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Category: Non-F1
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JK Tyre to launch TSD Ranger Odyssey at Coimbatore on June 10
New Delhi, June 09, 2023: JK Tyre, a leading global tyre manufacturer, announces the much-anticipated Ranger Odyssey, a family navigation event designed to celebrate the love for long drives and ignite the spirit of adventure in participants who are wild at heart. The maiden event will flag off on June 10th in Coimbatore and will be followed by events in five other cities- Pune, Hyderabad, Cochin, Chandigarh & Gurgaon. The rally will test the mettle of drivers and navigators as they traverse diverse terrain and routes, competing under the time, speed, and distance (TSD) format.
Motorsport fans treasure rallies for their thrilling mix of skill, precision, and teamwork. The Time-Speed-Distance (TSD) rally format specifically tests drivers and navigators on maintaining correct speed and timing while following a designated route using a roadbook. The inclusive nature of these events even allows family members to join, making it a fun family experience.
Mr. Srinivasu Allaphan, Director-Sales & Marketing, JK Tyre & Industries Ltd. said at the announcement of the RANGER ODYSSEY, “The Ranger Odyssey encapsulates the essence of adventure, inviting participants to embark on an extraordinary journey that blends adrenaline, competition, and camaraderie. Join us as we embark on this exhilarating adventure, fuelled by the pursuit of excellence and the unwavering commitment to deliver exceptional motorsport experiences.“
JK Tyre & Industries Ltd, ranked among the top 25 tyre manufacturers globally, has been a pioneer in introducing world-class motorsports to India. With a rich legacy spanning three decades, the company has been instrumental in creating an ecosystem that allows motorsport enthusiasts to participate and provides spectacles for fans across the nation.
About JK Tyre Motorsport:
JK Tyre has been closely associated with the world of motorsports for almost three decades. The company laid down a long-term plan to popularize and promote the sport in the country. Its first target was to change the notion that this was a sport for the elite. So, it packaged and redesigned it in a spectator-friendly way, drawing the masses to the sport. JK Tyre’s efforts started paying dividends in just a few years’ time, with the likes of Narain Karthikeyan and Karun Chandok going all the way to the F1 rung, the highest level of single-seat racing in the world. Since then, a number of stars emerged, including Armaan Ebrahim, the Maini brothers (Kush and Arjun), Anindith Reddy Konda, amongst many others. JK Tyre Motorsports is very proud of the role it has played in bringing women into motorsports in a big way. Apart from encouraging them to get into the sport through karting as kids, the company also gave them opportunities in various national championships. With a vision to promote women in motorsports, the company has curated women-centric events such as JK Tyre
WIAA Women’s Rally to Valley, JK Tyre Defence Wives Power Drive, JK Tyre-YFLO Women’s Power Drive, JK Tyre Times Women’s Drive apart from introducing an all-women’s team in the JK Tyre National Racing Championship to encourage women to take up to the sport.
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MRF Tyres helps Godspeed revive popular fmsci Dirt Track Nationals
Coimbatore, 8 June 2023: The MRF Dirt Track fmsci National Championship 2023 will be launched here on Sunday, June 11. Thanks to Godspeed, the Dirt Track Nationals are back after a gap of over a decade on the calendar of the Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India (fmsci). The Championship sponsored by MRF, with MX Store as associate, will run the first round at the open Codissia Park Grounds, Opposite to Jenneys Club on Sunday, the 11th of June, from 9.30 a.m.
Adding another off-road racing discipline under its umbrella, Godspeed Racing, Pune, now promotes three flagship Nationals, after gaining the National rights to organise all the three top off-road two-wheeler National Championships in India, namely National Supercross, National 2w Rally and Dirt Track Nationals.
With the aim of providing a safe and controlled environment for the new riders and upcoming rookies, Godspeed set up the platform to test their skills with a machine and again brought to life the forgotten but popular form of racing, the Dirt Track Nationals. The new event provides riders a safe platform for testing their speed, control, agility and bike-handling and gives them an avenue to push their adrenaline. “We will strictly adhere to all the strict guidelines and norms laid down by fmsci, the governing body of motorsports in India. We also have the ambulances and safety equipment in place and a fleet of trained officials and marshals, said Shyam Kothari, a seven-time National champion and the man behind the whole show.
“Unlike other motorsports, Dirt Track or flat track racing requires minimum modifications to the machine and therefore is more accessible to the masses and this in the racing language is referred to as ‘Group C’ where riders need to make a minimum change or alteration to their motorcycles in order to race,” added Shyam, who was instrumental in promoting many youngsters.
The Dirt Track Nationals will have six categories for Group C and will also have the premier four classes for Group A which are for foreign-made motorcycles, making it 10 classes in the National Championship. “Godspeed is introducing these10 categories to provide a chance to riders across the spectrum, to participate irrespective of the motorcycle they own, or their past experience, age and sex. Separate classes for children aged 8-plus, a scooter class, and an exclusive woman class are the highlights.
Worldwide, Dirt Track Racing or Flat Track Racing is identified as a stepping stone to graduate into serious form of racing disciplines like Supercross, Motocross and Rallying. Godspeed will help these riders to hone their skills, test their abilities and find their niche for the future.
The 900-meter track with 18 corners is prepared on Black Cotton soil. Coimbatore with its rich culture provides great conditions and has enthusiastic and knowledgeable people aware of the nuances of the competitive sport. The event will be one-make Tyre Championship and runs only on MRF Tyres. The scrutiny and admin checks will be on Friday and Saturday.
2023 Calendar (Dates and venues to be confirmed)
Round 1: Coimbatore, June 10 & 11.
Round 2: Bengaluru, July 1 & 2.
Round 3: Kolhapur, August 12 & 13.
Round 4: Satara, August 26 & 27.
Round 5: Pune, September 9 & 10.
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Nithila, Shreyas, Sartak… Young brigade on new path; Sethu, Mathana excel
Coimbatore, June 04, 2023: Rajiv Sethu, Mathana Kumar and Vignesh Goud notched a double apiece in their respective categories as the Rolon Round of the MRF MMSC fmsci Indian National Motorcycle Racing Championship 2023 concluded at the Kari Motor Speedway here on Sunday.
NextGen riders, Shreyas Hareesh, the India MiniGP 2022 champ, Nithila, the school girl from cycling fame, slowly demolishing the motorcycle world, and the MotoX magnet
Rajiv Sethu (RACR Castrol Power 1 Ultimate), determined to resurrect a sagging career, swept the honours in the premier Pro-Stock 301-400cc Open category while Mathana Kumar did much the same in the other top-end class, the Pro-Stock 165cc Open. Both had won Race-1 on Saturday quite comfortably and it was a virtual re-run in the second outing today.
Hyderabad’s 19-year-old Vignesh Goud (Race’ists Motorcycle Club) was equally commanding in the Novice (Stock 165cc) category as he won both the races this weekend while Puducherry’s Lani Fernandez (RACR Castrol Power 1 Ultimate) took the honours in the Girls (Stock 165cc) class after starting from P5 on the grid.
Sethu, 24, who moved from Honda to Yamaha this season by joining multiple champion Rajini Krishnan’s RACR Castrol Power 1 Ultimate team, immediately made his mark on debut in the 301-400cc category by winning both the races.
In fact, Sethu, who started from pole position, had more than enough straight-line pace as he again held off Pune’s upcoming teenager Sarthak Chavan who joined Petronas TVS Racing team this season, while Hyderabad’s Rahil Pillarisetty (KTM Gusto Racing) completed the podium for a repeat of yesterday’s Race-1.
“This double means a lot to me. I won just one race last season (in the Pro-Stock 165cc Open category). And now, I have started 2023 with two wins! In a way, this weekend could be a turning point in my career and I hope I will enjoy more success going forward,” said Sethu who has had an up-and-down career with forays at the Asian level fetching desired results. He went winless in the 2021 National championship season though finishing on podium in eight of the 10 races and scored just one win in 2020 that was in contrast to the six in 2019 when he ended second in the championship.
In the Pro-Stock 165cc Open race today, the Pacer Yamaha duo of Mathana and Prabhu Arunagiri, who had finished in that order in yesterday’s Race-1, looked poised for another 1-2 finish. However, Arunagiri packed up after nine of the 14 laps due to mechanical issue while Sarthak Chavan who was running second, also retired with clutch problem in the 11th. It left Mathana all on his own in the front as he finished a comfortable winner ahead of Bengaluru youngster Chiranth Vishwanath who did well to hold off his Petronas TVS Racing team-mate and the more experienced KY Ahamed.
Earlier, Vignesh Goud did as he pleased for another fine win in the Novice (Stock 165cc) category for a double. He enjoyed a good start from pole position and quickly opened up a handsome lead that kept increasing as the race progressed. He eventually spared almost four seconds to Mysuru’s Tasmai Cariappa (Pacer Yamaha) who was followed home by Savion Sabu (Axor Sparks Racing) from Bengaluru.
The fast-improving Puducherry rider Lani Fernandez rode a fine race to win quite handily after starting from P5 as she sliced through the top half of the field to hit the front and never looked back. Finishing second behind her was pole-sitter Ann Jennifer (Alpha Racing) and Jagathishree Kumaresan (One Racing) was third.
Petronas TVS One-Make Championship: Alwin Sundar (Chennai) started the day’s proceedings with a comfortable win in the 301-400cc Open (Apache RR310), starting from pole position. Finishing second behind him was Manoj Yesuadiyan (Chennai) who made five spots while Senthil Kumar C (Coimbatore) was third. Alwin went on to win Race-2 to also score a double with Senthil Kumar coming in second and Yesuadiyan third.
Bengaluru schoolboy Copperam Hareesh Shreyas also achieved a splendid double in the Rookie category with another comfortable victory. Fellow-Bengalurean Savion Sabu finished second ahead of Nandanan (Chennai).
Idemitsu Honda India Talent Cup: Chennai’s Kavin Quintal, for the second time this weekend, destroyed the NSF 250 field to complete a double. Having won the first race yesterday with great ease, Kavin’s dominance was even more pronounced in the second outing today over 14 laps. Finishing a distant second was Rakshith Dave (Chennai), while Prakash Kamath (Steel City) was third.
The results (Provisional):
National Championship – Pro-Stock 301-400cc Open (Race-2, 14 laps): 1. Rajiv Sethu (Chennai, RACR Castrol Power 1 Ultimate) (17mins, 10.905secs); 2. Sarthak Chavan (Pune, Petronas TVS Racing) (17:15.035); 3. Rahil Pillarisetty (Hyderabad, KTM Gusto Racing) (17:18.203).
Pro-Stock 165cc Open (Race-2, 14 laps): 1. Mathana Kumar S (Tiruchi, Pacer Yamaha) (18:16.308); 2. Chiranth Vishwanath (Bengaluru, Petronas TVS Racing) (18:18.409); 3. KY Ahamed (Chennai, Petronas TVS Racing) (18:18.812).
Novice (Stock 165cc) (Race-2, 10 laps): 1. Vignesh Goud (Hyderabad, Race’ists Motorcycle Club) (14:38.296); 2. Tasmai Cariappa PC (Mysuru, Pacer Yamaha) (14:42.038); 3. Savion Sabu (Bengaluru, Axor Sparks Racing) (14:45.305).
Girls (Stock 165cc) (8 laps): 1. Lani Fernandez (Puducherry, RACR Castrol Power 1 Ultimate) (11:49.553); 2. Ann Jennifer AS (Chennai, Alpha Racing) (11:52.201); 3. Jagathishree Kumaresan (Chennai, One Racing) (11:52.295).
Petronas TVS One-Make Championship – Open (Apache RR 310) (Race-1, 10 laps): 1. Alwin Sundar A (Chennai) (12:51.163); 2. Manoj Yesuadiyan (Chennai) (12:56.063); 3. Senthil Kumar C (Coimbatore) (12:58.807). Race-2 (10 laps): 1. Alwin Sundar (12:55.616); 2. Senthilkumar C (12:56.035); 3. Manoj Yesuadiyan (12:59.942).
Rookie (Apache RTR 200) (Race-2, 10 laps): 1. Copparam Hareesh Shreyas (Bengaluru) (13:58.187); 2. Savion Sabu (Bengaluru) (14:02.196); 3. Nandanan (Chennai) (14:02.500).
Media (Apache RTR 200) (8 laps): 1. Deepak Vishnu D (Kochi) (12:27.379); 2. Ananya Aswathi (Pune) (12:27.462); 3. Alshin K Thomas (Pune) (12:29.841).
Idemitsu Honda India Talent Cup (Open, NSF 250) (Race-2, 14 laps): 1. Kavin Quintal (Chennai) (17:11.908); 2. Rakshith S Dave (Chennai) (17:50.057); 3. Prakash Kamath (Steel City, Rourkela) (17:51.107).
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Tanveer back on top; Rajendra docked road penalty; Tanika stars again: 2w Rally Nationals
Chikkamagaluru, 28 May 2023: Former National champion, Mysuru’s Abdul Wahid Tanveer of Petronas TVS Racing, who became the first Indian to win a class in an international rally, was in his elements once again as he conquered the premier class in the Rally of Chikmagalur, the second round of the MRF MoGrip fmsci National Rally Championship for 2-wheelers here on Sunday.
The TVS talent won the top Superbike Pro-Expert Group A class clocking a time of 54 minutes, 08.106 seconds as he relegated defending champion and teammate Rajendra RE of Shivamogga, who was docked a one minute, 10-second liaison penalty for the transport section, that did him in. Yuva Kumar, the celebrated Hero MotoSports is back on the podium after a long time as he took the third place. Abdul Tanveer won his class in the Merzouga Rally in 2019.
The Petronas TVS Racing team riders dominated the proceedings once again winning the top-four Overall places with Imran Pasha, who bagged victories in the first two rounds, in third Overall place followed by a superb ride from Sachin Ignatius D in fourth. However, T Arun of Hero MotoSports prevented a top-5 sweep in the overall honours, which is a norm for TVS of late. TVS riders won three classes. It was a stunning ride from Imran Pasha who punched above his weight on a humble bike but the TVS Apache became a tiger in his hands.
Tanika Shanbagh, another young Hero MotoSport talent, continued to fly the Women in Motorsports flag winning the Ladies class again. Tanika, who won the National Sprint Championship ladies title in 2022 is keen to add another National title this year to her kitty. Though, the daughter of former rally champion Shanbagh, was streets ahead, she lost stage win to former National champion (road racing) Ryhana Bee in Special Stage 3 and 6. But her Overall 40th place beating about 60 male riders is quite an achievement. Ryhana Bee came second followed by Fazeela U of Palakkad, who is supported by Vamcy Merla of Kalyani Group in Andhra Pradesh, a former Promoter of 4w INRC.
Fazeela U of Palakkad takes a start even as officials look on at Chikkamagaluru on Sunday. The VM Sports Foundation rider finished third. INDIAinF1 photo Tanika, the young talent from Satara, is now leading the championship winning both the rounds, thus far, in the Ladies class while others, also keeping their slate clean after two rounds are, Nataraj R in the Group A Superbike Expert class, Star of Karnataka Darpan Darshan of Shivamogga, TVS’ pair of Imran Pasha and Syed Asif Ali in Supersport 260cc and Scooter class, respectively, and the new-found talent from Kulu, Nitish Bharadhwaj in the Group D 450cc Super Stock class.
Defending Ladies champion Aishwarya Pissay moved to the top class and finished fourth among five Pro-expert bikes. Preparing for Dakar 2024, the 2019 World Baja winner beat 81 male riders. She was on a superior 450cc TVS Apache rally bike as she competed with men on equal footing.
In the Supersport 400cc Group B, Rohit Shinde of Baramati turned the tables on first-round winner Russel Jossey, who had to be content with a second place and Syed Aquib of Chikkamagaluru took the final spot on the podium.
In the Supersport 550cc Group B Class 6, Bengaluru’s Mohammed Zaheer won beating reigning champion Naresh “Bruce Lee” VS while Jeemon Anthony, the supercop from Kochi took a third place keeping himself in points. The first round winner Arun Joy logged a DNF in Stage 2.
In a fight between TVS teammates in the scooter class, traditionally dominated by TVS NTorq, Syed Asif Ali once again came on top with Karthik Naidu taking second place. Despite a 20-second penalty, Goutham N of Bengaluru took third place beating Aprilia JB Racing teammate Pinkesh Thakkar, who took a podium in the first round.
Chalass Bose of Kottayam, the defending champion in Super Sport 130 cc – Group B class shifted to 165 class as the SS 130cc event is replaced by a new class, as 2023 championship saw the introduction of a Super Stock class for upto 450cc Group D bikes, where Nitish Bharadwaj of Kulu in Himachal Pradesh took the honours in the second round repeating his success in the first round at Coorg.
The National Rally Championship for two-wheelers powered by time-keepers Zeitmesser, is meticulously organised by Motor Sports Club of Chikmagalur (MSCC), under the dynamic leadership of Farooq Ahmed, a three-time Overall winner of INRC for 4-wheelers and former Vice-President of the Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India (fmsci). Godspeed Racing of Pune headed by 7-time National champion Shyam Kothari are the Promoters. Dilip Jain, ably assisted by other team members pulled off another National event but the Club is famous for hosting the four-wheeler INRC for decades.
Vamcy Merla supports 25 riders, awards cash for podium stars
Many of the private riders were supported by Vamcy Merla, who also gave away cash prizes to those who made it to the podium in Chikkamagaluru on Sunday. Meanwhile, Vamcy Merla Sports Foundation has supported 25 riders and also awarded cash prizes for those who stood on the podium. Merla has also announced and supported riders for the first round held in Coorg. Vamcy Merla Sports Foundation is also in the process of supporting Aishwarya Pissay for Dakar 2024.
Second round Podium stars from the select group of 25 riders: Nataraj 1 st Group 1A Rs. 50,000; Nitish Bharadwaj 1st Group D Rs. 50,000; Ajin Abraham 2nd 165 class Rs.25,000; Challas Bose 3rd place Rs.15,000; Naresh VS 2nd 550 class Rs.25,000; Jeemon 3rd 550 class Rs.15,000; Russel Jossy 2nd 400 class Rs.25,000; Rehana 2nd Women’s class Rs.25,000; Fazeela 3rd Women’s Class Rs.15,000; Total Prize Money given away to nine riders is Rs.2,45,000.
Provisional Results:
Class 1: Superbike Pro-Expert Group A: 1. Abdul Waheed Tanveer (Petronas TVS Racing) (54 minutes, 08.106 seconds); 2. Rajendra RE (TVS) (55:35.192, including 1min, 10sec liaison/road penalty); 2. Yuva Kumar (Hero MotoSports) (57:19.377);
Class 2 Superbike Expert Group A: 1. Nataraj R (Bengaluru) (57:41.574); 2. Aman Pawde (Nagpur) (59:18.192); 3. Sinan Francis (Ernakulam) (59:20.892).
Class 10 Star of Karnataka: 1. Darpan Darshan (Shivamogga) (1:05:50.303); 2. Kiran Kumar S (Mysore) (1:06:56.178 incl. 10-sec penalty); 3. Madhusudhan Suresh (Shivamogga) (01:07:01.954).
Class 3 Supersport 165cc Group B: 1. Abrar Pasha (Shivamogga) (1:01:47.827); 2. Ajin Abraham (Kottayam) (1:02:46.695); 3. Chalass K Bose (Kottayam) (1:03:58.263).
Classs 4: Supersport 260 Group B: 1. Imran Pasha (TVS) (56:48.770); 2. Sachin Ignatius D (TVS) (57:04.271); 3. T Arun (Hero Motosports) (57:12.135);
Class 5: Supersport 400 Group B: 1. Rohit Shinde (Baramati) (1:02:04.453); 2. Russel Jossey (Mumbai) (1:03:17.438); 3. Syed Aquib (Chikkamagaluru) (01:04:48.101).
Class 6: Supersport 550 Group B: 1. Mohammed Zaheer (Bengaluru) (1:02:07.125); 2. Naresh VS (Bengaluru) (01:03:00.904); 3. Jeemon Anthony (Kochi) (01:03:16.858);
Class 7: Scooters up to 210cc Group B: 1. Syed Asif Ali (TVS) (1:05:12.797); 2. N Karthik Naidu (TVS) (1:05:24.794); 3. Goutham N (Aprilia JB Racing, Bengaluru) (1:09:42.098).
Class 8: Women’s Class Group B: 1. Tanika Shanbhag (Hero MotoSports, Satara) (1:06:10.932); 2. Rehana Bee A (Chennai) (1:07:18.812); 3. Fazeela U (Palakkad) (1:12:03.957).
Class 9: Super Stock up to 450cc Group D: 1. Nitish Bharadwaj (Kulu) (1:03:02.882); 2. Mohammed Arshad (Thrissur) (1:03:31.897); 3. Sabarish R (Coimbatore) (1:03:41.690).
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TVS’ Rajendra sets fastest time; wins Round 1: 2w Rally
Madikeri, 22 May 2023: Defending champion Rajendra RE of Petronas TVS Racing began his title defence clocking the best time as he won the premier class in the MRF Rally of Coorg, the first round of the National Rally Championship for two-wheelers 2023 here on Sunday.
The first round of the two-wheeler National Rally Championship was organised by Ace Events and promoted by Godspeed Racing. While MRF sponsored the event, many of the riders were individually supported by Vamsi Merla Sports Foundation.
In the Ladies class, young Tanika Shanbagh of Satara (Hero MotoSports) dominated the proceedings all through and won the class with ease and also beat the times of fancied Aishwarya Pissay, the reigning champion, in three of the six special stages. Tanika also finished a creditable overall 30th, among 94 finishers, just two spots behind 2019 World Baja champion Pissay. The six-time national champion, Pissay, moved to the top class contending on equal footing with the male bikers on a TVS Apache RTR 450.
Nataraj of Bengaluru won the Superbike Expert class while Stephen Roy of Kodagu beat Ajin Abraham of Kottayam to clinch the Supersport 165cc Group B class.
Imran Pasha (Supersport 260cc Group B) and Syed Asif Ali (Scooters) won two more titles for Petronas TVS Racing team while Tanika kept the Hero MotoSports flag flying winning the Ladies class victory.
Shivamogga’s Darpan Darshan became Star of Karnataka winning the local class while Stephen Roy, Russel Jossey, Arun Jossey M and Nitish Bharadwaj won the other classes.
Provisional Results:
Class 1: Superbike Pro-Expert Group A: 1. Rajendra RE (Petronas TVS Racing) (1hour, 5min, 13.356sec); 2. Samuel Jacob (TVS) (1:05.40.361); 3. Abdul Waheed Tanveer (TVS) (1:06:06.253).
Class 2 Superbike Expert Group A: 1. Nataraj (Bengaluru) (1:09:33.070); 2. Dhritimaan Singh (Dehradun) (1:12:23.307); 3. Sinan Francis (Ernakulam) (1:13:47.472).
Class 10 Star of Karnataka: 1. Darpan Darshan (Shivamogga) (1:22:56.020); 2. Yamanurappa Hugar (Kachohalli) (1:24:13.725 including 1min 51sec penalty); 3. Kiran Kumar S (Mysore) (1:24:33.249).
Class 3 Supersport 165cc Group B: 1. Stephen Roy (Kodagu) (1:13:21.324); 2. Ajin Abraham (Kottayam) (1:13:41.419); 3. Akhil Joy (Ernakulam) (1:16:11.147).
Classs 4: Supersport 260 Group B: 1. Imran Pasha (Petronas TVS Racing) (1:06:34.949); 2. T Arun (Hero Motosports) (1:06:58.310); 3. Karan Kumar (Hero Motosports) – 01:08:57.733)
Class 5: Supersport 400 Grouop B: 1. Russel Jossey (Mumbai) (1:16:54.803); 2. Rohit Shinde (Baramathi) (1:21:41.088); 3. Akhand Pratap Singh (Uttarakhand) (1:22:35.504).
Class 6: Supersport 550 Group B: 1. Arun Joy M (Eranakulam) (1:18:23.852); 2. Jeemon Anthony (Kochi) (1:19:12.449); 3. Sharath Kumar (Bengaluru) (1:20:27.756);
Class 7: Scooters up to 210cc Group B: 1. Syed Asif Ali (TVS) – 01:19:26.866; 2. N Karthik Naidu (TVS) (1:21:19.864); 3. Pinkesh Thakkar (JB Racing) (1:21:48.845).
Class 8: Women’s Class Group B: 1. Tanika Shanbhag (Hero MotoSports) (1:19:04.992); 2. Tanaya Singh (Hero MotoSports) (1:25:20.163); 3. Fazeela U (Palakkad) (1:32:18.855).
Class 9: Super Stock up to 450cc Group D: 1. Nitish Bharadwaj (Kulu) (1:14:29.829); 2. Shailesh Kumar (Erode) (1:14:37.088); 3. R Sabarish (Coimbatore) (1:15:44.466).
Last edited on 30May2023
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10-time National champ Hemanth Muddappa begins 2023 in style with a double
Chennai, 30 April 2023: Reigning National champion in his class, Hemanth Muddappa, displayed his masterclass once again to begin his 2023 campaign in style as he bagged a double in the opening round of the MMSC fmsci Indian National Motorcycle Drag Championship 2023 powered by Vamci Merla at the Madras International Circuit (MIC) here on Sunday.
The Mantra Racing rider, a 10-time Indian National Drag Champion is the defending champion in the 1051 to 1650cc Superbikes class. Today, he claimed the honours as the ‘Fastest Rider’ of the day. On way to victory in the Four-stroke 1051 to 1650cc Super Sport class he defeated Sidharth Parmar of Mumbai with a handsome margin and then set the quickest time of Round 1, as he went on to win the Blue Ribbon event, the four-stroke Unrestricted class beating Mohammad Riyaz of Hyderabad by three-tenths of a second, a big boost for his 2023 season.
“When you touch rock bottom, it teaches you lessons that reaching mountain-tops never will,” was how the fitness freak explained his exploits today. Last year, he set out his focus on three titles but was able to win the Championship in only one class, which may have disappointed the Indian record holder, but nevertheless Muddappa got his 10th National title in 2022.
The second of the four rounds will be organised by Madras Motor Sports Club (MMSC) at the MIC on July 1 and 2.
Provisional Results: (4stroke National Championship classes on Sunday)
4s 361 to 550cc Super Sport Indian: 1. Shah Rukh Khan, Mumbai (Mantra Racing) 11.891; 2. Mohammad Fazil, Bengaluru, 12.066; 3. Jason D Souza, Mumbai (Mantra Racing) 12.122.
4s 551 to 851cc Super Sport: 1. Mohammad Riyaz, Hyderabad, 8.461; 2. Sidharth Parmar, Mumbai, 8.611; 3. Hemanth Muddappa, Bengaluru (Mantra Racing) 8.772.
4s 1051 to 1650cc Super Sport: 1. Hemanth Muddappa, Bengaluru (Mantra Racing) 7.689; 2. Sidharth Parmar, Mumbai, 8.097; 3. Mohammad Riyaz, Hyderabad, 8.382.
4s Unrestricted: 1. Hemanth Muddappa, Bengaluru (Mantra Racing) 7.616; 2. Mohammad Riyaz, Hyderabad, 7.915; 3. Sidharth Parmar, Mumbai, 8.024.
PS. All privateers, if team name is not mentioned.
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Photo feast: MMSC fmsci Drag National 2023 Round 1 at MIC
Photo Gallery. IndianMotorsports.in Commissioned photos from Srinivasa Krishnan, photojournalist and Karan Ravi photographer. Videos by Sathya M.
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Abdul Shaikh starts title defence in style; adds one more win; Jagathishree tops
Irungattukottai (Chennai), 29 April 2023: Champion rider Abdul Shaikh began with a bang scoring a double in the first round of the MMSC fmsci Indian National Motorcycle Drag Racing Championship 2023 at the Madras International Circuit here on Saturday.
In the Girls’ section, Jagathishree sprang a surprise winning the 4Stroke up to 165cc Novice class with ease and grace.
The Drag Nationals are powered by Vamsi Merla, a businessman from Andhra Pradesh and successor to well-known philanthropist and businessman Later Merla Chandrasekhar Rao of the Kalyani group.
Organised and promoted by Madras Motor Sports Club, the Drag Nationals are run on a dedicated quarter-mile strip for most of the classes except the feature races where the distance is reduced to 303 metres to provide for a longer run-off space.
Abdul Shaik, on his winning run in the Super Sport up to 130cc class. The 29-year-old Bengalurean Abdul Shaikh topped in the 2-Stroke 131-165cc and up to 130cc categories. He is the defending champion in the up to 130cc class and is looking for two titles this year. “I am so happy today. It was a hectic day and I am tired. It really took some time to get into the groove as both the tyre temperature and track temperature fell after the short spell of rain. The rain is welcome but adjusting to weather challenges has its own pitfalls. I am glad, I did well in my class and also got enough points in the next class ie 131 to 165cc category.”
Jagathishree, beat many stars to win the first round of the Drag Nationals at Madras International Circuit on Saturday. Photos by Srinivasa Krishnan Jagathishree of One Racing team from Chennai emerged winner in the Girls’ class beating a host of experienced riders in Ryhana Bee, Soundari Sindy, and defending champion Lani Zena Fernandes, who did not attend the podium ceremony due to a family emergency. Lani came second followed by Sindy, as she is popularly known at the circuit. Sindy lost the National title in the last round last year after a powerful run in the first three rounds. Today, her third place is enough to bag crucial points and both Lani Zena, Sindy, and the fourth-placed Czimhy will be in contention for the championship in the four-round Nationals.
But Saturday was Jagathishree’s. With a display of immense control and despite a slow reaction time (which has no impact on the final time due to the 3-second window), she pelted the fastest time both in the practice run and the final run. Riding a bike tuned by Dilli Babu for Team One Racing run by Mohamed Hanif, who is also her coach, she is here to stay. “The wet conditions presented a challenge but I was confident and we did clinch the first victory,’’ said a happy Jagathishree.
Another local rider Saravanan E claimed the honours in the 4-Stroke Up to 165cc Super Sport Indian category as he clocked 14.346 seconds beating Mohammed Fazil of Bengaluru by a fraction of a second. Fazil clocked 14.360. Madhan Kumar R, also of Chennai timed 14.562 to take the final spot on the podium.
Saravanan E claimed the honours in the 4-Stroke Up to 165cc Super Sport Indian category. The day’s proceedings were delayed by about two hours due to heavy showers but the promoters, Madras Motor Sports Club, stepped up to the challenge and completed the day’s scheduled programme by putting off any category races to the next day.
The event concludes on Sunday and will see the “big boys” on their superbikes competing for the honours with practice runs in the morning followed by the final runs in the afternoon.
The first round saw lukewarm response with only about 100 entries all the 2022 National champions except a couple, on hand to defend their titles. Reigning Bharatraj who did not take part today is expected to join in Round 2.
The results (Provisional):
4-Stroke Up to 165cc (Super Sport Indian): 1. Bike #79 Saravanan E (Chennai) (14.346secs); 2. #82 Mohammed Fazil (Bengaluru) (14.360); 3. #84 Madhan Kumar R (Chennai) (14.562).
Girls (4-Stroke Up to 165cc, Novice): 1. #2 Jagathishree (Chennai, One Racing) (16.515); 2. #9 Lani Zena Fernandez (Puducherry, RACR Castrol Ultimate 1) (16.965); 3. #13 Soundari Sindy A (Chennai, AS Motorsports) (16.992).
2-Stroke 131-165cc (Super Sport): 1. #47 Abdul Shaikh (Bengaluru) (13.072); 2. #39 Shashi Kiran (Bengaluru) (13.425); 3. #38 Manoj Kumar (Chennai) (13.515).
2-Stroke Up to 130 (Super Sport): 1. #24 Abdul Shaikh (Bengaluru) (13.468); 2. #20 Mohamed Rafiq (Bengaluru) (13.505); 3. #23 Mohammed Arfath (Bengaluru) (13.800).
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Hemanth Muddappa going for ‘Dream-Dozen’: 2023 Drag Nationals on April 29, 30
Chennai, 28 April 2023: Bengaluru speed maestro Hemanth Muddappa is all set to begin another year as he attempts to better his records in the MMSC fmsci Indian National Motorcycle Drag Racing Championship 2023 powered by Vamcy Merla at the Madras International Circuit here on Saturday and Sunday.
The CEO of a Nutrition brand 1up, joined the exclusive club of National champions who have 10 titles in Motorsports. However, his dreams of notching up three titles had to wait as he clinched only one title and the ‘dream-dozen’ is the target this year. “Last year itself we were well-prepared and the fourth round provided us a golden chance but we could not get our act together. Alimon (Saidalvi) did very well and I congratulate him. This year is a new beginning and the urge is even stronger and we have put in hardwork and with the team’s dedication, we all gunning for more this year,” quipped Muddappa.
The 2023 Championship, comprising four rounds, has received a big boost with Vamcy Merla offering support. This has greatly benefitted the competitors as the top three finishers in various categories will receive start-money from promoters Madras Motor Sports Club.
About 100 entries have been received for the first of the four rounds of the championship that will be held on the drag strip at the MIC aided by imported timing equipment. The list includes a record 14 entries in the Girls’ category.
All the 2022 National champions in various categories are back to defend their titles and they include – Alimon, Hemanth Muddappa (Mantra Racing), Abdul Shaikh and Prashanth (all from Bengaluru), Bharath Raj (Chennai, Rockers Racing) and Lani Zena Fernandez (Puducherry, RACR Castrol Power Ultimate 1).
On view for two-wheeler enthusiasts will be a mix of powerful superbikes like the BMW, Hayabusa and Kawasaki Ninja, along with a clutch of home-grown machines specially prepared for the drag competition.
The two-day event has practice runs on Saturday followed by the final runs in four classes including the women’s event and the rest of the final runs will be on Sunday including the feature race where superbikes and stars like Hemanth Muddappa, Riaz and Alimon will showcase their skills.
2022 MMSC FMSCI Indian National Champions; Promoter: MMSC, Chennai.
1. 2022 National Drag Racing Champion Rider: 2 Stroke upto 130 cc Super Sport: Abdul Shaikh, Bengaluru.
2. 2022 National Drag Racing Champion Team: 2 Stroke upto 130 cc Super Sport: AP Motorsports, Chennai.
3. 2022 National Drag Racing Champion Rider: 2 Stroke upto 165 cc Super Sport: Prashanth, Bengaluru.
4. 2022 National Drag Racing Champion Team: 2 Stroke upto 165 cc Super Sport: Rockers Racing,
5. 2022 National Drag Racing Champion Rider: 4 Stroke 165 cc Girls Stock: Lani Zena Fernandez, Puducherry.
6. 2022 National Drag Racing Champion Team: 4 Stroke 165 cc Girls Stock: Axor Sparks Racing,
7. 2022 National Drag Racing Champion Rider: 4 Stroke upto 165 cc Super Sport Indian: Bharathraj J, Chennai.
8. 2022 National Drag Racing Champion Team: 4 Stroke upto 165 cc Super Sport Indian: Rockers Racing,
9. 2022 National Drag Racing Champion Rider: 4 Stroke Unrestricted Super Sport: Alimon Saidalvi,
10. 2022 National Drag Racing Champion Team: 4 Stroke Unrestricted Super Sport: Mantra Racing, Bengaluru.
11. 2022 National Drag Racing Champion Rider: 4 Stroke 361 cc to 550 cc Super Sport Indian: Bharathraj J,
12. 2022 National Drag Racing Champion Team: 4 Stroke 361 cc to 550 cc Super Sport Indian: Rockers Racing,
13. 2022 National Drag Racing Champion Rider: 4 Stroke 551 cc to 850 cc Super Sport: Saurabh Parab
14. 2022 National Drag Racing Champion Team: 4 Stroke 551 cc to 850 cc Super Sport: Mantra Racing, Bengaluru.
15. 2022 National Drag Racing Champion Rider: 4 Stroke 1051 cc – 1650 cc Super Sport: Hemanth Muddappa
16. 2022 National Drag Racing Champion Team: 4 Stroke 1051 cc – 1650 cc Super Sport: Mantra Racing, Bengaluru.
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Aniruddha Rangnekar fastest; Ruthuparna bags a triple: Autocross Nationals
Pune, 2 April 2023: Talented Pune driver Aniruddha Rangnekar clinched the Overall honours as he won the fastest driver tag and led his team Slideways Industries to a rich haul in the IARC fmsci Indian National Autocross Championship promoted by Bangalore Motorsports Club at the Nanoli Speedway on April 1 and 2. Rangnekar clocked 1min, 15.265 seconds in the INAC2 open covering about 1 Km, of a lap on the dirt track in his Chettinad Sporting prepared Polo shod on JK Tyres.
Promoter Umesh Pandey of Bangalore Motorsports Club said: “We saw new talent and a lot of enthusiasm in the first round and the championship is becoming bigger and better. This year we have eight rounds in different regions of the country and the finals are likely in Bengaluru again in December.” Pandey, the brain behind the whole Championship, made it a truly ‘National’ event, in geography too, by spreading the Zonal rounds around the country including one round in North East. The Pune round is the first of the eight rounds and the qualified drivers will fight it out for National Championship titles in eight classes. A non-championship support event, “Time Attack” was also held to promote the sport.
Aniruddha won INAC2 Open with a faster time than Rutuparna Vivek, who won the INAC1 Open. But Ruthuparna Vivek of Snap Racing clinched three big victories as he claimed all three INAC1 categories. However, Aniruddha bagged the INAC3 Open too, and clocked the fastest time beginning 2023 on a grand note.
Another INRC lady driver Shivani Parmar displayed enough skills in this shorter format which calls for precise movements and car control and won the INAC2 upto 1650cc class beating both Ruthuparna Vivek and Aniruddha Rangnekar to hoist the Women in Motorsports (WIM) flag. Nikeeta Takkale, who scored points in the APRC Asia Cup round earlier in Chennai, was the other woman who notched up four podiums. Competing with men and beating them is a huge achievement for these women behind the wheel.
Munjal Savla and Umesh Rane were the other National Category winners while another veteran Mazdayar Vatcha, a yesteryears star from Hyderabad, showed glimpses of his talent, with a podium in INAC3. Zahan Commissariat, another racing talent, and a regular podium finisher at Madras International Circuit took second in the INAC 4×4 Class. Amey Desai, a former champ who represented India in Gymkhana Asian competitions, and 2019 National Champion, Sanjay Lall and Altaf Hussain were the others who took podium spots.
The next Regional qualifier round will be held in Goa on April 29 and 30.
Provisional Results: West Zone Qualifier for INAC final 2023: Round 1:
INAC1 Open: 1. Ruthuparna Vivek 1:15.555; 2. Aditya Kousgi 1;15.780; 3. Nikeeta Takkale 1:15.995.
INAC1 Upto 1650cc: 1. Ruthuparna Vivek 1:16.175; 2. Nikeeta Takkale 1:17.600; 3. Aniruddha Rangnekar 1:17.710.
INAC1 Upto 2400cc: 1. Ruthuparna Vivek 1:16.105; 2. Aniruddha Rangnekar 1:17.440; 3. Nikeeta Takkale 1:18.120;
INAC2 Open: 1. Aniruddha Rangnekar 1:15.265; 2. Ruthuparna Vivek 1:15.880; 3. Nikeeta Takkale 1:16.950;
INAC2 Upto 1400cc: 1. Munjal Savla 1:22.430; 2. Altaf Hussain 1:36.735;
INAC2 Upto 1650cc: 1. Shivani Parmar 1:16.200; 2. Ruthuparna Vivek 1:16.750; 3. Aniruddha Rangnekar 1:17.835;
INAC3 Open: 1. Aniruddha Rangnekar 1:19.255; 2. Amey Desai 1:20.630; 3. Mazdayar Vatcha 1:21.615;
INAC 4×4 Open: 1. Umesh Rane 1:19.210; 2. Zahan Commissariat 1:20.100; 3. Sanjay Lall 1:21.695;
