Spirit of adventure: Nadir Magsi clinches Cholistan desert challenge

BAHAWALPUR: In a thrilling, neck-and-neck competition, Nadir Magsi won the Cholistan Jeep Rally 2017 followed by Ronnie Patel. The competition was held at the historic Derawar Fort on Sunday. Official results were not declared till filing of this story.

Nadir, the favourite to win the rally, did not disappoint his home crowd and covered the distance of 253 kilometres in 2 hours, 26 minutes, while Ronnie Patel clinched the second position by completing the race in 2 hours, 30 minutes.

This year, at least three women and two foreigners also participated in the stock category race. Jameela Asif, Tushna Patel and Dr Ambreen took part in 90-kilometre track race.

“Cholistan Desert Jeep Rally has attained the status of an international sports event and along with the promotion of Pakistan’s soft image it is the best way to promote tourism,” Syed Raza Ali Gillani said while addressing the opening ceremony.

CM’s Adviser on Tourism Haider Ali expressed satisfaction over the arrangements and said the event had helped a great deal in boosting business activities in the region.

A folk night was also arranged in which Rahat Fateh Ali Khan and other artists enthralled the audience by their performance.

In addition, a kabbadi match was also played between Shahiwala and Yazman teams. The competition was won by Yazman team.

Besides, Desi Wrestling competition and an archery contest along with cultural dance of camels were also organised.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 13^th, 2017.