DEBUT, ON TRACK!

Getting my first taste of what racing is like, in TVS Motor’s Young Media Racer Program

- AKSHAY JADHAV

TVS Motor is one of the only two-wheeler manufacturers to have stayed true to its racing DNA. It’s decades now since the company has ensured motorcycle racing is not just a part of its marketing programs, but a part of its core philosophy. And the TVS Young Media Racer Program (YMRP) is an initiative that reflects this commitment in heaps. It’s an opportunity for young automotive journalists to experience what racing is, with the full works: race-spec motorcycles, technical training and of course, the thrill of competition. As someone who has spent a fair amount of time riding at racetracks but has never raced, YMRP felt like the perfect platform for me to take that leap. So when TURBOCHARGED received an invitation for YMRP 2025, I was quick to grab the opportunity, as this meant I would get to race for a full season, along with other journalists!

This meant I had to first qualify to get shortlisted in the selection round, held at the MIC (Madras International Circuit). Before we headed out on track though, TVS ensured we were coached by its national championship winning racers. We went through classroom sessions that explained the finer nuances of racing, followed by on-track practice, focusing on improving our lines, throttle control and race starts.

Only the top 16 were to make it for the racing program out of 46 journalists invited, and I was proud to be one of them!