LAHORE – Government College University (GCU) Lahore psychology student Faizan Ahmed Faiz on Friday began a gruelling 1,100-kilometre run from Lahore to Skardu, aiming to set a new national record and raise awareness among young people about the dangers of drug abuse.
The endurance challenge formally began at the university’s historic Clock Tower, where Faizan was seen off by GCU Vice Chancellor Professor Dr Muhammad Umar Chaudhry, fellow students, family members, Punjab Police personnel and Rescue officials.
Faizan, a third-semester student in GCU’s Department of Psychology, has dedicated the campaign to Pakistan’s security forces and martyrs. Through the run, he also aims to deliver a message promoting a drug-free society and encouraging young people to adopt healthier lifestyles.
Faizan is also serving as a sports ambassador under a Punjab government programme.
Speaking at the launch, Vice Chancellor Professor Dr Muhammad Umar Chaudhry expressed his full support for the young athlete and said the university would stand by him throughout the challenging journey.
“We are extremely proud of our student’s determination and wish him strength and perseverance as he undertakes this demanding journey to Skardu,” the vice chancellor said.
Faizan, who has been training as a runner for the past eight years, hopes to break the existing long-distance records set by young athletes from Karachi and Peshawar, who have completed 1,000km and 800km runs respectively. He also aims to bring international recognition to Pakistan and his alma mater by setting a new national record.
According to the planned route, Faizan will cover between 60 and 100 kilometres each day. His journey will take him through Gujranwala, Wazirabad, Jhelum, Rawalpindi and Islamabad before entering the mountainous areas of Nathia Gali, Abbottabad, Mansehra, Balakot, Kaghan, Naran and Babusar Top.
He will then continue through Chilas and Raikot Bridge before taking the Jaglot-Skardu Road and completing the challenge in Skardu.
Speaking before setting off, Faizan said his objective was to encourage people of all ages to stay away from drugs and give greater priority to their health.
“I want to encourage our people, whether young or old, to stay away from drugs and prioritise their health. By adopting a healthy lifestyle, we can revive our sports grounds and reduce the burden on hospitals,” he said.
Faizan’s family also expressed pride in his mission. His father thanked the university administration for supporting and encouraging his son, while his mother said she was proud that Faizan was undertaking the challenge to bring honour to the country.
She also appealed to students and members of the public to remember Faizan in their prayers during his arduous journey.
GCU Director Sports Muhammad Wasim Akhtar said successfully completing the 1,100-kilometre route would mark a new chapter in Pakistan’s sporting history.
He said the challenge could become a lasting symbol of health, endurance, determination and national pride.
