Pakistan is gearing up for a strong showing at the Paris 2024 Olympics, with a contingent of talented athletes ready to compete in various sports. These athletes have shown exceptional skill and determination, and they are poised to make their mark on the global stage. Here is a closer look at the Pakistani athletes, their previous records, and the sports they will be competing in:
Arshad Nadeem, Men’s Javelin Throw
Event on August 6 & 8
Arshad Nadeem is a bright star in track and field for Pakistan. He has consistently delivered outstanding performances in international competitions. His aim for the Paris 2024 Olympics is to secure a medal in the javelin throw event. Arshad made history at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics by becoming the first Pakistani athlete to qualify for the final in a track and field event, finishing fifth overall. Known for his powerful throws and excellent technique, Arshad is one of Pakistan’s brightest hopes for a podium finish.
Jehanara Nabi, Women’s 200m Freestyle
Event on July 28
Jehanara Nabi’s Olympic after eight years of dedication and 26 international medals. The 20-year-old swimmer will make her debut in the 200m Freestyle and also serve as the contingent’s flag-bearer alongside Arshad Nadeem to fullfil her dream. Nabi has consistently broken national records while training at the Thanyapura Global Training Centre in Thailand. Her journey is a full-circle moment, competing in front of her parents who introduced her to swimming at a young age.
These athletes embody the spirit of perseverance and national pride, ready to showcase Pakistan’s talent on the world’s biggest stage. With their hard work, dedication, and the support of their nation, they are set to make history at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Gulfam Joseph, 10m Air Pistol
Events on July 27 & 29
Gulfam Joseph enters his second Olympic Games with a renewed sense of confidence. The 24-year-old marksman aims to improve his ranking in the 10m Air Pistol after finishing ninth at Tokyo 2020. His journey is a testament to Pakistan’s top-notch shooting facilities and the support of the shooting federation.
Joseph also expresses pride in his teammate, Kishmala Talat, with whom he’ll compete in the 10m Air Pistol Mixed Team event, having won a bronze medal at the Asian Shooting Championships this year.
Ghulam Mustafa Bashir, Men’s 25m Rapid Fire Pistol
Events on Aug 4
Ghulam Mustafa Bashir is a skillful shooter representing Pakistan in the 25 m rapid fire pistol competition. His precision and composure under pressure have earned him a spot among the world’s top shooters. Ghulam Mustafa competed in the Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020 Olympics, gaining valuable experience and improving his performance. He aims to bring home a medal with his sharpshooting skills.
Kishmala Talat, 10m Air Pistol, 25m Pistol
Events on July 27 & 29, Aug 2
Creating history at Olympics as Kishmala Talat first Pakistani woman to directly qualify for the event. Competing in three events, the 22-year-old shooter is ready to make her Olympic debut. Talat has already won medals at the Asian Shooting Championships, showcasing her potential on the international stage.
Her journey is supported by a large, encouraging family and teammates, who have always believed in her potential.
Ahmed Durrani, Men’s 200m Freestyle
Event on July 28
At 18, Ahmed Durrani is the youngest member of the Pakistani contingent. After breaking the national record for the 200m Freestyle, he aims to repeat this feat in Paris. Durrani looks up to Tokyo 2020 Olympian Haseeb Tariq and has already set his sights on the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics. Balancing rigorous training and schoolwork, Durrani is a promising young talent with nearly 20 national records to his name.
Faiqa Riaz, Women’s 100m
Event on August 2
Faiqa Riaz has just 12 seconds to make her mark at the Olympics, and she’s ready for the challenge. The 24-year-old sprinter is set to break the national 100m record, having unofficially clocked 11.70 seconds earlier this year. Initially a hockey player, Riaz transitioned to athletics in 2017 and has since become Pakistan’s fastest woman.
Conclusion
The Pakistani athletes heading to the Paris 2024 Olympics are a source of great pride for the nation. Their hard work, dedication, and talent have prepared them to compete at the highest level. As they strive for Olympic glory, they carry the hopes and dreams of their country with them. The entire nation will be cheering them on as they aim to make history in Paris.