ISLAMABAD: Pakistani mountaineer and endurance athlete Anum Uzair has achieved another milestone by claiming victory in Pakistan’s first-ever 100-kilometre Galiyat Mountain Trail Ultra Marathon, a demanding race that challenges competitors with steep terrain, thick forests and unpredictable natural hazards.
The grueling event tested runners’ physical and mental endurance as they navigated rugged mountain trails while facing the possibility of dangerous weather and encounters with wildlife. Anum successfully completed the course, demonstrating exceptional determination and resilience.
Speaking after her victory, Anum dedicated the achievement to the women of Pakistan, especially aspiring female runners. She said she hopes to continue representing the country internationally by taking on even tougher endurance challenges in the future.
Reflecting on the race, Anum admitted she understood the risks before the event began.
“I knew this wouldn’t be an easy challenge,” she said.
She explained that severe weather was one of the biggest concerns, comparing the threat of lightning during the race to the danger of snowstorms faced while mountaineering. Wildlife also remained a constant challenge throughout the competition.
According to Anum, both mountaineering and trail running come with unique risks, although the nature of those dangers differs.
She recalled an unforgettable experience during a 40-kilometre training run when she spotted a leopard sitting roughly 200 feet ahead on the trail. Rather than discouraging her, the encounter helped her gradually overcome her fears.
“Once the fear was gone from my mind, I focused only on my goal, and I achieved it,” she said.
Anum noted that while mountaineering and trail running are both endurance sports, each demands a different set of skills and mental preparation. She also highlighted that trail running events generally require less time than mountaineering expeditions, allowing her to pursue her athletic ambitions while balancing family life and her responsibilities as a mother.
