Kohima, Dec 5 (IANS): The formidable team of Aviu Rutsa/Neiketoulie Meyase and co-drivers Rudkuobetvo/Pete cracked the testing mountainous terrain here to emerge victors in the JK Tyre Hornbill Off-Roading Cup.
Yanger Lushang/Maken Lepden and Bento Swu/Bovito Kiho claimed the runners-up position while Ikweithing (Justin)/Kenrak Thou and Irietui/Elu finished third in the 1.5 kilometre course that comprised six gruelling challenges and obstacles.
Each team comprises two cars, manned by a driver and a co-driver, to help each other tackle the various obstacles together.
Abemo Yanthan was adjudged the best spotter while Aviu Rutsa added another feather to his cap by winning the best off-road rig as well.
It is the first time that the off-road event has been added to the annual JK Tyre Hornbill Motor Rally which is in its ninth year of existence.
The rally coincides with the famous Hornbill Festival of Nagaland, a seven-day extravaganza of cultural performances, ethnic food courts, handlooms and handicrafts bazaars, film and art festivals, fashion shows and a national rock contest.
Earlier on Monday, defending champion Gagan Sethi and co-driver Sabatullah Khan stole the show in the picturesque hills by winning the TSD rally spread over 55 kilometres.
The rally concludes with the World War 2 Peace Rally, that pays homage to the martyrs of the Battle of Kohima.