National Games: A symbol of national solidarity

Karachi was set to host the much-anticipated 35th National Games from May 1 to 9, as per the original schedule announced by the Pakistan Olympic Association (POA) under the leadership of Chaudhry Arif Saeed. However, due to unavoidable and critical circumstances, including a looming heatwave, the event has been postponed on the advice of the Sindh government.

The Sindh Olympic Association (SOA), acting upon directives from the provincial government, officially deferred the mega sporting event, which was to take place across 21 venues in the Karachi Division. According to SOA, the decision was made after careful consideration of multiple factors, with the extreme weather conditions being a primary concern.

The Sindh Meteorological Department had issued warnings of a severe heatwave in early May, flagging a high risk of heat strokes and heat-related illnesses. These health hazards posed a serious threat to the 10,000 expected athletes and thousands of officials and spectators. Additionally, the clash with academic examination schedules of student-athletes further influenced the decision, as numerous parents and educational institutions raised concerns over participation during this critical academic period.

Taking into account these legitimate apprehensions, the Games are now tentatively scheduled to be held in the cooler months of November or December 2025, ensuring a safer and more comfortable environment for all stakeholders involved.

A Legacy of Unity and Sporting Excellence

Regardless of the postponement, the National Games remain a powerful symbol of national integration, youth empowerment, and athletic excellence. Since their inception in April 1948, these Games have provided a unified platform for athletes from across the country to compete, foster camaraderie, and prepare for international competitions.

This year's edition was particularly significant as it marked the return of the National Games to Karachi after an 18-year hiatus. The Abdul Sattar Edhi Hockey Stadium was selected to host the grand opening and closing ceremonies, underlining the city's historic role in Pakistan’s sporting narrative.

Extensive Preparations by Provincial Contingents

All provincial contingents and departmental teams had already begun meticulous preparations for the Games. Punjab’s athletes, under the supervision of Director General Sports Punjab Khizar Afzaal Chaudhry, launched two-week training camps at various venues within Nishtar Park Sports Complex (NPSC), Lahore. These training camps were organized under the patronage of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, Punjab Sports Minister, and Secretary Sports and Youth Affairs Punjab, Muzaffar Khan Sial, all of whom are ardent supporters of sports development in the province.

DG Khizar Afzaal Chaudhry personally monitored these camps, inspecting facilities, training regimes, and ensuring high standards in mess and lodging arrangements. His direct involvement reflected Punjab’s commitment to nurturing talent and aiming for top honors in the National Games.

The selection trials across Punjab drew an impressive turnout from both male and female athletes, with events in disciplines such as athletics, hockey, taekwondo, weightlifting, table tennis, tennis, swimming, karate, and badminton. Merit-based selection remained a top priority, ensuring transparency and excellence in team formation.

Sindh’s Efforts to Host a Memorable Event

On the host side, the Sindh Olympic Association, with robust support from the Sindh government, had completed nearly all logistical and operational arrangements for the Games. The province had also finalized its contingent after conducting thorough selection trials in various disciplines, including bodybuilding and hockey. The Sindh Bodybuilding & Fitness Association played an active role in selecting a competitive team through transparent trials.

Approximately 10,000 athletes, including teams from the Army, Navy, Air Force, and other departments, were expected to compete—making it one of the largest national sporting gatherings in recent years. The event was also seen as a catalyst for reviving Karachi’s sports culture, potentially reestablishing the city’s prominence on the national sports map.

Historical Significance and the Vision of Quaid-e-Azam

The National Games hold a profound place in Pakistan’s sporting history. The first-ever edition took place in Karachi in April 1948, inaugurated by none other than Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. Despite his ailing health and advice from his physician, the Father of the Nation insisted on attending the opening ceremony as the chief guest, later distributing medals alongside Miss Fatima Jinnah at the closing ceremony.

His inspiring message during those inaugural Games still echoes today:

"Dedicate yourself to sports promotion, for when you and I are gone, leadership will go into the hands of Youth. Youth is our wealth—a raw material that must be hammered into shape, into burnished steel to strive and smite in defence—the defence of the integrity and solidarity of Pakistan, the defence of the ideology of Pakistan."

Since then, the National Games have evolved into the premier multi-sport event in Pakistan, organized biennially under the aegis of the Pakistan Olympic Association, in collaboration with relevant federations and the host provincial government.

Army’s Dominance and the Quaid-i-Azam Trophy

The Pakistan Army has historically dominated the National Games, clinching victory in 28 of the 34 editions held so far. Lahore, another major sporting hub, has hosted the event ten times, more than any other city.

The Quaid-i-Azam Trophy, originally donated by the Quaid from his personal funds as a “Challenge Shield”, continues to be awarded to the winning team in each edition—an enduring symbol of excellence and the vision of Pakistan’s founding father.

In exceptional circumstances, such as natural disasters or national emergencies, the Pakistan Olympic Association is empowered to alter the schedule and regulations of the Games. In this case, the risk to public health made the postponement both justified and necessary.

Looking Ahead

Though the postponement has delayed what promised to be a grand celebration of sport, it has not diminished the spirit and enthusiasm of the athletes, organizers, and the nation. The collective commitment from all provinces and institutions ensures that when the 35th National Games finally take place later in 2025, they will serve not only as a competitive arena but as a vibrant expression of national unity, resilience, and pride.

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