GANGTOK, : Sikkim is set to host its first ever TSD (Time-Speed-Distance) car rally, titled ‘Mountain Rush,’ from April 23. As a prelude to this event, title sponsor JK Tyre has lined up a high-performance motorsport show to dazzle the State with its “Indian Racing Festival-A Carnival of Total Control” here at the Burtuk Helipad on Tuesday evening.
A key highlight of this adrenaline packed show will be blazing showcases of FIA-accredited Indian Formula 4 and Indian Racing league cars. The line-up features champions across generations from 10-year-old karting sensations to racing champions and rally legends, a press release informs.
“Enthusiasts can look forward to jaw-dropping drifting displays in high-performance machines like Lexus and BMW, alongside gravity-defying stunts on Superbikes and modified stunt cars,” the organisers said.
The event is open to the public and begins at 3:30 pm. The highlight of the evening will be the formal flag-off of the JK Tyre Mountain Rush rally by Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang (Golay), in the presence of motorsport icons, rally legends and young karting stars.
Sanjay Sharma, head of Corporate Communication & Motorsport at JK Tyre, expressed pride in being part of this landmark event.
“As Sikkim celebrates 50 glorious years as a State of India, we are honoured to be part of this iconic milestone by doing what we do best—bringing the adrenaline of motorsport to the majestic hills. At JK Tyre, we salute the State’s unmatched eco-conscious vision and applaud the enthusiasm and precision of its leadership in curating every detail. We are here to fuel the thrill, amplify the cheer, and wish every participant an unforgettable, action-packed journey ahead.”
Organised by Summit Times and Service to Mankind in collaboration with the Government of Sikkim, the four-day rally will begin at 7 am from Ridge Park on April 23. The route spans Sikkim’s diverse and scenic districts, with legs from Gangtok to Lachung (Mangan district), then to Rabongla (Namchi district) on April 24, continuing to Soreng on April 25, and concluding back in Gangtok on April 26 with a closing ceremony at MG Marg.
Summit Times editor Puran Tamang, who is the chief organiser of Mountain Rush, thanked Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang (Golay) and JK Tyre for the encouraging enthusiasm with which they supported the idea and made Mountain Rush possible.
“Organising Sikkim’s first TSD Rally would have remained a daydream had the Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang (Golay) not encouraged us to go ahead and promised us all required support. His indulgence was touching, and emboldened us to go full steam ahead. JK Tyre also came on board the moment plans for the event were shared with the team at JK Tyre. We have also been deeply touched by the support we have received from all other sponsors and are grateful for their support,” Tamang said.
Over 50 teams from across India have registered for the debut edition of Mountain Rush, which offers a total prize pool of Rs. 8 lakh. Competition categories include National, Open Expert, Open Amateur, Sikkim Local, All Women, Best Novice Team and Couples.
FMSCI officials will carry out vehicle scrutiny on April 22 from 9 am onwards at Government Law College, Burtuk.