Set to be an annual event, the first edition of Goa Tourism Vintage Car and Bike Festival opened in Panjim, Goa. Classic vehicles, 83 vintage cars and 40 vintage bikes were part of this mega show which was flagged off by the Tourism Minister Mr. Dilip Parulekar on October 1, 2016 at Paryatan Bhavan, Patto.
The cars and bikes then moved through the city to Dona Paula junction and onwards to the INOX Courtyard where they were on exhibit from 12 noon to 6.00 pm. This was open for everyone, without any fees.
Participating in this rally were vintage cars dated from 1921 to 1970. Cars at the festival include Citroen, Austin, Morris, Cadillac, Ford, Chevrolet, Mercedes, Volkswagen bikes like Norton, BSA and BMW are also on display.
Spectators lined the streets to get a glimpse of these vintage models and while cameras rolled, elated cheers were heard as the vehicles passed by. Overwhelmed by the surge of audience and immense participation, the Tourism Minister stated that this would be a yearly event that would boost tourism in Goa. Award ceremony was held later that evening while a jazz music show was also organized at INOX Courtyard along with a variety entertainment to add to festivities.
1946 Ford Jeep, 1965 Mercedes Benz, 1965 VFJ Jonga and 1964 Standard Herald received awards for Long Distance Travelled in the vintage car category while a 1965 BMW RSO receive the award for the Long Distance Travelled vintage bike.
Award for best-restored vintage car was offered to a 1921 Citroen while the best-restored vintage bike was a 1942 Norton 16H. The best restored classic car was a 1961 Fiat 500D while the best restored classic bike was a 1965 Lambretta L1 150 series. In the heritage category were a 1964 Standard Herald and 1962 Jawa while best cars on show were a 1968 VW 1600L and 1952 Lambretta.
Have a look at the image gallery, where each of these classics are captured.
