The 9th Thal Jeep Rally commenced on Thursday, beginning with the registration, tagging, inspection, and medical screening of participating vehicles and drivers.

Over 100 vehicles have registered for the rally, which will feature four competition categories. Female racers have entered this year’s competition, including the renowned driver Asif Ali from Britain, who has also joined the event.

The qualifying round will start on Friday (today). Competitions in the stock and women’s categories are scheduled for Saturday (tomorrow Nov 9), while the races for prepared vehicles and motorbikes will take place on Sunday, Nov 10. The rally’s challenging track spans across the Muzaffargarh, Layyah and Kot Addu districts, as confirmed by Deputy Commissioner Quratul Ain Memon.

For the qualifying round, the track extends 3-km, and drivers have been busy practicing on Thursday. The district administration has implemented safety measures, including the deployment of Rescue 1122 teams, police checkpoints, and rescue points along the track route. The DC has declared a local holiday on Nov 8 (today).

Among the participants, three female racers have registered on the first day, including Laleen Akhwanzada, a 20-year-old from Islamabad competing in her first Thal Jeep Rally. Akhwanzada, who previously competed in the Cholistan Jeep Rally twice, is joined by her young navigator, Maira Jabbar.

Akhwanzada said the track offers an exciting challenge with adequate handling. Other female participants include Dina Patel, daughter of famed racer Ronnie Patel, and Super Salma Khan. Patel remarked that the Thal track remains narrow and demanding, but she is thrilled to see more women entering this year’s competition. Salma Khan, a veteran of the rally, also encouraged more female participation, calling for greater government support for female racers.

Renowned racer Nader Magsi commended the improved safety and track quality this year with barriers now in place. He said the rally is getting better every year. He said if the conditions improve, racers from all over the world will participate in this event.

Jahangir Khan is a name synonymous with excellence, domination, and unparalleled success in the world of squash. Widely regarded as the greatest squash player of all time, Jahangir Khan’s achievements in the sport are nothing short of legendary. His career is a testament to his extraordinary talent, unwavering dedication, and the profound impact he has had on the global squash community. Often referred to as the “King of Squash,” Jahangir Khan’s legacy continues to inspire athletes worldwide.

Early Life and Introduction to Squash

Jahangir Khan was born on December 10, 1963, in Karachi, Pakistan, into a family deeply entrenched in the world of squash. His father, Roshan Khan, was a former British Open champion, and his older brother, Torsam Khan, was also a professional squash player. From a young age, Jahangir was exposed to the sport, and it was evident that he possessed a natural affinity for squash. However, his journey to greatness was not without challenges. At the age of 12, he was diagnosed with a serious health condition that required surgery, leading doctors to believe that he would never be able to play competitive sports. But Jahangir’s determination and love for squash drove him to defy the odds and pursue a career in the sport.

Rise to Stardom

Jahangir Khan’s rise to stardom began in 1981 when, at the age of 17, he became the youngest player to win the World Open, the sport’s most prestigious tournament. This victory marked the beginning of an era of dominance that would see Jahangir redefine what it meant to be a champion in squash. From 1981 to 1986, Jahangir Khan embarked on an unprecedented winning streak, remaining unbeaten in 555 consecutive matches. This remarkable feat remains one of the longest winning streaks in the history of professional sports and is a record that is unlikely ever to be broken.

During this period, Jahangir Khan won six World Open titles and ten British Open titles, further cementing his status as the greatest squash player in the world. His ability to consistently perform at the highest level, combined with his physical fitness, mental toughness, and strategic brilliance, made him an unbeatable force on the squash court.

The Rivalry with Jansher Khan

One of the defining aspects of Jahangir Khan’s career was his rivalry with fellow Pakistani squash player Jansher Khan. Their rivalry captivated the squash world throughout the late 1980s and early 1990s, with both players pushing each other to new heights. While Jahangir dominated the early years of their encounters, Jansher eventually emerged as a formidable competitor, winning multiple World Open and British Open titles. Their battles on the court are considered some of the greatest matches in squash history, showcasing the intense competition and mutual respect between the two legends.

Contributions to Squash Beyond the Court

Jahangir Khan’s impact on squash extends beyond his achievements on the court. After retiring from professional squash in 1993, Jahangir dedicated himself to promoting and developing the sport globally. He served as the President of the World Squash Federation (WSF) from 2002 to 2008, during which he played a crucial role in advocating for squash’s inclusion in the Olympic Games. His efforts have helped raise the profile of squash and inspire a new generation of players worldwide.

Jahangir Khan’s legacy also includes his contributions to squash in Pakistan, where he has been a role model and mentor for aspiring players. His success brought international recognition to Pakistani squash, a sport that has produced numerous world-class players from the country. Jahangir’s influence has been instrumental in establishing Pakistan as a dominant force in the world of squash.

Honors and Recognition

Jahangir Khan’s achievements have earned him numerous accolades and honors throughout his career. He was awarded the prestigious Hilal-e-Imtiaz, Pakistan’s second-highest civilian award, in recognition of his contributions to sports. In 1984, he was named the Sportsman of the Millennium by the Government of Pakistan. Jahangir has also been inducted into the World Squash Federation Hall of Fame, a fitting tribute to his extraordinary career.

In addition to these honors, Jahangir Khan’s name has become synonymous with excellence and perseverance in the sporting world. His story of overcoming adversity and achieving greatness serves as an inspiration to athletes across all disciplines, reminding them that with determination and hard work, anything is possible.

Legacy and Impact

Jahangir Khan’s legacy in the world of squash is unmatched. His dominance on the court, his sportsmanship, and his contributions to the development of squash have left an indelible mark on the sport. Jahangir is not only remembered for his records and titles but also for his humility, dedication, and passion for the game. He is a symbol of excellence and a source of inspiration for millions of people around the world.

Today, Jahangir Khan remains actively involved in promoting squash, both in Pakistan and internationally. His efforts to nurture young talent and his commitment to the sport ensure that his legacy will continue to inspire future generations. Jahangir’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, determination, and the pursuit of excellence, making him a true icon of the sporting world.

Conclusion

Jahangir Khan’s status as the “King of Squash” is well-deserved, given his extraordinary achievements, unmatched dominance, and lasting impact on the sport. His journey from a young boy overcoming health challenges to becoming the greatest squash player in history is a story of resilience, dedication, and unparalleled excellence. Jahangir Khan’s legacy will forever be etched in the annals of sports history, serving as an inspiration to all who aspire to greatness.

Pakistan’s sprinter Abdul Mueed Baloch has once again etched his name in the annals of sporting history by securing the gold medal in the 400-metre race at the 4th International Military Sports Council (CISM) World Cadet Games, held at the Fuerte Tiuna military base in Caracas, Venezuela. This outstanding achievement, a source of immense pride for Pakistan, highlights Baloch’s athletic prowess and solidifies his standing as one of the nation’s premier sprinters.

The CISM World Cadet Games: A Global Stage

The International Military Sports Council (CISM) World Cadet Games is a prestigious event that brings together military athletes from across the globe to compete in a variety of sporting disciplines. The 4th edition of the Games, which commenced on August 17, 2024, in Venezuela’s capital, Caracas, represents a unique intersection of sportsmanship and military camaraderie. This year’s competition, set against the backdrop of the Fuerte Tiuna military base, gathered cadet athletes from numerous countries, each vying for glory in disciplines that test physical endurance, skill, and mental fortitude.

Abdul Mueed Baloch: Pakistan’s Golden Sprinter

Known for his blistering speed and unrelenting determination, Abdul Mueed Baloch, often referred to as “Baloch Express,” has rapidly risen to prominence in the athletics world. His gold medal victory in the 400-metre race at the CISM World Cadet Games is a testament to his hard work, resilience, and the rigorous training that has defined his career.

Baloch’s performance in Venezuela was nothing short of remarkable. Competing against a highly skilled field of international sprinters, he demonstrated flawless technique, power, and acceleration. His ability to maintain composure under pressure allowed him to surge ahead of his competitors and cross the finish line with an impressive time, securing the top spot on the podium.

This win adds to Baloch’s growing list of accomplishments and enhances his reputation as one of Pakistan’s most promising athletes. His success at the Games not only underscores his personal talent but also reflects the potential of Pakistan’s emerging athletes on the global stage.

Significance of the Victory for Pakistan

Abdul Mueed Baloch’s victory is a moment of pride for Pakistan, marking a significant achievement in international sports. His gold medal serves as an inspiration to young athletes across the country, showcasing the heights that can be reached through dedication and perseverance.

In recent years, Pakistan has been striving to improve its presence in international athletics, and Baloch’s victory provides a much-needed boost to the nation’s sporting image. His triumph at the CISM World Cadet Games demonstrates that Pakistani athletes are capable of competing at the highest levels and excelling in global competitions.

Moreover, Baloch’s win comes at a time when sports are playing an increasingly vital role in fostering national unity and pride. His success serves as a reminder of the power of sports to bring people together and inspire future generations to pursue excellence, both on and off the field.

The Road Ahead for Abdul Mueed Baloch

With this victory, Abdul Mueed Baloch’s journey in athletics is far from over. His gold medal at the CISM World Cadet Games will undoubtedly propel him into the spotlight and open doors to even more prestigious competitions on the international stage. His focus will likely shift to upcoming championships where he can continue to build on his achievements and further establish himself as a dominant force in sprinting.

As Baloch continues to train and compete, his success also calls attention to the importance of investment in sports infrastructure and athlete development in Pakistan. His journey can serve as a catalyst for increased support for athletics in the country, encouraging the next generation of sprinters and athletes to pursue their dreams with the same determination and grit that he has shown.