I am really excited to represent my country in the upcoming Olympics, says Saima Shabbir, a polio victim who has been selected to participate in the 2012 Summer Paralympics.
The National Institute of Special Education hosted a ceremony on Friday to honour the special athletes selected to participate in the Paralympics. The seven athletes will be leaving for London next week.
Hailing from an impoverished family, the 19-year-old Shabbir has previously won a gold medal in the 2010 Asian Games and aspires to bring home yet another award this year.
“To win a gold medal in the Paralympics will be a dream come true for me and I am putting in all my energy to make it happen,” she said while talking to The Express Tribune.
Among the other athletes were Muhammad Awais from Jhang and Anila Izzat Baig. Awais, who has been selected for javelin throw, won a silver medal in the 2010 Asian Games. Similarly, Baig won a gold medal for javelin throw at the 2009 Asian Youth Games.
Social Welfare and Special Education Director General Syed Mustafain Kazmi said the selection of these bright young athletes was a big honour for the country.
“Pakistan has immense talent and I hope these athletes will do all their best to outshine other countries,” he said.
Published in The Express Tribune, July 7th, 2012.
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