Young racing driver in a hurry to make his mark on F1
BANGALORE (Jan. 19)—Seventeen-year-old Vikash Anand is the latest topic of discussion in both the national and the international racing circuits. In spite of being too young to own a driver’s license, he has been stirring a storm in different racing circuits from a very young age. Anand, who has had the opportunity to work with veterans like Narain Karthikeyan, Fernando Alonso and Michael Schumacher, talked about his experiences in motor racing and his future plans with The SoftCopy’s Madhurima Bose and Pratik Jain.
Madhurima Bose: So what is it that made you take up this sport?
Vikash Anand: When I was young I used to go with my dad to watch his friends race. They used to take me in their car and gradually, I started gaining interest in it. That’s how I got into it. In 2000, when I was 8 years old we had an Amaron Karting Challenge. After that, my dad stopped me from racing as he thought it is risky. I began racing in 2007 again and continued slowly. In 2009 I won my first title. I love being on the fast track.
MB: How was your experience at the international circuit?
It was the first Indian grand prix. We tested the track even before the international drivers had tested it. It was a very good experience. The track was very technical and thrilling to drive on.
MB: Did gaming on PlayStation help you in anyway?
(Laughs) It’s not totally realistic, but it helped me learn the lines and corners.
Pratik Jain: What do you think about the level of motor sports in India?
Awareness about motor sports is increasing in India. People talk about it regularly and it has become very common in India. It will be better than cricket at one point of time in India.
PJ: How was your experience when Narain Karthikeyan was your mentor? What is the one thing that you will always remember?
He advised me to keep focus on the track, watch the lines and drive safely. Focus is the important which he tells me to concentrate on.
MB: Do you think children in India are taking interest in motor racing?
It is a very expensive sport. You need parents who will support you as even the lowest level will cost you a bomb.
MB: Do you think the government should provide any support for this sport?
Yes, definitely. We need support from the government as we barely get sponsors for this game.
PJ: Do you think we should have training centers in India?
Yes, we should have training centers as well as racing academies in India.
MB: Why do you think Indian drivers are not being able to clinch any racing title?
We always take everything easy and never put in our 100 percent as we have other things to do. International drivers put their heart and soul into whatever they do. Michael Schumacher does eight to 10 hours of practice. We don’t do that. I am sure I am putting that effort and aiming for it and one day I will do it.
PJ: So what are your future plans?
I might participate in the Formula Renault BARC. I also have some contract offers from the UK, and I’ll surely drive for the Super One Series.
PJ: When can we expect you on the Formula One track where we can see you competing with racers like Sebastian Vettel? Do you dream of beating him one day?
In another three or four years. It is a short time, but that is the time where you should be on the track. Sebastian Vettel is the youngest, and it is going to take a long time to beat that record, but I will always aim for it.
MB: How do you balance your racing career with your education?
I am studying in Lady Andal School in Chennai. I’ve never had any problems [balancing sport and education]. They encourage sports a lot. Many players from different games have passed out from my school. They are very helpful. The support is always there.
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