Mangaluru: Two Mangalureans, Girish PV and Suraj Henry have completed an adventurous and long ride from Kanyakumari to Kashmir (K2K) on their 1982 Lamby and 1968 Lambretta respectively.

On June 26th, the riders started their 4,800 km K2K journey from Kanyakumari in their scooters and reached the end of their destination, 21 days later at the Kardung La peak on July 16th. Thrie journey was not a smooth one and had its tribulations.

Months of planning and preparation was undertaken, including the conditioning of the scooters for the long journey. The scooters were modified to carry luggage, extra fuel cans and spares. In April, a trial run was conducted in which many Classic scooters took part on the route to Madikeri and back.

Both or the riders are also members of Mangalore Classic Scooter Club. The club in attempts to not only save and showcase heritage of Classic Scooters of all makes, but also keep them going strong in today’s modern world with much faster vehicles.

During their long journey, they encountered many fascinating people, family and friends, riders from different clubs, who all came together to welcome them with open arms. Handing over of the Star of Kargil Banner, with signatures from all the Motorcycling Club riders, conveying their message of respect and honour to the brave soldiers who guard borders in tough terrain, was the highlight of their trip. The action of the duo, who had travelled from Kanyakumari, greatly touched and impressed the commandant and chiefs of the Kargil Army Camp.

Of the duo, Suraj is a city based entrepreneur and Girish waorks abroad and visits India once every three months.

Girish and Suraj will be felicitated by Girish P V Abhimanigalu and Honnekatte Friends Circle, Kulai on having successfully covered 4500 kms long challenging journey from Kanyakumari to Kashmir. The function which will be held at Mahila Mandala, Kulai at 6 pm on July 21st, will be attended by Mangaluru City North MLA Dr Y Bharath Shetty, Businessman Mahabala Poojary, Vidyadayini High School, Surathkal, former Headmistress I Umadevi and others.