BAHAWALPUR: Tushna Patel has emerged as the winner in the women’s category of the ongoing Cholistan jeep rally for the third consecutive year.

Tushna won the women’s race in the stock category of the 12th edition of the jeep rally at Derawar Fort on Saturday. Her husband Ronnie Patel is also participating in the rally and belonged to Sindh.

Tushna was declared first after covering 87 kilometres in one hour and 29 minutes. Dr Ambreen and Jamila were adjudged second and third, respectively.

According to one of the organisers, Dr Raheel Siddiqui, results of Saturday’s stock category races were Mian Shakeel bagging the first spot in Category A, Tariq Magsi second and Omar Sumro third. In Category B, Mian Shabbir Bharchundi clinched the first position and Malik Belal second, while Mudassir Ghaloo stood first in Category D. results of Category C could not be compiled until the filing of this report.

At least 61 drivers/navigators, including three women and two foreigners, participated in the rally’s stock category race on Saturday. About 20 vehicles broke down due to technical faults, but their drivers remained unhurt.

The venue was abuzz with spectators witnessing the cultural night with several singers, including folk performers, and enjoying a spectacular display of fireworks.

Traffic was choked on all roads leading to Derawar Fort leaving hundreds of people stranded.

Published in Dawn, February 12th, 2017