
Many manufactures are coming forward to organize their own motorsport events. And Maruti Suzuki could not just sit back and watch. With already several successful series of rally and Autocross events, Maruti Suzuki in 2017 started a new series of four wheel motorsport, the Maruti Suzuki Autoprix. It is a FMSCI approved competitive racing event for all in the truest form. Zonal rounds were organized in many major cities including Guwahati and finals were held in BIC, Noida for the 'championship category'. The registration fee started at just INR 500 in 2017 and had multiple categories. People of all skill levels, having any type of four wheel vehicle and of any gender could participate in a suitable category. It was mostly a timed race and only in the finals the competitors could be in a head on race. I participate in the Amateur Stock/800-1100cc category in a 0.8L (800cc) Renault Kwid and it not only happened to be the only Kwid in the event but also the vehicle with the least cubic capacity engine in the event.


It was an exciting moment for me as it was my first racing event. Moreover, wearing an ISI certified helmet during the race was mandatory to which I was not used to. It felt very different to drive wearing a helmet but it would keep my head safe in case of an accident. When my number came, the heart started to beat fast as I handed over the race card to the 'marshal'. I kept the revs up and as soon as the lights went green, I dumped the clutch and took off. The Kwid is definitely not made for racing because there was significant amount of body roll as I threw it aggressively around the corners and the stock tyres did lose grip on the dirt. The track was very technical which required a lot of skills and not just being aggressive on the throttle. There were tight chicanes, corners, and U turns. And since I did not know how to do a hand brake turn, I lost significant amount of time in a tight U turn. After an adrenaline filled run on the track, I finally slammed the brake after crossing the finish line. With heart still beating fast and a grin of happiness and satisfaction on my face, I quickly headed towards the leader board to see my timing. And I was more than happy to see myself in the '3rd best timing' place for the qualifying round. A day later I came to know that I did not make to the higher rounds but still I was happy for the experience I had gained from my very first car race of my life.
Winning or losing is just a part of every competition and is not as important as the lessons you learn by participating in them. I do not know if I would ever get another opportunity to be a part of motorsport event again but I will surely cherish my experience of Maruti Suzuki Autoprix Season 1, 2017. I would like to extend my heartiest gratitude towards Maruti Suzuki, FMSCI, and Northern Motorsport for bringing motorsport to everyone.
Motorsports are dangerous and should never be practiced on public roads. Participate in FMSCI approved motorsport events to be a part of safe and competitive races. Never rash drive, street race, or perform any kind of stunts on public roads.
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