Lahore, In a significant move to recognize and reward athletic excellence, the Adviser to Punjab Chief Minister on Sports and Youth Affairs, Wahab Riaz, has announced the distribution of cash prizes totaling Rs 3 crore, 90 lakh to athletes who excelled in various national and international sports competitions.

According to Sports Board Punjab, the announcement was made by Wahab Riaz during an important meeting at the National Hockey Stadium. The cash prize distribution ceremony, to be graced by Punjab Chief Minister Syed Mohsin Naqvi, is scheduled for February 2, 2024. The meeting was attended by key figures in the sports sector, including Secretary Sports and Youth Affairs Punjab Raja Jahangir Anwer, Director General Sports Punjab Dr Asif Tufail, and other senior officials.

Wahab Riaz emphasized the importance of acknowledging the achievements of athletes in national and international arenas, referring to them as true heroes. He stated that the cash prizes are meant to honor their hard work and dedication. The awardees include leading position holders from events such as the 34th Quetta National Games, Pink Games, Asian Athletics Championship 2023, Rising Punjab Games, Ramzan Sports Series, Junior Asia Cup Hockey Oman, World Snooker, and Chess Championship. Additionally, para-athlete Haider Ali, a gold medalist in the Paralympic Games, will receive a cash prize of Rs 20 lakh.

In a further boost to sports in Punjab, Wahab Riaz announced that 150 motorcycles would be awarded to Tehsil Sports Officers (TSOs) who excelled in the province’s sports club registration campaign, a first in Punjab’s history. These TSOs will also receive a cash prize of Rs 50,000 each for their outstanding performance in registering sports clubs.

The distribution of these prizes and awards is part of the Punjab government’s broader strategy to develop a sports culture across the province. The government encourages young talent to showcase their skills and promises to provide necessary facilities and opportunities for their growth.

Secretary Raja Jahangir Anwer and Director General Dr Asif Tufail echoed these sentiments, underscoring that such incentives play a crucial role in motivating young athletes. The Sports Board Punjab’s commitment to organizing top-level sports competitions is seen as a key element in fostering emerging talent in the region.