Suresh, Ashwin clinch title

By MUNISH DHIMAN | CHANDIGARH | 16 April, 2016

Suresh Rana (left) and Ashwin Naik at the podium.

By registering his third win of this year, Manali lad Suresh Rana, better known as the motorsport champion of the hills, has yet again proved his mettle in this extreme motorsports category, by winning the the 14th edition of the coveted ‘Maruti Suzuki Desert Storm’ championship title trophy. Rana recorded this win with his champion navigator Ashwin Naik. The duo has also won the India Baja - 2016, recently.

Passionately pursuing a sport and ascending to number one position is a paradigm of abiding zeal, sheer grit and dogged determination. Steering his Grand Vitara with a skillful blending aggression and accuracy, Rana retained the number one slot to clinch the title of the 14th edition of the ‘Maruti Suzuki Desert Storm’ 2016.

Rana and Naik drove a Grand Vitara and were crowned champions in the X-Treme four wheeler (4W) category. The rally this year commenced from Delhi and while pasing from Hanumangarh, Bikaner and Jaiselmer culminated finally in Jodhpur.

This is Rana’s fourth title win. When asked about what had been more challenging this time around, Rana promptly replied with a smile writ large on his glowing face, “Undeniably, the stages were comparatively easier than those of the last editions, but the weather had in fact played spoil sport. The temperature was too high and indeed excruciating. Heat is never favourable, either for the machine or for the driver and navigator. But thankfully, we tried hard and our machine endured the heat and luck favoured us in accomplishing the chattered mission - to clinch the title.”

Rana’s navigator, Naik, has already participated in the round one of the Wales Stages rally 2016, held recently this year in Wales. Naik told The Sunday Guardian, “This edition of the Desert Storm had been a way more enduring and testing. Apart from this, the year 2016 has really been lucky for us as we registered the second win of the year. We are hopeful to do better still in the coming rallies. Right now, Rana and I are planning to part again for the enthralling Sajoba Rally 2016, to be held later.”

Cross-country marathon motorsport national champion Rana won the rally leaving behind a huge margin of more than 80 minutes. A four-time Raid de Himalaya winner, Rana minced no words about his and Ashwin’s amazing coordination, saying, “Steering through mountains or deserts and navigating through tricky and tortuous paths needs a lot of coordination and understanding between the driver and the navigator. A single miscommunication can cost you dearly.”

Echoing the same statement, Ashwin was quick to add, “I always give credit to our abiding chemistry and coordination as I am hard of conviction that we make the wonderful pair to handle a given situation. More important is to stay cool and composed inside the machine and come out without any mechanical misadventures in the racy machine. He strictly follows my navigation advisory with utmost caution and confidence, and that is what enhances our compatibility.”

Rana owed his victory to the team and his machine. He made a point in this regard, “It’s not at all my single-handed effort. It’s a team effort, which includes the quick-witted and cautious navigator, an efficient team, my mean machine and all associated with us, morally and otherwise.”

http://www.sundayguardianlive.com/sports/4163-suresh-ashwin-clinch-title

Aussie Pat Farmer on a unique mission in Chandigarh

By MUNISH DHIMAN | CHANDIGARH | 19 March, 2016

Pat Farmer holds the Indian flag during his run in Chandigarh.

Mutiple record holder is in India for his 4000km run to promote Spirit of India.

Legendary marathoner Pat Farmer (53), a former Australian Parliamentary Secretary and MP from Sydney, reached the city beautiful Chandigarh after starting his run from Ambala. This run is a part of his 4000-km ‘Spirit of India’ run with wife Tania Farmer and is supported jointly by the union ministries of external affairs and tourism and the state tourism departments. 

Farmer has already many achievements that include a multiple world record for endurance running. He had also ran from the North Pole to the South Pole, Australia, New Zealand, Vietnam, the Middle East and North America.

Pat and his team were given a rousing welcome by senior sports department officials and Bhupesh Chaudhary, Director, Sports UT at the city’s open hand entry from Zirakpur Chandigarh barrier.  The legendary Milkha Singh, could not make it to the event as he was out of town.

Briefing media persons at the UT Secretariat, UT Home Secretary Anurag Agarwal had earlier said, “It is a proud moment for us that Pat, who started his run from Ambala on the March 17 morning, will be running in Chandigarh as part of this 4000-km ‘Spirit of India’ run.” Pat ran across the city with his team moving right from Zirakpur towards Tribune Chowk, Transport Chowk, Mahatama Gandhi Institute, Golf Club, Punjab Raj Bhawan, before concluding it at the UT guest house.

Later, Farmer told The Sunday Guardian, “I am here to generate awareness for healthy life, encouraging tourism and to promote relations between Indian and Australia and I hope my endevour falls fruitful.”  

While speaking about his run and visit in India, Pat said, “Besides cementing relationships between the countries, I am here to support few causes and charities. We will raise charity for girl child in India. I had been waiting long to be here in the City Beautiful.” Pat commenced his run on the 26th of January to celebrate India’s Republic Day and Australia Day. During his halt in Chandigarh, Farmer  met the Governor.

Pat will cover 4000km, from Kanya Kumari to Kashmir, in 60 days. During his 20-year running career Pat productively raised millions of dollars for laudable causes.

http://www.sundayguardianlive.com/sports/3817-aussie-pat-farmer-unique-mission-chandigarh

Cyclists prove their mettle at MKCC

Cyclists prove their mettle at MKCC

MUNISH DHIMAN  Chandigarh | 22nd Aug 2015

Cyclists taking part in the 2015 Edition of MKCC. The second edition of the Manali-Khardungla Cycling Championship (MKCC) organised by Northern Escapes and Cycling 4 Change, at the world's highest motorable pass, Khardung La (18,380 ft) offered a plethora of challenges to the cyclists that proved futile in comparison to the commitment and passion of the cyclists. The rally, which was flagged off from Manali, put to test the endurance of 63 cyclists from all corners of the world. Cyclists competed against each other amid challenging weather conditions and tough terrains. Three-time women's Mountain Biking national champion of Nepal, Laxmi Magar, was adjudged the winner in the women's category. She won the overall title as well as four different titles in the championship. And army man Purn Bahadur Pradhan was adjudged the winner of the championship in the men's category. The 2015 Edition of MKCC offered two participation categories with varying levels of difficulty to suit every cyclist's temperament and skillset. Deliberately designed on a carefully charted route across tough terrains with varying gradients, exclusively for long-distance endurance cyclists MKCC is one of the ultimate cycling adventure tour for most of the participants. Stretching over 500 kilometres the Manali-Leh-Khardungla highway predominantly comprises of paved roads, with stretches of sand, gravel and rocky terrain thrown in for good measure and is one of the most testing highways. Laxmi after winning the title told The Sunday Guardian, "This has been one of the most challenging championships of my life as it offered the scenic beauty, challenging terrains, tough climates and the excitement of crossing the highest passes of the world on a bicycle. This championship also proved a fruitful training camp for me as it motivated me to take part in different enduring cycle championships that happen across the globe." Purn Bahadur Pradhan said, "This year the championship offered a different level of challenge due to unexpected rains and landslides. Yes, winning adds to the charm of participating, but on this terrain and in such circumstances participation itself is a reward." Talking about the second edition of MKCC, Northern Escapes founder Gaurav Schimar says, "This championship is an endeavour to put the Indian cyclists on the world endurance cycling circuit and to promote cycling for a greener environment. MKCC is the only high-altitude long-distance cycling race in India and we will keep encouraging cyclists to challenge their endurance in every edition." Echoing similar views, Anil Uchil, founder, Cycling 4 Change and Race Director added, "The Manali-Khardungla route is both inspiring and highly exigent for the global cycling community. Being a part of the MKCC is a source of inspiration for myriad cyclists across the globe and something to feel proud of for the participants. More than a physical endurance test it's a championship that put to test your mental endurance as well." http://www.sunday-guardian.com/sports/cyclists-prove-their-mettle-at-mkcc

Lisa Ray unveils new Rado collection

Lisa Ray unveils new Rado collection

MUNISH DHIMAN  1st Aug 2015

A watch may never change time but, yes, it can make you utilise your precious moments intelligently," said model-turned-actress Lisa Ray, who is the brand ambassador of watch brand Rado and was in Chandigarh to unveil its latest diamond watch collection for women. Ray was a thorough professional at the event, choosing to stick to business and speaking about Rado and all related activity, as opposed to any of her impending acting projects. During an interaction with journalists, the brand ambassador said: "I have more than a 12-year long association with the brand, and it is because of its design, technology, appeal and class that I am still with it. About the collection, I love diamonds and that's why I appreciate this specific collection. I must say, this is an ideal accessory because diamonds are a woman's best friends and these masterpieces will enhance the beauty of the wearer." Ray, who is a cancer survivor, is also associated with several cancer organisations. While she steers clear of speaking directly about her illness, she does make it a point to discuss the subject itself frequently. "Talking about it is also spreading awareness about it in a way," she said. http://www.sunday-guardian.com/young-restless/lisa-ray-unveils-new-rado-collection

Kumar in a new look for Gabbar

Kumar in a new look for Gabbar

MUNISH DHIMAN  21st May 2015

kshay Kumar is back with a whole new persona in Gabbar, not to be confused with the character from the cult film Sholay, brought to life by Amzad Khan. Kumar was in Chandigarh recently to promote his forthcoming filmGabbar as well as celebrate Baisakhi. Kumar is also shooting for Singh is Bling in the outskirts of Patiala. The actor spoke about his love for Punjab, the land of five rivers, and also about the movies during a brief interaction. Krish will be making his directorial debut in Bollywood with this movie. Gabbar will have Kumar in a new kind of role, with a different storyline and a debutant director. Was he nervous about it? "You may not be aware that I have already worked with almost 16 debutant directors till now, and more than 14 have given blockbusters," he replied instantly. "I like working with new people as they are crazy about the film, for their first venture might prove to be the last of their career. Hence they put in their best effort. This leaves a little room for nervousness." On being asked why he chose to be a part of this film, he replied with optimism, "I don't want to be typecast as an actor. I like to do different roles. Honestly speaking, diverse roles have always excited me. In Gabbar, my character is that of a common man who fights against the hydra-headed zombie of corruption. There are a few scenes in the movie based on the real-life incidents.  The movie has a message for everyone — to fight tooth and nail against corruption. This doesn't imply that people should take law in their own hands. The law must be allowed to take its own course," he clarified. Punjab has always remained on Kumar's priority list when it comes to promoting movies and he feels a strong bond with the state. "Being from a Punjabi family, Punjab has had a special place in my heart. I grew up eating Punjabi food. Visiting the state always feels like a sweet homecoming for me," concluded Kumar. Gabbar is slated to be released on 1 May. http://www.sunday-guardian.com/masala-art/kumar-in-a-new-look-for-gabbar

Patiala father-son duo design and construct wooden ‘wonder car’

Patiala father-son duo design and construct wooden ‘wonder car’

MUNISH DHIMAN  16th May 2015

The wooden car made by Mohinder Singh and Amandeep Singh. Recently, a father-son duo from Patiala designed a wooden car in a striking golden-brown colour. The car has since become the talk of town. Sardar Mohinder Singh, a carpenter, gave shape to a car conceptualised by his 23-year-old son Amandeep Singh. At 680 kg, it is 12 ft long, 5 ft tall and 5 ft wide with the mirrors open. The BBC London has already made a documentary on this feat of innovation. The local police, too, made their presence felt by impounding the car for not bearing a number plate. We talk to Amandeep Singh about creating and maintaining this beauty. Q. What encouraged you to design this car? A. I have been passionate about cars for as long as I can remember, and always dreamt about manufacturing a one-of-a-kind car of my own, but I never worked seriously on it. As I got older, I became more serious about realising my childhood dream. Once I finished my diploma in mechanical engineering, I was ready to give this wooden car a go. Once we got started, it took us 70-75 days, working seven-eight hours a day, to complete the project. Q. What was the guiding idea behind using wood? A. I belong to a family of carpenters and my father still works with wood. With the idea of a wooden car, I was able to fuse my father's expertise and practical experience with my theoretical knowledge and passion. It runs on the 5-gear (1 reverse) Maruti-800 engine with a top speed of 120 km. Q. What wood have you used to make the car and what sort of durability does it promise? A. We have used Sangwan and MP Teakwood to make the car. The durability of the wood is hypothetically more than 100 years, if used for furniture and woodwork indoors. But since this wood has been used for making a car, you have additional factors to consider such as adverse weather conditions, so we expect the wood to stay intact for 30-35 years. Q. Where was it assembled/ manufactured? How have you attached its various parts? A. It has been assembled at home and the parts have been attached using normal wood fixing tools. The iron parts have been joined with nut bolts, whereas the wooden bits have been joined with waterproof Fevicol and nails. Q. What were some of the major challenges you faced while making this car? A. The most challenging part in the whole project was to place and fix the engine accurately. This task alone took us over a week. Q. What sort of monetary investment did this project take? A. We have invested more than Rs 4 lakh on its manufacturing, inclusive of labour. Q. Please tell us a little about its most memorable trip on the road. A. Our most memorable trip was the Nagar Kirtan procession to Anandpur Sahib, a good 12-hour journey. We headed the procession of more than six lakh devotees and it was such a proud moment to see people turning their heads to get a glimpse of the car. Wherever we stopped, people would take pictures of the car, ask numerous questions — many of them even offered to buy the car. Q. How will it take on its arch foe, the termite? A. The wood that we have used is termite-proof, so there is no need to worry about termites. Also, it has been polished well. To keep it safe from water-borne problems, we have also used rubber seal paint on the lower part of the car's body. Q. Are you looking to design another version of this wooden car later on? A. Yes, I have already started working on another wooden car — this time it's a Jeep! http://www.sunday-guardian.com/young-restless/patiala-father-son-duo-design-and-construct-wooden-wonder-car

Child prodigy Vasundhara aims for greater glory in golf

Child prodigy Vasundhara aims for greater glory in golf

MUNISH DHIMAN  Chandigarh | 16th May 2015

Vasundhara Thiara Chandigarh's 12-year-old golfing prodigy, Vasundhara Thiara, started playing golf at the tender age of 4. Inspired by her father to take up the game, she is now one of the finest junior golfers in the country. "She picked up the finer nuances of the game pretty fast, unlike many of her ilk", her father, Ajay Thiara said. "Despite perceptible changes that have taken place in the pattern of playing golf over the years, I have improved my acumen; have changed my clubs, got opportunities to work with different coaches helping me discover and develop newer techniques and skills that helped me a lot to improve the game in a sense, " said Vasundhara. She bagged the top slot in the Indian Golf Union (IGU) in order of merit in C-category after clinching and retaining the first position in D-category till the last year. Vasundhara, who breezed into Category-C starting from the bottom line, went on to achieve the number 2 position within a year and finally finished at the top of the table in an incredible period of less than one and a half years. Her recent back-to-back wins in the domestic circuit helped her grab category-C ranking (Junior Girls) in the IGU. Vasundhara won the highly challenging IGU Army Ladies and Junior Girls Golf tournament, held at the AEPTA Golf Club in New Delhi ealier this month. The promising little champ has won two of the three tournaments she played this year. In the recent Captain's Day Tournament held at the Chandigarh Golf Club, she clinched the top spot in the 0 to 8 handicap category. Besides her academic commitments, Vasundhara devotes more than two hours daily to the game. "Winning and losing are two sides of the same coin. My sole aim is to keep practicing and improve my game. I just go and play my best shots and I try to give my best every time I play." When asked about her hobbies, she beams and tells that she loves playing the keyboard, randomly drawing sketches or paintings, reading storybooks or watching movies. To be precise, she loves watching comedy and horrors movies. She also evinces keen interest in playing basketball, soccer and volleyball. Vasundhara says keeping calm during the games helps her focus better. "Be focussed and play the game with a do-or-die spirit. Even if you've played the first shot wrong, don't crib about it, you've got 17 more chances to go about making a mark. You play it right. That's it," says Vasundhara. http://www.sunday-guardian.com/sports/child-prodigy-vasundhara-aims-for-greater-glory-in-golf