'That's why Taliban is scared': Cyclist's incredible journey to silver

Fariba Hashimi secured a silver medal in the women's cycling road race at the Asian Games. Before achieving this feat, Hashimi fled Afghanistan in 2021 as the Taliban took control of her country. She currently resides and trains in Italy. Hashimi expressed her desire for her medal to inspire women in Afghanistan. The challenge for Hashimi was not winning the medal, but rather trying to maintain her training in her home country, where women have limited rights.

To avoid recognition, Hashimi dressed as a man and hid her face while training. She recounted the dangers she faced, stating that when people recognized her, they would throw stones or hit her. Hashimi, 23 years old, won the silver medal in 2 hours, 50 minutes, and 5 seconds. She highlighted her journey, which began in 2021 when she escaped Afghanistan with the help of former road racing world champion Alessandra Cappellotto.

Hashimi shared her hopes for other women in Afghanistan, stating her wish to show them that opportunities exist. She also expressed her desire to return to Afghanistan and ride with women cyclists in Kabul, sharing her passion and potentially bringing about change in the country. Hashimi conveyed that the Taliban is scared of women due to their powerful impact.