24 hours before the Pakistani cycling team’s departure for the 16th Special Olympics World Games in Berlin, Mohammad Usman Qamar did not know if he would be going. He was still waiting for a travel visa that would allow him entry into Germany so he could compete.

With the biennial games last held in 2019 due to the pandemic, Qamar had waited years and worked tirelessly preparing to fulfill his dream – winning a gold medal.

Luckily, the visa arrived at the last minute, allowing Qamar barely enough time to pack his bike and gear before joining his Special Olympics teammates and coach on the flight to Berlin.

His dream was still alive.

On Wednesday 21 June Qamar competed in the 5 kilometer M4 category road race, starting and finishing at one of Germany’s best known landmarks – the Brandenburg Gate. The race came down to a 2up sprint between Qamar and Michel Werdel of Luxembourg. With a strong finishing kick, Qamar held off Werdel to earn the win in 07:21 with an average speed of 40.7 k/hr.

In his debut race at the Games, Qamar realized his lifelong dream of standing on the winner’s podium with a gold medal hanging from his neck.

“I am overjoyed with my performance,” said Qamar. “I had worked tirelessly for the Games, so I had high expectations for myself. I anticipated a podium finish.”

Adding, “For me, this is a dream come true. I express my gratitude to Allah for helping me achieve this, and I would also like to thank my head coach, Maham Tariq. She provided immense support and trained me rigorously for the Games. Special Olympics Pakistan (SOP) also deserves my heartfelt appreciation for granting me this opportunity and their tremendous assistance in my training.”

On Thursday, Qamar claimed a second gold medal and podium visit, winning the 2 kilometer individual time trial race in 05:02.12.

The 16th Special Olympics World Games takes place from 17 – 25 June 2023 in Berlin, with over 7000 athletes from 190 countries competing in 26 sports – including cycling. The games and athletes are supported by a dedicated army of more than 3000 coaches and 20,000 volunteers.

Photo Credit: Special Olympics Pakistan, Special Olympics World Games Berlin

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