Chatting with me over the telephone from his New Delhi residence, reigning Asia Pacific Car Rally Champion in the drivers’ category for MRF, Gaurav Gill, tells me he is ready to go to the park for his regular fitness session.
Like the way the champion drives, Gill’s exercise routine is unique. “It’s a different type of work-out, usually done by the U.S. Marines called TRX. It is a basic requirement and functional training. You don’t lift weights but your body,” he explained.
Storm XtremeThe 32-year-old has put the disappointment of not being able to get a visa on time for World Rally Championship testing in Portugal behind him. The Maruti Suzuki Desert Storm Rally, which was flagged off in New Delhi on February 24, and ends in Jaipur on March 1, is one of Gill's favourite events. The Delhi driver is participating in Storm Xtreme, which involves driving at high speed over the harsh, treacherous terrain of the Thar Desert.
“It’s sad news (that he won’t be travelling to Portugal). There were some visa-related issues. Moreover, I registered for the Desert Storm Rally. It’s a long rally. I am excited to drive for Team Mahindra,” he said.
Gill didn’t perform well in the last edition of the Desert Storm Rally due to mechanical problems in his car, but this time he is prepared. “Whenever and wherever I drive, people expect me to win. I also start any race with the intention of winning it,” said Gill.
Gill was in sparkling form in the JK Tyre Arunachal Festival of Speed early this month, finishing first in Auto Cross, Hill Climb and Sprint. It was Gill’s first expedition in the Northeast and he was taken up with the beauty of the State. “It is a beautiful part of our country. We have missed it (promoting the State). I would love to do it again,” he said.
Connecting with ChennaiRecently, Gill who was in Chennai taking part in the MRF Challenge in the Formula 2000 category at the Irungattukottai Track, said he has many pleasant memories of the city. “Chennai has been special. I have spent so much time on the track here. I have a special bond with the city as my wife is also from here.”
Gill said his career blossomed in Chennai after he finished overall third in the Group ‘N’ category of the South India Rally championship in the year 2000. “From there, it (my career) took off. And there was no looking back.”
Gill has not given up on his dream of participating in the World Rally championship. “I will not give up. I am in talks with some sponsors. It’s been my dream to take part in WRC. I need more support from Indian car manufacturers and sponsors. I have it in me to beat all the top drivers. I am ready for the world stage,” he said.
