Jhelum, Pakistan – The recent Jhelum Tent-Pegging Championship 2025 marked a significant milestone in the region, as it became the first event of its kind to be organized by a woman. Arooj Azhar Kiyani, the Chief Executive Officer of Kingsgate Equine and the nation’s pioneering female tent-pegger, spearheaded this two-day event in partnership with the Punjab government, attracting over 70 teams from across the country.
The championship drew a large crowd, including families eager to witness this traditional sport. Ms. Kiyani expressed her pride in leading such an initiative, which also aimed to challenge prevailing gender stereotypes within the sporting community. She highlighted the difficulties women face in entering male-dominated disciplines like tent-pegging and horse riding, citing a lack of accessible training resources for aspiring female athletes.
“Finding a capable coach was crucial for my journey into professional tent-pegging,” Ms. Kiyani noted, emphasizing her commitment to competing in events nationwide. She also remarked on the positive response from young women and girls who attended, indicating a growing interest in participating in equestrian sports.
The event was strategically hosted at a women’s college campus to inspire female attendees to break through barriers in fields traditionally viewed as male domains. Ms. Kiyani drew on historical references, noting that women have a longstanding legacy in equestrian activities documented throughout Islamic history, further asserting that tent-pegging is a sport that embodies courage and passion, irrespective of gender.
Retired General Azhar Kiyani, an advisor to the Punjab Chief Minister and Arooj’s father, attended the championship and reiterated the provincial government’s commitment to fostering cultural sports. He emphasized that such competitions are vital for community engagement and national pride, especially in light of recent accomplishments in sports.
The event also saw participation from local officials, including the Deputy Commissioner of Jhelum and the District Police Officer. However, prize distribution was delayed due to inclement weather, highlighting the unpredictable nature of outdoor events.
Overall, the Jhelum Tent-Pegging Championship not only celebrated a traditional sport but also championed the cause of gender equality in athletics, paving the way for future generations of female athletes in Pakistan.
