The Great Sri Lankan Tuk-Tuk Challenge

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The Lanka Challenge 2009 is a first ever rally featuring auto rishaws or trishaws more commonly known as ‘tuk-tuks’. Travellers from all over the world will descend upon the island nation of Sri Lanka to take part in the 2009 Lankan Challenge, which will take place from the 5th-15th September 2009.

The point of this challenge is two fold. One, it tests the participants racing skills; driving a tuk tuk is no mean task. Secondly they get an opportunity to catch glimpses of the breath taking scenery that is prevalent all over the country. The rally will traverse through mountains, rainforests, coastal villages and bustling towns.

42 people, divided into 20 teams, will cover 1200 kms in 10 days with a chance of winning 1000 USD. The runner-up teams will receive 500 USD and 250 USD respectively. The winners will also automatically receive a complimentary transferable pass for a team of 2 to the following years Lanka Challenge race.

Mr. Bernard Goonetilleke, Chairman of the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotions Bureau described the event as a fun loving stress reliever for the participants. He further added “it showcases an important facet of everyday Sri Lankan living, the tuk tuk, while discovering so many diverse destinations within the country.”

Participants will start from Negombo proceed to Sigiriya, Dambana, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Wirawila, Mirissa and will finally end in Colombo. Two rest days have been included in the jampacked schedule for the drivers to rest & recuperate.

The organizers, ‘Lets Travel’ and ‘A Large Minority’ are positive that the event would strike a cord with adventure lovers worldwide. “Through our adventurous challenges, we aim to unite multi-cultural travel aficionados in search of unique and meaningful experiences”, said Julian Carnall co-founder Large Minority.

Proceeds from the rally will go towards the Sri Lanka Red Cross Society, Nature Exploration and Protection Society of Sri Lanka, The Field Ornithology Group of Sri Lanka and the The Botakanda Charity. For more details log onto www.lankachallenge.com