In a major initiative to promote ecotourism and boost adventure on both four-wheelers and motorcycles, event organisers Kampuchea Autosport Racing Agency (KARA) will hold the country’s first-ever Khmer Rally Raid in the mountainous province of Mondulkiri from December 8 to 11.

The three-day raid has been sanctioned by the Cambodian Motor Sport Federation and is supported by the Mondulkiri Administration.

A host of sponsors and partners are backing the rally including SK ZIC, Total Mondulkiri, Suzuki, Cambodia Extreme, Mayura Hill Resort, DID, Giant, HotBits, Leatherman, MCC, Metzeler, Penh Chet, Pirelli and VKH,

According to the CEO of KARA, Pao Tolleang, the rally will be run in four divisions with several professional riders from Thailand, India, Israel, Australia, New Zealand, Netherlands, the US and UK in the mix with talented Cambodian enthusiasts also joining the fray.

The hilly region of Mondulkiri offers a challenging terrain for the participants with the two Special Stage events also tackling muddy roads, river crossings and rural outback.

As many as 11 rallyists from Thailand and one team from India will compete in the six-car Auto International while nine drivers and co-drivers will line up for the Auto National that will see a predominantly Cambodian field.

In the UTV National, four Khmer riders and pillion will fight with two from Thailand. but it is the mixed Moto National and International that will be the feature of the event in which 24 motorcyclists including overseas professionals, will vie for honours. Three local racers have pitched in to this man vs the machine fight.

After the opening day scrutineering and conventional briefings for the rallyists, there will be a soft opening ceremony at Kou Prey. At 2pm on December 9, the first Special Stage of 38 kilometres will wind through Sen Monorom and the airport road, The second and final SS2 of 47 kilometres will be completed the following day.

The governor of Mondulkiri, Svay Sameang, will preside over the prize distribution function in Kou Prey.