Karachi is currently hosting Pakistan’s biggest multi-sport event in more than a decade as the 35th National Games officially kicked off on December 6.
The city has welcomed thousands of athletes, officials, students, and spectators for a week-long sporting extravaganza across 23 venues.
Since the very first National Games in 1948, the event has been Pakistan’s premier multi-sport competition, featuring both Olympic disciplines like athletics, swimming, gymnastics, and fencing, and nationally celebrated sports such as kabaddi, netball, tug of war, and boxing.
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Team sports including football, hockey, basketball, rugby, and volleyball also attract massive crowds.
Over the years, one team has consistently stamped its authority on the Games.
Pakistan Army has emerged as the most successful participant, winning every edition from 1968 onwards.
From Lahore to Quetta, Karachi to Peshawar, the Army’s dominance is unmistakable, they have lifted the trophy in every Games over the past 57 years.
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Pakistan Army has lost only one National Games title since 1956, which came in the 1966 edition when Pakistan Railways emerged victorious.
So far, 35 editions have been held.
Services claimed the titles in 1950, 1952, and 1955, while Punjab won the inaugural 1948 edition.
While no trophy was awarded in 1954.
In total, Punjab has won once, Services have secured three titles, Pakistan Railways have won once, and Pakistan Army has dominated the competition with 29 victories overall.
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The 35th edition will run until December 13, culminating with a grand closing ceremony at the National Stadium, expected to be attended by the Prime Minister of Pakistan.
The opening ceremony, scheduled today, December 6 at the same venue, will be inaugurated by Pakistan Peoples Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and will feature a vibrant musical show along with cultural performances for families.
For fans across the country, PTV Sports will broadcast live coverage of the opening ceremony, major finals, and daily highlights.
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As Karachi transforms into a hub of national-level sports, all eyes will be on whether Pakistan Army can continue its long-standing winning streak or if a new contender will rise to break their 57-year domination.
