TURIN: Demonstrating an impressive performance, Pakistan’s snowshoeing athletes advanced to the finals in the 200m and 800m races at the Special Olympics World Winter Games in Turin on Tuesday.

Female athletes Iqra Akram, Manahil, Shah Galoon, and Tabassum Nasir along with their male compatriots Ali Raza, Saboor and Mohammad Afaq qualified for the 200m final while Moazzam Iqbal secured a spot in the 800m final.

According to the officials of the Pakistan contingent, the athletes showed “unmatched speed, endurance, and determination” to earn their places in the finals scheduled for March 13 at the Palazzetto dello Sports arena in Rome.

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Farkhanda Jabeen, the head of Pakistan’s delegation, highlighted the importance of divisioning in ensuring fair competition at the Special Olympics. According to her, divisioning allows athletes with similar speed and ability levels to compete against each other, providing a meaningful and competitive experience.

Published in Dawn, March 12th, 2025