The hugely successful launch was all kicked off in fine fashion with a game of cricket against a local team. Our runners appeared in full force to wage battle against a crack squads of top athletes as well as the blazingly fierce sun. The match was a ferocious bout of athleticism, vigour, and of course the right team winning. The right team unfortunately being judged by cricketing prowess and the actual result, rather than being judged by whoever was wearing Rickshaw Run t-shirts. It was close though. We notched up oodles of runs, tea and samosas were devoured with fervour and a jolly good time was had by all. There were as many excuses for the result as there were smiles.
Next up on the programme was the magnificent launch party. Seeing as the party is held in an old Dutch palace on an island we arrived by boat. Beers, wine, a traditional martial arts display and a fireshow were all soon to follow. Earth hour was observed and we feasted on a veritable banquet of Keralan cuisine by candlelight. Mr Tom and Mr Matt kicked off the generally awful dancing, while Mr Vikash could be found hogging the mike and acting as MC. More beer, more wine, and especially more terrible dance moves were soon to follow. An extra boat eventually had to be put on after the DJ was instructed to keep spinning his discs of mirth.
With heads of variable states of fuzziness the following morning, the teams were all prepared and pumped up for the big flag off. The parade ground shook off the demons of the cricket match to provide us with a perfect starting grid. After a few words from Mr Matt and from the MLA for the area, the Honourable Shri V.K Ebrahim Kunju, the chaos commenced and the teams were flagged off to the beats of traditional Keralan drummers. They were led out of the city in convoy by our rickshaw Guru Jitu. There was a fantastic reception from the locals and many heads were turned in wonder, shock and awe.
Next stop....Sikkim. Or 1 mile out of town with any number of mechanical complications.