KARACHI: On the 77th Independence Day of Pakistan, President Asif Ali Zardari announced civil awards for seven distinguished athletes, acknowledging their extraordinary contributions to the world of sports. These awards, a significant recognition of their dedication and achievements, will be officially conferred on Pakistan Day, March 23rd.
One of the highest honors, the Hilal-e-Imtiaz, is set to be awarded to Olympic gold medalist Arshad Nadeem. Nadeem’s exceptional performance in javelin throw, culminating in a gold medal at the Paris Olympics, has brought immense pride to the nation. His achievement is not only a milestone in his career but also a source of inspiration for aspiring athletes across Pakistan.
The Sitara-e-Imtiaz will be posthumously awarded to the late Murad Sadpara, a legendary figure in the realm of mountaineering. Sadpara, who had scaled numerous formidable peaks, was deeply revered for his contributions to the sport. His recent efforts in retrieving the body of fellow mountaineer Hassan Shigri from K2 further underscored his commitment to the mountaineering community. Tragically, Murad Sadpara lost his life following a head injury sustained on Broad Peak earlier this month.
Amir Ashfaq, a standout player in Pakistan’s blind cricket team, will be honored with the Pride of Performance Award. Ashfaq’s remarkable performances on the field have earned him this accolade, highlighting his significant role in the sport’s success.
The captain of Pakistan’s hockey team, Imad Shakeel Butt, will receive the Tamgha-e-Imtiaz. Butt’s leadership has been pivotal in steering the national team to several key victories, solidifying his status as a key figure in Pakistani sports.
Former squash player Maqsood Ahmed, who played a crucial role in securing the World Team Squash Championship twice, will also be awarded the Tamgha-e-Imtiaz. His contributions to squash have left an indelible mark, with Ahmed once ranking among the top ten players globally.
Nadir Magsi, a renowned figure in off-road rally racing, is another recipient of the Tamgha-e-Imtiaz. Magsi’s exceptional skill and success in this challenging sport have earned him widespread recognition.
Lastly, the Tamgha-e-Imtiaz will also be bestowed upon kabaddi player Rehman Ishtiaq, whose impressive performances have greatly contributed to the popularity and success of kabaddi in Pakistan.
These awards serve not only as a testament to the individual achievements of these athletes but also as a recognition of their efforts in elevating Pakistan’s standing in the international sports arena.
