Sindh’s nine-year-old athlete Kainat drew national attention on Monday after winning the bronze medal in the women’s 10,000-metre race at the 35th National Games, which are being held across 24 venues until December 13.
She completed the demanding distance in 48 minutes and 42.70 seconds, showing remarkable courage and control for a runner her age.
Kainat finished third, but her effort stood out more than the result. Spectators and fellow athletes were amazed to see a young competitor maintain her pace and stamina throughout such a tough long-distance race.
Her coach later revealed that she was initially not allowed to compete due to her age. The National Games officials removed her from the starting line, saying she was too young to run 10,000 metres.
She was permitted only after her coach submitted a written undertaking, accepting full responsibility for her safety and assuring organizers that she was capable of completing the event.
Kainat later shared her feelings after the race, expressing pride in what she had achieved. “This was not possible but I made it possible,” she said, recalling the moment she crossed the finish line.
When asked what she was thinking during such a tough challenge, her reply was honest and childlike. “Just that I need to run. However much there is to run, I will.”
The race was won by WAPDA’s Maria Bibi, who clocked 44 minutes and 21.40 seconds to secure gold. Pakistan Navy’s Mumtaz Naimat took silver with a time of 47.10.11.
