Islamabad:
Sana Arif, pioneering Pakistan’s presence in International Triathlon, has made everyone proud with her skill in athletics.
Many describe her journey as a triathlete as a remarkable story of strength, courage and pride.
Sana was born in Kuwait and raised in Lahore, Pakistan, and returned to Kuwait in 2007 and carries her passion for sports.
From childhood, sports played a significant role in his life. Still, it was never her original goal to become a triathlete.
Her inspiration hit after hearing the story of an American athlete. He honored his late friends by ending an Ironman race. This touching story left a lasting impression on Sana.
Yet, even then, swimming was a significant barrier. She had never swam in open water, so much less a swimming pool. Fear held her back.
In 2021, Sana took the brave step to learn to swim. Her sisters joined her and added motivation and fun to this new experience. Friends also played a significant role and encouraged her step by step according to Sana.
With their support, Sana overcomes her fear of deep water. Remarkably, within two years, she completed her first Ironman 70.3 event in Turkey. Ironman 70.3 is a tough endurance race. Athletes swim 1.9 kilometers, cycle 90 kilometers and end by running 21.1 kilometers.
It requires physical strength, mental toughness and a disciplined routine. Sana’s preparation involved intense training every day. She often woke up at 1 p.m. 04:00 to work out before Kuwait’s extreme summer heat was put in.
Temperatures often crossed 50 degrees Celsius, which made outdoor training particularly challenging. Sana credit her family’s unwavering support for her results. Her parents and siblings gave emotional strength, even in the midst of their concerns about her safety.
This family bond was crucial in the hard times. To represent Pakistan at international events brings Sana tremendous pride.
It also brings unique challenges. Without much national support for triathlon, she often feels alone during competitions.
Despite this insulation, it burns her motivation. She sees herself as evidence that Pakistan can excel in endurance sports. Financial challenges in triathlon are important.
Equipment, travel and training costs add quickly. Sana hopes the Pakistani government and local sponsors can provide more support.
This support would open doors to talented athletes who can’t afford this expensive sport. Larger investments could transform Pakistan’s presence in global triathlon competitions.
Discipline, says Sana, is the most important aspect of becoming a successful triathlete. She emphasizes that triathlon is not just physical. It also requires mental strength.
Balancing intense training with family and professional responsibility is tough. Still, Sana finds tremendous fulfillment by overcoming these daily challenges.
For women and young athletes who are interested in triathlon, Sana has simple, yet powerful advice: Start small, but stay consistent. She emphasizes that having support is crucial.
