Twenty-five years after scripting a landmark victory in the Raid de Himalaya, legendary Naga rally drivers Along Aier and Vikshe Shohe are returning to the Himalayan terrain, with the Nagaland Motor Sports Association (NAMSA) ceremonially flagging off the veteran duo on Tuesday.
Representing Nagaland and NAMSA, the two rallyists will compete in the upcoming 6th Rally of Himalayas, taking on challenging high-altitude routes through Spiti Valley and the Zanskar region of Himachal Pradesh.
In 2001, Along and Vikshe, driving a Maruti Gypsy under the NAMSA banner, emerged champions in the fiercely competitive 4×4 Xtreme category and finished first overall in the Raid de Himalaya, then regarded as one of India’s most demanding endurance rallies.
Their victory made them the first rallying duo from Nagaland and the Northeast to win the event, etching their names and that of NAMSA in the history of Indian motorsport.
Marking the silver jubilee of that achievement, their return to the Himalayan terrain represents a continuation of a legacy that has inspired motorsport enthusiasts across the region.
Longkumer calls for platform to nurture young Naga rallyists
Nagaland State Election Commissioner, T John Longkumer has called for concerted efforts to create platforms and opportunities for young Naga rallyists and motorsport enthusiasts, saying the State has talented motorists who need encouragement and support to develop.
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Speaking at the ceremonial flag-off, Longkumer congratulated Along and Vikshe on their historic achievement and noted that, even after 25 years, the veteran rallyists continued to take on demanding challenges with energy and enthusiasm.
Speaking on behalf of the Nagaland Flat Fenders Club, Longkumer assured NAMSA of the club’s support in creating opportunities for young motorists and rallyists.
“We need to give them a platform. We need to give them the space for them to grow. We need to give them the motivation and encouragement which is so required,” he said.
He said celebrating past achievements should be accompanied by efforts to create conditions for a new generation to achieve similar success.
Longkumer also called for greater public exposure for Nagaland’s motorsport enthusiasts and beautifully restored vehicles, observing that many talented motorists and vehicles remained confined to garages instead of being showcased.
He suggested that NAMSA and the Flat Fenders Club jointly conceptualise professionally organised and attractive rally events that could generate wider public interest and encourage young drivers. He also said greater sponsorship could follow if events were planned and presented effectively.
Expressing hope that young motorists would emulate the achievements of Along and Vikshe, Longkumer described the veterans’ return to competitive rallying after 25 years as a significant achievement.
Wishing the duo success in their latest challenge, he said, “Godspeed,” and prayed for their safe and successful completion of the rally.
NAMSA expressed confidence that the veteran champions would once again demonstrate the endurance and championship spirit associated with their 2001 victory. It conveyed prayers and best wishes for their safety and success on the demanding Himalayan routes.
The Association also acknowledged the support of the Chief Minister’s Office, Tourism Department, Department of Youth Resources and Sports, sponsors and well-wishers, as well as JK Tyre, for supporting the expedition.
