Army athlete Noreen Hussain marked a memorable return to Pakistan by winning the pole vault gold medal at the National Games on Monday, delivering a performance filled with skill, composure, and pride.
Competing at the NPT&SC in Karachi, the US-based athlete cleared 2.90 metres to secure first place.
While she narrowly missed the national record, her winning jump underscored both her talent and her determination to push the standard higher.
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Speaking after her victory, Noreen said she enjoyed every moment of the competition.
“I had a great time competing, and a gold medal is just a cherry on the top,” she said according to Dawn News.
But her ambitions were bigger than just a podium finish.
“I came here for the record, too. Next time.”
For Noreen, the journey back to Pakistan carried a deeper meaning.
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Encouraged by her Karachi-born father, she chose to compete at the National Games as a way to reconnect with her heritage.
“Just the opportunity to compete in Pakistan when you are from here is quite fascinating,” she said.
She also hoped her presence could help reshape how others view the country.
“A lot of people in other countries don’t know a lot about Pakistan,” she explained.
Noreen said that although the United States is culturally diverse, misconceptions still exist.
“They have certain views… and I want to change those. I want to show how Pakistan is a great country with great people,” she added.
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Taking inspiration from American pole vault star Katie Moon, Noreen displayed strong technique throughout the event.
She acknowledged that the competitive environment in the US is different but insisted that Pakistani athletes have the ability to grow quickly.
“The talent here is undeniable,” she observed.
“With more exposure and events, they will rise.”
Although the national record slipped away this time, Noreen left Karachi with a clear sense of purpose.
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She said she hopes to compete in Pakistan more often and continue contributing to the sport’s progress in the country.
“I am looking to come again, to compete here more regularly,” she stated, already thinking ahead to her next target.
For Noreen Hussain, her gold medal was more than a victory.
It was a statement of identity, ambition, and belief, both in herself and in the athletes of Pakistan.
