POA chief Arif unveils ambitious plans for Pakistan’s sporting future

LAHORE: President of the Pakistan Olympic Association (POA) Chaudhry Arif Saeed, has outlined a bold vision for the future of sports in Pakistan and outlined plans to hold Youth Games in Lahore in September.

Arif unveiled POA’s these plans during a press conference held here at the Olympic House Lahore on Tuesday. Accompanied by Secretary Khalid Mahmood and other officials, Arif shared updates on upcoming events, including the inaugural Youth Games, National Games and South Asian Games, while emphasising the importance of collaboration between the government and the POA.

Arif announced that Pakistan’s first-ever Youth Games will take place in Lahore this September, providing a platform for athletes aged 14 to 17 to showcase their skills. The event aims to identify and nurture young talent, with top performers set to represent Pakistan at the Youth Asian Games in Bahrain in October.

“Our main goal is to perform excellently at the Youth Olympics,” Arif stated, underscoring the significance of these initiatives in preparing athletes for international competitions. He further informed that the Sindh Olympic Association, which received hosting rights for the National Games after 18 years, had to postpone the event due to a heat wave and logistical challenges. Arif revealed that early December has been proposed as the new time-frame for the National Games in Karachi, with final dates to be announced by mid-May following consultations with stakeholders.

“Our goal is to make the Karachi National Games memorable,” he added, highlighting the importance of meticulous planning and collaboration with the Sindh government. He also announced efforts for reviving hockey and hosting South Asian Games and added that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has tasked the POA with revitalising Pakistan’s national sport, hockey. He pledged to develop programmes for the betterment of hockey, with support from the government, POA, and other stakeholders. He also expressed enthusiasm for hosting the South Asian Games, promising to organise the event in a manner that sets a benchmark for excellence.

He also vowed to continue effort in strengthening Government-POA relations. Arif emphasised the need for harmony between the government and the POA, stating, “Medals will come if both are on the same page.” He acknowledged ongoing discussions with Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordination Rana Sanaullah and other key officials, which he described as progressing positively.