Pakistani runners set Guinness World Record at Boston Marathon

In a historic moment at the world’s oldest Boston Marathon, Pakistani runners Faisal Shafi and Danish Elahi from Karachi set a unique world record by completing the race in traditional Pakistani attire, the shalwar kameez. 

The duo finished the marathon together in three hours and 26 minutes, marking the fastest completion time ever recorded in shalwar kameez.

This was the first time in history that a runner had completed the Boston Marathon in the traditional dress in under four hours, making it a milestone moment for Pakistani athletics.

Speaking after the achievement, Danish Elahi dedicated the record to the entire nation.

His fellow runner, Faisal Shafi, emphasised that the effort aimed to present a positive image of Pakistan on the global stage.

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Meanwhile, the 129th edition of the Boston Marathon saw Kenyan runner John Korir clinch the men’s title.

 Last year’s winner, Cisse Lima, withdrew mid-race due to fitness issues. In the women’s event, Kenya’s Sharon Lokedi emerged victorious, clocking the fastest time.

Pakistani athletes delivered an inspiring performance this year. All 18 Pakistani runners completed the marathon, with 13 of them finishing in under four hours.

Among the standout performers was Karachi’s Amin Mukaaty, who became the fastest Pakistani in the event with an impressive time of two hours and 48 minutes on the notoriously difficult Boston course.

Fellow Karachiite Abdul Rehman also made Pakistan proud by completing the race in two hours and 51 minutes.

Among the female athletes, Sarah Lodhi made headlines by completing the marathon in an excellent time of three hours and 24 minutes. 

Check: Four Pakistani cricketers named in ICC Women’s World Cup Qualifier team

One of the proudest moments for Pakistan came with six runners earning the elite title of "Six Star Finishers," a recognition awarded to those who complete all six major world marathons.

Danish Elahi, Adnan Gandhi, Hira Dewan, Jamal Khan, Yusra Bokhari, and Nizar Nayani achieved this rare honor.

Additionally, US-based Pakistani Dr Salman Khan completed the Boston Marathon for the fifth time, having already earned his Six Star Finisher status.

The participation and strong performance of 18 Pakistani runners in a marathon dating back to 1897 reflect the country’s emerging talent and determination in athletics.