T John Longkumer flags off veteran rallyists Along Aier and Vikishe Shohe for the 6th Rally of Himalayas.
DIMAPUR — Former Director General of Police and State Election Commissioner of Nagaland T John Longkumer flagged off veteran rallyists Along Aier and Vikishe Shohe from Hotel Saramati in Dimapur on Tuesday.
The duo will represent Nagaland and the Nagaland Motor Sports Association (NAMSA) at the upcoming 6th Rally of Himalayas in Himachal Pradesh.
Aier and Shohe won the 4x4 Extreme category championships at the 2001 Raid de Himalaya in their maiden participation. Their return to the Rally of Himalayas marks the silver jubilee of their achievement.
Speaking at the flagging-off ceremony, Longkumer said the duo had brought glory to Nagaland 25 years ago by winning the inaugural Raid de Himalaya, adding that 25 years on, they are still raring to go and appear energetic.
Longkumer underscored the need for organisations such as NAMSA and the Nagaland Flat Fenders Club to provide platforms for young Naga rallyists and motorists. He said Nagaland has talented motorists and beautifully restored vehicles that remain confined to garages, calling for greater efforts to bring them into the public eye.
Furthermore, he expressed that young rallyists need a platform and space to grow, along with motivation and encouragement, adding that support should go beyond sponsorship.
Along Aier informed that the main event will commence on September 27 and culminate on September 30. He said the first leg will begin from Manali and proceed to Kaza in the Spiti Valley, followed by Jispa and Padum before reaching Ladakh on September 30.