In a landmark achievement for Haryana's sporting landscape, motorsports enthusiast Navneet Sangar from Kurukshetra has become the first rider from the state to compete in an international two-wheeler cross-country rally raid. Sangar recently tested his mettle at the demanding Inisiasi Rally Raid Adventure (IRRA), held in Majalengka, West Java, Indonesia, earlier this month.
Conquering New Terrain with Roadbook Navigation
The four-day IRRA event was a gruelling test, covering a distance of nearly 450 kilometres across the challenging landscapes of West Java. Unlike races reliant on GPS, this rally raid depends entirely on roadbook navigation, a format that was entirely new to Sangar. This method requires riders to follow a specialized booklet containing symbols, diagrams known as tulips, distances, and precise instructions, demanding intense focus and rapid decision-making while on the move.
"This was completely different from anything I had done before," Sangar remarked. He emphasized that the technique leaves no margin for error, particularly when racing through unfamiliar and difficult terrain. His participation in IRRA marked a dual debut: his first international race and his first experience with the rigorous roadbook-navigation format.
A Solo Journey of Grit and Determination
What makes Sangar's feat even more remarkable is that he undertook this international challenge without any sponsors or external financial support. He independently managed the entire campaign, from preparing his motorcycle and handling complex logistics to planning and executing his strategy during the rally itself.
"From preparing the bike to handling logistics and race strategy, everything was self-managed," he shared. While acknowledging the toughness of the endeavour, Sangar found the experience deeply personal and rewarding. He raced with jersey number 07, a tribute to his hometown of Kurukshetra, carrying a piece of Haryana with him onto the global stage.
Eye-Opening Exposure and Future Ambitions
The rally pushed Sangar to his limits, both physically and mentally. He had to adapt to the new navigation system, conquer tough terrain, and maintain endurance over long, exhausting stages. Throughout the hardships, the warmth and support from the local Indonesian community became a crucial morale booster for the lone Indian rider.
An experienced competitor in national events like the Indian National Rally Championship, Raid de Himalaya, and the Sjoba Rally, Sangar found the international exposure at IRRA to be truly eye-opening. He views this milestone as a critical stepping stone for his career and for putting Indian motorsports on the world map.
"Haryana is already known for producing world-class athletes," Sangar stated, outlining his broader vision. "Motorsports is still emerging, and I want to play my part in putting Haryana — and India — on the international rally racing map." His journey from Kurukshetra to the tracks of Indonesia paves a new path for aspiring rally raiders from the region.
