Shabir wins Khardungla challenge

Our Correspondent

Leh, September 7

A total of 142 ultra-runners from different parts of the country and abroad tested their endurance in the 72-km Ultra Khardungla Challenge race, known as the world’s highest ultra-marathon.

The winner of the race, held on Friday, Shabir Hussain who is a soldier from the Ladakh Scout Regiment, finished it in 6 hours, 53 minutes and 34 seconds. He is one of the ultra-runners and has been winning the race for the past three years.

The two other position holders are also from the same regiment.

With 6 hours, 53 minutes and 39 seconds of finishing time, Stanzin Nurboo became the second winner. The third position was won by Rigzen Nurbo who finished the race in six hours, 54 minutes and 31 seconds.

The Khardungla challenge is held on the world’s highest motorable road Khardungla on the Leh-Nubra road and is considered as the toughest race organised in such a terrain.

Remo Expedition director Tsewang Mutup said the race was part of the annual Ladakh Marathon. This year runners from six countries and locals participated in it.