Pakistan is set to host the South Asian Cross Country Athletics Championship for the first time, with the event scheduled to take place on November 24 in Islamabad, officials confirmed on Wednesday.
The championship marks a significant milestone for the nation’s athletics, featuring participants from seven South Asian countries: India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives.
The Athletics Federation of Pakistan (AFP) announced that the government has cleared all participating teams, including India’s, ensuring a smooth process for international athletes.
“This is a significant event for Pakistan’s sporting landscape,” an AFP official said, adding that the Pakistan Sports Board has issued the necessary No Objection Certificate (NOC) to proceed with the event.
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Cross Country Championship: test of endurance over natural terrain
Cross country running, a long-distance sport, involves individuals and teams competing over varied natural terrains. The courses typically range from 3 to 12 kilometers, featuring a mix of surfaces such as grass, dirt, and gravel, as well as natural obstacles like hills and woodlands.
Athletes are evaluated based on their individual performance, with a team-based points system determining overall rankings.
