Rallying up a storm!

As the third edition of the Rainforest India Challenge’16 kickstarted on July 22 in Goa with gusto, hardcore adventure enthusiasts from the city share the inside track with us, as they’re set to rummage through the rugged terrains at the week long India leg of the iconic Rainforest Challenge of Malaysia.  

“This sport is for pure passion as there are no sponsors. It basically showcases your technical driving and vehicle building abilities. There is no limit to alterations,” opines Sagar Kariappa, a Bengalurean  and one of the core members of an offroading club, V5. 

Speaking about how the challenge is a test of their physical and mental stamina, he adds, “We have been part of this sport for over five years. We organised many competitions in Coorg. This is a hardcore sport and dangerous as well. But again, all the events are done under strict rules and regulations keeping safety in mind.”

While there are three teams participating from Karnataka – Mudhoggs, V5-offroaders and BODA, it is not just the participants who are exhilarated. Motorsports enthusiasts from the city also seem to be equally excited.

Paschim Prasad, a mechanical engineer and motorsport enthusiast tells us, “The whole idea of such an initiative is to test your endurance. I’d love to be a part of an off-roading experience not from a competitive perspective, but to simply experience the very thrill it brings about.”   

All set to rev it up, Jagat Nanjappa, one of participants and a former Indian National Rally champion, who will be driving it at the challenge, tells us, “It’s a different experience because it’s not just about sweating it out. Your focus and calibre to face adversity is put to test, and that I feel is what draws motorsport enthusiasts from across the globe. It doesn’t matter who finishes first or last, I’m privileged to be a part of this as top drivers were selected to take part in the all- India event.”  

The winner would drive in the Malaysian Rain Forest Challenge, which is rated the toughest in the world. Giving insights about the same, Chetan Chengappa, Jagat’s co-driver reveals how the idea is to bring out the best in you.

“Sliding your mean machines through some of the most slippery slopes, demanding highways and uneven terrains. There are four stages to pass through – the prologue, the predator, the terminator and the twilight zone. It’s certainly not an easy feat but to a true adventure enthusiast, it’s an event of a lifetime, indeed!”