KARACHI: The Karachi Sports Foundation (KSF) hosted an Eid gathering at Darul Sukoon head office in the honour of Special Olympic Games gold medallists Mani who won in Bocci and Jackie who excelled in swimming, and other special children.

Hockey legend Olympian Islahuddin Siddiqui, South Asian taekwondo president, and head of Combaxx Sports Omar Saeed, governor Rotary International and vice-president Softball Federation of Pakistan Dr Farhan Essa, Pakistan Olympic Environment Commission member Tehmina Asif, KSF chairman Asif Azeem, president Wasim Hashmi, chairperson Farah Saeed, Newport Institute chairperson Huma Bukhari, Darul Sukoon Sindh Operations manager Tariq Samuel and a large number of special children attended the function.

On this occasion, the guests mingled with the children, took pictures and distributed gifts among them.

Addressing the partcipants on the occasion, Olympian Islahuddin said that Pakistani athletes who represent the country in any sport are a source of pride for us. “’Mani and Jackie, who raised Pakistan’s prestige around the world by winning gold medals at the Special Olympics, are our heroes.

“These two national heroes proved that their talents are in no way inferior to others.

“Despite the dangers of the Coronavirus Darul Sukoon officials and volunteers continue to serve special children day and night in the spirit of service to humanity. I salute their spirit,” added Islah.

“We are indebted to the Pakistani people for their love and honour they have given us and my services will always be with KSF to fulfill my duty in difficult times,” said Islahuddin.

CEO Combaxx Sports Omar Saeed said that the athletes who have won awards for the country in the Special Olympic Games are role models for today’s current athletes.

“The talent present here today is amazing, I am very happy to share the joys of Eid with these children. Such events encourage these children and create enthussasm among them.

“Congratulations to the entire team of KSF for organising the event in honour of special children. In collaboration with KSF & Combaxx Sports, KSF will organise a Sports Corner for Special Children in Darus Sukoon while free sports kits will be provided to the institution” said Omar.

Governor Rotary International Dr. Farhan Essa said that undoubtedly the performance of Darul Sukoon an institution for mentally and physically handicapped children, is a shining example at the national level. In addition to various events for entertainment, the annual Sports Day is also celebrated here which is great to see.”

On this occasion, Dr Farhan Essa also announced the provision of free laboratory tests facility by Essa Laboratories for the children of Darul Sukoon. Asif and Wasim expressed their gratitude to the distinguished guests and special children for their presence at the institution.

“Our national heroes have always taken the lead in every difficult time that befell the nation and have taken an active part in the relief activities,” they said.

In the end, Louise thanked the guests in her unique way which was really appreciated by the audience.

Published in Dawn, May 18th, 2021