New Delhi: Eight women will figure among 250 participants who are gearing up to brave the stiff mountain terrains and inhospitable weathers during the 11th Maruti Suzuki Raid-de-Himalaya rally, commencing from October 6.
The week-long event, to be kicked off from Shimla, will traverse through Manali, Kunzum La, Patseo, Rangdum and Kargil, covering a total distance of more than 2,000km before it culminates in Leh.
In X-treme category 87 professional drivers will take part while 130 amateurs will be racing in Adventure Trial category. There will also be 20 bikers, who would test their mettle by negotiating the frosty slopes of Himalayas, a release said.
Four-time winner, holder Suresh Rana of Himachal Pradesh will again eye the title while riding his Maruti Gypsy.
The event will cover some of the highest motorable passes in the world, including the Tanglang La - second highest in the world, and participants have to spend nights in sub-zero temperature at the camps.
The Raid-de-Himalaya rally, on an average, covers a distance of 300km in a day, snaking along the lofty and frosty mountainsides.
Bureau Report
First Published: Monday, September 14, 2009, 19:56