Islamabad: A graceful and vibrant torch relay ceremony for the 35th National Games was held at Rawal Dam on Sunday, drawing athletes, sports officials and enthusiasts from across the federal capital.

Organized by the Islamabad Olympic Association (IOA), the ceremony marked another milestone in the buildup to the country's premier multi-sport event. The occasion was graced by prominent sports figures, including Olympian Sadaf Siddiqui and Asian Gold Medalist Muhammad Akram. IOA Secretary General Rizwan-ul-Haq Razi, along with a large number of athletes, organizers and officials, also participated, reflecting the growing excitement ahead of the Games.

In a visually striking and symbolic display, the National Games torch arrived at the venue aboard boats sailing across Rawal Lake. Upon reaching the shore, Rizwan-ul-Haq formally handed over the torch to representatives of the Balochistan Olympic Association, marking the continuation of the nationwide torch relay.

The torch relay had already passed through multiple cities before reaching Islamabad, highlighting unity, national spirit and the rising anticipation within Pakistan's sports community.

The 35th National Games - a colourful national sporting spectacle - will officially commence on December 6 in Karachi. More than 6,000 athletes from across the country are expected to compete in a wide array of sports, showcasing their talents on one of Pakistan's largest athletic stages.