Quaid Games to spring into action from tomorrow

ISLAMABAD: The stage is set for a spectacular showdown as over 2,200 emerging athletes from across Pakistan will gear up to compete in the 3rd Quaid-i-Azam Inter-Provincial Games, starting from tomorrow (Saturday) here at the Pakistan Sports Complex.

The Games will feature Under-22 male and female athletes showcasing their talent in 15 diverse sports, ranging from athletics to squash, swimming, and more. These budding stars will not only vie for glory but also for potential government and private sponsorships to propel their careers to the next level.

“This year’s Games will spotlight over 2,200 athletes in 15 sports, with the top performers opening doors to opportunities that could secure their future in sports,” said Yasir Peerzada, Director General of the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) during an informal media briefing.

Returning after a seven-year hiatus, the Games are set to be a massive event with a budget of Rs330 million, ensuring state-of-the-art boarding and lodging for the participants. “Our aim is to identify raw talent and groom it for international competitions,” Peerzada said.

The PSB has called on the federations nationwide to send representatives to scout the athletes, highlighting the unpredictability of discovering exceptional talent. “Talent can emerge from the most unexpected places, making it crucial for the federations to actively monitor the athletes’ performances,” he added.

Competitions will take place in athletics, swimming, squash, hockey, football, weightlifting, judo, wrestling, volleyball, taekwondo, table tennis, badminton, boxing, kabaddi and karate. Athletes from all the four provinces, Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and Islamabad will participate in the Games. Over 3,000 athletes and officials expected during the week-long competition.

The Games promise to reward excellence with gold medalists receiving Rs20,000, silver medalists earning Rs15,000, and bronze medalists taking home Rs10,000, alongside medals and certificates. Rs20 million will be distributed among winners as cash prizes.

Addressing the recent establishment of an Election Commission and Tribunal, Peerzada stressed the government’s commitment to transparency. “These measures ensure fair elections within the federations, following the high court’s directives,” he added.

“Our goal is not to interfere but create a transparent and cordial environment for all the stakeholders.” With such a grand stage set, the 3rd Quaid-i-Azam Inter-Provincial Games promise to inspire, unite, and uncover the next generation of sporting heroes.