By Our Reporter
SHILLONG: For the first time, Meghalaya will host the 101th edition of the Mahindra Great Escape (MGE) 4×4 off-roading challenge, organised by the Indian Motor Sports Association, on May 25 at Orchid Lake Resort, Umiam.
This event will challenge drivers from the state and the wider North East in manoeuvring the challenging obstacle trail, providing motor heads of the region the chance to push themselves and their machines to the extreme.
Highlighting the details of the the event, Indian National Rally Champion (INRC) winner Ashwin Naik, who is also the secretary of Indian Motor Sports Club (IMSC), said that this event will provide an opportunity to the local populace to make it to the national arena and compete with the winners of MGE held elsewhere in the country.
Observing that the local youth have what it takes to participate in the event, Naik, however, said that they are being let down by the build of their vehicles and technical knowledge while competing in the bigger events like Raid de Himalayas.
“The winners will be judged by their skills, angle of approach in clearing the obstacles, wheel spin and navigation besides others technicalities,” he said, adding that this event is an off-road event and not a high speed race.
He further informed that a special category for women and restoration of World War II jeeps will also be available adding that, “Through this event, we will be able to hunt down talent from the region and bring them to the national arena.”
Registration for participation can be done online through www.mahindraadventure.com or at the venue before the event with Rs 3,000 as the registration fee.