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Ticket to ride

PHOTO: SUDIPTO MONDAL

Get set go The humble auto takes on race car properties

Autorickshaws have proved themselves to be the true icons of Indian roads as the CEAT Mumbai Xpress-2008, an auto race from Chennai to Mumbai,flagged off by the deputy commissioner M Maheshwar Rao . The rally comprises 18 teams and 39 participants from countries like Britain, United States, New Zealand, Australia, Canada, Germany, Norway, Hungary.

While the colourful autos with attractive team names managed to draw the attention of curious onlookers, the participants were also very popular. In the course of the rally, competitors are assigned a range of intellectual and physical challenges, which they have to complete within the allotted time-period.

The British team ‘Screamin cheetah wheelles’ comprising Greg Callaghan and Keir Edmonds managed to steal the thunder with their Batman and Robin costumes.

The crowds were also enthused with the costumes of the participants. Edmonds said they rode with the costumes, for the entire duration of the trip.

CEAT regional head Reji Meprathe said the rally was a one-of-its-kind initiative and an attempt to transform the auto rickshaw from a utility vehicle to a vehicle of adventure sports.

He said a ride in the auto managed to attract foreigners in droves to participate in the competition.Talking about the ride from Hassan to Mangalore, George Kachergis, a 23-year-old under graduate student from the US said, “The toughest part was the steep and winding Ghat section. But, it was lot of fun as we got to see the countryside up close. The interaction with children was easier as they spoke good English.”

He said he was riding the auto for the first time and had thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Meanwhile, Yvonne Reddington and Emily Flintoff from the ‘Compact Pussycat’ were the only ladies team. Seven women are participating in the rally. They also enjoyed the experience and said, “It’s pink, It’s easy.”

However, the highlight of the rally was the central goal of Adopt a Village programme where each competing team is assigned a specific village along the route.

They stop during the rally to deliver supplies and aid to these villages. It is indeed a great ride and managed to raise the profile of the growing trend of adventure tourism for those who seek thrills and escape from mundane experiences.

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