Pakistani journalist Raja Mohsin Ejaz (left) and Geo’s Deputy Sports activities Editor Faizan Lakhani (centre), together with different female and male members, pose for an image in the course of the Seychelles Nature Path Problem 2025 at Mahé Island, Seychelles, on August 24, 2025. — Reporter
Pakistani athletes made a powerful impression on the Seychelles Nature Path Problem 2025 on Saturday, finishing one of many area’s most demanding mountain races and incomes worldwide recognition for his or her efficiency.
Waqar Ahmed from Chitral achieved a landmark victory by ending the 22-kilometre course in 2 hours, 11 minutes, and 30 seconds — setting a brand new course file.
He outpaced a powerful worldwide subject on the hilly, rugged terrain of Mahe Island, cementing his place among the many occasion’s elite rivals.
Simply minutes behind him, Umer Zaman of Islamabad crossed the road in 2:14 to safe second place. Fellow Pakistani runner Muzammil Shahzad, additionally from Islamabad, positioned fourth total, including to the nation’s sturdy displaying within the males’s subject.
Pakistan’s girls runners additionally made their mark. Lahore’s Anum Uzair emerged because the quickest feminine finisher from Pakistan with a time of 4:24. Islamabad’s Neelab Kayani adopted because the second-fastest Pakistani girl, whereas Zaira Syed received reward for finishing the demanding race, a take a look at of each stamina and willpower.
In complete, 9 athletes represented Pakistan on the occasion. Amongst them had been journalists who additionally braved the course. Geo’s Deputy Sports activities Editor Faizan Lakhani additionally accomplished his first path run efficiently, whereas one other journalist Raja Mohsin Ejaz additionally completed the race, each incomes recognition for his or her efforts on the worldwide stage.
Again house, the group’s efficiency drew widespread acclaim. Federal Info Minister Attaullah Tarar congratulated the runners, calling their achievements ‘a supply of immense pleasure for the nation.’
He singled out Waqar Ahmed and Umer Zaman for his or her podium finishes and praised the contributions of girls athletes, noting that “by excelling on one of the world’s toughest trails, our runners have proven that Pakistan’s talent is second to none.”
Organisers additionally earned plaudits for internet hosting a profitable occasion. The Seychelles Tourism Division was praised for its preparations and hospitality, whereas Vagatales and its chief govt had been counseled for his or her coordination and assist to worldwide athletes.
For Pakistan, the Seychelles Nature Path Problem 2025 was greater than a race. It was an announcement of grit and endurance that carried the nation’s flag throughout the steep trails of the Indian Ocean nation, underscoring the willpower of its athletes to shine on the world stage.
