Runner Waqar Ahmad conquers Seychelles’ deadly trails again

Pakistan’s trail-running star Waqar Ahmad has once again brought pride to the country by securing first place in the Nature Trail Running Championship 2026 held in the mountainous island nation of Seychelles, 24NewsHD TV reported on Saturday.

Competing against international runners on one of the world’s most dangerous and physically demanding trail routes, the athlete from Chitral completed the 22-kilometre race in just 2 hours and 11 minutes to claim the top position once again.

The challenging race route stretched across steep mountains overlooking the Indian Ocean, dense forests, sharp climbs, and dangerous rocky paths, making it not only a test of physical endurance but also mental strength.

What makes the achievement even more remarkable is that Waqar Ahmad had also won the same title in 2025.

Following his impressive victory last year, Seychelles authorities specially invited him to return this year to defend his crown — a rare honour for a Pakistani athlete in an international endurance competition.

South African runner Daniel Klaas finished second with a time of 2 hours and 13 minutes, while local Seychelles athlete Jonathan secured third place after completing the race in 2 hours and 29 minutes.

Despite tough competition, the spotlight remained firmly on the Pakistani runner who once again outperformed the field.

Waqar Ahmad belongs to Chitral, a mountainous region known for its breathtaking landscapes, extreme weather and high-altitude terrain.

Ironically, the same harsh environment that makes life difficult in Chitral has become the biggest source of his strength as a trail runner.

Before leaving for Seychelles, Waqar Ahmad told 24 News in an exclusive interview that he had trained extensively in Chitral’s high-altitude valleys, which helped him handle the technical sections of the race more effectively.

After winning the title in 2025, he remained confident of defending it again this year.

The athlete, however, expressed disappointment over the lack of official support for running sports in Pakistan.

He said endurance sports deserve far greater encouragement and investment, especially at a time when talented young athletes are proving themselves globally through hard work and determination.

Sports other than cricket often struggle to receive proper recognition and funding in Pakistan, yet athletes like Waqar Ahmad continue to prove that with opportunities and facilities, Pakistani youth can compete successfully at the highest international level.

His victory on the deadly Seychelles trail is more than just another sporting achievement. It is a story of resilience, determination and hope — proof that no mountain is too high and no path too dangerous for those willing to chase their dreams with courage and passion.

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