Thrilling drifts and stunning feats provide a glimpse of the fare in store: Asia Auto Gymkhana
Mumbai, 28 Sept. 2018: Motorsports enthusiasts were offered a glimpse of the stunning feats and thrilling drifts that is in store for the next two days as the drivers took their VW Polos for a spin ahead of the second round of the eight-round Asia Auto Gymkhana Competition (AAGC) began at the Raymond Drift Track in Thane today.
The most popular forms of motorsport across the world, Gymkhana makes an entry into India and the Asian event will be held on Sept. 29 and 30. Before addressing the press conference, Gautam Singhania, a specialist in drifting took his Raymond-branded machine for a spin and it was a unique experience of precision and split timing that a skilled driver can showcase. Later, Sirish Vissa (right), head Volkswagen Motorsports, Akbar Ebrahim, FMSCI President, who is the man behind bringing Gymkhana closer to fans in India, and Farad Bathena, the event organiser, joined for a Press Conference.
Asia’s Largest Gymkhana, AAGC is an FIA-approved event which will witness 32 drivers from 16 Asian countries and is organised by FB Motorsports. The drivers will navigate through a short timed loop that is designed to test their skills and precision rather than sheer speed but the drivers offer enough attractions including stunning 360-degree drifts with picture-perfect precision and timing.
Apart from Singhania, professional stunt drivers, too, are expected to provide their thrilling fare for two days. Team India A will be represented by Achintya Mehrotra and Aabhishek Mishra.
Gymkhana serves as a stepping stone for thousands looking to enter the world of Motorsport. The AAGC will have different classes in both stock, modified and purpose-built cars. The drivers navigate through a short timed loop which consists of manoeuvres such as J-Turns, 180/360 Spins, Figure-8s, Box Parks and Slalom that emphasise more on the driver’s skill and technique rather than on speed. “This ease of access and low costs of competing makes Autocross and Gymkhana a great platform for the grassroots development of motorsport,” said Farad Bathena, whose FB Motorsport is organising the event. Farad Bhathena, a celebrated rallyist of yesteryears, is the man behind FB Motorsports which has organised many racing events in India in the last decade including sprint and TSD rallies, track racing and has also conducted driving courses. Bathena is also a key man assisting JA Motorsports in running the Formula cars in the National Racing Championship at Chennai.
Saturday morning will see qualification rounds for Solo Gymkhana while knock-out sessions will take place in the afternoon. On Sunday, Double Gymkhana, Solo and team Gymkhana finals will be held.
