Pakistan clinches third gold at Special Olympics World Winter Games

Pakistan continues its remarkable run at the Special Olympics World Winter Games in Italy, securing its third gold medal in the prestigious competition.

Afaaq Khan delivered a stellar performance in the 100-meter snowshoeing event, claiming the top spot and adding to Pakistan’s growing list of achievements. His victory underscores the country’s rising prominence in international winter sports.

This latest triumph marks Pakistan’s third gold medal at the event.

 Earlier, Muneeb Ur Rehman claimed gold in the 50-meter cross-country skiing event, further boosting Pakistan’s medal tally.

The athlete from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa expressed his joy, stating, “This is my first time competing at the World Winter Games, and I’ve been preparing for this moment for seven years.” He credited his coaches, Shumaila Iram and Mohammad Saleem, for their guidance and vowed to bring more medals to Pakistan in future competitions.

Pakistan’s final medal count stood at six medals—three gold, one silver, and two bronze.

Adding to the country's achievements, Moazzam Iqbal clinched gold in the 800-meter snowshoeing race, while Rovina Qurban secured a silver medal in the women’s 50-meter cross-country skiing event.

The winning momentum continued as Saboor Ahmed and Ali Raza earned bronze medals in the snowshoeing 200-meter race.

Other Pakistani athletes also performed impressively, with Manahil finishing fourth, Tabsum Nasir and Shah Galoon securing fifth place, Afaq Khan taking sixth, and Iqra Akram finishing seventh in their respective categories. 

Additionally, in the women's cross-country skiing final, Pakistan's Rovena Qurban earned a silver medal, showcasing the country’s strength in winter sports.

This historic performance has not only elevated Pakistan’s standing in winter sports but has also inspired hope for future successes on the international stage.