Punjab’s Tourism Minister flags off 20th edition of ‘SJOBA TSD Rally 2024’

Chandigarh, September 27, 2024: The most awaited 20th edition of the SJOBA TSD Rally 2024, a flagship motorsports event organized by the St. John’s Old Boys’ Association (SJOBA), was officially flagged off by Punjab’s Tourism Minister, Tarunpreet Singh Sond, at St. John's High School in Sector 26, Chandigarh. This year, 46 enthusiastic participants from across India, including teams from Kolkata, Mumbai, Shillong, and Uttarakhand, are competing in this three-day motor sport extravaganza.

Harpal Singh Malvai, President of SJOBA, emphasized that this is the first time the TSD Rally is being held as a standalone event. Participants will cover about 250 kilometers daily on September 28 and 29, returning to the flag-in point –St. John’s High School by 6 PM on Sep 29. A prize distribution ceremony will follow at Hotel Lalit, IT Park, Chandigarh.

Malvai added, “The SJOBA Motor Rally, which began in 1981, has evolved significantly over the years. The first TSD Rally for standard four-wheelers debuted in 2001 as part of the SJOBA Motor Rally, and this year marks its launch as an independent motorsport event.”

Danish Singh Mangat, Secretary and Competitors Relations Officer, highlighted the rally's unique participation this year, which includes three teams of specially-abled drivers, 12 all-women teams, 22 professional teams, and 12 novice teams. Notably, three teams of senior citizens’ and several couples are also participating, along with teams from SJOBA.

Brimming with confidence Preeti & Digvijay who are taking part in the specially-abled category in the rally said, "This event is more than just a rally; it’s a powerful platform that celebrates our abilities and resilience. It reminds us that with determination and support, we can break barriers and inspire others."

 Anjani Arora & Shreyosi Kanta, both senior citizens participating in the rally, underlined, "This rally is a wonderful reminder that age is no barrier to adventure. It provides a platform for us to embrace new experiences, connect with others."

Jasmeet Kaur & Jyoti Iyengar participating in the women category remarked, "This rally provides an incredible platform for women to shine and share our passion for motorsports. It empowers us to break barriers, inspire one another, and prove that we can excel in every arena."

SPS Ghai, Clerk of Course, explained that the TSD (Time-Speed-Distance) format requires drivers to use a Road Book and Speed Chart to calculate travel times between specified points. “Winners will be those who adhere to the TSD parameters with the fewest penalties,” said Ghai.

Nagendra Singh, Dy Clerk of Course) said, “The SJOBA Rally is recognized as the largest motor rally organized by a school alumni association in collaboration with the Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India (FMSCI).”

Winners will be announced across multiple categories, including Overall, Professionals, Amateurs, and Novices, with trophies and cash prizes awarded for the Overall category. Additional trophies will be presented to winners in all other categories, including special prizes for ladies, specially-abled participants, couples, and SJOBA teams. Prior to the flag-off, SJOBA experts conducted a thorough vehicle scrutiny to ensure roadworthiness and verify registration documents.

It is pertinent to mention that the mega motor rally event  is being supported by VRS - a real estate company, SERVO and Punjab Tourism among others.