Beenish Akbar and Kulsoom will become the first female karate players to represent Pakistan in a continental tournament after they were named in the eight-member squad for the Asian Championship.
The pair will be accompanied by six male players including Asian Karatedo gold medallist Saadi Abbas.
“These women have a lot of talent and we’re here to promote them,” Pakistan Karate Federation President Mohammad Jehangir told The Express Tribune. “We’ve taken a huge step but I have realistic expectations. They are talented and will benefit from the experience and exposure.”
Meanwhile, Abbas, Pakistan’s hope for a medal in the 67-kg category, has been training in Iran as he aims to qualify for the World Championship.
“I will be defending my title once again,” said Abbas. “It’s a warm-up event for me because I am focusing on the World Championship.”
Published in The Express Tribune, July 10th, 2012.
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