Thousands of athletes from all over the world will be participating in this year’s Olympics and each and every one of them will be trying to win a medal for their country. Pakistan will also have some representation in the competition. I use the word ‘some’ because it is very unfortunate that only a total of seven athletes from the whole country have been nominated to represent the country in the games. It is indeed saddening to see that a country with a population of about 25 million cannot even manage to prepare 10 athletes. This is merely a reflection of our sporting infrastructure and how much importance sports is given in this country.

After every major event like the Olympics and Commonwealth Games, we see ministers making promises to improve facilities for our athletes but as always no significant measures are taken. This will be the story after every major event until and unless the federal and provincial governments take measures towards improving facilities, providing athletes with top-notch equipment and by taking care of their finances and health.

Muhammad Abdullah Khan

Islamabad