Day 3 of competition featured the first gold medal of the Jubilee Games and it was Team Pakistan who won the honour.

“This belongs to the Jamat,” said Myra Nur Lakdawala after winning the 1500 m race on Sunday. Lakdawala competes in track & field in California at University of the Pacific. She holds the Pakistani record for the 3000 m race.

“This gold medal has set a good tone for Pakistan,” she said. “I hope Pakistan runs with courage in their heart and wind at our backs for the rest of the games.”

In men’s basketball, Tajikistan White and USA White displayed one of the most nail-biting matches of the Games so far.

The match went to double overtime with USA White tying the game with a three pointer at the end of the first overtime. In the end Tajikistan won 35-33, but truly the audience who witnessed this one came out winners.

Another men’s basketball match, this one between USA Red and Canada Red, also brought fans to their feet at Dubai Sports World. While USA Red took an early lead and held on to it, Canada kept the score close and didn’t let up. In the end USA won 40-31.

“We know our defence is strong,” said Team USA player Danish Pradhan. “I’m glad they gave us a good challenge.”

The women of Kenya and Uganda — heated throwball competitors over the years — put together a great match in its own right. Uganda won in straight sets 25-21, 25-28, but it wasn’t without a strong push from Kenya, especially during the first set.

Lastly, in men’s football, Canada White and Afghanistan went the distance. While Canada held the distinction of being one of the pre-tournament favourites, Afghanistan pushed and only lost by a goal. The final score was 2-1.

The crowd gave a standing applause to Afghanistan for their performance.