Beach Sports Gala in Karachi: A Missed Opportunity

Beach sports have become a thriving global industry, celebrated through international events and championships that draw massive attention. Despite Pakistan’s stunning coastlines and potential to embrace this trend, the country has yet to capitalize on the opportunities offered by this dynamic sporting culture.

The recent Beach Sports Gala in Karachi, organized by the Sindh government, exemplified the challenges facing Pakistan in developing beach sports. Despite spending millions on events such as volleyball, futsal, tug-of-war, racing, and kabaddi, the gala suffered from poor management and lack of discipline.

Meanwhile, Player selection appeared to be influenced by nepotism and personal connections.

Zehra Ali, a member of the Pakistan WAPDA Women’s futsal team, pointed out the lack of proper planning.

“Many players couldn’t participate due to exams. The management should have organized the event at a more convenient time,” she remarked.

Shockingly, event organizers themselves participated in matches, and some competitions ended after just two or three games. Fatima Shahid, part of both the management and a participant in the beach tennis tournament, highlighted this glaring conflict of interest.

The absence of basic facilities further marred the event. Female athletes, in particular, struggled without changing rooms or essential amenities.

Zehra Ali noted the mismanagement, saying, “We’ve been here since morning with no changing rooms or wash facilities. Matches were held in the scorching afternoon sun, which is unsuitable for beach futsal.”

Volleyball player Zulqarnain Khan also expressed his disappointment, citing a lack of support staff such as doctors, coaches, and physiotherapists.

“If someone gets injured, there’s no one to assist. It’s shocking that such an event neglected basic medical facilities,” he said.

Despite these shortcomings, organizers lauded the government’s efforts. Khalid Rehmani, a member of the Asian Beach Tennis Committee, appreciated the inclusion of beach tennis in the event and highlighted the potential of Clifton Beach.

“Clifton Beach has excellent sand, water, and a prime location. However, there’s little awareness about beach sports in Pakistan. International exposure is essential for these games to gain popularity,” he stated.

A rehearsal?

Provincial Sports Minister Sardar Muhammad Bux Mahar defended the event, calling it a rehearsal for larger-scale Beach Games planned for January next year.

“This is part of our sports calendar. After 17 years, Karachi will also host the National Games,” he added.

The Sindh government’s efforts to promote beach sports are commendable, but without proper planning, infrastructure, and professional management, these initiatives risk falling short of their potential. To truly embrace the global beach sports movement, Pakistan must focus on developing facilities, fostering talent, and raising awareness about the value of these games.