CHITRAL (Web Desk) — Gilgit-Baltistan’s team has won the final of the Shandur Polo Festival, defeating Chitral in a thrilling contest held at the world-famous Shandur Polo Ground.
According to details, Gilgit-Baltistan secured a narrow 6-5 victory against Chitral in the final match, ending Chitral’s dominance in the tournament after 13 years.
The closing ceremony’s chief guest was Corps Commander Lieutenant General Umar Ahmed Bukhari, who formally inaugurated the final match by throwing the ball.
During the first half, Chitral took the lead by scoring five goals, while Gilgit managed four. However, Gilgit-Baltistan made a strong comeback in the later stages to claim the championship.
Following their victory, Gilgit-Baltistan players celebrated their historic win at the polo ground, while spectators witnessed an exciting display of traditional mountain polo.
The Shandur Polo Festival was organized with the support of the Pakistan Army, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Culture and Tourism Authority, Chitral Scouts, and the district administration.
Senior officials, including Inspector General Frontier Corps Major General Rao Imran, Chitral Scouts Commandant Colonel Arsalan, Malakand Commissioner Masood Ahmed, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Tourism Secretary Saadat Hassan, Director General Tourism Authority Shahid Khan, and Upper Chitral Deputy Commissioner Muhammad Imran, attended the final.
Thousands of domestic and international tourists witnessed the spectacular event, which remains one of Pakistan’s most celebrated cultural and sporting festivals.