It’s all downhill for us, says skiing champ

Aminah Wali sees little hope at upcoming Asian event.

KARACHI: National alpine skiing champion Aminah Wali said that Pakistan’s chances of bagging a medal at the upcoming Asian Championship, which will take place next month in Iran, remained slim.

Aminah and younger sister Ifrah showed their potential in India last year, clinching gold and silver medals for Pakistan at the first South Asian Winter Games. However, Aminah felt the upcoming tournament was a different ball-game altogether and skiers from Japan, China and South Korea will pose an enormous threat.

“It’s a different platform altogether,” Aminah told The Express Tribune. “The event in India was easier than this and this time, I’m looking at the event being a learning experience instead of a competition.

“International exposure is essential to become a professional skier and I’m more excited about navigating the terrain in Iran. I know I don’t stand a chance against Japanese skiers because they have access to better facilities.”

Aminah and Ifrah will represent Pakistan in the women events, while Mir Nawaz and Mohammad Kareem will participate in the men’s event.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 12^th, 2012.