Into the driving seat

As the whistle blew and the green flags were waved near the start line outside the building of United Traders Syndicate Pvt Ltd, distributor of Toyota in Chabahil, 55 women who were seated in the driving seat cheerfully drove their cars along with their navigators. These women were there to participate in the Toyota Women’s Rally organized by United Traders Syndicate Pvt Ltd to celebrate women’s achievement in motorsports and promote safe driving.

As the checkered flag waved at the Gokarna Forest Resort the women were welcomed with a garland for completing the rally. The women had reached the resort after completing the 30 km distance that took the route of United Traders Syndicate building, Narayan Gopal Chowk, Bhatbhateni Temple, Jamal, Newroad, Bhadrakali Temple, Tripureshwor, Baneshwor, Tinkune, Airport, Gaushala, Chabahil Jorpati and Gokarna Forest Resort.  

Rajyalaxmi Shakya, bagged the first position and won Rs 50,000 cash, trophy and gift hampers. Rinchen Lama came in second and was awarded a purse of Rs 30,000, trophy and gift hampers. Similarly, Swastika Maharjan won the third prize with Rs 20,000 cash, trophy and gift hampers.

The winners were selected on the basis of fulfilling the criteria such as time limit, road safety standards and compliance with the traffic rules. The rally was judged by the officials of Nepal Automobiles’ Association (NASA).

Since its inception in 2004, the Toyota Women’s Rally in Nepal has been a beacon of progress—-celebrating women’s achievement in motorsports. It stands as a testament to breaking stereotypes and fueling inspiration in the country.

“The objective of organizing the event is to acknowledge the achievements of women. We see the great confidence, the willingness, the entrepreneurship of the women who are here and this is what we want the world to know,” said Ritu Singh Vaidya, managing director of UTS.

“I participated in the 2011 rally too and finished in a good spot. The event is more about women participation and empowerment. I believe women should not just compete in women-centric competitions. They should compete with men too. It is good to see the growth of women drivers. I loved the event,” said Saguna Shah, one of the participants.