From Kurukshetra to Indonesia: Haryana biker makes international cross-country rally raid debut

Kurukshetra-based motorsports enthusiast Navneet Sangar has scripted a milestone for Haryana by becoming the first rider from the state to compete in an international two-wheeler cross-country rally raid. Sangar recently participated in the Inisiasi Rally Raid Adventure (IRRA), held in Majalengka, West Java, Indonesia, earlier this month.

The four-day rally, spanning nearly 450 kilometres, is a demanding cross-country event that relies entirely on roadbook navigation, testing riders’ endurance, mental strength and navigational precision across challenging terrain. For Sangar, the event marked not just his first international race, but also his first exposure to the roadbook-navigation rally format.

“This was completely different from anything I had done before,” Sangar said. “Roadbook navigation requires total focus and decision-making on the move. There is no margin for error, especially when you are racing in unfamiliar terrain.” Roadbook navigation is a method for following complex routes, common in rally racing, using a specialized booklet (the roadbook) with symbols, diagrams (tulips), distances, and instructions, rather than just GPS, to guide participants over varied terrain, emphasizing driver skill and focus over pure tech.

What made his participation even more noteworthy was the fact that Sangar competed without sponsors or external support, independently managing every aspect of the campaign — from motorcycle preparation and logistics to planning and execution during the rally.

“From preparing the bike to handling logistics and race strategy, everything was self-managed. It was tough, but it also made the experience deeply personal and rewarding,” he said.

The rally pushed him both physically and mentally. Sangar faced multiple challenges, including adapting to a new navigation system, riding across difficult terrain and sustaining endurance over long stages. Despite the hardships, Sangar says the warmth and support of the local Indonesian community played a key role in keeping his spirits high. Having raced extensively in India — including events such as the Indian National Rally Championship, Rally Of Himalayas (ROH) and the iconic Sjoba Rally — the international exposure proved eye-opening.

Racing with jersey number 07, a tribute to his hometown of Kurukshetra, Sangar views his IRRA participation as a stepping stone towards greater international representation.

“Haryana is already known for producing world-class athletes,” he said. “Motorsports is still emerging, and I want to play my part in putting Haryana — and India — on the international rally racing map.”

Get an chance to win ₹5000 Amazon Voucher by taking part in India's Biggest Habit Index! Take the survey here