In the wake of javelin thrower Arshad Nadeem’s historic gold medal victory at the Paris Olympics, the Sindh government and Governor Kamran Tessori have announced a combined cash prize of Rs51 million to honor the athlete.
The 27-year-old Arshad made history at the Paris Olympics by clinching the gold medal in the men’s javelin event with a staggering throw of 92.97 meters, setting a new Olympic record and surpassing the previous mark of 90.57 meters set in 2008 by Andreas Thorkildsen.
Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab, speaking on behalf of the Sindh government, revealed that Rs50 million has been allocated for Arshad Nadeem in recognition of his outstanding achievement. Additionally, Wahab announced the establishment of a sports academy in Karachi that will be named after the Olympic hero. In a separate gesture, Governor Tessori pledged Rs1 million for Arshad, commending his monumental success and expressing pride in the nation’s accomplishment.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also joined in the nationwide celebrations, congratulating Arshad on his “exceptional achievement.” In his message, the prime minister described the gold medal as a “gift to the people of Pakistan” and praised Arshad for becoming a “symbol of national pride and inspiration for future generations.” PM Shehbaz emphasized the significance of the Punjab Youth Festival, which he initiated during his tenure as Punjab Chief Minister, crediting it for nurturing talent like Arshad Nadeem and bringing honor to Pakistan on the global stage.
Former President Asif Ali Zardari echoed these sentiments, calling Arshad’s triumph a victory not just for him but for the entire nation. Zardari lauded the athlete’s dedication and hard work, expressing hope for his continued success.
The National Assembly also paid tribute to Arshad, with PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari highlighting the athlete’s determination and hard work. Bilawal stressed the importance of supporting local talent, suggesting that with proper government backing, Pakistan’s youth could achieve even greater milestones in sports.
Similarly, Mustafa Kamal of MQM-P congratulated Arshad while lamenting the lack of adequate investment in local sports talent. Meanwhile, in the Senate, Deputy Chairman Syedaal Khan Nasar announced that a dinner would be organized in Arshad’s honor, and prizes would be awarded to celebrate his achievement.
For Pakistan, Arshad’s gold medal is a historic feat. It marks the country’s first gold medal outside of hockey, and the first Olympic medal of any kind since 1992. Arshad expressed his immense joy at winning the gold, dedicating it as an Independence Day gift to Pakistan. He also extended his gratitude to those who supported him, including Dr. Ali Sher Bajwa and his coach Salman Butt.
Arshad’s victory has sparked hope that his success will lead to greater recognition and resources for non-cricket athletes in Pakistan, potentially inspiring a new generation of athletes.
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