KARACHI: Pakistan’s Safeer Abid clinched the gold medal in the 10 km time-trial cycling race on Sunday during the 16th Special Olympic World Games.

Abid’s remarkable feat was accomplished in a breathtaking time of 23 minutes and 02.02 seconds. Having diligently prepared for this momentous event over the past two years, Abid’s victory marks his remarkable debut on the global stage.

Abid’s triumph raised Pakistan’s medals tally to 10 with impressive performances coming for the country’s other athletes as well.

Madeeha Tahir showcased exceptional prowess in the 500m time trial

race, securing the silver medal with a commendable time of 1 minute and 14.15 seconds.

Madeeha’s extraordinary achievement was closely followed by Amina Arshad, who claimed the bronze medal, crossing the finish line in one minute and 16.82 seconds.

Pakistan missed out on another gold as Oman beat Pakistan 6-3 in the futsal event final. Nevertheless, the national team secured the silver medal.

The Bocce team, composed of talented athletes Mahnoor, Simran Mahesh Lal, Jamilur Rahman, and Farhan Aslam, showcased their exceptional abilities, clinching the silver medal after triumphing over competitors from Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

Individually, Farhan and Mahnoor added to Pakistan’s medal count by securing bronze medals in the men’s singles and women’s singles categories, respectively.

Published in Dawn, June 26th, 2023