Jhelum Hosts First-Ever Woman-Led Tent-Pegging Championship, Breaking Gender Barriers

GUJAR KHAN — Jhelum witnessed a historic milestone as it hosted its first-ever tent-pegging championship organized by a woman. The two-day Jhelum Tent-Pegging Championship 2025, held at Government Postgraduate College, attracted over 70 teams from across Pakistan, making a bold statement about gender inclusion in a traditionally male-dominated sport.

This groundbreaking event was led by Arooj Azhar Kiyani, CEO of Kingsgate Equine and Pakistan’s first female tent-pegging team captain. Kiyani, also the first woman on the board of the Equestrian Federation of Pakistan (EFP), has become a trailblazer in the equestrian community. The championship, held in partnership with the Punjab government, successfully revived a cherished cultural tradition while challenging deep-rooted gender norms.

The event drew enthusiastic crowds of families and horse-riding fans, all witnessing thrilling displays of skill and courage. In an interview, Kiyani shared her inspiring journey, revealing that breaking into this male-centric sport was challenging due to limited opportunities for women. “With determination and proper mentorship, I carved a place for myself,” she said, crediting her parents and mentor Kasim Ahmed Khan for their unwavering support.

Kiyani, a regular competitor in national-level tent-pegging, noted the rising interest among young women motivated by her trailblazing achievements. Choosing a women’s college campus as the venue was a deliberate effort to foster a welcoming, family-friendly environment and send a powerful message of empowerment to girls nationwide.

Drawing inspiration from Islamic history, she emphasized, “Women once rode into battle on horseback; that legacy fuels my passion. Tent-pegging demands courage and skill from everyone, not just men.”

The championship was graced by distinguished guests, including retired General Azhar Kiyani, Advisor to the Punjab Chief Minister, who praised the initiative and reaffirmed the government’s dedication to promoting traditional sports. He stated, “Such events are vital for cultural preservation and national unity, especially following Pakistan’s recent symbolic victory over India.”

Other dignitaries like Deputy Commissioner Syed Meesam Abbas and District Police Officer Tariq Aziz Sindhu lauded the organizers for delivering a successful and inclusive event that encouraged broader participation in Pakistan’s rich equestrian culture.

This event marks a transformative moment for tent-pegging and women in sports, highlighting how passion and perseverance can break barriers and inspire future generations.