What began as a simple idea in 2017—an endeavor to capture the driving spirit of enthusiasts—has evolved into one of the most eagerly awaited events on the automotive calendar. Entering its fourth year, Evo Enduro continues to grow and evolve, each edition bringing new experiences and unforgettable memories.

The early years of Evo Enduro were remarkable in their own right. In 2017, the journey from Kuala Lumpur to Phuket was a one-day adventure. The following year, the challenge was extended to Hua Hin, heightening the excitement. Evo Enduro 2019 introduced the spectacle of ‘racing teams,’ each vehicle adorned with striking liveries that turned heads and captivated spectators.

We set out early that morning, the sun barely cresting over the horizon, as our convoy roared to life. I had been a part of Evo Enduro since its inception in 2017, and each year, the journey had only grown more exhilarating. What began as a one-day dash to Phuket had now evolved into a multi-day pilgrimage, each mile a testament to our passion for driving, our love for adventure, and the camaraderie we shared as a team. Evo Enduro 2022 was no exception.

Crossing into Thailand felt like stepping into another world. The warmth of Thai hospitality greeted us as soon as we arrived, the people from Thai tourism treating us to a spread of local cuisine that was nothing short of spectacular. The rejuvenating massages afterward were exactly what we needed after hours on the road. It’s funny how little things like this, the moments of rest between the chaos, make the journey even more memorable.

The ring roads of Bangkok were something else. Thailand’s infrastructure may not always be as polished as Malaysia’s, but there’s a certain logic to how things are built. The designated lanes for high-speed driving were particularly impressive, a feature that I wish more places would adopt. As we tore through the outskirts of the city, it was hard not to compare it to home — Malaysia’s smoother roads versus the practical layout of Thailand’s highways. Both had their merits, but on this trip, Thailand’s roads won my heart for their unique character.

That evening, we gathered at Tulou Restaurant for a night that felt more like a reunion than just another meal. Thai tourism had pulled out all the stops. The setting was perfect, blending Thai and Malaysian cultures, and dressed in traditional costumes, we shared stories from the road. The highlight was undoubtedly the reunion with old friends. In Mae Hong Son, we met Miss Point, the owner of Sang Poy Cottage, where we had stayed during a previous trip. It was a joyful reunion, one that added another layer of depth to our travels.

As we look forward to Evo Enduro 2022, our aim is to build upon this legacy. While the battle against Covid-19 continues, Evo Enduro 2022 represents a beacon of hope and a celebration of our collective triumph over adversity. The event promises to be a tribute to our resilience and a reminder of the joy and camaraderie that define the spirit of Evo Enduro, it embodies the heart and soul of this extraordinary event. Amidst the banter and musings, lies a profound understanding of what makes EvoEnduro more than just a race — it's a celebration of the automotive spirit.

As we set off from Hatyai at 7:30 a.m., none of us could predict the surprises waiting for us along the way. The 750-kilometer journey to Hua Hin stretched before us, promising a day filled with laughter, reflection, and scenic beauty. Thai roads have their own charm — cambered turns that make driving feel safer, vibrant rest stops serving up delicious street food, and the sheer joy of smooth, uninterrupted driving. The road trip was long but every bit of it was an adventure.

Somewhere along the way, we had a good laugh. I had pulled into a PPT Gas Station for a quick Amazon coffee break, and in the chaos of getting back into the car, I somehow managed to leave my phone on the roof. By the time I realized it was gone, we were already miles down the road. Despite the small loss, it became another anecdote, one of those moments you recount with a smile when you look back on the journey.

After about 2,300 kilometers, we arrived in Chiang Mai, surrounded by towering mountains and winding roads. The thrill of the Mae Hong Son loop awaited us, and as we checked into our hotel, the sense of accomplishment was palpable. We had crossed through landscapes that would take your breath away, driven roads that tested our skills, and forged memories that would last a lifetime.

The next leg of our journey took us through the serene landscapes of Mae Hong Son to Ban Rak Thai and Pai. This stretch was something I had looked forward to — 4,088 hairpin turns that would challenge both man and machine. The Chinese village of Ban Rak Thai was a fascinating stop, a place where history and culture collide, a reminder of the resilience of the people who lived there. Driving through these remote areas, I was struck by how far we had come, not just physically but emotionally, too. Each twist and turn felt like a victory.

Pai, with its mountain air and bustling night market, was a fitting end to this particular chapter of the trip. The roads had tested us, the sights had mesmerized us, and the food? Well, let’s just say that Thailand’s street food game is on another level. We paused at a scenic viewpoint between Mae Hong Son and Pai, and for a moment, the world seemed to stand still. Laughter echoed through the mountains as we marvelled at the beauty of nature.

After over 5,000 kilometers of driving, we finally returned home, tired but content. My ten-year-old BMW had been a steadfast companion throughout the entire journey, handling the punishing roads and endless hours behind the wheel like a champion. I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of gratitude for this machine that had never once let me down.

As the journey wound down, thoughts turned homeward. The roads of Thailand had been good to us, but there was a certain comfort in knowing we would soon be back on familiar ground. Crossing the border into Malaysia brought a sense of closure to the trip. I reflected on how different the two countries' roads were, but also how much I appreciated Malaysia’s consistency. Still, Thailand had left its mark on me.

Evo Enduro 2022 was over, but the memories would live on. This wasn’t just about the cars or the driving — it was about the people, the friendships, and the shared moments that made it all worthwhile. As I looked ahead, I couldn’t help but wonder what adventures next year’s Evo Enduro would bring. One thing was for sure: I would be there, engine roaring, ready for whatever the road had in store.

A Journey of

Passion & Camaraderie