Over 600 cyclists take to Lahore streets
Asher Butt
Lahore witnessed a vibrant display of energy, fitness and unity on Sunday as more than 600 male and female cyclists participated in a historic mega cycle ride organized by the Punjab Sports Department, marking its first major sporting activity of 2026.
The 12-kilometre cycle ride turned the city’s main arteries into a celebration of healthy living and sports culture, with cyclists pedalling from Liberty Chowk (Manal) through CBD Kalma Chowk before returning to Liberty Chowk amid enthusiastic public response.
Punjab Minister for Sports Malik Faisal Ayub Khokhar led from the front by actively participating in the ride, underlining the government’s commitment to promoting sports at the grassroots level. He was joined by SBP Vice Chairman Malik Sulaiman, Secretary Sports and Youth Affairs Punjab Muhammad Ali, Director General Sports Punjab Khizar Afzaal Chaudhry, Director Sports Rana Nadeem Anjum, Director Admin Abid Shaukat, Sports Coordinator Anoosh Khokhar, and several other senior officials.
Races for all age groups add to festive spirit
In addition to the main cycle ride, separate competitive races for men, women and children were also organized at the Nishtar Park Sports Complex, highlighting inclusivity and community participation. These races began from Nishtar Park Sports Complex (E-Liberty) and concluded in front of the main gate of Gaddafi Stadium, drawing applause from spectators lining the route.
Following the completion of all four races, a colourful closing ceremony was held at the National Hockey Stadium, where Punjab Minister for Sports Malik Faisal Ayub Khokhar distributed cash prizes among the top performers.
Punjab leading the way in sports development
Addressing the ceremony, the sports minister termed the event a landmark achievement.
“Punjab is the first province in the country to successfully organize such a large-scale cycling event. In line with the vision of the Punjab Chief Minister, Punjab is leading the sports sector among all provinces,” he said.
He added that Punjab’s recent performances at the National Games and Quaid-e-Azam Inter-Provincial Games reflected that sports in the province are moving in the right direction.
Sharing future plans, Malik Faisal Ayub Khokhar announced a busy sports calendar in the coming months.
“The Punjab Sports Department will organize major events including Khelta Punjab Pink Games, Lahore Marathon, kabaddi and hockey competitions. A record 10,000 sprinters will take part in the Lahore Marathon, while over 3,000 female athletes will feature in the upcoming Pink Games.”
Cycling to expand across punjab
Highlighting the success of the cycling initiative, the minister revealed that its scope would be widened beyond Lahore.
“The cycling race will be expanded to other cities of the province as well. Such mega events will continue in the future to provide talented athletes ample opportunities to showcase their potential.”
Responding to a query, he expressed confidence in Punjab’s prospects at the next National Games, scheduled to be held in Lahore, and shared that medal-winning athletes are receiving stipends under the Sports Endowment Fund.
He also acknowledged the collective effort behind the event, thanking DG Sports Punjab Khizar Afzaal Chaudhry and his team, the medical staff, police department and media for ensuring the event’s smooth and successful execution.
Winners shine on the podium
The competitive races produced exciting results. In the women’s race, Fatima Tahir secured first position, followed by Noorul Huda in second place, while Zainab Chohan claimed third.
In the men’s category, Ali Hassan emerged victorious, with M. Mughal and Ali Nasir finishing second and third respectively.
The children’s race saw Azan Adeel clinch first position, followed by M. Talha and Ayan Adeel.
The mega cycling ride not only kicked off Punjab’s sports calendar for 2026 in style but also reinforced the province’s growing focus on fitness, inclusion and sustainable sports development.
