Riding through the hills, valleys, beaches and also in the busiest streets of metropolitans, the Mumbai Xpress 2009 will kick-off this July. All this in a three-wheeled vehicle with a two stroke engine: The Auto Rickshaw. The Rickshaw challenge Mumbai Xpress- 2009 will follow an extensive route over 1900 kilometers (roughly 1180 miles).

This event is being held for the third time in the country, and the spotlight is on adventure and discovery, combining the thrill in motor sports and adventure in tourism. The funds raised are to shore up the rural schools without proper amenities and for the betterment of their education.

"Last August; Stephen Milford and Alex Jones two British nationals of the "Two Tukkers in Tuxedos" team took home the 2008 Mumbai Xpress World Champion Trophy. While Stephen and Alex went back home with a trophy, we have determined the real winner in the race: the children of India!" held Arvind Bremanandam, Lead Organizer of Mumbai Xpress.

The organizers of the event are aiming at profit of rupees 25 lakhs this year. The beneficiaries of this astounding sum of money will be around twenty thousand children who are indisputably in need of it. Over 30 teams will compete with each other to drive through the exciting roads of our country. The organizers and the participants will also visit these schools and spend time with children benefiting from the event.

Renowned actor and industrialist Arvind Swami, gave away rupees one lakh for the event. He also gave away prizes for the class toppers at Adventist School, which is one of the benefiting schools. This adventurous road trip will be held over the period of July 31 - August 13.

Vidya Addhepalli