Pune's seasoned rally driver Sanjay Takale showcased his trademark resilience at the 30th edition of the Asia Cross Country Rally (AXCR), steering Team Toyota to an overall second-place finish despite early setbacks, as per a release from Sanjay Takale Media team.
The Indian driver was awarded a Special Trophy for his remarkable fightback performance in Asia's toughest cross-country rally, often referred to as the "Asian Dakar".
Takale's gritty drive came after a dramatic incident on Day 2, when he hit a large ditch at high speed, resulting in a tyre blast and a major puncture. The wheel change was further delayed when a wheel nut broke due to the impact, costing Takale and his Thai co-driver *Keerati Noijard* more than two hours. Unable to complete the leg, the duo incurred a penalty of nine hours, dropping them to the bottom of the standings, the release stated.
Rather than conceding, Takale launched a determined comeback, gradually climbing the leaderboard over the following stages. His persistence not only salvaged his rally but also secured Team Toyota a strong overall finish.
"The special trophy was given for my fightback performance, and to hear school children chant my name during the prize distribution ceremony was truly special," said a beaming Takale from Pattaya. "I am proud that my performance helped Team Toyota secure second place in one of the most demanding rallies in Asia."
{{/usCountry}}"The special trophy was given for my fightback performance, and to hear school children chant my name during the prize distribution ceremony was truly special," said a beaming Takale from Pattaya. "I am proud that my performance helped Team Toyota secure second place in one of the most demanding rallies in Asia."
{{/usCountry}}Takale's spirit of sportsmanship was also evident during the rally. On Day 5, he stopped mid-stage to help a Team Toyota teammate whose car had been bogged down in a swamp. Using his winch, Takale pulled the car free, sacrificing over an hour of his own time but ensuring both cars continued in the rally.
The *AXCR 2025*, held from August 8-16, spanned over 3,300 km of some of Southeast Asia's most punishing terrain, with drivers navigating deep forests, river crossings, and swampy stretches.
For Takale, the rally also marked a continuation of his rich motorsport legacy. The *2011 AXCR champion* and *2012 Asia-Pacific Rally Champion (APRC)* has competed in over 48 rallies worldwide, with an astonishing 42 podium finishes. He also created history as the first Indian to complete the legendary *Dakar Rally (Classic Category)* in a car.