Availing all opportunity knocks, a guide by Muhammad Tariq Khan

Opportunities and chances do not knock on a person's door every day. Since it happens so rarely, it is almost necessary for humans to grab them and make the most of them. The 21st century has cut-throat competition in each sector. So, availing opportunity today has become more like a survival instinct rather than a choice.

Similarly, in 1947, when Pakistan was a newly born state, its people and the country both were in crisis. During such times when the future was blurry, and there were not many chances to grow and improve living standards, Muhammad Tariq Khan was one who made the most out of every opportunity. He knew that the chances that fate gave him were rare, so he motivated himself to take those chances and transform himself into a celebrated, well-known sports ideal. Muhammad Tariq Khan is a Pakistani Badminton Champion who set his vision from a very early age. He dedicated his life to badminton and made strides in the '50s and '60s.

Khan is known for his clean shots, energized and lively soul, competitive spirit, and optimistic personality. His life struggles and devotion to badminton have inspired many young individuals to take charge of their lives and never leave something that satisfies their soul and keeps them driven.

Opportunity Knock #1

Muhammed Tariq Khan crossed borders and migrated from India to Pakistan with his family when he was five. He faced adversity at a very young age. Even though Khan was a kid then, he was wise and observed things with great sensitivity.

As years passed by, Tariq grew up to be a responsible boy. He often witnessed his seniors at school playing badminton. The energy and the uniqueness of the game intrigued him. Badminton during the earlier days was not as prominent as cricket was in the subcontinent. Almost every other kid and an adult were found playing cricket in the alleyways, school grounds, or wherever they found space. But for Tariq, this new game seemed interesting, and he wanted to learn more about it.

Each day Tariq Khan passionately observed the players play badminton on the court. He used to be so deeply immersed in the game that he would spend hours looking at different badminton players. At the age of ten, Muhammed Tariq Khan played badminton for the first time. It took him a while to learn how to hold the racket and aim at the shuttle to hit it, but since he was so passionate about it, he quickly picked up the game. And within the same year, he won the 'Under 12 Pakistan Champion.'

Tariq, at this tender age, found the goal of his life. He made it a point to excel in this game and take up every opportunity that came his way. Although his school had no coach to train him, neither was his family financially stable to hire one, Tariq did not give up his dream and took it upon his shoulders to learn the craft himself. He often visited the badminton courts and observed the talented players. Because he had a very sharp mind, Tariq picked up the experienced players' techniques and incorporated them into his games.

Nothing ever comes for free, and the same was the case for badminton. As the family was still settling, Tariq began working at Rohri Cement Works, a cement factory in Sindh, to pay his expenses and support his family. He made the most of everything that came his way and never shied away from hard work. Khan knew that he could rely on himself only to make his dream come true. Handling a full-time job, studies, and a passion that he could not let go off, Tariq's life had become hectic in his early twenties. But he knew that the hustle was worth it. So he kept moving forward.

While studying at the Sindh University for his bachelor's degree in Commerce, Tariq began participating in multiple badminton matches. In 1964 he participated in the tournament organized by the Farhat Nishan Club Rohri and won the title for 'Holding Double Grounds.' He then won the game organized by Islamia College of Sukkur in 1965. Continuous winning and exceptional performance at every match made him a known figure in his city.

Labeled as the ball of energy, Tariq took the opponent by storm whenever he entered the court. His badminton inspirations were Mr. Masood Khan and Mr. Irshad Ahmed, who were Pakistani Badminton Champions. Tariq won several matches including, the National Double Badminton Championship (158-1959), Rasheed Uddin Open All Pakistan Badminton Championship (1960), West Pakistan Double Badminton Championship, Larkana (1961), Sindh University and Islamia College Championship, Runner-up in Hyderabad Division Badminton Association (1965), Pakistan Gym Khana tournament (1969). His accomplishments were covered by reputable Pakistani news sources such as Jang Karachi (1963), Falak Parwaz (1969), Top Flight (1976), and many others.

Opportunity Knock #2

As Tariq came from a middle-class family, he could not merely spend his life playing badminton. At that time, there was little scope for monetary growth in this sport. Tariq decided to apply for accounts at Pakistan International Airlines (PIA). Due to his excellent academics and outstanding performance in the extra-curricular activities, PIA deemed him an asset and selected him for the position.

Tariq very wisely responded to every chance of growth that came his way. He believed that everything that came to him was by the will of God. So, Khan gave his best at every phase of his life and soon achieved everything he had wished. Tariq did not quit playing badminton even after he had a secure job. He often participated in various tournaments and kept his spark alive.

Khan's marvelous skills brought him into the limelight. In 1975 he participated in a tournament organized by PIACEU, a club of PIAC, and was recognized by the PIAC Management for his extraordinary performance. Tariq was the very first person in PIAC history to be receiving two extra increments in 1976. This was an honorary moment for him and his entire family.

Acing Through Life

Muhammad Tariq Khan is truly an inspiration for many. He did not give up on his passion during hardships. He devised ways to make time for playing badminton. Khan retired from PIA at the age of 60 and from then onwards continued playing badminton regularly. He encouraged and motivated his children to indulge in this sport and often imparted his vast knowledge about the game that he had learned over the years. Mr. Tariq Khan has served Pakistan Badminton even from outside the badminton court. He contributed a lot towards badminton and was also joint secretary, indoor games while serving for PIAC. Today, this 78-year-old champion resides in Karachi with his large family and motivates his grandchildren to never give up on their dreams and carry on his legacy.

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