Prize distribution ceremony of Khunjerab Highest Altitude Road Marathon was held at Serena Hotel Islamabad here Wednesday. Air Chief Marshal Mujahid Anwar Khan, Chief of the Air Staff, Pakistan Air Force, was the chief guest at the occasion. Air Marshal Aasim Zaheer, President of Winter Sports Federation of Pakistan, along with ambassadors of friendly countries and high-ranking PAF officers were also present in the ceremony. Addressing at the occasion, the Air Chief lauded the efforts of the organisers and sponsors for arranging this historic sporting event. He hoped that the international guests would take along cherished memories and the aroma of Pakistan’s traditional hospitality. He stated that sports not only provide healthy activities to individuals but also promote friendly relations among the participating countries. The Air Chief applauded the strong will power of American paraplegic athlete Elizabeth Sanden, who participated in the toughest of marathons, riding her especially built tri-cycle. The chief guest awarded medals and trophies to the winners.
In the 50km race, Muhammad Siyar (Pak Army) won gold medal; whereas Aslam Khan (Gilgit Baltistan Scouts) was awarded silver and Muhammad Iqbal (Pak Army) earned the bronze. In the women’s category, Karen Michelson (Canada) was awarded gold medal; while Margaret Jo Retsena (USA) and Donna Woods (Canada) received silver and bronze, respectively., In the 42 km race, Umair Haider (Pak Army) won gold medal whereas Muhammad Faheem (Pak Army) and Sohail Tanveer (Pak Army) were awarded silver and bronze medals respectively. In the women’s category, Heidi Johansen (Denmark) won gold medal while Ayesha Jabeen (Gilgit Baltistan) and Tracey Dumbleton (New Zealand) received silver and bronze medals, respectively. In the 21km race, Mirza Aslam Baig (Gilgit Baltistan) was awarded gold medal while Abdul Muheet (Gilgit Baltistan Scouts) and Musawwar ur Rehman (PAF) earned silver and bronze medals respectively. In the women’s category, Gilgit Baltistan athletes grabbed all medals with Bibi Nibat winning gold with Hasina Ismail and Shamim Ahmed winning silver and bronze medals respectively.