Faizan Ahmed Faiz, a student of Government College University (GCU) Lahore, has completed a 1,100-kilometer run from Lahore to Skardu. The monumental athletic feat, completed in 21 days, was aimed at promoting a drug-free lifestyle among youth and paying tribute to the martyrs of Pakistan’s Armed Forces.

Upon reaching Gilgit-Baltistan, Faizan was accorded an unprecedented welcome in Skardu as large crowds of local residents gathered at the finish line and lifted the young athlete on their shoulders in celebration. He was formally received by Deputy Commissioner Skardu Hamza Murad, GCU Vice Chancellor Prof. Muhammad Omer Chaudhry, and Director of Sports Waseem Akhtar, followed by a reception hosted by local administration and sports officials.

Speaking to reporters, Faizan detailed the physical challenges of the expedition while acknowledging the technical and financial support provided by GCU, as well as sponsorship from his parents.

Reflecting on the route, Faizan identified two main obstacles: extreme heat along the Lahore–Jhelum stretch and the steep elevation gain from Naran to Babusar Top, which served as the most physically demanding section of the trek.

Faizan credited his pacer Abdullah Shahzad, a second-year intermediate student of GCU, who ran 10 kilometers daily alongside him, for keeping him on schedule. Security personnel, district administration officers, and Rescue 1122 teams provided continuous escort and medical cover throughout the route.

"The encouragement from the Vice Chancellor and my parents kept my morale high," Faizan said, noting that having university leadership present at the finish line marked a proud milestone for him.

Outlining his future plans, Faizan stated he intends to compete in upcoming inter-varsity running championships before undertaking his next mega-endurance project: a run from Lahore to Karachi next year.

"This journey was larger than myself," Faizan concluded. "Every step was dedicated to our Armed Forces and martyrs, and I hope it inspires young people to abandon drugs and embrace the true power of sports."