SWAT: The Gabin Jabba Snow Sports Festival came to an end with all its grandeur and sweet memories here on Tuesday.

A large number of local and foreign tourists turned up and enjoyed the three-day festival — organised by the district administration and the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Culture and Tourism Authority (KPCTA).

Deputy commissioner Irfan Wazir was the chief guest at the prize distribution ceremony. Trophies, certificates and cash prizes were awarded to the position holders.

District police officer Shafiullah Gandapur, district administration officials, district youth officer Farhad Ali Khan and others were present.

On the last day of the festival, cycling, marathons, tug-of-war, and weightlifting contests were held.

In the cycling event, Abu Zar won the first position, and Bilal and Talha clinched the second and third spots, respectively. In the marathon, Swat Runners got the first, Swat Road Liners the second and Khawazakhela Club the third position. In the tug-of-war, Swat Green won the first position.

Famous Pashto singers Heshmat Sahar, Imran Khan, Shahzad Khyal, Wasal Khyal, Shaukat Mehmood and Zubair Nawaz graced the event with their performances.

The most beautiful and challenging five-kilometre cycling race started from Loka and ended at Gabin Jabba Top. A total of 40 cyclists participated in the race. Three different categories, senior, junior and mountain bike, were included.

A playground had also been made for tourists and their children. A magic show, handicraft stalls, a tourist information desk, and folk dances were also part of the festival.

Youth and families in large numbers participated in the festival.

Published in Dawn, March 1st, 2023