International Speech Contest - Toastmasters

International Speech Contest in Logica- Toastmasters (27th Feb-2010) Area B5 Contest

Bangalore

The moment I got a mail for the “International Speech Contest” to be held in Logica – I wondered what to speak on. Thanks to my MBA classes – I had to give a presentation the same day with my colleagues which was supposed to be evaluated. Anyways – after reading the “Big” manual for the Intl. speech contest – the biggest hurdle was getting a script ready & what to speak on. As you all know – I am a Bike/Car aficionado. In one of my assignments for Marketing – I read amazing reviews/articles on Tata Nano – how the concept came and design. I did quite a bit to formulate the script and make it into a speech. Thanks to Google – where you will have an abundance of materials on Nano. Gosh – it is such a hit that you will be swarmed by the reviews. Well – I was more involved into it. It took me – almost 2 days to finalize on the Speech ,,,and now was ready to start on with the preparations. With my MBA assignments on track - - I had a 2 page to review. Thanks to my manager – who gave me time to practice – otherwise I would have been blank on the practice sessions. I do not know how may hours I had put on the preparation for the speech,,but I do know that many prepare for more than 2 months to take part in the contest. I heard from Alex – one of buddies who in Logica Toastmasters – that one of his friends prepared for more than 6 months. Wow – what dedication.

D-Day

Part-1

It was a big day for me as I had to present in the MBA class – my project on M&A and then rush to Logica for the Speech contest. The day began smooth at the Institute – but as the day approached for lunch – my heart started to beat faster and faster. I was not able to focus in any of the lectures,,finally,, it was time to leave. I had a group presentation to give with my colleagues on mergers “Emirates with Indigo Airlines”. I figured out that if I do the presentation – I will not be able to attend the Intl. speech contest. I informed my colleagues on this and headed straight for the venue.

Part-2

I can still remember the drive from Koramangala to Logica (Marathalli) – I was tensed. As I got close to the venue – my hands started to sweat. A moment that i would not forget. Approx. 60/70 members were at the venue and it was nice to see Alex, Lalan and Veronica around – after all – it was a Logica event.

4 more contestants were left to speak on the “Prepared Speeches” section. As the names were called out – I feared mine being the next. But, yes – it was called out – and I was there at the Dias within seconds. I looked at the crowd dazzled, I froze for a moment. Standing in front of an audience – listening to what you speak is something I will never forget. I gained momentum and spoke with confidence. Of all the hard work and preparation done – the speech went in a constant flow. I was in a rush to finish my speech – but that is where the challenge is all about-to speak at ease, confidence and above all – a powerful speech. I did not know when my speech ended. By the time – I was at the sofa relaxing – I finally had delivered my International Speech.

2 more speakers delivered their speck and the results were out. Logibods were delighted when the results were out. Alex came 3rd in the “Prepared speeches” and a win too in the “Table Topics”.

As the meeting got over, Sirur Sir was happy that the event held in Logica was successful. All of us - who were there present at the venue - clicked photos -Lalan,Soma(my-wife),Alex & Lata. It was an achievement for Logica Toastmasters.

http://www.toastmasters.org/

The Great Himalayan Expedition - Beasters in Lahaul,Spiti,Sangla & Kinnaur.

Preparations

Getting the bike shipped from Bangalore to Delhi is one helluva task. Got the bike packed with no scope of damages for the train to Delhi.I got it checked in Delhi once again and found the wires were cut some places. Got it changed at the last moment.The last 2 days had gone more in the preparation of collecting Mats and sleeping bags from Dimensions in Sheikh Sarai and meeting in the “Mecca” Karol Bagh for Shopping of Bike Spares. Riding in New Delhi is one hell of a task when the humidity hits a whopping 97% with the traffic snarls.

Day 1- 21st June.08
New Delhi to Bilaspur

Thanks to all as we were more organized. Met at Azadpur Mandi at 5am. I would not have made it here with the help of Abhay since driving down from Vasant aparts. to the meeting point was far. We got our 1st experience when our co rider Amar lost his pouch on the road. Clueless where it had fallen, we left soon for the highway. Yes, I finally made it on the highway and we didn’t waste a single minute getting out of Delhi. We stopped midway for Breakfast at one of the famous dhaba’s for Paranthas’ and chai-Jhilmil Dhaba. Thanks to Rohit who knew Delhi-Chandigarh highway and ridden a dozen times. We reached Chandigarh mid day at “Katani Dhaba’ for brunch.The yummy Paranthas were to good and had more n more - to find the Cramster jacket difficult to wear. Now- we head for the hills - Swarghat and further. Got a wee bit taste and bid adieu to the plains. The fresh air, road curves and trees - wow, we are in the Himalayas.Stopped for chai at 3 pm - when we got a 1st jhatka - Amar's standard bike gave problems,,it refused to start as it had ignition problem. Tool box, battery check up,oil - all that and it didnt work. We lost 2 hours of riding and had to dump it in a tempo for Bilaspur. Since Nishant and Megha were behind, we had to wait for them to catch up. Getting Amars bike fixed at Baldev Mechanic in Bilaspur took time. We settled for the day at Sangam guest house with thora sa Rum and heavy dinner.

Day 2 -22nd June.08
Bilaspur to Manali

Woke up late - left for Manali at 8. Amar - now his bike been fixed left early as he wanted to see Rohtang Pass and head back to Delhi. The ride was comfortable having good highways. We stopped for B.fast at Delhi Durbar in Mandi. Rohit suggested to take the Old Manali route to Vashist - less people and less traffic. A decent ride with less of trouble and settled near the old bridge in Hotel Dreamland. Had to help Nishant fix his Ladakh carrier as the "Patti" broke. Tanked up in the evening. Had to help once again - Amar's bike since it gave problem down hill in Rohtang. I wouldn't recommend a Standard bike on long tours as this one gave hell loads of problems. A yummy dinner with the Bikers and heard Panauti's story of his solo trip to Leh.

Day 3 -23rd June.08
Manali to Chatru via Rohtang (3970 m) n Gramphoo.

We left at 5am as we heard a mega traffic jam in Rohtang Pass - one of turns had mud n slush.Gaining an altitude of 2050mts - we had more to climb the pass. I had to squeeze my bike to get over the traffic - took the nearby hills to over take the jam. We lost 2 hours of precious climbing due to traffic and lanslide and i knew the Nallahs at mid day are high.The view Rohtang (3970 Mts) was beautiful seeing the herringboned ridges into the Lahaul Valley. Few kms. further - i found the SonaPani Glacier and down to Gramphoo - you get to see the Lahaul & Spiti Valley. We stopped for B.fast at Gramphoo. As you take right - the real safari begins with off roading - now only mud,slush, rocks and water crossings for another 170 kms - this was the moment i waited for years. It was a dream riding in this region. The 1st Nalla crossing was terrible - the water flow was high and glacier water was too cold. The 500's managed - Rohit and Nishant's bike. Manu tried his level best to over - he did but with burnt clutch plates - we tried to fixed it but it didnt work. Had to leave the bike n head to Chatru as it was getting dark. Leaving the chaotic traffic and coming to Lahaul is an experience - here its more rugged and loads of barren rocks in the mountains. I managed to do a small trek with Saurabh up in the hills to get a good view of the Lahaul Landscape.Here, at Prem Dhaba - we got the real hang over of "AMS" as Pooja says - aao mujh me sama jao - its Acute Mountain Sickness.We took a few snaps on the Chatru bridge and planned for next days early ride.

Day 4 -24th June.08
Chatru to Kaza via Batal & Kunzum Pass.(4590m)

We bid farewell to Manu and Saurabh as they had to get the bike fixed in Manali and it wasnt possible for them to catch up. I hope if Manu reads this - he makes it some day on this route - as this was his 2nd attempt to Lahal & Spiti. Getting used to the Nallahs and dirt track - now it was farely easy driving. The 2nd day in Lahaul - the landscape was similar and i felt i was in an unknown territory. On this stretch - we found no traffic at all and no bikers. The mountains are so huge as if they would eat you - barren and untouched with clear blue skies.Crossed Chota dhara and reached mid day at Batal. Had b.fast with garam chai n maggi tohead further to K.Pass.Crossing the Chandera river valley - the muddy n dusty ascent after Batal to Kunzum Pass was tuff. I found the need to have a 500 as i would see Rohit and Nishant cruising over mountains with ease. Tuff turns and ziz zag curves - it seemed y'r climbing the Pass - on 1st gear ,,the bike screamed for extra power as every curve was difficult. I enjoyed the view crossing the Bara Shigri glacier. Reached K.top and did a parikrama. Kunzum Pass (4551mts.) is a point which divides the Lahaul Spiti Region, since we crossed Lahaul - now we would travel in Spiti. After a breif photo shoot - we head to Spiti.15 kms down hill- you reach "Takcha" where the valley broadens with the river. I am short of words to describe Spiti. The 70 kms ride from K.Pass to Kaza is gorgeous - a mixture of the Rockies n Colorado mountains. The view is amazing and riding in Spiti was heaven - i felt that every minute driving in Spiti is worth it. Stark beauty, narrow valleys,,,as Rudyard Kipling says in his book Kim - Spiti - is a world within a world and the place the Gods' live.Had lunch at Losar, i rode to Kaza with good roads crossing Hamsa,Pangma,Morang and Rangrik.Checked in at Norbuling Guest house at Kaza.

Day 5 -25th June.08
Kaza - Caumic, Ki(4116m)& Kibber(4205m) Gompas

A relaxed day - left late for Caumic Gompa via Langza Village. At a very high altitude - the day ride was tuff but worth a visit. Steep rocky mountains and strips of cultivable land - the village Langza,Hikkim and Caumic were beautiful. Caumic Gompa - you get the real taste of Buddhism and meet tribal people. Settled for a cuppa of tea and left for Kaza. The gang wanted to rest where i found time to visit Ki and Kibber. Riding alone on this section was worth it - Ki and Kibber. Reaching Kibber had steep climbs. Kibber is the highest permanently inhabited village in the world. at Kibber - the view is awesome. I wish i had managed a day to trek on this route. Imagine temperatures dropping to below 35 degree C - people survive only to the prayers of "Om Mani Padme Hum". I dont know the number of shots i managed to click - but its worth it.I ran out of fuel - so drove downhill 10 kms to save fuel and reach Kaza.

Day 6 -26th June.08
Kaza to Nako via Tabo (3050m) n Malling Nallah

Tanked up at Kaza with extra fuel -left at 8am for Nako. I had loads of doubts crossing Malling - hearing the crossing was too tuff and road clearance. The roads were good and we zoomed by villages reaching Tabo by 10. Nishant's left his purse at the guest house and we had to find ways to get it at Tabo.Finally we left Tabo as Freya-RTMC would collect the purse.Thanks to Sanju. We crossed Sumdo - close to China border. From Chango - a 20 km uphill to Malling - we found neat n widened roads. On few turns - my bike refused to climb as the ascent was very high. I had to stop for a few minutes as the clutch plates were hot - i feared that it would burn. Climbing Malling Nalah reminded of Changla terrain. As we approached nearer - it got barren with dusty roads,,the crossing had a high flow of cold water with a turn. This was it - Rohit, Nishant and me had to reiki and check out the water level,,,unpack my luggage - cross the river and with full throttle - cross Malling. Yes - we did it. It was one of the difficult Nalla crossing we did on the entire route,,one slight miss - and the water would have seeped in the engine.Reached Nako by evening and checked in Knaygoh Guest house.

Day 7 -27th June.08

Nako

Nako is a beautiful village, our guest house had a perfect view of the Nako Tal overseeing the village. It looked like a perfect holiday - sipping Tea, writing points for the Blog and Beasters discussing school old days and past rides.Me,Pooja & Rohit did a Nako tour of the village and settled for late lunch. We found the village empty as most had gone to the fields and only a few Cow noises. Did a small trek to get a view of the mountains.Late dinner at the Knaygoh Guest house.

Day 8 -28th June.08
Nako to Sangla via Khab,Pooh,Skibba,Karcham

Left at 8am, drove for 1 hour to reach Pooh.A rocky terrain downhill with beautiful ghats. Stopped for Nishants carrier repair.We stopped at the Check post after Pooh and met few cyclists. Reaching Kalpa, we found the mountains landscape change -now it was green, snow capped mountains with fog and tarred roads. We reached Karcham - where we had to take a deviation to Sangla - 22 kms. The uphill had a good view - pine forest with loads of greenery. Yes - we were n Sangla Valley - a landscape totally different than Lahal and Spiti.Reached in the afternoon at Prakash Guest house.

Day 8 -29th June.08

Sangla
The view from the guest house was perfect - the mountains were covered in fog. The guest house had a big apple farm and we could see the Beasters Bike - resting.I took a walk with the Beasters to Sangla village - met a Kinnauri family, they offered Chai and showed their Carpets and badam jewelry. Vidya Rath is currently a school teacher. Did some shopping in the evening and had a heavy lunch n dinner. We were supposed to go to Chitkul but the roads conditions were not good and loads of water crossing.

Day 9 -30th June.08
Sangla to Narkanda (2708m) via Rampur

Since it was a long day ride to Shimla - had to leave early - but not that early of course. We got a good stretch of the Rampur ghats and the roads were perfect.I was sad for a while since now - we got back to civilization and the heat would get me in wearing the Cramster jacket. Stopped mid way for brunch - i could feel the plains would not be far. Then came the Narkanda ghats at noon - the stretch was good with a good gradient. As we entered the ghats - i found the view was great with lots of fod in the mountains,,at some stretches - visibility was bad and had to slow down. A nice ride to Narkanda - at the entrance - i found the Beasters waiting for me for Chai. We took a break - it was almost evening - and by Nishant and Rohits persuasion - we stayed at Hatu Peak - Narkanda. The Hotel Hatu had an amazing view and cosy rooms.It was my last night with the Beasters as i would take a detour to meet my freinds in Ludhiana and then to Delhi.

Day 10 -01st July.08
Narkanda to Ludhiana via Shimla

I had to leave early as i had a long distance to cover to ludhiana. Crossing Narkanda to Shimla was a nice ride with a good panoramic view of the Snow peaks and the cedar forests.I wanted to take a few pics. in Shimla - but when i saw the traffic - i was in no mood to burn my clutch plates - i zoomed to the bypass for Chandigarh.On downhill - i could feel the heat and was wondering what it would be in Delhi. Bought 4 kgs of small apples for freinds and reaching Chandigarh by 3pm. Got lost on the way but soon found the route to Ludhiana. Got the highway for Ludhiana - this route was tiring as it was very very humid,,,i miss the hills. I reached Hardeeps pind - Basti Jodhewal by 5ish.Happy to meet Hardeep after 3 years and saw his new horses.

Riders - Beasters-New Delhi
1. Rajiv Jispa (Electra 350cc-Blue)
2. Rohit Sharma (Machismo 500cc)
3. Nishant (modified 500cc)

Pillion
1. Pooja
2.Megha

Total distance covered
2350 kms.



Photo links
1. http://picasaweb.google.com/kkrajiv/BeastersInSpiti
2. http://picasaweb.google.com/kkrajiv/Spiti

Important Contacts and Phone Nos.
1. Mahendru Motors - (Adchini.New Delhi) 011-26856331
2. Salim Mechanic - (Uphaar Cinema.New Delhi) 9945366563
3. Shanta Negi - (Kinner Camps.Nako) kinnercamps.com,941844077
4. Surender - Alpine Trek - Manali 9816316293,alpine_treks@hotmail.com
5. Cramster - Bangalore
www.cramster.in 080 41519713

Swim for Life

Having suffered a Lumbar Slip Disc as what my doctors say and a "No No " to biking, i gave it a thought on what my passion is all about.
Well the doctors didnt say that i had to stop "Biking" ,,but to make the backbone strong - the Vertebral column needs to improve,,,i had to Swim which would help to tone up the body and make my bones strong.

Trials :
I had been swimming in Delhi for a while but at the initials - i barely could make it to one round-50m . Being a beginner - doing the breath of the Pool was a daunting task. I started to swim on weekends in the "NGV" pool in Koramangala,,but soon found out that the Chlorine level was too high and most of times - the water was murky. After 2 months, i found that i had improved on my speed and the size of the NGV Pool was too small.
After 3 years in Bangalore - i came to know that the State had one of the best swimming pools,,one being in "Jayanagar". Infact - Karnataka is the only state to have 5 pools in a city.

The Start.
I think the Jaynagar swimming brought good luck to my health. When i started swimming,,i didnt have an idea what different styles u had at swimming. Within 2 days - i got my hands on the Freestyle..As time passed by,,i managed to do breath of the Pool. The Pool is very clean - crystal clear water, chloring is checked at every hour and you have Life guards to check you,,and above all - you pay a mere Rs.16 for an hour.
In a months time - i could say to myself,,yes - i was practising for that alloted 45mnts. i had.
And above all - improving on my health and back.
Benoy - a lifeguard and Coach found me a regular member to the pool not missing the 1:30 batch.
Thanks to him - who had given me few tips to improvise on the style n action on Freestyle strokes.I improved on the way i was swimming and now i came to know that i could do the entire 50 mts in 1 stretch.

Practise:
2 months ago - Benoy approached me with a Brochure of the "Karnataka Swimming Association" South Zone Masters Champioship 2008. Well,,that was it,,i had to take part in this big mega event which i never thought of,,,
I did practise - 45mnts. everyday doing the length of the Pool. In all - making 20 rounds - 1000mts. per day without smoking n drinking on the weekends. I had to store all my energy for the big event counting on the calories i eat,,,juices,,,light meal and dates.
It was a tuff time when i found my frnd pardying on the weekends and me - being left out.

The Big Day
22nd March - Holi .
When one things of Holi - its Bhang. I had to avoid it ofcourse and no drinks.

It was not a moment seeing all my freinds playing with Colors.

200 Mts Freestyle : Eight Swimmers and 3 medals to be won. It was a close competition. What made things worse was the 25 Mt. Pool in Basvangudi. In Jayanagar - its a 50 mt. So doing a 200 mt. means - taking 4 laps but here - it was 8 laps. I was not used to flipping over for the next lap and was conscious. Instead you had to put in more energy in the beginning of the lap to get more pace.I had no option but to overcome the task,,,,,
I lost a few seconds on the lap changing and thats what made diff. on my timings. i missed it by a whisker .5 secs for the Gold.
The competition was tuff and i could see my coach yeling at me when i had to go for the next lap.

Medal : Silver
Timing : 4 mint. 14:08 secs.

100 Mts Freestyle : I had good competetion in this event. Benoy - my coach from Jayanagar, his freind - Shaji was taking part in this event. Shaji is member of the Kerala Team and i knew he would win. Exhausted in the 200 mt. event, i thought i would not make it on this event. I did not loose hope and gave it my best shot.Just keep on swimming and maintain a regular pace. I did a good dive which did give me a good pace. As i touch the finishing line, i found that i had come second.

Medal : Bronze

Timing : 1 mint. 43:86 secs.

4*100 Mts Medley

It was the last event and every one was waiting for this moment. We had teams from Kerala, AP and 4 teams from Karnataka. I was not hoping that our team would win,,,,i am not good at short distance - 50 mts. and back stroke was not my option on the medley. i preferred freestyle. was the last to do the freestyle on medley,,,my focus was on my colleagues finishing line so that i could go next,,and me going at the end,,was much more difficult since the event depends on the last person. We managed to come 3rd and was happy with the score.

Medal : Bronze

Timing : 3 mint. 06:66 secs.

You feel proud at the end when you have 3 medals and someone honoring you. Now - a member of the Karnataka Swimming Association, i do enjoy benefits and who knows,,where will i go,,,its an event where you come to know - your talent and you meet the best.
I owe my credit to Benoy - Coach for teaching n having patience. I will miss him as he has got a new Coach Job in Dubai.

link : http://picasaweb.google.com/kkrajiv/Swimming

6A RTMC Anniversary - Coorg Riding

6A Anniversary-RTMC Coorg
Sunday, October 7, 2007

6A RTMC Anniversary - Before i start - all readers must know what is this

Its our Clubs 6th Anniversary where all Bikers come together n have fun. Also with us always are the Mad Bulls - from Chennai. When they celebrate - the RTMC joins.
RTMC - Rolling Thunder Motorcycling Club.

6A - Its one of the most awaited events we look for - loads of fun and meeting old bikers.

N riding to a new destination. This time - the venue looked pretty cool - coorg,,,,poor Chennai guys had to ride some 600 kms in a day - some did it one day,,wow.
I had already booked my dates and taken a 1 day leave,,,having Gandhi Jayanti in mid-it was a 4 day break from maddening crowd.

Riders - Rajiv aka Jispa, Lokesh - 2nd ride, Bhupinder -Jaali and Ronan ( Oracle)

Day 1 ( Blr. to Venue:Madikeri)
I couldnt sleep the entire night cause i was so excited to drive with the Machos and hearing the bud bud sound.
Woke up early - and gave all riders missed call for the ride. As always, Lokesh was dead asleep and i called some 20 calls to wake him up. Had i not jumped the entrance gate, Loks. would not have made it to the 6A. He was gasped for a moment and clue less as to how i managed to reach his room. Anyways, we were zooming off to Town Hall and Chetan accopanied us all way.
By Joe, it was worth a visit to Town Hall - the Bikers were ready to zoom off and create havoc on the highway,,Mad Bulls were also with us,,the total count of the Bikes were approx.85
Ronan, me and Bhupi were cruising at 90 and i did not have any clue were Loks. was....I couldnt keep up with the pace of mad bulls,,,thats why there are called Mad Bulls,,they drive at very good speed and you need ur engine/riding exp. to be tuned to keep up with them.
We stopped for Breakfast at Kamat - buffet was real cool - at Rs.60/ you could grab every piece of south delicacy you want..it wasnt a brkfast for me - rather a brunch.
Without wasting time - we headed for Madikeri - guzzling on the highway is an exp. I could notice all four wheelers gaping to see the Bulls at high speed with the thud. echoing.
I found Nits. n gang as they were off to Masinagudi for the weekend. Stopped for Chai and headed off.
We regrouped at Srirangapatna for all riders to come by since there was a deviation here. Thanx to Butter for the guidance.
The last time i came to Madikeri - the roads were been done.Now, i saw the difference. Right from the turn to Madikeri - the roads were in shape. Few hamlets to be spotted enroute and a faboulous tarred to ride on.
From Chettahalli to Capitol Village - it was a mee Ghat section - i really had a ride. belting my engines out on the roads,,it was a smoothie ride meandering the ghats midst the wild beauty of Madikeri.
We were now at the venue - Capitol Village - Madikeri at 1:25 PM.
Bikers all lined up for the Big Bash - bikes from Delhi, Kerala, Karnataka, J&K,Tamil Nadu and AP.
Its amazing to see ven you have riders like Mamidi coming all the way fro HYD. and the Mad Bullls coming all the way from Chennai.
Pork during was lunch was cool and we checked in a Crystal Court - its 5 kms from the Venue,,dozed off a bit after lunch for the big bash.

6A Pardy

Arrived to the venue by 6. Huge gathering and could see loads of mineral water around. it wasnt water but booze ,,,even we had our signature - ready to rock. The venue was real cool this time. loads of greenery around wtih a pond neary by. We settled for the 1st round,,thanks to biscuit - i managed to get a peg of scotch,,the session started with loads of thankx to the organizers and to Subhash Chandra Bose - the legend who had come. There was a psoter for bid -which got sold to SCB at 10 K. And the customery helmet to Bra. ( lucky him) It started to drizzle wee bit but the crowd got berserk on the tunes,,in a moments - all of us were on the dance floor - pardying hard.
By 1ish - we were ready to head back - now the drive to our home was 5 kms - a few ghats in the dark, and to RTMC rules - drink n driving is a no.no.no. Lokesh was tully,,but he convinced me to ride to hotel. Anyways, we all reached safe - thanks to company of Scorpio. a few chit chat with RKMC guys, Biscuit, Sushesh and Doc. Plans were futher after the pardy to ride to Kasargod,Mangalore and back to base. Crashed by 2.
Day 2 ( Abbey Falls, Detour Countryside, Kakkabe-Coffe Country Resort )
Wow, what a night we had. i woke up with a perfect morning, mystic clouds, Coffee shrubs and mountains. Yes - i was in the "Scotland of India" . Amidst such a landscape - you wouldnt want to leave back,,spend some more time to get the fresh breeze.
Packed our bags and headed for Capital Village. Most of the Chennai gang left on Sunday for monday work and the rest who managed to get leave - headed for Kasargod. We were ready to take a Detour of Country side. Met the RTMC gang during lunch and a photo shoot to follow. Ooops, i missed the chota ride we had to "Abbey Falls" , Coorg has loads to see - get your vehicle or you will be handicapped. Falls were amazing - nice to have sushesh, Tiger, Hiren n Biscuit around.
After lunch, adieu to the gang n Ronan and ready to rock,,,,our journey further. Having Bhupi and Lokesh around - 1st time in Coorg - i was not sure where i was heading,either to Kutta or Kakkabe. But no bookings or any references,,,just ride on. some help from the hotel guy, we took the route - capital village-siddapur-virajpet to Kakka Be.
The 90 kms.detour was a bliss. You have to be there to beleive this,,in the ghats - the bike guzzled its way out on the Coffee Plantations,,,ven you talk of Coffee- its Coorg. It seemed that "Nature was at its best" ,,,my bike, clouds,Coffee, roads and a perfect weather. There was one moment - Siddapur to Virajpet - an 18km stretch,,,its rocking. I was zooming to madness, Bhupi. dancing on his bike and Lokesh busy enjoying the wild.
Wow - it was worth coming here. Also, i was anxious to visit the 2nd time - Coffee Country. We managed to get bookings - thanks courtesy - Sujoy.
We checked in the resort by 5ish amidst drizzle. Few cups of tea,,we were at an altitude where you could see the "Western Ghats" at its best.
The 3some travellers then went for a stoll to further up with Chandra.
We settled in the night with a few shots of Vodka and amazing food. Thanks to Chandra who managed to get Pork - as i had taken a vow only to belt on,,,i mean - if you are in this - try the best delicacy.

Day3 ( Trek to Thadayendamol, Madikeri, Kushalnagar)

We found a new company - Rohit from Madbulls. He was alone travelling after the 6A and looking out to venture. He joined us and planned to stay till Kushalnagar. After a heavy breakfast, it was time for trekking to "Thadayendamol" . This is one of the highest points in Krntaka. / Kerala --amazing trek - it requires atleast 4 hours. had to take our bikes to a certain distance where we would start our trek. I thought that Coffee Country is where the place to be - but i was trekking - again - Coorg has so much to offer. Lush green landscape and in the wild. not a single soul to be around --only Bhupi. and his funny jokes and his solo pics. the higher we climed - we felt we were in a blanket of mist. Visibility poor and us - catching for breath. Yes - its not the bulleet engine that we depend on but our engine - our strength to take to heights. It reminded me of the young days - ven i trekked in Leh. In 2 solid hours - we reached "Thadayendamol" the highest point and now in "Gods Own Country " . Yes - Bhupi said - now i am in Kerala.
This is the point where you could make calls and inform everyone at home. Loks. managed to get one more day leave. Photo shoot and some time in the wild,,we headed back. Downhill was a daunting task and Bhups.came up with the idea of bathing in the wild. We spotted a stream nearby - Bups. Loks. and Rohit were in the stream. i wasnt due to my back ache and i fear having Leaches sucking my blood out. a few eews and aaahsss, they were out f the water - bathing in freeze cold water can catch ur lungs,,,,
Settling the bills,,tea - we zoomed off to Madikeri. Rohit took us from a diff. route...a shorter one that we had taken - 90 kms to 21,,,,jaaali and loks. were looking at me for a while. We were now - heading to Kushal nagar - the tibetan refugee camp. got some ghats downhill and belted the engines out for some smooth roads.
The total distance was 60 kms. we reached Sera Jey Monastery by 6 PM. Checked in choeling center at dirt cheap price - i wouldnt think of getting a double room of Rs.250 per day. Got some time to see the prayers and few learning from the Monks.
It was dark now -so we headed for the guest house.
Morning - Rohit had left since he had a long way back to Chennai.

Day 4 - Bylakuppe - Bangalore

Rohit left in the wee hours after a short visit to the Monastery. We followed suit and visited the main Monastery,,its amazing to see so many Monks in India - its one the largest settlements / refugge camps after Dhramshala. It was a small Tibet.I was more interested seeing the paintings and the gold statue of "The Buddha" . Loks and Bhups. did heavy shopping. I managed to get momos and thuppa. Its Yum. We were ready to leave for Bangalore since we wanted to hit base before dark.
Enroute - some autos came by and in disguise - we founda girl screaming - aage police hain. i wondered what was that for. Thanks to ghe girl,,,yes - we had the RTO waiting to empty our pockets. 3 travellers - Karnataka, delhi and J&K number plates. I still havnt paid road tax --so i was bound to get heavy duty,,,we escaped those rascals and took a local longer trip to the highway. All scared - we enquired at regular intervals for cops.but none in vain. We were on the highway back home. We reached B.lore by 7ish.
Rajiv's Comments.
I would like to thank Bhupi.Ronan and Lokesh on this ride. Bhups.- you rock and having you around - i could get do the wackiest things on bike that i would never dreamt. Driving in shots and barefoot in Coorg was crazy.

Loks. - had i not jumped the gate,,i would not have you here,,this ride will be memorable.
Ronan - bhai ,,we will ride further.

Travellers Comments : I would call a perfect getaway to Coorg.My view of the "Western Ghats" has lelt me baffled and i would long to travel more inspite of extensive trekking in Sakleshpur, Chickmaglur and 2 times visit to Coorg.

Statistics.
Total distance covered : apprx. 850 kms.
Visits : Mysore.Madiker.Siddapur.Virajpet.Kakkabe, Abbey Falls & Kushal Nagar.

Contacts
Coffee Country : 0827 2238635,2238330
Palace Road, Kakka-Be.Kodagu
Sera Jey Monastic University Guest House. Bylakuppe.
08223-258723
Bon Voyage.

Rajiv (Jispa)

kkrajiv@hotmail.com

kkrajiv@gmail.com

Yelagiri Ride

Yelagiri Ride

The announce list wasn’t much this time in RTMC since most of them were busy on the anniversary ride to coorg.

Ride : we were to assemble at Shell Petrol bunk at 7:00 am sharp, but due to some pick ups –we reached at 7:30
Due to the incessant rain and Saturdays downpour, we thought that Sunday would be hell
Riding in the rains, but it wasn’t. We didn’t get any showers enroute but rather a gloomy dull weather con gusty winds interrupting our speed on return.

Our first stop was at the Customary Joint near the HP petrol bunk just after Hosur – near Leyland factory. After breakfast and some chit chat n Shakti’s Leh ride, Hiren had joined us to ride on.
The ride was pretty smooth since we did not face any mech. Issues. Most of us were in a group riding only Cup - who was still running his engine. We met Sampath at the Toll Free - who happened to be one of us Muthu's freind, and was with his wife riding to Yelagiri. Sampath joined us,, By 10ish,,we were at outskirts on Yelagiri. Arun made a few calls for the Mad Bulls guys to meet up,,,all turned up at the meeting point. We soon headed for the uphill to Yelagiri. 25 monsters driving uphill was cool with the "bud bud" at the backdrop. Some of zooming off but i still recall some RTMC who rammed into a brand new sumo,,so i was pretty slow at the bends,,"be gentle on my curves" - one of the famous signboards on the Leh route.

We headed straight for the resort for parking and to meet rest of the Mad Bulls. Started off with the Customary Intro round,,Bala-Mad Bulls joined us on his legend Trip and the "Altitude Overdose" stories. Most of the riders were newbees and heard about the "Wet Ride' they did to Kerala,,i liked the concept of riding in the rain,,,we should have one in RTMC,,,the intro round got boring after some time ,,it was killing,,and wanted to head straight for Biryanis.

Vaniyambadi : after the boring intro. rounds, we headed straight for Khaja's . We were zooming off for belting session. As always,,when we reached,,you could have the onlookers just stare at you as if were from Mars,,Its Khajas' day to earn big bucks..One thing i liked about the restaurant - the service,,yum,,,mutton biryani and bheja fry,,while i write this in the wee hours on tuesday,,i wish,,i wish,,to have some more. Ven its eating time,,no one talks,,the focus is on the food. Shakti ,me and Bhupi were on the 2nd serving,,,now i realize,,someone on return dozed off and hit the barriers,,,i wonder you get a similar taste in apna B.lore. Time for us to leave and mind you not to b.lore but for shopping. Mad Bulls-David escorted us to Ambur - for leather stuff. Prices were cheap but you had to be lucky to find your size and the right pair. You get the best brands - geoxx,timberland and Olivers,,but you gotta be lucky. By the time we realized,,it was almost 4:30,,,,bid adieu to Mad Bulls and headed back.

Return : A challenging task if you dont have ur lights. Mid way - my electricals sanpped off,,so i was riding in the dark,,thanks to Arun and Bhupi who were escorting me,,your eyes go for a toss when we dont have lights. Hiren too faced the same problem,,,we reached B.lore at good speed,,thanks to no traffic on return. In all,,it was a good ride.

Riders : Jispa,Shakti(Biscuit),Hiren,Arun(Dead Dog),Cup, Bhupinder & Susheel

Pillion : Shalini,Soma,Ram & Juhi.

"Caman the Enjaiment"

Bikers Club - Day Ride to Savandurga

"The Legend Rocks"

"When you drive the legend, it gives a feeling that you are driving a Bike.

"Make way for the "Bullet"

How it started: The Idea came up in the Parking lot at Basement -2 , where diff. brands of Bikes were parked. Amongst all, were the "Monsters" owned by some Gficians. It seemed that some had the passion of riding "The Bullet" where we came up with an "Intro" meeting. After 2 consecutive meetings, we came up with the idea of having a 1 day ride to Savandurga.

Preparations : Since most of us were new, only 2 were veterans - Rajiv and Bhupinder who donned numbers plates of Delhi and J&K - there "Odometer" reading was more than 40,000 kms. They had covered the inhospitable terrains of "Ladakh" and some of the known highways in India - Delhi,Jaipur, Chandigarh - Kolkata, Chennai and Pondicherry.

Based on the experiences, the 2nd meeting was much focussed on the prepartions and tuning of the Bikes.

Day Ride : Most of the Bikers assembled at Oracle GFIC by 7 am and ready to ride to Savandurga. We had a planned route and break points at regular intervals just to check everyone was at the same pace. Riding from Oracle GFIC to the Mysore Highway was quite interesting when you beat the early morning traffic. Soon, you realise that the Mysore Highway is ready to take you for the ride. The Monsters were ready to action and rock the roads.

After a one hour ride, all bikers stopped for Breakfast and Kadu Mane. It was good intro round at the Breakfast table to know people working at different depts. n diff.shifts .

Soon we headed off to Savandurga taking a deviation from the Highway.

Savandaurga : The total distance from Blr.to Savandurga is approx. 75 kms and we reached early. The drive was amazing since there was a particular stretch where some buzzed off at 100.
We were close to the remains, infact in the region where "Sholay' was shot. Gigantic Rocks, loads of Shrubs and deserted landscape. You really seemed to be chasing Gabbar - said one of my freinds said ,,but not on the horse but on a "Bull". Thanks to Blr. Tourism as roads were well tarred to zoom off,,

We soon hit the entrance of Savandurga, where we had the Photo Shoot for the club. Our Local guide escorted further to the temple and the most daring task we had to do for the day - Trekking to the Hill Top.

Hill Top : When one thinks of the Office elevators - you dont dare to use the stair case, when one thinks of travelling, you dont dare take the local bus, but we were here, where we had dare to Trek for 3 hours.

Some had given hope not more to climb than an hour. But it was fun trekking and hearing about the Bikers in diff. processes. and whose-who at work.

When we reached the Top, a spectacular view. A view that was memorable and worth an hours trek.

Some settled to relax at the Top while Vivek was busy taking shots on his new SLR.

Manish, Rajiv, Bhupinder and Shivananda headed further for a more wide view at the temple top - another hour of Trekking. The wind seemed to kill our energy while trekking as we gasped at regular intervals. We had to crawl over some boulders and slipped down a wee bit as the route was dangerous.

The sight was amazing, got to see the Nandi Bull at Temple Top. From the Hillock, you could see the vast arid land with shrubs covered all over the place.

Our decent was very fast and we met our gang, we soon headed to the base. Going downhill was very painful as the knew were hurting.

It was lunch time and we asked our local guide to escort to a local place. Food was yum at the local Bus Stop - Rice with Sambhar.

We soon zoomed off back home before it could get dark. On the way - we saw the Big Banyan Tree.

Riders :
Rajiv Kumar (CSD)- Blue Electra
Bhupinder ( TP) - Silver Machismo
Ronen (AP) - Red Electra
Shivananda (HR) - Black Electra
Abrar ( OA) - Red Thunderbird
Saurabh ( LAD Consulting) - Silver Machismo

Pillion :

Jared ( OA)
Manish ( TP)
Vivek ( NA Consulting)