How Did Goa’s Vaibhav Marathe Become the Fastest at the Indian National Autocross Championship Round 1?
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Synopsis
Discover how Vaibhav Marathe dominated the first round of the FMSCI Indian National Autocross Championship 2025 at the thrilling Chikmagalur Gravel Fest. With intense competition and remarkable performances, this event showcased the best of Indian autocross racing.
Key Takeaways
- Vaibhav Marathe clinched victory at the Chikmagalur Gravel Fest.
- The event was part of the FMSCI Indian National Autocross Championship 2025.
- Competitors had to navigate various classes of racing.
- Only the top five in each class qualify for the Grand Finals.
- Motorsport in India is gaining significant popularity.
Chikmagalur, May 4 (NationPress) Vaibhav Marathe from Goa triumphed at the inaugural Chikmagalur Gravel Fest 2025, marking Round 1 of the FMSCI Indian National Autocross Championship (INAC) 2025, held at Survey 85 on Sangnipura Road in Kurvangi Grama.
Representing JK Tyres, Marathe skillfully navigated a fierce contest from his teammate Syed Salman, securing first place with a remarkable time of 02:57.876 s in the INAC 1 Unrestricted Class. Aeman came in third with a time of 03:01.786 s, while Salman clocked in at 02:59.687 s. This event served as a crucial qualifying round for the FMSCI Indian National Autocross Championship 2025.
In a later class, Syed Salman achieved victory in the INAC 1 2000 CC class, finishing with a time of 02:59.169 s, while Chetan Shivram and Aeman secured second and third places respectively. Marathe placed fourth in this category.
Ashad Pasha dominated the INAC 2 1650 CC class, with Aeman and Syed Salman finishing in second and third. Salman continued his winning streak in the INAC 2 1450 CC class and clinched another victory in the INAC 2 1100 CC class.
The INAC 2 800 CC class was claimed by Azveer, while Zeeshan Mohammed triumphed in the INAC 3 category, and Shameena CP topped the Women’s category with a time of 03.41.004.
Sanctioned by the Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India (FMSCI) and conducted under the 2025 FIA International Sporting Code and relevant FMSCI regulations, the Gravel Fest in Chikmagalur is one of seven qualifying rounds that comprise the INAC Cup circuit.
To qualify for the Grand Finals, each driver must partake in at least two rounds, with only the top five finishers in each class securing their spots in the final championship showdown where the best of Indian autocross will be honored. The event was promoted by Octane Pits led by Lokesh Gowda and organized by the Motor Sports Club of Chikmagalur (MSCC).
Point of View
I recognize the significance of events like the Chikmagalur Gravel Fest in promoting motorsport in India. The remarkable performances by drivers like Vaibhav Marathe not only highlight individual talent but also showcase the growing enthusiasm for autocross racing in our nation. Such events are essential in fostering a vibrant motorsport culture.
NationPress
21/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Chikmagalur Gravel Fest?
The Chikmagalur Gravel Fest is a motorsport event that serves as a qualifying round for the FMSCI Indian National Autocross Championship, featuring various classes of competition.
Who won the INAC 1 Unrestricted Class?
Vaibhav Marathe won the INAC 1 Unrestricted Class with a time of 02:57.876 seconds.
How many rounds must drivers participate in to qualify for the Grand Finals?
Drivers must participate in at least two rounds to qualify for the Grand Finals.
What organization sanctions the Indian National Autocross Championship?
The championship is sanctioned by the Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India (FMSCI).
Who organized the Chikmagalur Gravel Fest?
The event was organized by the Motor Sports Club of Chikmagalur (MSCC) and promoted by Octane Pits led by Lokesh Gowda.
