National Games’ youngest athlete Kainat clinches bronze in 10000m race

KARACHI: Sindh’s nine-year-old athlete Kainat made headlines on Monday by clinching the bronze medal in the women’s 10000m race at the 35th National Games, underway across 24 venues here until December 13.

The nine-year-old amassed the distance in 48 minutes and 42.70 seconds, showcasing astounding grit and determination. Although she finished third and bagged the bronze medal, her resilience and talent captivated spectators and fellow competitors alike.

Interestingly, Kainat’s coach claimed that she was initially barred from competing in the discipline due to her age but was later permitted after the former submitted a written undertaking, in which he vowed to take “full responsibility” for her well-being. “When she came to the track, she was removed from the starting line after being told, ‘You are too young, and we cannot permit you to run 10000m’,” Kainat’s coach claimed. “I took full responsibility for her in writing that she is capable of doing it and she did it, not letting our heads down.” The gruelling long-distance race was won by Water and Power Development Authority’s (WAPDA) Maria Bibi, who crossed the finish line in 44 minutes and 21.40 seconds to bag gold, while Pakistan Navy’s Mumtaz Naimat won silver in 47.10.11. Web Desk