Arshad Nadeem Wins Gold, Yasir Sultan Claims Silver
Pakistani athletes delivered a stellar performance in the javelin throw at the Islamic Solidarity Games in Riyadh. For full details on their gold and silver wins, see Pakistan Strikes Gold and Silver in Javelin at Islamic Solidarity Games. Notably, Olympic gold medalist Arshad Nadeem once again proved his dominance by winning the gold medal. Meanwhile, Yasir Sultan impressed with his performance and secured the silver medal.
The Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) announced cash awards for both athletes under its revised policy. Specifically, Arshad Nadeem will receive PKR 5 million (around USD 17,000) for gold, while Yasir Sultan will get PKR 3 million (approximately USD 10,000) for silver.
This cash prize policy was updated in July under PSB Director General Yasir Pirzada. In addition, it aims to give more financial incentives to athletes performing well internationally. Accordingly, gold medalists at the Islamic Solidarity Games earn PKR 5 million, and silver medalists receive PKR 3 million.
Record Throws Secure Medals
In the javelin final, Arshad Nadeem threw an impressive 83.05 meters, securing the gold medal. Meanwhile, Yasir Sultan achieved a throw of 76.04 meters to win silver. Together, these results highlight Pakistan’s growing strength in track and field events.
Officials Praise Athletes’ Achievements
Pakistan Olympic Association President Arif Saeed and Secretary Khalid Mehmood congratulated both athletes. They emphasized that their achievements represent a victory for the entire nation.
Similarly, Vice President of the Asian Athletics Federation Muhammad Akram Sahi and Pakistan Athletics Federation President Wajahat Hussain Sahi praised their performances. Moreover, they highlighted how these athletes raised Pakistan’s profile in international athletics.
Success Extends Beyond Javelin
Pakistan also performed well in boxing. For instance, Qudratullah won a bronze medal in the 55-kilogram category. Fatima Zahra secured bronze in the 60-kilogram event. In addition, both boxers received PKR 2 million each under the PSB cash prize policy.
Celebrating Medalists
Pakistan plans to hold a special ceremony to honor the medal winners. This event will not only recognize their achievements but also encourage future athletes.
Context and Significance
The Islamic Solidarity Games occur every four years and bring together athletes from Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) countries. Historically, Pakistan has excelled in athletics and boxing at these Games. Consequently, the current results reflect continued growth in the country’s sports programs.
Arshad Nadeem’s performance is particularly significant. Having won silver at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, he continues to set high standards. Meanwhile, Yasir Sultan represents a new generation of athletes ready to compete internationally. Together, they signal a bright future for Pakistani athletics.
