The hawks behind the wheel

Selected drivers in their machines will swivel through rough terrains on the show, and the only condition for them is that they cannot be weak-hearted. In simple words, it is a show for anyone who likes combining the passion for off-roading with unmatched thrills and dares. But beware, those wanting to be part of the series will have to be extremely fit both physically and mentally.

The seven-part series will cover unknown routes between Lavasa in Maharashtra and Goa, with 12 participants from across the country competing to reach the final destination.

The participants will cover around 120 km per day on tricky terrains, crack intelligent mind games, take up thrilling adventure tasks like stand up paddling, tight-rope walking, monkey crawling and also manoeuvre their SUVs through obstacles. And the climax in every episode will be in the form of ‘the final dares’ which will see the participants zipline between dangerous valleys and bungee jump off a crane. The winning team will get to go on a fully-paid adventure trip for two to Masai Mara, South Africa. For good measure, the contestants will be given company by model-cum-actress Nethra Raghuraman, an adventure buff herself.

“Apollo Flight of the Hawkz promises to take adventure television to the next level with a heady mix of SUVs, stunts, mind-games and dares. Besides being the most daring driving show that has been attempted in India, it is also gives a complete outdoor experience. It is an open invitation to all adventure and driving enthusiasts who like to live on the edge. We are confident that it will be well-received by our viewers,” says Rajesh Sheshadri, senior vice-president (content and communication) of NGC.
Raghuraman is also excited for having been selected to host the show. “I am really looking forward to this thrilling roller-coaster ride as I am extremely excited about off-roading and getting away from the usual, boring city life to an extreme adventure zone,” she says. Interested participants, Sheshadri says, can register online for the on-ground selections by logging on to www.msnindia.com/natgeohawkz .

Any Indian national above the age of 18, who is physically fit and has a valid driving license can apply to be a part of the challenge. On the spot selections will also be facilitated in Delhi on January 10, Kolkata on January 17, Bangalore on January 24 and Mumbai on January 31, says Sheshadri. All participants, needless to say, will have to undergo a series of physical and mental challenges, and a medical test to make it to the final 12.

Sheshadri emphasises that in keeping with its commitment to conservation, NGC will also be working on a carbon off-setting programme for the series.
Utpal Borpujari