'Aim is to have better finish at Asia Talent Cup,’ says young Rider Sarthak Chavan ahead of 2024 motorsports season
The Rider finished at Podium in Thailand Talent Cup last year
In the world of motorsports, a new generation of riders is emerging, challenging the status quo and redefining the boundaries of speed and endurance. One such prodigy, who has been making waves in the Indian motorsports scene, is Sarthak Chavan. At just 16 years old, this young rider from Pune, Maharashtra, has already carved a niche in the national automotive racing circuit.
Sarthak’s journey is a testament to his passion and dedication to the sport. His impressive list includes multiple National Championships such as the Idemitsu Honda Racing India Championship 2020/2022, MRF Mogrip FMSCI National Supercross Championship 2018, and a first runner-up finish at the National Dirt Track Championship. His talents have also been recognized outside of racing, with the Pune Municipal Corporation awarding him the Pune Gaurav Puraskar in 2017.
Representing India at the Motocross Junior Asian Championship in 2019, Sarthak finished fifth in the rankings, further cementing his position as a rising star in the sport. He has even participated in the Thor Winter Olympics USA 2014. Sarthak has been shortlisted for Rider Selection in the 2023 season of the IDEMITSU Asia Talent Cup, which will be held in Asia. The Young Prodigy took up the time and Interacted with Khel Now to share his journey and how he took up the Sport.
While most children were engrossed in the world of toys, Sarthak Chavan discovered his passion for motorcycles. This young sensation revealed, “I was born into a family deeply rooted in motorsports. My uncle was a motorcycle enthusiast, and I was barely 4 or 5 when I had my first taste of riding.”
He added, “Even though my uncle, Snehil Chavan, didn’t compete in MotoGP, his impact on my decision to pursue the sport was profound.”
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In a society like India, where traditional sports often take precedence, embracing an unconventional path like motorsports can stir up a whirlwind of anxiety. However, for young Sarthak Chavan, his family has been a rock-solid pillar of support amidst these challenges.
Reflecting on the unwavering support he received from his family, the young prodigy shared, “My father has been my biggest cheerleader. Not only does he accompany me to international events, but he also constantly fuels my motivation.”
He further added, “My mother, too, has been incredibly supportive. She has always encouraged my passion for the sport, without any reservations.”
Despite his young age, Sarthak Chavan has already savored the sweet taste of success in his burgeoning career. When asked about the achievement he holds closest to his heart, the teenager fondly reminisced about his third-place finish at the Thailand Talent Cup.
He further elaborated on the thrilling experience, stating, “It was my maiden wet race. Despite a shaky start, I gradually found my rhythm. As the laps dwindled, I surged ahead, even leading the pack for two or three laps. However, in the final lap, I was overtaken by two riders.”
The rider, awash with emotion, stood on the podium, a testament to his achievement. He confessed, “The experience of standing on the podium was a surge of overwhelming emotions for me.
Like many who venture into the realm of sports, Sarthak too, has found an idol in the legendary Valentino Rossi. This young dynamo holds a deep admiration for the Italian maestro. He shared, “I am captivated by Rossi’s riding finesse – his unique style, his braking technique, his deft maneuvers around corners.
India’s engagement in Motosports pales in comparison to countries like Japan. Sarthak, a keen observer, proposed some intriguing solutions to bridge this gap, he said, ” There Should be more tracks, More advertisements, and Knowledge Transmissions”
he further said, “More racing schools are opening like Western countries and Motogp coming to India will further help”
With a glint of optimism in his eyes, Sarthak Chavan is all set to make waves in the 2024 racing season. He’s not just aiming for the stars but also wants to etch his name in the annals of some of the most prestigious titles. “I will race in the Asia Talent Cup, National Championships and I will also race TVS Asia one make Championships.
However, it’s the Asian Talent Cup that holds a special place in his heart. Having experienced the thrill of the race in 2023, Chavan is now hungry for an even more impressive finish this year. “The Asian Talent Cup is where my major focus lies, i want to better my 2023 record”
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