World Volkswagen Day Celebration in Sri Lanka
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The Volkswagen Beetle Owners Club have made arrangements to celebrate ‘World Volkswagen Day’ today (Sunday) the 22nd of June which is the date allocated around the globe for this unique motoring marvel that was the definitive motor car that made motoring a way of life with over 21Million examples that found their way into every nook and crevice of the world. This year too, the Mount Lavinia Hotel and the Taj Samudra have graciously come forward to partner this event as in the past year which was resounding success.
It was over 60 years ago that the first consignment of VW Beetles were introduced to the driving public of Ceylon which began the “wave” of “Beetle mania” that found the ownership of many who took up the challenge against the odds and the criticism of a rear engine air-cooled machine that resembled a “Beetle . The challenge was proven with humble thanks to the un-rivaled reliability, economy and more than all, the light steering and responsive handling that won the hearts of over 3500 owners within a short span of 7 years from 1953 right up to the restriction era of 1960. Looking back at the year 1953, many social changes did take place in our Island nation having gained independent status and it is also with much pride that we state of the many great personalities who championed this change were proud owners of a VW Beetle.
The Beetle has created a sense of ‘joy’ to the many generations of owners who have considered the ‘Bug’ as a member of the family which may have been the decisive factor of the World dedicating a ‘day’ for the diminutive Beetle that is celebrated around the Globe.
‘As in the previous events, VW’s of all ages and colours are expected to participate in this year’s celebrations as well. On this special occasion the Club recognizes two senior personalities who have brought fame towards the VW Beetle in Lanka and it is with great pleasure that the Club wishes to award at this year’s celebrations. Mr. Bala Thampoe and Mrs.Iranganie Serasinghe, both who have been ardent supporters of the VW’ siad Peter Jasinghe, the President of VW Club.
The Ambassador for Germany in Sri Lanka is expected to grace the occasion as in the past year and this event is certainly not to be missed by any person who goes ‘Banana’s’ over ‘Bugs’. The event will take place on Sunday afternoon on the 22nd of June at the North Lawn of the Taj Samudra and will have the “Grand Finale” at the Mount Lavinia Hotel.
VW owners who are interested in participating in this unique event are requested to contact the Club Secretary Nalin Perera on 0773142236.