The Higher Education Commission (HEC) delivered an extraordinary performance at the 35th National Games’ Federation Sports Festival. Notably, in their first-ever participation in fencing, HEC athletes captured championships in both men’s and women’s categories, demonstrating remarkable skill and competitive spirit.
The event ran from December 7 to 11, 2025, at the Sports Gymnasium of NED University of Engineering and Technology in Karachi. Teams from Azad Jammu & Kashmir, Balochistan, Punjab, Sindh, Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan Police, Pakistan Navy, HEC, and Islamabad competed. Consequently, the festival showcased high-level techniques and excellent sportsmanship.
Strong Organization and Oversight
Mohammad Taqi, Secretary of the Sindh Fencing Association and the organizing committee, supervised the fencing events. Under his leadership, the competitions ran smoothly. Moreover, spectators and officials praised both the athletes’ performances and the excellent arrangements, calling the event well-organized.
The closing ceremony hosted prominent figures, including Behzad Anwar, President of the Pakistan Fencing Federation, Khalid Mahmood, Secretary of the Pakistan Olympic Association, Hamdan Nazir, President of the Railway Sports Board, and Ahmed Ali Rajput, Secretary of the Sindh Olympic Association. They awarded medals and certificates, thereby commending athletes for their dedication and perseverance.
HEC Dominates Men’s Fencing
In men’s fencing, HEC won 3 gold, 2 silver, and 1 bronze medal, topping the leaderboard. Punjab followed with 3 gold and 2 bronze medals, while Balochistan finished third with 2 silver and 3 bronze medals.
The men’s matches featured intense contests and precise techniques. Fencers displayed agility, tactical skill, and strong focus. Importantly, HEC’s debut victory marks a rare feat, as fencing traditionally sees provincial and sports board teams dominating.
Women’s Fencing Championship
HEC also excelled in women’s fencing, winning 3 gold, 3 silver, and 3 bronze medals. Balochistan took second place with 2 gold, 2 silver, and 2 bronze medals, while Punjab claimed third with 1 gold and 2 bronze medals.
The women’s matches highlighted the growing prominence of female athletes in fencing. Additionally, HEC’s women showed endurance, strategic skill, and teamwork. Their performance reflects HEC’s commitment to nurturing talent across both genders.
Appreciation and Acknowledgments
Pakistan Fencing Federation Secretary-General congratulated all teams. Furthermore, he thanked the Government of Sindh, Pakistan Olympic Association, Sindh Olympic Association, NED University, Sindh Fencing Association, judges, and volunteers for their crucial support in making the event a success.
The 35th National Games showcased HEC’s strong debut and underlined the increasing popularity of fencing in Pakistan. With continued institutional support and improved infrastructure, the sport is attracting more young talent nationwide.
Looking Ahead
Experts believe institutional teams like HEC can nurture future champions. Therefore, with the next National Games scheduled for 2027, fans expect even more competitive and exciting fencing events in both men’s and women’s categories.
