| 3rd Annual Konkan Fruit Fest, Goa - May 6-8, 2005 |
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| Today's Events include Fruit Quiz - Papaya / Banana eating |
| Competition. Check out http://konkanfruit.swiki.net | --------------------------------------------------------------------------
http://www.ndtv.com/sports/showsports.asp?sportname=Motorsports&story=Goa+becomes+hub+of+motorsports&id=22475
Motorsports: Goa becomes hub of motorsports
If you aspire to be a motorsport daredevil, then Goa is the place to be.
The state is fast turning into a hub of motorsports with a large number of enthusiasts and tourists at hand to witness the excitement.
Perhaps the most popular event is the Motocross, where motorcyclists go through six rounds on the muddy terrain of Goa.
The brain behind the event is Ashley Gomes, the first Indian to officiate motocross world championships outside the country.
The importance of the event, he says, is in uncovering fresh talent every year.
"Last year, we had a fantastic response. Every single champion has ridden here. It is the safest track in the entire country, at par with any international racing track and this year, we have dedicated the event only for Goan riders to promote fresh blood," said Gomes, President, Goa Motorsports Association.
Enthusiastic response
Indeed, it is the daredevilry and speed on display that has drawn a chunk of spectators.
Watching acrobatic somersaults at more than 90 kmph has been like a breath of fresh air for many of them and might help motorsports become the most popular sport in the state.
"This sport is catching up a lot in Goa after football, and it's really catching up with a lot of youth. The sound of the motorbike is really thrilling. I brought my wife and children, it's beautiful," said a Goan.
India slowly breaking into the top echelons of motorsports internationally might be the boost that this event needs even as it seeks to change the image of Goa from a land of sun-and-sand to a land of speed-and-thrills.
