Pakistani star javelin thrower and Olympic champion Arshad Nadeem once again proved his dominance on the national stage by winning the gold medal in men’s javelin throw at the 35th National Games in Karachi.
Representing WAPDA, Arshad recorded a best throw of 81.10 meters, which comfortably placed him at the top of the rankings and secured him another prestigious national title. His effort was well above the rest of the field, with none of the other competitors able to break the 80 meter mark.
“It gave me goosebumps to throw in front of the Pakistani crowd – even though it was an exhibition throw, the feeling was really special,” added Arshad. “Thank you to the Sindh government for organizing such a wonderful opening ceremony.”
The silver medal was won by compatriot WAPDA athlete Yasir Sultan, who completed a throw of 70.77 metres, while Pakistan Army’s Abrar completed the podium with a best throw of 67.68 metres.
The victory adds a new chapter to an already historic year for the 27-year-old, who made global headlines earlier this year by becoming the first Pakistani athlete to win an Olympic gold medal in an individual sport at the Paris 2024 Olympics. His participation in the National Games was one of the biggest attractions of the multi-sport event, which is taking place across 24 venues in Karachi and will continue until December 13.
Read: National Games begin in Karachi with spectacular opening ceremony
Nadeem also had the honor of serving as the flag bearer of the Games, a recognition of his remarkable contribution to Pakistani sport.
“Honored to be the flag bearer for the National Games 2025 in Karachi,” he wrote on social media. “An incredible crowd and unforgettable energy. »
The Olympic champion was among the central figures at the opening ceremony, during which he made a ceremonial throw in front of a packed national stadium.
The event was attended by Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori, Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, Sindh Sports Minister Sardar Muhammad Bakhsh Mahar and Pakistan People’s Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, along with several other dignitaries.
Nadeem’s gold medal further raised the profile of the National Games and inspired a new generation of athletes watching from the stands and across the country.
