HOSADURGA:It was always going to be challenging for Karna Kadur and co-driver Nikhil Pai. Going into the final round of the Indian National Rally Championship’s final round, the 42nd K-1000 Rally here, the leaders had a 15-point cushion over Bikku Babu and Milen George in the overall standings.
It all fell into place on Sunday, and Kadur clinched his first overall national title. Last year, he was national champ in the 1600cc class. Both have been champions in the past, but this is a special day for Kadur and Pai. Though Amittrajit Ghosh-Ashwin Naik (Mahindra Adventure) duo won this event, and Kadur-Pai finished sixth overall on Sunday, it was enough to give the Team Yokohama 2K drivers the title.
“Unfortunately, things did not go according to plan on Sunday, but towards the end of the last two stages, we did well. We secured the points required to win the championship. I’m very excited about it,” Kadur said.
In motorsport, it is never just the driver alone. The tuners and mechanics also play a vital role. Kadur was quick to acknowledge his team’s contribution. “Kudos to the team for the way we started the year, and the way we ended. Leelakrishnan (former national champion and now tuner) and the team have been developing the car quite well,” Kadur said.
The next logical step for any rally driver would be to move up to the Asia-Pacific Rally Championship, or even the highly-competitive rallies in Europe. Kadur is certainly up for it.
“At this point, it’s not just APRC but other international events as well, if there’s an opportunity. They give good exposure. Luckily, I can say I’ve age on my side, but then it comes down to budget and support,” he signed off.
vivekphadnis@newindianexpress.com
