A unique initiative by Honda let girls from all over India take their racing instincts to track on Sunday. For the first time ever 10 lady riders from across the country lined up on the starting grid at MMRT lending a fitting finish to the 2015 season.
Riding an open class Honda CBR150R, the half loop 4 lap race saw Chennai’s Rihana Reya take the chequered flag in first position ahead of Pune’s Pooja Dhabi who started the race from pole position but managed to secure second place. Saundari A from Chennai taking to track after a two year riding gap took third position on the podium.
Congratulating the winners, Mr Prabhu Nagraj, Vice President, Customer Service, HMSI, said, “It is always Honda’s endeavor to bring new categories and excitement into the race. To democratize motorsport, and to offer the adrenaline pumping track experience to our women audiences as well, we have introduced, for the first time in Chennai, an All-Ladies Race. All 10 girls, who raced today have been trained by the Honda Racing Training Academy. I would like to specially congratulate all of them for being a part of this landmark race. The immense potential on display today, strengthens our belief in the talent that exists in the country. I would also like to congratulate all the winners and thank FMSCI for organizing and supporting our efforts in India. Look forward to see you all next year with greater enthusiasm.”
Not just the winners, but all racer girls were enthused being part of the first ever ladies race with everyone eagerly looking forward to the 2016 season. Shruthi N from Chennai finishing the race in fifth position after a promising start from second on the grid said “It is an amazing feel to be a part of the first one make women race. Usually most people, especially in India are sceptical when women drift a bit apart from their usual routine- but it is so great to have so many supporters. Thanks to Honda’s Racing Training Academy for such a great initiative. I didn’t finish as expected due to clutch issues, but overall it was a beguiling endeavour from Honda and I believe it’s just the start and there is a lot more to come”.
An animated Sonali Mukherji from Jamshedpur says “It was an awesome experience- I have been watching motorcycle races on TV since childhood, but to be part of one and live those moments in real was just mind boggling. Right now it’s keeping a balance between profession and hobby, but I hope both merge someday. Thanks to Honda for providing a platform to usher our love for racing at the best possible place- the racing track.”
The spectators demonstrated huge support for the girls with loud cheers and applause. Seems like the Honda One Make Ladies Race is here to stay and we hope this new platform rolls out our very own versions of the Carrascos and Tinmouths.
Good to see women entering every platform and leaving a mark.Go girl Go !