First jeep and bike rally organised at Ravi

Over 100 participants include 10 women

LAHORE:

In a first, the Ravi Cross Rally was organised with more than 100 drivers, including 10 women, participating.

The jeep and bike rally was organised in Ravi River in collaboration with Punjab Tourism Department and Ravi Urban Development Authority (RUDA).

A 35km track was built on the dry stretch of the river. A participant stated that it was “quite short compared to the Cholistan track, but is very difficult and challenging since there is sand and a paved track in some places”.

A RUDA official said, “Preparing the track for the jeep race at Ravi was a challenge. Since a big city is going to be settled here in the future, it is important that we promote the cultural traditions”.

The director said, “More people have participated in the race than expected. As many as 120 people have registered, including 70 jeep drivers and 20 bike riders. Apart from this, there are street bike riders. Above all, for the first time, 10 women riders are also participating in this race”.

Preparation work for the track started four months ago. Various experts and drivers took test runs before the track was finalised.

A rider, Fatima Nasir, said, “It is a very good initiative that a rally has been organised in Lahore in the style of Cholistan. While it is challenging for women, if you want to do it, then difficulties have to be faced. By participating in this rally, we have given the message that women can use their skills in any field”.

Another participant, Irfan Ibrahim,who has taken part in a number of races, said, “This is the best initiative to promote tourism in the country. If this race is held every year, foreign riders and drivers will also participate in it”.

Published in The Express Tribune, May 6^th, 2024.