Gul Pari Open Lacrosse Championship Japan

Gul Pari, a dedicated athlete from Mardan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, has made history in Pakistan’s sports scene by securing her 16th gold medal at the Open Lacrosse Championship in Okinawa, Japan, held from February 15 to 18, 2025. Representing the Pakistan Women’s Lacrosse Performance Development Team, she led her squad to victory against Keio University, defeating the hosts 14-11 in the semi-final before claiming the championship. Despite financial struggles, Gul Pari sold her car to fund her trip, proving her unwavering commitment to her sport. Her team received specialized training from FOGO Japan and the Japan Lacrosse Association (JLA) ahead of the tournament, enhancing their skills for the international stage. With a total of 30 medals—15 of them gold—Gul Pari’s achievements remain largely unrecognized at home. When she returned victorious, no grand receptions or media spotlights were awaiting her—only her elderly father and the neighbourhood children came to welcome her. Undeterred, she dedicated her gold medal to her father, whose unwavering support had been her pillar of strength throughout her journey. Pari’s story highlights the resilience and sacrifices athletes make to bring pride to their country, even in the absence of institutional backing. Now, she is determined to change the future of sports in Pakistan by coaching young girls and promoting lacrosse, a sport still in its infancy in the country. Her leadership in the field is not only about winning titles but also about paving the way for future generations. Pari’s triumph in Japan is more than just a personal victory—it is an inspiration for all aspiring athletes in Pakistan, proving that passion, perseverance, and sacrifice can overcome even the toughest of challenges.