Strength, rhythm and resilience: Inside Pakistan’s emerging rowing scene

The still morning waters of Karachi come alive with the rhythmic splash of oars cutting through the sea. Each stroke blends strength, precision, and unity — a testament to a sport once little known in Pakistan but now slowly gaining momentum.

For decades, rowing remained confined to naval institutions and exclusive private clubs but that is beginning to change. A new generation of young athletes is redefining the sport’s legacy — turning calm waters into proving grounds for passion, endurance, and national pride.

Finding passion in the flow

For national gold medalist Abdul Rehman, rowing began by accident but soon became a calling. “One of my college teachers introduced me to indoor rowing,” he recalls. “Once I rowed on open water, everything changed. It was peaceful, yet it challenged every part of me.”

For Daneen Khan, who joined her college rowing team two years ago, the greatest challenge was not technique but fear. “At first, I was terrified that the boat would flip,” she admits. “But I realized rowing is about courage and rhythm. You have to trust yourself — and your teammates.”

Another young athlete, Alishba Nadeem, found her inspiration watching others train near Karachi’s coastline. “I started at school-level competitions,” she says. “Later, I got the chance to compete nationally and internationally. My mother was hesitant at first because of safety concerns, but once she saw my dedication, she became my biggest supporter.”

The struggles beneath the surface

While rowing is growing in popularity, its development in Pakistan faces serious challenges.

“Rowing is a beautiful but expensive sport,” explains Coach Asghar Ali at the Karachi Boat Club. “Boats, oars, and spare parts all have to be imported. If something breaks, it’s hard and costly to replace. This discourages many young players who can’t afford the expenses.”

The sport also depends heavily on the weather. “If the tide is high or winds are strong, we can’t train,” says Asghar. “That’s why beginners start indoors on rowing machines before learning on the water. It’s a process of patience and control.”

Despite limited infrastructure, Karachi Boat Club has become a hub for enthusiasts of all ages — from 11-year-olds to 60-year-olds — all drawn to the serenity and challenge of the sport.

Strength in synchrony

Rowing may appear simple from afar, but it’s one of the most technically demanding sports in the world. “You must move as one body,” says Abdul Rehman. “If even one person falls out of rhythm, the entire boat suffers.”

Daneen agrees. “Teamwork and communication are everything,” she says. “It’s not about ego — it’s about trust.”

Coach Asghar emphasizes the same. “Whether it’s singles, doubles, fours, or eights, success depends on synchronization. Power matters, but harmony wins races.”

A call for recognition

Pakistan’s rowing community is small but determined. While Karachi and Lahore have limited clubs, Islamabad’s facilities are mostly restricted to the military. Civilian athletes often struggle for access and recognition.

“Pakistan has the talent and spirit,” says Asghar. “What we lack is investment — in boats, coaching, and local events. Rowing deserves government support and a national stage.”

As dawn breaks over the Arabian Sea, young rowers glide across Karachi’s calm waters — their oars slicing in perfect rhythm. They row not just for medals, but for visibility, opportunity, and a dream: that one day, Pakistan’s flag will ripple proudly across the world's leading rowing arenas.