"Pakistan has qualified for Paris Olympics 2024"
Pakistan equestrian Usman Khan has secured a spot at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris.
Usman created history after taking part in the FEI 4-star event, which took place in Ireland.
Together with his horse, Mairaj, he exceeded the eligibility requirement, which landed them their place in the esteemed competition.
Happy with the achievement, Usman highlighted the importance of persevering the eligibility requirements in the following months.
He also spoke of requiring financial support, alongside a reserve horse, in order to ensure a trouble free trip to the Paris Olympics.
The 2024 Olympics is scheduled to take place between July 26 and August 11.
During the competition, Usman will go through a series of events, including cross country, show jumping and dressage.
This is a challenge which tests both the rider’s skills and the horse’s abilities in all areas of its horsemanship.
Speaking about his achievement, Usman said:
“By the grace of Almighty Allah, Pakistan has qualified for Paris Olympics 2024 in Ireland during FEI 4-star Kilguilkey International Horse Trials at Mallow.
“We have to keep this position maintained in the next 12 months, and for that, we need to reserve a horse and participate in events to come.
“It is important that authorities release the funding they agreed to provide me with previously, it will ensure my smooth sailing ahead of the Paris Olympics.”
Born in Lahore, Usman Khan and his horse Mairaj, showcased extraordinary skills and dedication, competing in several events throughout Europe before triumphing in Ireland.
Having competed in Switzerland, France, Poland, Germany and Belgium, Usman’s perseverance and hard work have paid off with a second consecutive qualification to the Olympics.
But Usman’s journey has not been without its challenges.
Usman previously qualified for the Tokyo Olympics, however, he faced a tragic setback when an accident in Australia resulted in severe injuries to Usman and the loss of his beloved horse.
But undeterred by adversity, he has risen above it all to secure his spot in the prestigious Paris Olympics.
Usman recalled the difficult times he faced after his accident.
He said: “Those were hard days. It was extremely difficult to recompose myself.
“But God helped me and now again, we are in the world’s major event.
“The job is not yet done. We will need to work harder as we will have to compete with major nations of the four-star level during the next one year.”
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