KARACHI, Jan 8: Seven torchbearers for Beijing Olympics 2008 from Pakistan were named at a ceremony held at a local hotel on Tuesday.

Former Pakistan hockey Olympian Samillah Khan was prominent among the torch bearers named for the torch relay during its passage through Pakistan.

Others named for the honour included Special Olympics tennis gold medalist Najma Vohra, media tycoon Hameed Haroon, singer Shahzad Roy, model-actress Vaneeza Ahmad and music group Strings.

The torchbearers from Pakistan have been picked on the basis of their notable contribution to the society and their ability to overcome adversity to achieve personal and professional success.

“I am proud to be nominated as the torchbearer for the Beijing Olympics 2008,” said Samiullah who was dubbed the “Flying Horse” by world hockey critics for his swift movement on the field during the 70s era.

“My experience of playing for Pakistan as player and captain was a memorable one and certainly the highlight of my career,” he commented at the glittering ceremony.

Others including Najam Vohra, Hameed Haroon, Vaneeza Ahmad, Shahzad Roy and Strings described their nomination as a great honour and the proudest moment of their lives.

Later the torchbears inked their autographs to mark the occasion.

Interestingly, none of the representatives of the Pakistan 0lympic Association were present at the ceremony. —APP