Umul Banin Nasry, a 21-year-old fencer from Quetta, has emerged as a national champion, claiming two gold medals and a total of four at the 35th National Games held in Karachi last month. Her rapid rise in the sport — starting just five years ago out of simple curiosity — now fuels ambitions to represent Pakistan at the Olympics, potentially becoming the country’s first fencer on that stage. Backed by family and dedicated coaches, Banin continues rigorous training despite challenges, aiming to inspire women across the nation.
Quetta’s Banin Nasry wins gold at the 35th National Games and eyes the Olympics! 🤺🇵🇰 Despite financial struggles and societal pressure, the 21-year-old fencer trains 5 hours a day. She aims to be Pakistan’s first fencer at the Games. A true warrior.#OurGlobeMedia #BaninNasry pic.twitter.com/JhueHJ8HDx
— Our Globe Media (@OurGlobeMedia) December 22, 2025
Key Highlights
- Banin won two golds and four medals overall at the 35th National Games in December 2025.
- She previously secured gold at the 4th National Fencing Championships barely a month after starting the sport.
- The young athlete trains five hours daily with no days off, even during the Covid-19 pandemic.
- Her younger sister, Umul Maheen Nasry, won bronze in fencing for team Navy at the same Games.
- Banin hopes for international debuts in 2026, including possible training in Iran and events like the Commonwealth and Asian Games.
From Curiosity to Championship
Banin’s journey began unusually. While at college in Quetta, she spotted women practicing unusual footwork and discovered it was fencing — a sport she’d only seen online. She tried it, fell in love immediately, and soon switched from national-level flag football.
Her coach entered her in the national championships, where she stunned everyone by winning gold early on. That victory shifted her mindset. She committed to intense daily training at Ayub National Stadium, walking long distances to save costs and persisting alone during lockdowns.
Facing experienced opponents, Banin built mental strength. “I trained till I became mentally invincible,” she shared, viewing rivals simply as fellow athletes.
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Family Support and Community Pride
As part of Pakistan’s Hazara community — known for talents in football and martial arts — Banin draws strength from home. Her brother Arif Nasry handles sponsorships and social media, while her younger brother excels in taekwondo provincially.
Sister Maheen followed her into fencing, earning bronze at the Games. Balochistan Fencing Association secretary Haji Muhammad Qasim provides crucial equipment and support, alongside coach Mehmood Sharif, a young national champion himself.
Societal stares and whispers didn’t deter her family, who stood firm amid limited government aid.
Banin Nasry’s Olympic Aspirations
With access to advanced equipment giving her an edge, Banin sees her path aligning for bigger stages. Her Olympic dream carries deeper meaning — a tribute to women denied such opportunities and a message of equality.“When I make it big internationally, I want to silence those who say women don’t belong in sports,” she said. Her story highlights determination and talent, bringing quiet pride to Pakistan’s sporting landscape through perseverance and hope for future generations.
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