Veteran rallyists to represent Nagaland at 6th Rally of Himalayas

DIMAPUR, SEP 22 (NPN): Veteran rallyists Along Aier and Vikishe Shohe will represent Nagaland and the Nagaland Adventure and Motor Sports Association (NAMSA) at the upcoming 6th Rally of Himalayas in Himachal Pradesh.
A ceremonial flag-off for the duo was hosted by NAMSA at Hotel Saramati, Dimapur on Tuesday, with former DGP and State Election Commissioner, Nagaland, T. John Longkumer, as the special guest.
Congratulating Aier and Shohe, Longkumer recalled their historic achievement 25 years ago when they won the inaugural Raid de Himalaya trophy. He said their participation in the upcoming rally, even after 25 years, was an achievement in itself. Longkumer also emphasised the need to provide a platform for young Naga rallyists to develop their skills and pursue motorsport. He said the Nagaland Flatfenders Club was prepared to extend support to NAMSA in promoting motorsport in the State.
He also called for greater public exposure for talented motorists and restored vehicles in Nagaland, saying young rallyists needed opportunities, motivation and encouragement to grow. He maintained that sponsorship would follow well-conceptualised and professionally organised rallies.
Longkumer expressed hope that NAMSA and the Nagaland Flatfenders Club could work together to produce a new generation of rally motorists who could emulate the achievements of Aier and Shohe.
He wished the duo success in the upcoming rally and said completing the event itself would be a significant achievement.
Speaking at the programme, Along Aier said the main event would begin on September 27 and continue until September 30. He said the first day’s route would start from Manali and proceed to Kaza in Spiti Valley.
The rally would then proceed to Jispa, followed by Sarchu, before reaching Leh on September 30, he said. Aier also expressed gratitude to the sponsors who had supported their motorsport activities since 2001. According to NAMSA, the participation marks the Silver Jubilee of Aier and Shohe’s historic achievement in motorsport. The duo had created history in 2001 by winning the 4×4 Extreme Category Championship Trophy in the Raid de Himalaya during their maiden participation.
Their return to the Rally of Himalayas marks 25 years since that achievement and commemorates their contribution to motorsport in Nagaland and the region.