The metropolitan city on Sunday witnessed its inaugural marathon, a 42.2km international- standard race sanctioned by the World Athletics Federation. The race, which started from Nishan-e-Pakistan at Clifton Beach and concluded at the same point, marked a significant milestone in the city’s sporting history. Aamir Sohail, a promising young athlete, emerged victorious, covering the 42.4km distance in an impressive 2 hours, 36 minutes, and 9 seconds. His achievement earned him a well- deserved prize of Rs500,000. Asrar Khattak secured the second position, and Aamir Abbas claimed the third spot. In the women’s category, Mah Noor emerged as the winner.
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The 21.1km marathon was won by Hafeez Al Barakat, covering the distance in one hour, 17 minutes, and 12 seconds. The event attracted participation from not only local enthusiasts but also foreigners, diplomats, youth, elderly individuals, and children, adding a diverse and vibrant dimension to the marathon. Among the participants was Sindh Caretaker Sports Minister Dr Syed Junaid Ali, underscoring the significance of sports in the community. Raunaq Lakhani, Chairperson of Special Olympics Pakistan, actively took part in the opening ceremony.
Provincial Sports Minister Dr Syed Junaid Ali Shah and Raunaq Lakhani hailed the organisation of Karachi’s first marathon sanctioned by the International Athletics Federation terming it as a positive initiative essential for building a healthy society. Shoaib Nizami, the organiser of the marathon, expressed pride in the success of the event. Acknowledging the cooperation of security agencies and the Sindh government, he announced plans to elevate the marathon to an international level next year. The prize distribution ceremony marked the culmination of this historic marathon, leaving a lasting impression on Karachi’s sports landscape.
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