A young horse rider, Aftab Khan, has been living his dream and winning accolades in sports by combating disability. 16-year-old Aftab cannot hear and speak but has a unique understanding with his horse Vertigo, whom he confidently rides and controls as per needs of the sport.
In the 34th edition of the Delhi Horse Show held at Army Equestrian Centre, Aftab bagged the most promising junior rider award and a silver medal in jumping under junior rider category. Till now, he has won five awards since 2015 in The Delhi Horse Show and eight other national certificates in horse riding.
It was after his father Dawood Khan was transferred to Delhi in 2009 in Army’s cavalry unit that Aftab started riding.
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His father said that “Aftab is very passionate about sports. He is crazy about horse riding. You just ask him for riding and he is always ready, even at midnight.”
Being a differently-abled horse rider, Aftab has faced many challenges in training and performing in events and matches. However, with the support and guidance of his instructors, he has overcome those obstacles.
“When senior officers saw his keen interest in this sport, they helped and instructed him through sign language. Initially he had hundred percent disability, however now he pronounces a few words after efforts of years,” said Dawood.
(With inputs from ANI)
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