Jeep Rally thrills crowd for second day
LAHORE:
The 20th International Cholistan Desert Jeep Rally, powered by the Punjab Central Business District Development Authority (PCBDDA), roared into its second day with intense competition and excitement.
Organised by the Tourism Development Corporation of Punjab (TDCP), the premier motorsport event at Dilwash Stadium attracted top racers from Pakistan and beyond, battling through the challenging desert landscape.
The day kicked off with a dynamic flag-off ceremony attended by Chief Operating Officer of CBD Punjab, Brig (retd) Mansoor Janjua, alongside senior officials from CBD Punjab and TDCP.
Prominent attendees included Executive Director Legal Barrister Bilal Afzal Khokhar, Director Business Development Ali Waqar Shah, and Director Marketing Waseem Siddiq.
Their presence underscored CBD Punjab's commitment to promoting motorsports, tourism, and cultural heritage in Punjab.
With 79 vehicles competing in Stock Categories A, B, C and D, the second day witnessed high-speed action and fierce rivalries. CBD Punjab's racing team actively participated in Stock Categories A and B, with drivers Aqeel Ahmed, Hatim Warraich, and Usman Nadeem showcasing their skills.
Defending champion Bilal Chaudhary returned to the track, facing strong competition from Muhammad Ullah Marwat, Asif Imam, Saeed Shahwani, and Hatim Warraich in a thrilling battle for supremacy.
Adding an international edge, Iranian racers brought global competitiveness to the rally, while the participation of women racers further emphasised motorsports' growing inclusivity in Pakistan.
Beyond the main competition, additional events such as truck races, dirt bike challenges, and quad bike contests captivated motorsport enthusiasts, transforming the vast Cholistan Desert into a festival-like atmosphere.
In Stock Category A, Khalid secured first place, followed by Masood Hoth in second and Asif Imam in third.
In the women's category, Laleen Akhunzada emerged victorious, while Zunaira Mahmood claimed second place.
The truck category saw Ahmed Shah Murchakhel take the lead, with Syed Ghazanfar Agha and Sameer Malik securing second and third places, respectively.
Speaking at the event, Brig (retd) Mansoor Janjua, COO of CBD Punjab, highlighted the rally's significance beyond motorsports.
"The Cholistan Desert Jeep Rally is not just a sporting event; it is a testament to Punjab's resilience, culture, and passion for adventure. Through this collaboration, CBD Punjab and TDCP are elevating tourism and sports in the region, bringing national and international recognition to Southern Punjab," he stated.
He further emphasized CBD Punjab's vision, stating, "This rally aligns with our goal of positioning Punjab as a hub for thrilling and inclusive sports events."
As the competition intensifies, anticipation builds for the upcoming stages, where racers will push their limits in pursuit of victory.
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