ISLAMABAD, November 5, 2026: BYD-Mega Motor Company (MMC) has selected 10 women for its ‘She Runs’ training programme following a competitive selection process in Karachi, as part of efforts to encourage greater female participation in long-distance running ahead of the BYD Karachi Marathon 2027.
The initiative attracted more than 500 applications from women interested in receiving professional coaching and structured training. Of these, 50 candidates were shortlisted for the final selection event held at Ramada Creek in Karachi.
The event included a 10-kilometre endurance run, warm-up and cool-down exercises, fitness assessments, interviews and medical evaluations. Following the assessments, 10 participants were selected to join the programme.
The selected runners will undergo a structured 10-week training programme designed to improve endurance, strengthen physical conditioning and prepare them for the BYD Karachi Marathon, scheduled for January 3, 2027.
The programme is being led by Shah Faisal Khan, co-founder of Platinum Fitness and a strength and conditioning coach specialising in marathon performance and rehabilitation, alongside Uzma Abid, a marathon runner and running coach associated with UESCA and MatrixFit.
According to the company, the initiative aims to address barriers that can prevent women from participating in organised endurance sports, particularly limited access to professional coaching, training facilities and structured preparation.
Anum Abdullah, Senior General Manager for HR, Administration and Corporate Social Responsibility at Mega Motor Company, said the response to the programme demonstrated considerable interest among Pakistani women in pursuing athletic opportunities.
She said that although many women possess the ambition and determination to participate in sports, access to structured training and support remains a challenge.
Abdullah added that the programme was intended to help participants develop their abilities while encouraging more women to take up running.
Mega Motor Company is sponsoring the BYD Karachi Marathon for the second consecutive year. Through its association with the event and the ‘She Runs’ initiative, the company said it aims to support healthier lifestyles, wider participation in sports and opportunities for emerging female athletes.