Karachi to host National Games from May 1-9

The 35th National Games will take place in Karachi from May 1 to May 9, according to Sindh Sports Minister Sardar Muhammad Baksh Mahar. The event will be managed by the Sindh Olympic Association, with support from the Sindh government. The preparations for the games have been completed, and sports officials from various provinces attended a recent meeting to discuss the details. Invitations have been sent to President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for the ceremonies. The torch relay will be started by PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari and Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah. Mahar emphasized that the Sindh government aims to ensure the games' success, highlighting that it is a national event. The swimming events will be held at the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation swimming pool, and plans are underway to build a new pool soon. Mahar stated that enhancing the abilities of Sindh’s athletes is a priority. The event will have increased security and medical staff available at all venues, with special arrangements in local hospitals. Secretary of the Pakistan Olympic Association, Khalid Mahmood, mentioned that athletes will receive daily allowances and other benefits. The games will feature 34 sports at 21 venues, with about 10,000 participants, including athletes and officials. Teams from all provinces, as well as departmental teams like the Army and Navy, will compete. This edition marks the first National Games in Sindh in 18 years. The last games took place in Quetta in May 2023, with the Army achieving the most medals.