Pakistani Runners Shine at Seychelles Nature Trail Challenge 2025

Mahé, Seychelles (Raja Mohsin Ijaz) – Pakistan’s runners made headlines at the Seychelles Nature Trail Challenge 2025, leaving a mark of resilience and determination on the world stage. In a historic performance, Waqar Ahmed from Chitral emerged victorious, completing the grueling 22-kilometer mountainous course in 2 hours, 11 minutes, and 30 seconds, outpacing competitors from across the globe.

Close behind, Umer Zaman of Islamabad secured second place with an impressive finish time of 2 hours and 14 minutes, while fellow Islamabad runner Muzammil Shahzad clinched fourth place overall.

Among Pakistani women, Anum Uzair from Lahore stood out as the fastest, finishing the course in 4 hours and 24 minutes, followed by Neelab Kayani of Islamabad, who claimed second place among Pakistani women with a determined run. Zaira Syed also won acclaim by successfully completing the challenging race, showcasing both stamina and grit.

The challenge, regarded as one of the toughest nature trail races in the region, saw participation from nine Pakistani athletes. Notably, senior journalist Raja Mohsin Ijaz of ARY News successfully finished his first-ever marathon, conquering the demanding terrain , an achievement hailed as inspirational. Sports journalist Faizan Lakhani also completed the race, adding another proud moment for the Pakistani contingent.

Pakistan’s strong performance drew praise back home. Federal Minister for Information, Attaullah Tarar, congratulated Waqar Ahmed, Umer Zaman, Muzammil Shahzad, Anum Uzair, Neelab Kayani, Zaira Syed, Raja Mohsin Ijaz, Faizan Lakhani, and others, calling their achievements “a source of immense pride for the entire nation.” He highlighted the resilience of Pakistani athletes, noting that “by excelling on one of the world’s toughest mountain trails, our runners have shown the world that Pakistan’s talent is second to none.”

Minister Tarar also applauded the role of Pakistani women athletes, particularly Anum Uzair, Neelab Kayani, and Zaira Syed, for “bringing honor to Pakistan on the global stage.”

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The event’s success was further attributed to the outstanding arrangements by the Seychelles Tourism Department, whose hospitality and flawless organization were praised by all participants. Special acknowledgment was also given to Vagatales and its CEO, whose seamless coordination and exceptional services elevated the experience for international athletes.

For Pakistan, the Seychelles Nature Trail Challenge 2025 became more than just a race , it was a moment of global recognition. The grit, endurance, and spirit of its athletes carried the nation’s flag high across the rugged trails of the Indian Ocean’s island paradise.