Jamal Said wins Pakistan Backyard Ultra title for third time

Pakistan’s renowned ultra-runner Jamal Said has won the Pakistan Backyard Ultra National Championship for the third time, completing 29 consecutive loops over 29 hours and covering a total distance of 194 kilometres.

Syed, who previously claimed the national title in 2022 and 2024, secured the championship again in 2026. He dedicated his achievement to Pakistan and runners around the world who participate in backyard ultra competitions and inspire others through their endurance and performance.

According to Syed, his running achievements include 1,186 marathons and several ultra-distance runs covering 500 and 700 kilometres. In 2022, he also completed an extraordinary 50-hour continuous run. The same year, he covered approximately 335 kilometres by completing 50 loops in a backyard ultra event. In 2024, he completed 39 loops, covering around 261 kilometres.

In July 2026, Syed completed a challenging 275-kilometre journey from the K2 Base Camp to Skardu in approximately 74 hours. He described the feat as a national record in Pakistan. The demanding route exposed him to high mountains, glaciers and difficult terrain.

Syed has now qualified for the Backyard Ultra World Championship for the third time. However, he said he had yet to secure the financial assistance and sponsorship required to represent Pakistan at the international event.

He appealed to Pakistani institutions, corporate sponsors and sports enthusiasts to support his participation in the world championship, saying his dream was to represent the country on the global stage and raise Pakistan’s flag.

Syed also urged young people to adopt a healthy lifestyle, participate in sports and stay away from drugs, stressing the importance of physical fitness and positive activities in everyday life.