Khairpur hosts its first women’s marathon

WEB DESK: The Sindh government and district administration organised Khairpur’s first-ever women’s marathon, an event that turned into a powerful display of confidence, fitness and community spirit.

More than 1,200 women, school students, children and professional athletes took part in the 10km race, transforming the city’s streets into a vibrant celebration of energy and determination. Participants were challenged to complete the distance within 45 minutes, a target designed to promote discipline, endurance and a sense of achievement.

MNA Nafisa Shah also hailed the inaugural Husun Afroze Marathon as a landmark moment for the district, celebrating youth, determination and collective progress. She congratulated the Khairpur Youth Council for organising the event and acknowledged the strong support of the district administration, especially the district commissioner, the Sukkur commissioner and participating educational institutions.

Their combined efforts, she said, will inspire young people across Sindh and beyond. Addressing the girls taking part, she noted that they were not simply running a race but embarking on a journey marked by courage, strength and confidence — and that their participation alone made them winners. She said the people of Khairpur were witnessing their daughters claim their rightful place in sports and achievement, urging the community to celebrate them, support them and ensure this marathon becomes the first of many.

Large crowds turned out along the route, cheering runners and creating an atmosphere that residents described as both festive and uplifting. The administration arranged strict security and on-site medical support, ensuring a safe experience for everyone involved.

The marathon was aimed at promoting women’s participation in healthy activities, encouraging fitness and breaking stereotypes by placing women athletes at the centre of a major public event.

Karachi’s athlete Mahnoor Fatima clinched first place after completing the 10km stretch in an impressive 42 minutes. Seventh-grade student Farah from Khairpur’s Syeda Goth secured second position, while Sukkur’s student Hania Ashraf finished third.

Organisers and spectators alike hailed the event as a milestone for the district, one that not only showcased athletic talent but also inspired young girls across Sindh to step forward with confidence and claim public spaces through sports.