NEW DEHLI, India (Nov. 11, 2009)—Apollo Tyres Ltd. is sponsoring a reality-type television show where average people compete in a seven-episode driving adventure across India.
Apollo Flight of the Hawkz, to be broadcast in March 2010 on the National Geographic Channel, will test the mental, physical, driving, outdoors and safety skills of 12 participants selected in a nationwide contest, the company said. The winner will get an all-expenses-paid trip for two to Masai Mara, Kenya.
The program isn't meant for expert drivers, but ordinary people, said Apollo Managing Director Neeraj R.S. Kanwar. “Participants here will be people like you and me, who love their vehicles, enjoy a good drive and are wiling to push themselves further with each milestone, all with key safety parameters in mind,” he said.
Environmental specialists will be involved to ensure the contest doesn't increase the company or National Geographic's existing carbon footprint, Kanwar said.
Indian actress Nethra Raghurman, known for her love of the outdoors and performing stunts, will anchor the show, Apollo said.