Key points
- Pakistan outperform several established rowing powerhouses
- Asad Ali leads with a remarkable haul of five gold medals
- Maqbool Ali and Wali Khan each secured two golds
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s rowing team made history at the Asian Indoor Rowing Championship in Pattaya, Thailand, by securing an impressive haul of 14 medals, including 10 golds, and finishing third overall in this prestigious continental event, held from 26 to 31 May.
The Pakistani contingent excelled across various categories, with particularly strong performances in the Masters, Under-23, and Open divisions.
With participation from over 20 Asian nations, Pakistan outperformed several established rowing powerhouses.
Asad Ali led the charge with a remarkable five gold medals to his name, while Maqbool Ali and Wali Khan each secured two golds.
Among other notable contributors were Abdul Jabbar, who claimed one gold and one silver; Muhammad Shahzad, who also secured one gold and one silver; and Tayyab Iftikhar, who earned one silver and one bronze.
Overall standings
Pakistan’s final tally of 10 gold, three silver, and one bronze medals marked the country’s best-ever showing at the tournament, highlighting the rapid advancement of its indoor rowing programme.
Pakistan finished third in the overall standings, with hosts Thailand taking the top spot and India placing second.
The event, held in Pattaya—a coastal city renowned for its sports facilities—attracted elite rowers from across Asia.
Pakistani athletes received widespread praise for their discipline and competitive spirit, laying a solid foundation for future success on the international stage.
