Nine-year-old Kainat Khalil caused a stir in Pakistan’s running world by finishing ahead of adult runners. She was allowed to start the 21km half marathon at the BYD Karachi Marathon 2026. She recorded one of the best times but was declared ineligible afterward. Organisers gave her only an honorary prize and criticised her coach for entering a child in such a long race. Earlier, at the National Games 2025, Kainat won a bronze medal in the 10,000-metre race but was stopped from running the 5,000 metres. In both cases, rule enforcement came only after she succeeded. Kainat, a third-grade student and competitive runner for just over a year, has grabbed podium spots in several races like the Governor House Karachi Marathon and Pakistan Day Marathon. Her coach, Abu Bakar, said, “She won bronze in the 10,000 metres against runners from Wapda, Navy and Army. That is when questions about her age suddenly became an issue.” Officials cited age restrictions and health worries but did not object until she started winning. Experts warn that children under 12 are not biologically ready for such endurance events due to growth plate and heart risks. Sports medicine specialist Dr Ucksy Mallick said, “Events such as 10,000 metres or half marathons carry serious health risks at this age.” Kainat’s father, Khalil Ahmed, a low-income driver, said, “We were told many times to focus on a son instead of a daughter. I asked them, if a son has rights, does a daughter not?” Critics argue that the inconsistency exposes weak governance, poor child safeguarding, and possible social bias. Psychologists caution that disqualifying a child after a race can cause emotional harm. Kainat’s coach plans to focus on shorter races and junior development. The bigger issue remains: why are age rules enforced only after a child wins? Without consistent checks, Pakistan may fail to protect its young sports talent.