CS Santosh bags 2016 Desert Storm title

CS Santosh has grabbed his third consecutive Desert Storm title in the Moto class. Teaming up with Suzuki Racing, Santosh won the annual desert raid astride a Suzuki RMX450Z Rally.

However, this race win didn’t come without its share of drama. While Santosh had gained a 53-minute lead by the end of the ninth stage, the 10th stage saw him attract a 60-minute penalty for missing out on the passage control and failing to get his card stamped. Despite this setback, Santosh took charge of the race over the next 100 kilometres, winning by just over nine minutes.

Conducted over a distance of 2,300 kilometres, the Desert Storm is one of India’s longest and toughest cross country desert rallies. The race tests out the endurance, physical and mental toughness of riders and is routed over different terrains including dried river beds, sand dunes and other obstacles.

Commenting on his victory, Santosh said, “I made it difficult for myself. The time penalty for missing out on the passage control came at the most inopportune moment. However, that’s rallying, anything can happen. I am very pleased with this win and even more with the way the Suzuki RMX450Z Rally performed in these conditions.”