Country's leading Utility Vehicle (UV) manufacturer, Mahindra & Mahindra Limited (M&M) recently organised the ‘Authentic Goa Escape 2012’. The event was planned by Mahindra Adventure, which is an initiative of the company to promote off-roading and other motor sports events in India. For the first time in Goa, the three day event was organized from August 17 to August 19, 2012, with an aim of serious off road rallying coupled with scenic visits.
20 vehicles were the part of this extraordinary experience, including the XUV 500, Bolero Stinger, Thar, Bolero and Scorpio. Largely missed out by tourists, the route taken was replete with beautifully built churches and several coconut trees. The drive was all along the coast, up to the Cabo de Rama fort and beautiful vegetation added to the peace and tranquillity of the surroundings. Of course, this included some serious TSD (Time-Speed-Distance) rallying and fun off-roading, on the very first day.
On this occasion, Vivek Nayer, Senior Vice President, Marketing, Automotive Division, M&M quoted, “In keeping with our promise of providing adrenaline pumping challenges & escapes, this year we are pleased to introduce the first season of the Authentic Goa Escape 2012 in association with Ceat Tyres & Mobil 1, under the umbrella brand of Mahindra Adventure. The escape gave participants a chance to experience a slice of Goa that has been mostly unexplored. The journey also celebrated Incredible India as it passed through some of the most unseen parts of Goa”.
During day 2, participants drove through monsoon-drenched forests to arrive at the 13th century Shankar temple and Elephant village and they were allowed to enjoy the elephant rides. Prior to this event, most of the individuals were of belief that Goa is a good place for parties. Instead, this event allowed the participants to explore Old Goa. Three days of TSD rallying was part of a unique experience as many participants had not visited Old Goa previously. The entire event was organised in accordance with the global motor-sports standards.
The final day was laced with exciting rallying challenges through Quepe, south Goa. The track included crossing river beds, extreme wheel articulation and wild approach angles. After a tiring day, participants cooled off by playing a friendly football match against the locals at Majorda beach, with the setting sun in the background.
