Bengaluru, Aug 13 (IANS): The annual Mahindra Adventure Monsoon Challenge TSD Rally, with 26 vehicles in the fray, will commence here on Saturday after a ceremonial flag-off on Friday.

The rally, covering a distance of 700 km over three days, will finish in Mangaluru after traversing through some scenic B roads and highways through the iconic Western Ghats with stretches of dirt track that will test the driving skills and the reliability of the vehicles.

The event will be contested in various categories - Challenge (professional), Amateur, Corporate, Ladies, Couples and Media.

With a total prize money of Rs.4 lakh on offer, the Monsoon Challenge is one of India's richest TSD (Time-Speed-Distance) motorsport events approved by the Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India (FMSCI) and is held especially for Mahindra vehicle owners.

Speaking at a media conference here on Thursday, Vivek Nayer, Chief Marketing Officer, Automotive Division, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd said: "Mahindra has been at the forefront of motorsports in India for the last few years and it has been our constant endeavour to provide adrenaline pumping challenges.

"To continue our efforts on these lines, we are pleased to announce the fifth edition of the Monsoon Challenge under the umbrella brand of Mahindra Adventure.

"Along with the highest prize money on offer for a TSD rally, this event challenges both man and machine. The rally also provides a perfect opportunity for Mahindra owners to compete while enjoying the monsoon vistas in celebration of Incredible India."