throughout the journey, calling his guidance a major source of strength.

Describing the expedition as a “life-changing experience”, Rafiq said it reinforced his faith in perseverance, unity, and self-belief.

With heartfelt sincerity, he also shared a dream close to his heart:

“My dream is to one day reach the holy city of Makkah on my bicycle. I pray that Allah grants me the strength to fulfil this dream.”

Rafiq Ahmad’s extraordinary achievement stands as a beacon of inspiration for young athletes, motivating the youth of Jammu and Kashmir to pursue their dreams with passion, discipline, and unwavering dedication.