New Delhi, March 26 – In a significant move for Indian motorsport, Arjuna awardee and rally sensation Gaurav Gill, representing JK Tyre, is geared up to make a mark at the prestigious Otago Rally in New Zealand. The event, a beacon in the Asia Pacific Rally Championship (APRC) calendar for 2024, will unfold in the scenic locales of Dunedin from April 12-14. Gill’s participation is bolstered by the support of prominent Indian businessman and rally enthusiast Vamcy Merla, who also plays a key role in promoting the event.
Gill, India’s premier rally driver, steps into the rally boots of Haydon Paddon, the 2022 APRC champion and a legend with 10 Otago Rally wins under his belt. Commandeering Paddon’s Hyundai i20 N Rally2, Gill is poised for an adrenaline-pumping experience. This powerhouse vehicle, tipping the scales at 1,230kg, boasts a 1.6-litre turbocharged engine paired with a five-speed sequential gearbox, promising a blend of speed and agility on the rally’s varied terrains.
The Otago Rally, a jewel in the crown of rally racing since 1976, is set to host its largest lineup in recent years, with 117 cars vying for supremacy across 16 timed special stages and 280 kilometres of both tarmac and gravel roads. Gill’s entry marks a significant milestone for both him and JK Tyre, introducing a fresh dynamic to their illustrious rallying legacy.
Sanjay Sharma, Head of Motorsport at JK Tyre & Industries, expressed excitement about Gill’s debut in the Hyundai i20 N Rally2 car, highlighting the vehicle’s victorious heritage and the unique opportunity the Otago Rally presents for showcasing Gill’s unparalleled driving prowess.
Gaurav Gill, eager to kickstart his 2024 season with a strong performance at the Otago Rally, expressed his gratitude towards JK Tyre and Vamcy Merla for this golden opportunity. Having last competed internationally at the Rally of Greece, Gill is all set to challenge the limits and aim for the podium, continuing his winning streak.
Vamcy Merla, reflecting on his commitment to promoting Indian talent on the global rallying stage, shared his enthusiasm for seeing Gill compete and potentially securing a podium finish, elevating the Indian flag on an international platform.
Gill’s rivals include a stellar lineup of international and local talent, setting the stage for a thrilling showdown at the Otago Rally. With eyes set on victory, Gill’s campaign promises to be a thrilling spectacle for motorsport fans worldwide.
