Athletes from Punjab who shone at the 35th National Games in Karachi have highlighted the need for regular high-level coaching and training facilities to elevate lesser-known sports like table tennis, wushu, and fencing to international standards. The Punjab contingent returned with 16 gold, 38 silver, and 72 bronze medals, achieving fourth place among 14 participating units after a 35-year gap.
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Zaib Hasnain, who won gold in wushu, emphasized the personal sacrifices he made to train internationally, spending Rs2 million for a two-month course in Thailand and even losing his job. He urged the Sports Board Punjab to provide ongoing international-standard coaching and hopes to receive a monthly stipend from the sports endowment fund for his achievements.
Maryam Rafique, another gold medalist in wushu, also stressed the importance of regular opportunities and support for athletes. She said that while the Sports Board provided excellent facilities during training camps, consistent access is essential. Rafique, the eldest in her family, hopes to become an earning member to support her father.
Table tennis star Kalsoom Khan, who won four medals, called for better training and clear policies from the Pakistan Sports Board for issuing no-objection certificates to allow participation in international competitions. She noted that lack of exposure abroad limits athletes’ growth despite local success.
In fencing, Natasha Maqsood and Nawal Nadeem also captured gold and bronze medals, highlighting the untapped talent in universities. Both athletes stressed that with better facilities, Pakistan could excel internationally in these sports.
SBP Director General Khizar Afzaal Chaudhary praised Punjab’s efforts in supporting athletes compared to other provinces. He announced cash prizes for medal winners and inclusion in the Sports Endowment Fund, offering monthly stipends ranging from Rs30,000 to Rs70,000 for one year to support ongoing training.
Chaudhary credited Punjab’s success to the hard work of athletes, coaches, and staff, emphasizing that continued investment in modern training facilities will help achieve even better results in future National Games.
