October 4, 2024 | Lahore, Pakistan – In a historic achievement for Pakistan, the Sohail sisters, Fatima and Mariam, have made their mark on the international stage by winning gold and bronze medals at the Commonwealth Powerlifting Championship held in Glasgow, Scotland.
Fatima Sohail, competing in the 63kg weight category, dominated the competition with her stellar performance, securing the gold medal with a total lift of 475kg. Her victory marks a significant milestone in Pakistan’s powerlifting history, as it is the first gold medal won by a Pakistani woman in the event.
Mariam Sohail, competing in the 57kg category, showed immense strength and determination, claiming the bronze medal with a total lift of 412.5kg. Her achievement is seen as a testament to the growing strength of women athletes in Pakistan, who continue to defy expectations and make their presence felt on the world stage.
The Sohail sisters, hailing from Lahore, have long been known for their dedication and hard work in powerlifting. Their success at the Commonwealth Championship is a reflection of their commitment to the sport, as well as the support from their coaches and the Pakistan Powerlifting Federation.
In a statement following their victories, Fatima expressed her pride in representing Pakistan on such a prestigious platform. “This victory is not just mine; it is for every woman in Pakistan who dreams of achieving greatness,” she said. “I hope this win inspires more young girls to pursue sports and break barriers.”
Mariam, too, echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the importance of perseverance. “Powerlifting is about more than just physical strength – it’s about mental resilience. I’m proud to bring home a medal, and I hope our performance encourages more athletes to push beyond their limits.”
The Pakistan Powerlifting Federation (PPF) has praised the sisters for their outstanding achievements, noting that their wins have put Pakistan on the map as a rising force in the sport of powerlifting. “This is a huge achievement for Pakistan and shows the world the potential our athletes have,” said PPF President, Dr. Shahid Malik. “We are incredibly proud of Fatima and Mariam, and we hope their success inspires future generations.”
The success of the Sohail sisters marks a significant turning point for women in sports in Pakistan, with more women breaking stereotypes and claiming their rightful place in competitive sports.
