KARACHI: Usman Khan made history Sunday by qualifying for the Paris Olympics at an FEI 4-star event in Ireland.
Usman and Mairaj, from Lahore, won this after competing in European events.
Usman, travelled from France to Ireland through the UK. He competed in Switzerland, France, Poland, Germany, and Belgium before reaching Ireland.
Usman’s second consecutive Olympic qualifier. He previously qualified for the Tokyo Olympics. Unfortunately he met an accident in Australia that injured him severely while his horse died.
Eventing—a mix of cross-country, showjumping, and dressage—will challenge Usman’s horse and rider in all facets of horsemanship.
“By the grace of Almighty Allah, Pakistan has qualified for Paris Olympics 2024 at local time 1030 in Ireland, Sunday 30 July 2023 during FEI ** 4-star Kilguilkey International Horse Trials at Mallow,” Usman wrote.
Mubarak ho app. Mubarak Pakistan. Congratulations, dil mein chand sitra kie Mubahbat zindha hai. Congratulations Pakistan. “I am weak, but my heart loves the crescent and star,” the note said.
Usman told Geo News that his achievement was huge for Pakistan, but he must maintain this MER to stay in Paris Olympics.
“We have to keep this position maintained in next 12 months and for that we need a reserve horse and participation in events to come,” Usman remarked.
“It is important that authorities release the funding they agreed to provide me previously, it will ensure my smooth sailing ahead of Paris Olympics,” he continued.
Usman also qualified for Asian Games, however EFP did not confirm his participation before the deadline.
For the Paris Olympics, Pakistani-Australian Usman moved to France.
