KARACHI: Country’s top race drivers are gearing up to battle for top honours in the 13th edition of Cholistan Desert Jeep Rally which explodes into action from Feb l5 with veteran driver Nadir Magsi defending his crown. Pakistan’s iconic driver Magsi, who missed the recent Hub Rally, has dominated Pakistan’s Racing scene for over a decade. But he will be facing stiff challenge in the 446km, two-lap races which flag-off from Karachi and culminate in front of the picturesque Fort Derawar, near Bahawalpur. The event will be spread over four days with major title final of ‘A’ Prepared class set to be held on Feb 18, one of the event managers, Fayyaz Ahmed of Tourism Development of Punjab (TDCP) said. Last year, experienced Ronnie Patel finished behind Nadir Magsi while Sahibzada Sultan Muhammad Ali, who clinched the title in 2016, is also among major title contenders. Sahibzada won the Gwadar Rally in October but secured runner-up spot in the short distance Hub Rally last month. A bumper purse of rupees five million will be on offer for top five winners in each of the eight categories. “Fastest winner in any prepared class will get a handsome purse of Rs 500,000 while the winners in each of eight classes will grab Rs.250,000 each,” added Fayyaz. Over a dozen drivers from Karachi led by Nadir have already arrived in Cholistan and are having training sessions on the track ahead of the event. They include Aamir Magsi, Jaffar Magsi, Zafar Magsi, and Noman Saranjam. Besides that, over 100 participants from Pakistan, racing drivers from Canada, Kenya, Thailand Iran, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Gulf Region, South Africa and some other countries are expected to feature in this popular event. Tens of thousands of peoples from across the country watched the action last year and a thunderous crowd is expected this year as well. Published in Daily Times, February 12th 2018.