CHENNAI (Anirban Mitra): A warm, sunny day in South India drains you out. It was set to be a little different on April 7, 2024. More than a few dozen amateur yet competent riders from different parts of the country assembled at Madras International Circuit. The mood was boisterous. The occasion is the first edition of TVS Apache Racing Experience GP.

For the uninitiated, several two-wheeler OEMs battle it out at the multi-legged Indian National Motorcycle Racing Championship in several categories, ranging up to Pro-stock 301-400 cc. Participation is a mere outcome but OEMs relentlessly sweat it out throughout the year to build factory-racing teams and fine-tune the race machines. The Apache Racing Experience GP is TVS Motor Company’s endeavour to cultivate racing at the grass-root level and supply riders to the factory racing team.

(Image: Anirban Mitra)

So, the 48 finalist riders assembled at MIC were essentially TVS motorcycle owners, who won the races in their respective cities. The finale started with a round practice so that riders get to understand the layout. It was followed by a qualifying round, and subsequently two rounds of a final race. Winners received exciting prizes including a trip to the MotoGP (Sepang GP) and a wild card entry for TVS OMC.

A bunch of media professionals were invited, who raced the RTR200 and RR310 OMC motorcycles. It was an attempt to understand the adrenaline rush and action involved in a GP. The day ended on a high but the race continues. TVS Motor Company, one of India’s leading OEMs known for motorsport, is putting its right foot forward to nurture the talent. If you are a motorsports enthusiast and own a TVS motorcycle, don’t miss out on trying your luck when the AREGP returns next year.

(Image: Anirban Mitra)