MUZAFFARGARH: The third stage of the ongoing 9th annual Thal Jeep Rally concluded on Saturday, with racers taking on the shortened 105km track in Muzaffargarh due to poor visibility caused by heavy smog.

In the stock category, Hasan Ali Magsi led the field as he hit the Chaubara finish line in one hour, 16 minutes and 31 seconds.

Bismillah Magsi followed close behind with a time of one hour, 18 minutes, and seven seconds, while Zeib Hasan clocked in at one hour, 18 minutes and 22 seconds.

An official from the Tourism Development Corporation of Punjab stated that these are unofficial results, with final timings expected to be announced on Sunday.

A total of 53 drivers, including 48 men and five women, competed in the stock category round. The category had originally been set as a 195km course. The event drew large crowds to Chhanga Manga point in the Thal desert, where fans gathered to watch the races and enjoy a festive atmosphere created by drumming and celebratory sounds. The rally also featured side events, including javelin competitions and kabaddi matches at Chhanga Manga Mound, which were popular among attendees.

Notably, prominent drivers like Nadir Magsi, Sahibzada Sultan and Tishna Patel attracted significant attention as they competed, with all racers racing toward the Chaubara finishing line. To add further excitement, a buggy bike competition was organised, drawing four riders to a specially designed 40km track.

The event saw the participation of Muzaffargarh Deputy Commissioners Quratul Ain and her Kot Addu counterpart Syed Munwar Abbas, who flagged off the vehicles.

Speaking to the media, DC Quratul Ain said that the rally was in line with Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s vision to offer healthy recreational activities for the people of Muzaffargarh and surrounding districts.

The Thal Jeep Rally’s final results for all categories will be announced on Nov 10 at a closing ceremony at Faisal Stadium.

Published in Dawn, November 10th, 2024