Hyderabad: Sai Rahil Pillarisetty made the most of every opportunity that came his way and with gusto. For instance, in the third round of the International Motorcycling Federation (FIM) Asia Cup of Road Racing at the Buddh International Circuit, he zoomed away to victory in both races on a Suzuki Gixxer 150.
The Hyderabad lad faced a serious threat from Miu Nakahara in the first. A mechanical failure sidelined the 14-year-old Japanese rider which could have proved beneficial for Sai. In the second, there were no such doubts. The 19-year-old went unchallenged, emerging way ahead of the competition from Australia, Philippines, Nepal, Taiwan and Japan.
“In trials prior to the big day, Sai had faced a few problems but spoke to the technical experts who guided him on handling the bike,” said B.S. Sujith Kumar, Chairman, Two-wheeler Racing Commission, Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India (FMSCI).
“Till the last lap, Sai lay in second or third position. In the last few turns, he’d move to the fore, which is a very mature way of riding,” observed Sujith, a seven-time former National rally champion. “Considering the limited opportunities he has got, I was surprised by his good show. He’s not just calm and confident, but very talented too,” he added.
“Sai will need to work on his fitness further. For in India, where he has mostly raced, the competition is over six to eight laps. Overseas that can be about three times that, extending over 20 to 22 laps. He’ll also to adapt to conditions abroad,” cautioned the seasoned speedster, who actively raced since 1989 until last year.
P. Rajesh of Sparks Racing was all praise for the teenager. “Sai is passionate and shows good potential. Not only does he grasp things quickly, he’s equally fast in carrying out corrections to his craft,” the Chennai-based team’s Manager said.
“Right from his debut at Coimbatore, where Sai finished second, he clinched four podium places in as many rounds of the National championship series at Irungattukottai, Chennai. For the future, we plan to test him in Malaysia in the 250 and 600 cc categories and field him accordingly in the Malaysian Super Series and the Asia Road Racing championship wild card round in India,” said Rajesh.
