LAHORE: Government College University student Faizan Ahmed Faiz has completed 1,100-kilometer run from Lahore to Skardu in 21 days, says a GCU press release on Friday.
The athletic feat by Faizan was aimed at promoting a drug-free lifestyle among the youth and paying tribute to the martyrs of the Pakistan’s armed forces.
“Upon reaching Gilgit-Baltistan, Faizan was accorded an unprecedented welcome in Skardu as large crowds of local residents gathered at the finish line and lifted the young athlete on their shoulders in celebration. He was formally received by Skardu Deputy Commissioner Hamza Murad, GCU Vice Chancellor Prof Muhammad Omer Chaudhry and Director of Sports Waseem Akhtar.”
Speaking to reporters, Faizan detailed the physical challenges of the expedition while acknowledging the technical and financial support provided by the GCU and his parents.
Reflecting on the route, Faizan identified two main obstacles – extreme heat along the Lahore-Jhelum stretch and the steep elevation gain from Naran to Babusar Top – which he termed the most physically-demanding section of the trek.
Faizan credited his pacer Abdullah Shahzad, a second-year student of the GCU, who ran 10km daily alongside him, to keep him on schedule. Security personnel, district administration officers, and Rescue 1122 teams provided continuous escort and medical cover to the athlete throughout the route.
Published in Dawn, September 19th, 2026
