Masood Khan Completes Record-Breaking Run
An 18-year-old endurance runner from Peshawar has completed an extraordinary 808-kilometer road race through some of Pakistan’s toughest mountain routes.
Masood Khan started his journey from the Peshawar Sports Complex on May 15. He reached the finish line in a village near Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan, on May 23 at around 6:40 p.m.
The young runner crossed long roads, difficult terrain, and rising mountain routes before completing the challenge. His route passed through the Himalayan and Karakoram mountain ranges.
Masood said he wanted to attempt a more difficult route than the previous record holder. According to him, the earlier record was made on a flat road by a German runner. He wanted to do something more challenging by finishing near the mighty Karakoram Range in Skardu.
He had planned to complete the run in eight days. However, injuries forced him to finish it in nine days.
Injuries and Altitude Made Final Days Difficult
Masood said the final three days were the hardest part of the journey.
After crossing the 500-kilometer mark, he developed painful knee injuries in both legs. The pain increased because of the rising altitude and difficult mountain roads.
Despite the injuries, he refused to quit. He continued running and completed the marathon.
During the first five days, Masood covered around 100 kilometers per day on average. His physical stamina and mental strength helped him keep moving despite exhaustion.
Before the challenge, he had completed two training runs. One was from Peshawar to Nowshera, which he completed in three-and-a-half hours. The second was from Peshawar to Swabi, which he completed in seven-and-a-half hours.
Masood said his passion for running began two-and-a-half years ago when he was still in school. He first participated in a school marathon and later decided to take running seriously.
Pakistan Army Supported the Expedition
The Pakistan Army fully sponsored and planned Masood’s expedition. It provided logistical support throughout the journey.
A six-member support team followed him in several vehicles. Rooms were arranged for short rest breaks and full-body massages. Masood rested for only 15 minutes at a time during the run.
He said food specialists were also assigned to manage his diet. Rice was provided for supper, while other meals were selected according to his physical needs.
Local administrations also supported the journey. Deputy commissioners and district police officers received him as he entered their areas. Police escorts were provided in every district.
Masood lost his father at a young age. His maternal uncle supported the family. He first focused on regular marathons and won several gold medals before moving toward extreme cross-country challenges.
After completing the 808-kilometer mountain marathon, Masood now plans to attempt an even bigger challenge. He wants to double the distance in a future run and set another major endurance record for Pakistan.
