LAHORE: Fresh from his record-setting performance at the Paris Olympics, javelin thrower Arshad Nadeem is already aiming for gold at the World Athletics Championship. At a prize distribution ceremony held at Wapda’s Auditorium on Wednesday, Arshad expressed his gratitude and determination to continue his successful journey.
Arshad, who set an Olympic record with a throw of 92.97 meters, spoke about the nationwide celebration of his achievement and his new goal of securing a World Championship gold. “The nation’s support and celebration of my Olympic success have been incredibly encouraging. Now, I am focused on achieving gold at the World Athletics Championship,” he said.
The 27-year-old received a cash prize of Rs5 million from his department, Wapda. He thanked both private and government sectors for their support and acknowledged his coach, Salman Iqbal Butt, and his support team, including Rashid Saqi, Fayyaz Bukhari, and P.T Master Ramzan, for their crucial roles in his success.
Arshad reflected on the challenges he faced during his Olympic preparation, including multiple injuries and surgeries. “It was a tough journey with numerous injuries and surgeries, but my faith and perseverance paid off,” he noted, praising his doctors and the support from the Athletics Federation of Pakistan, Pakistan Sports Board, and Punjab Sports Board.
Wapda Chairman Retired Lt Gen Sajjad Ghani commended Arshad’s achievements and announced a job for his younger brother, a fellow javelin thrower. He highlighted Wapda’s success in international sports, citing the impressive medal tally over the past two years.
In addition to Arshad’s recognition, the ceremony also honored Wapda’s weightlifters Nooh Dastagir and the Sohail sisters—Sybil, Veronica, and Twinkle—for their exceptional performances in recent international competitions.
