KATHMANDU: Athletes Khurshed Ahamed Khan and Bina Shrestha, both of Nepal Police, announced their retirement amidst a closing programme of the national tournament on Monday. Khan has won five medals in the South Asian Federation (SAF) Games — a silver and four bronze — during his 22-year career.

Veteran Khan holds javelin throw national record of 70.39 metres set during the 8th SAF Games in Kathmandu. “I have no regrets for being an athlete but I strongly suggest sports enthusiasts to pursue study along with the sports,” Khan said. At the age of 39, Khan was still strong in his discipline to win the gold medal in the 35th National Championships. “It is better to leave as it would encourage new talents,” said the Assistant Sub Inspector.

Three-time SAF participant, Bina Shrestha, who won gold medal in 100m hurdles in this championships, said that the time was right to take retirement after serving the force and the country for more than a decade. “I can participate in the national game’s if the force want me to,” Shrestha said. She is an sub Inspector in Nepal Police.