Ajgar Ali starts as firm favourite
The opening stage began after the sunset and this is the first time that the night stage is being conducted.
Siliguri: Defending champion Ajgar Ali and co-driver Mustafa Erode will begin as a firm favourite in the JK Tyre Himalayan Drive that got flagged-off from here on Wednesay.
India's premier TSD event which is in its 7th year of existence will see a strong pool of over 50 teams participating in it with the duo of Ajgar and Mustafa staying confident of completing a hat-trick of wins.
“We have come here well prepared and are very confident of our chances of going the distance. Well, it might not be so easy as I am saying considering the field, but yes we will give our best and hopefully go back with the title,” Ajgar said.
However, it won't be easy for the defending champions as they would face a strong challenge from Gagan Sethi and Raj Kumar Mundra. Gagan comes into the drive at the back of a great victory in the JK Tyre Hornbill Rally and would look to continue his good run here as well.
The opening stage began after the sunset and this is the first time that the night stage is being conducted.
The drivers will begin their journey from Siliguri and travel all the way to Murti going through forest roads, river embankments, the Teesta Barrage and past tea gardens.
“The night stage will be challenging. This is the first time we have night stage so i dont have much idea how it will go. The terrain is friendly and hopefully it will help,” Gagan said.