In a significant development in the world of motorsport, JK Tyre's Gaurav Gill, an Arjuna awardee and India's fastest rally driver, is gearing up to compete in the prestigious Otago Rally in New Zealand. Scheduled from April 12-14 in Dunedin, this event is a crucial round of the 2024 Asia Pacific Rally Championship (APRC). Gill's participation is notably supported by Indian businessman and Otago Rally promoter, Vamcy Merla.
Stepping into the shoes of 2022 APRC champion and Otago Rally maestro Haydon Paddon, Gill is entrusted with the formidable Hyundai i20 N Rally2. The Otago Rally, a cornerstone in rally racing since 1976, will unfold over 16 challenging stages, covering a diverse terrain of 280 kilometres. This year's edition is anticipated to be the largest in four years, with 117 competitors, highlighting its global appeal and the intense competition awaiting Gill.
Sanjay Sharma, Head of Motorsport at JK Tyre & Industries, expressed enthusiasm about Gill's debut in the Hyundai i20 N Rally2. Sharma's confidence in Gill's expertise, combined with the vehicle's victorious lineage, sets a high expectation for a remarkable performance.
Gaurav Gill, eager to return to international rallying following a hiatus since the Rally of Greece, aims to kickstart his 2024 season with a significant impact at the Otago Rally. His ambition is not just to participate but to continue the winning legacy of his assigned vehicle and secure a prominent place on the podium.
Vamcy Merla's backing of Gill underscores a broader initiative to elevate Indian talent on the international rallying stage, aspiring to bring the Indian flag to the forefront of global motorsport recognition.
Gill's competition includes a diverse and skilled roster of drivers, such as American Rally Champion Brandon Semenuk and notable local and international talents, promising a fiercely contested event. As the rally community watches closely, Gill's performance at the Otago Rally could set a precedent for Indian motorsport, demonstrating the country's rising prowess in the global rallying arena.
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