Land Rover takes the top spot at Gregory’s 4x4 Mud Challenge 2014

Wednesday, 23 April 2014 00:08 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The Gregory’s 4x4 Mud Challenge 2014 was held on 17 April by the side of the picturesque Lake Gregory in Nuwara Eliya, and was witnessed by a large crowd of approx 10,000 spectators. With several of Sri Lanka’s top extreme 4x4 competitors taking part, the spectators were privy to some exhibition 4x4 driving by the participants.

Indika Sanjaya (driver) and Navin Marapana (co driver), competing in their 2500CC Diesel Land Rover showed why they are considered to be Sri Lanka’s best and most consistent 4x4 team. They achieved the best time in both special stages and won by a comfortable margin. For the first time in Nuwara Eliya, the competitors had to run a dual track which was tailor made to include various difficult and challenging obstacles such as deep water, mud holes, steep ascents and even steeper descents, sharp angles and inclines. Whilst these challenges proved to be too difficult for several competitions that failed to complete the course, Indika and Navin using their vast experience overcame all obstacles in their path with ease and sealed a memorable victory. Indika Sanjaya and his co-driver Navin Marapana have been the most successful team in 4x4 Motor Sports in Sri Lanka’s history. Not only have they won every single major competition in Sri Lanka, they have proved to be amongst the top three teams in the world by winning the Diesel Category in the Malaysian Rainforest Challenge 2009. The Malaysian Rainforest Challenge is the toughest 4x4 challenge in the world, attracting the top teams from around the world.

The 2nd and 3rd place winners were also driving Land Rovers thus making it an all Land Rover Podium. Shihara Thilina (driver) and Thusitha Sri Kumara (co driver) secured second place, whilst Prinith Manamperi (driver) and Chathuranga Madumala (co driver) came third.