Army tops medal count as 35th national games end in Karachi

The 35th National Games came to an end in Karachi on Saturday with a vibrant closing ceremony and Pakistan Army dominating the medal count with a total of 353 medals, including 200 gold, 97 silver and 56 bronze. 

Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir attended as the chief guest, with PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari present among other dignitaries. 

In final standings released by the Pakistan Olympic Association, Wapda finished second with 232 medals (85 gold, 73 silver, 74 bronze), while Pakistan Navy secured third place with 110 medals (36 gold, 39 silver, 35 bronze). Sindh ended the event with 96 medals (11 gold, 26 silver, 59 bronze). 

During the event, Bilawal presented Field Marshal Munir with a Sindhi cap and ajrak, symbolising Sindh’s pride as host. 

In his address, Bilawal described the National Games as more than a sporting competition, calling them a celebration of Pakistan’s unity and spirit.

He praised athletes from across regions, from Gilgit-Baltistan to Gwadar and Khyber to Karachi, for representing their provinces.

Bilawal also praised the values sport instils, such as teamwork, courage and resilience, and extended appreciation to the nation’s youth for their dedication. 

Field Marshal Munir officially declared the Games closed, bringing the week-long multi-sport event to a successful end in Karachi.