The drama is over but the suspense remains
The daylong shootout to pick the two drivers for the scholarship programme for the Chennai-based Gemini Racing team came to an end with more than 20 drivers sweating it out under the scorching sun at the Kari Motor Speedway at Chettipalayam, near Coimbatore, on Sunday.But, the names will be announced only on Monday.The selection and training programme was more of academics and testing in the morning followed by the actual racing in the afternoon.The chief of jury of the selection committee, Akbar Ebrahim, said the selection was made in a transparent manner."We had more than 30 entries but we narrowed it down to 23 drivers, who knew the basics. We plan to select two out of the 23 and induct them in the team that will participate in the JK Tyre national championship this season. There will also be three standbyes."
The drivers went through the basics like keeping the lines, braking, steering and driving sense.The four-member selection committee comprising Armaan Ebrahim, Ameya Walvalakar, Radha Selvaraj and Akbar also looked for consistency and speed apart from the basics."We expected about ten entries but it was a surprise to see double the crowd contesting. Good start," said Akbar.
The team principal of Gemini Racing, Akkineni, was also pleased with the overwhelming response."I think this will be a great start. I thank all the participants for having found their time to be here and given their best. It has been truly heart warming to observe the great team effort in organising this show.""I found the participants enthusiastic and enterprising. They were ambitious to learn and that is perhaps a good beginning and augurs well for Indian motorsports as well.The boys had really put in their efforts, which were seen on the track.The chosen guys were really good and we also wish the other participants the best," said Akbar.
