ISLAMABAD: Pakistani mountaineer and trail runner Anum Uzair has achieved another milestone by winning Pakistan’s first-ever 100-kilometre Galiyat Mountain Trail Ultra Marathon, a grueling endurance race that tested participants across rugged mountains, dense forests and challenging terrain.
The historic victory further cements Anum’s reputation as one of Pakistan’s leading endurance athletes, showcasing her resilience, determination and passion for adventure sports.
Conquering Pakistan’s Toughest Trail Race
The inaugural Galiyat Mountain Trail Ultra Marathon pushed runners through steep mountain trails, thick forests and unpredictable weather conditions.
Apart from the physically demanding course, competitors also had to remain alert to potential wildlife encounters, making the race one of the country’s toughest endurance challenges.
Despite these obstacles, Anum successfully completed the 100km event to emerge as the winner.
Achievement Dedicated to Pakistani Women
Speaking to Geo News, Anum dedicated her victory to the women of Pakistan, especially female runners striving to make their mark in endurance sports.
She said she hopes her achievement inspires more women to pursue trail running and mountaineering while pledging to continue representing Pakistan in challenging international competitions.
“I want to represent Pakistan on the global stage by taking on more unique and difficult challenges.”
Facing Nature’s Biggest Risks
Anum acknowledged that competing in the ultra marathon involved significant risks.
She explained that unpredictable weather, including lightning, posed serious dangers similar to snowstorms encountered during mountaineering expeditions.
However, wildlife remained one of her biggest concerns.
“Whether it was mountaineering or trail running, there were risks.”
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Leopard Encounter During Training
Recalling one of the most memorable moments from her preparation, Anum revealed that she once encountered a leopard while training.
“During my practice run, I saw a leopard sitting about 200 feet ahead on the track.”
She said the experience ultimately helped her overcome fear.
“Once the fear was gone from my mind, I focused only on my goal, and I achieved it.”
Mountaineering vs Trail Running
Anum believes mountaineering and trail running demand different skill sets despite both being physically demanding sports.
She explained that each discipline presents unique challenges and risks, making both equally rewarding in different ways.
She also noted that trail-running events generally require less time than mountaineering expeditions, allowing her to balance her athletic career with her responsibilities as a mother.
“Spending three days on such an event is manageable.”
Fitness Is the Key to Success
The athlete emphasized that maintaining year-round fitness is essential for endurance sports.
According to Anum, she trains consistently throughout the year and regularly climbs stairs equivalent to 100 floors to maintain her endurance.
“Fitness is very important for everyone whether you’re competing or not.”
She added that staying physically prepared allows her to confidently accept new challenges whenever opportunities arise.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Anum Uzair’s historic triumph in Pakistan’s first 100km Galiyat Mountain Trail Ultra Marathon represents another significant achievement for women’s sports in Pakistan.
Her success highlights the growing popularity of endurance racing in the country while encouraging more athletes—especially women—to pursue trail running, mountaineering and other adventure sports.
