Maruti-Suzuki Raid-de-Himalaya 2003 to flag off on 7 October

Our Corporate Bureau
03 October 2003

Chennai: For a fifth year in succession, the Himalayas beckons the adventure fanatics. On 7 October, India's most arduous motor sport event, the four-day Maruti-Suzuki Raid-de-Himalaya, will be flagged off. The event is held under the aegis of Himalayan Motorsport Association.

After the pre-event vehicle scrutiny on 6 October, the event will start from Shimla to cover an approximate distance of 2,500 km. The participants will pass through Jaori Pass, Rohtang Pass, Kunzum La, Kaza, Darcha, Sarchu, Pang, Patseo and finally end at Manali on 10 October 2003. The participants will be tested to the maximum as the route is a mix of tarmac/dirt and rocky terrain.

About Maruti Udyog's association with this event Ravi Bhatia, general manager (marketing), says: "The company recognised the tremendous potential for motor sport in India long ago. In order to generate interest in motor sport, we have constantly organised events, of which Maruti-Suzuki Raid-de-Himalaya has become one of the most coveted competitions, with international recognition. Through these events professionals, amateurs, women, youth and even the elderly, have tasted the joys and thrills of motor sport."

For the first time in its history the event will see participation in a new 'Reliability' category. This category will attract motor sport enthusiasts who may not have the same experience as the professional rallyists. Participants in this category will drive on the state highways thereby minimising the risks.

The competition will feature three categories — Reliability and X-treme for cars and X-treme category for bikers. Indicating its growing popularity, 5th Maruti-Suzuki Raid-de-Himalaya will see 18 cars in X-treme category, 11 cars in Reliability category and 25 bikes in X-treme category for bikers venturing into the extremely challenging routes of rugged Himalayas crossing six high mountain passes, some well over 5,500 meters high.

According to Vijay Parmar, president, Himalayan Motorsport Association, the fifth edition of the event will have the rare distinction of having the highest rally camp in the world at Morey Plains at Pang (15,900 feet) to test the physical endurance of the rallyists.