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MRF FMSCI Indian National Rally Championship 2017

Consolidated Media Coverage Report (Round 1)

Date: July 29 - August 1, 2017

Print Index

S.No Publication Edition Date

1 Times of India Kolkata 30/7/2017

2 Times of India Bangalore 30/7/2017

3 Times of India Chennai 30/7/2017

4 Times of India Delhi 30/7/2017

5 Times of India Jaipur 30/7/2017

6 Times of India Chandigarh 30/7/2017

7 Times of India Kochi 30/7/2017

8 Times of India Hyderabad 30/7/2017

9 Times of India Lucknow 30/7/2017

10 New Indian Express Chennai 30/7/2017

11 New Indian Express Bangalore 30/7/2017

12 New Indian Express Hyderabad 30/7/2017

13 The Hindu Coimbatore 30/7/2017

14 Deccan Chronicle Chennai 30/7/2017

15 Deccan Herald Bangalore 30/7/2017

16 Sakal Times Pune 30/7/2017

17 Mirror Bangalore 30/7/2017

18 Mirror Mumbai 30/7/2017

19 Mirror Pune 30/7/2017

20 Dainik Jagran New Delhi 30/7/2017

21 EiSomoy Kolkata 30/7/2017

22 Economic Times Bangalore 31/7/2017

23 Economic Times Mumbai 31/7/2017

24 Economic Times New Delhi 31/7/2017

25 Economic Times Kolkata 31/7/2017

26 Economic Times Jaipur 31/7/2017

27 Bangalore Mirror Bangalore 31/7/2017

28 Deccan Herald Bangalore 31/7/2017

29 Hindustan Times New Delhi 31/7/2017

30 The Times of India Bangalore 31/7/2017

31 The Times of India New Delhi 31/7/2017

32 The Times of India Mumbai 31/7/2017

33 The Times of India Kolkata 31/7/2017

34 The Times of India Hyderabad 31/7/2017

35 The Times of India Chennai 31/7/2017

36 New Indian Express Bangalore 31/7/2017

37 New Indian Express Chennai 31/7/2017

38 New Indian Express Hyderabad 31/7/2017

39 The Hindu New Delhi 31/7/2017

40 The Hindu Hyderabad 31/7/2017

41 The Hindu Kolkata 31/7/2017

42 The Hindu Coimbatore 31/7/2017

43 Pioneer New Delhi 31/7/2017

44 Statesman New Delhi 31/7/2017

45 The Free Press Journal Mumbai 31/7/2017

46 Mumbai Mirror Mumbai 31/7/2017

47 Punjab Kesari New Delhi 31/7/2017

48 Kannada Prabha Bangalore 31/7/2017

49 Vijay Karnataka Bangalore 31/7/2017

50 Dainik Jagran (Rashtriya) National 31/7/2017

51 Trinity Mirror Chennai 1/8/2017

52 Asian Age New Delhi 1/8/2017

Online Index

1

Times of India http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/racing/top-stories/mrf-fmsci-

indian-national-rally-championship-flagged-off/articleshow/59823837.cms

29/7/2017

2 Times of

India http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/racing/top-stories/national-rally-

revamped-inrc-to-boost-competition/articleshow/59828943.cms

29/7/2017

3 DNA http://www.dnaindia.com/sports/report-gill-karna-amittrajit-to-square-off-

at-national-rally-c-ship-2517856

29/7/2017

4 Sportske

eda https://www.sportskeeda.com/motorsports/gill-karna-amittrajit-to-square-off-in-round-1-of-mrf-fmsci-indian-national-rally-championship-on-sunday

29/7/2017

5 India Today

http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/gill-karna-amittrajit-to-square-off-at-national-rally-cship/1/1014175.html

29/7/2017

6 One India http://www.oneindia.com/sports/gill-karna-amittrajit-square-off-inrc-

coimbatore-2509875.htmll

29/7/2017

7 S4 News https://www.s4news.in/k/fmsci

29/7/2017

8 The

Hindu http://www.thehindu.com/sport/motorsport/mrf-rally-kadur-gill-and-

ghosh-raring-to-go/article19386884.ece

29/7/2017

9 Outlook https://www.outlookindia.com/newsscroll/gill-karna-amittrajit-to-square-

off-at-national-rally-cship/1111427

29/7/2017

10 Covai Post

http://www.covaipost.com/coimbatore/mrf-fmsci-indian-national-rally-championship-from-tomorrow/

29/7/2017

11 Business Standard

http://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ians/32-teams-in-fray-for-round-1-of-mrf-national-championship-preview-117072900664_1.html

29/7/2017

12 IANS http://www.ianslive.in/index.php?param=news/32_teams_in_fray_for_Rou

nd_1_of_MRF_National_Championship-559005/SPORTS/9

29/7/2017

13 NDTV Auto

https://auto.ndtv.com/news/2017-fmsci-indian-national-rally-championship-to-kick-start-on-sunday-1730884

29/7/2017

14 Article.w

n https://article.wn.com/view/2017/07/29/MRF_Rally_Kadur_Gill_and_Ghos

h_raring_to_go/

29/7/2017

15 Article.w

n https://article.wn.com/view/2017/07/29/MRF_FMSCI_Indian_National_Rall

y_Championship_flagged_off/

29/7/2017

16 Nerve http://www.nerve.in/news:2535003946658

29/7/2017

17 Pioneer http://www.dailypioneer.com/sports/2017-07-30-184087.html

29/7/2017

18 India.co

m http://www.india.com/news/agencies/32-teams-in-fray-for-round-1-of-mrf-

national-championship-preview-2362400/

29/7/2017

19 Magz

Mumbai http://www.magzmumbai.com/gill-karna-amittrajit-to-square-off-in-round-

1-of-mrf-fmsci-rally/

29/7/2017

20 Sify http://www.sify.com/news/32-teams-in-fray-for-round-1-of-mrf-national-

championship-preview-news-others-rh3uaghjdcghb.html

29/7/2017

21 SportzWi

ki http://sportzwiki.com/more/preview-32-teams-fray-round-1-mrf-national-

championship/

29/7/2017

22 Yahoo https://in.news.yahoo.com/32-teams-fray-round-1-mrf-national-

championship-141204648.html

29/7/2017

23 Sports

Star Live http://www.sportstarlive.com/motorsport/mrf-rally-hot-battle-on-the-

cards/article19385615.ece

29/7/2017

24 News Eleven

http://www.newseleven.in/2017-fmsci-indian-national-rally-championship-to-kick-start-on-sunday/

29/7/2017

25 Motorsport.com

https://www.motorsport.com/indian-rally/news/inrc-rally-of-coimbatore-kadur-gill-the-ones-to-watch-out-for-936053/

29/7/2017

26 Shafaqna http://sportnews.shafaqna.com/EN/US/194132

29/7/2017


http://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/gill-glides-to-easy-win-in-inrc-opener-117073000352_1.html

30/7/2017


http://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ians/rallyist-gill-takes-round-1-of-mrf-national-championship-117073000359_1.html

30/7/2017

29 Times of

India

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/racing/top-stories/fmsci-indian-national-rally-championship-gaurav-gill-takes-round-1-in-

style/articleshow/59833359.cms

30/7/2017

30 Times of

India http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/coimbatore/rallyist-gill-takes-round-one-of-mrf-national-championship/articleshow/59838003.cms

30/7/2017

31 Hindustan Times

http://www.hindustantimes.com/other-sports/gaurav-gill-glides-to-easy-win-in-indian-national-rally-championship-opener/story-

7SPsBJ0ZmTwj6ogcFe2lfM.html

30/7/2017

32 Indian

Express http://indianexpress.com/article/sports/motor-sport/gaurav-gill-glides-to-

easy-win-in-inrc-opener-4774510/

30/7/2017

33 Outlook https://www.outlookindia.com/newsscroll/gill-glides-to-easy-win-in-inrc-

opener/1111999

30/7/2017

34 PTI http://www.ptinews.com/news/8937076_Gill-glides-to-easy-win-in-INRC-

opener.html

30/7/2017

35 IANS http://www.ianslive.in/index.php?param=news/Rallyist_Gill_takes_Round_

1_of_MRF_National_Championship-559076/SPORTS/9

30/7/2017

36 Sify http://www.sify.com/news/rallyist-gill-takes-round-1-of-mrf-national-

championship-news-others-rh4stRcgfjccb.html

30/7/2017

37 Can India https://www.canindia.com/rallyist-gill-takes-round-1-of-mrf-national-

championship/

30/7/2017

38

Eastern Mirror

Nagaland http://www.easternmirrornagaland.com/rallyist-gill-takes-round-1-of-mrf-

national-championship/

30/7/2017

39 India http://www.india.com/news/agencies/gill-glides-to-easy-win-in-inrc-

opener-2364117/

30/7/2017

40 India http://www.india.com/news/agencies/rallyist-gill-takes-round-1-of-mrf-

national-championship-2364131/

30/7/2017

41 News 18 http://www.news18.com/news/sports/gill-takes-round-1-of-mrf-fmsci-

indian-national-rally-championship-1477513.html

30/7/2017

42 Nyooz https://www.nyoooz.com/news/coimbatore/882425/rallyist-gill-takes-

round-one-of-mrf-national-championship/

30/7/2017

43 Web

India 123 https://news.webindia123.com/news/articles/Sports/20170730/3158227.ht

ml

30/7/2017

44 Trinity Mirror

http://www.trinitymirror.net/news/gill-takes-round-1-mrf-fmsci-national-rally-championship-style/

1/8/2017

45 Drive Spark

https://www.drivespark.com/four-wheelers/2017/indian-national-rally-chamionship-rally-coimbatore-gaurav-gill-wins-023184.html

1/8/2017

46 Overdriv

e http://overdrive.in/news-cars-auto/2017-rfc-india-gurmeet-virdi-and-kirpal-

tung-emerge-victorious-again/

1/8/2017

47 Reportval

a http://reportvala.in/2017/08/01/gaurav-gill-wins-opening-round-of-mrf-

fmsci-inrc-in-coimbatore/

2/8/2017

Published Date: August 1, 2017 Publication: Asian Age

Edition: Chennai Page No: 35

Published Date: August 1, 2017 Publication: Trinity Mirror


Published Date: July 31, 2017 Publication: Times of India

Edition: Kolkata Page No: 10


Edition: Mumbai Page No: 26


Edition: New Delhi Page No: 26


Edition: Bangalore Page No: 18


Edition: Hyderabad Page No: 18

Published Date: July 31, 2017 Publication: Sakal Times

Edition: Pune Page No: 10

Published Date: July 31, 2017 Publication: Deccan Herald


Published Date: July 31, 2017 Publication: Hindustan Times


Published Date: July 31, 2017 Publication: Economic Times


Publication: July 31, 2017 Publication: Bangalore Mirror


Publication: July 31, 2017 Publication: Mumbai Mirror


Published Date: July 31, 2017 Publication: The Hindu


Published Date: July 31, 2017 Publication: The New Indian Express


Published Date: July 31, 2017 Publication: Mail Today


Published Date: July 31, 2017 Publication: The Free Press Journal


Published Date: July 31, 2017 Publication: The Pioneer


Published Date: July 31, 2017 Publication: The Statesman


Published Date: July 30, 2017 Publication: The Times of India



Edition: Delhi Page No: 23


Edition: Jaipur Page No: 23


Edition: Kochi Page No: 23


Edition: Chandigarh Page No: 23


Edition: Lucknow Page No: 23

Published Date: July 30, 2017 Publication: New Indian Express



Edition: Coimbatore Page No: 20

Published Date: July 30, 2017 Publication: Sakal Times


Published Date: July 30, 2017 Publication: Deccan Chronicle


Published Date: July 30, 2017 Publication: Deccan Herald


Published Date: July 30, 2017 Publication: Mirror


Published Date: July 30, 2017 Publication: Dainik Jagran

Edition: Delhi Page No: 12

Published Date: July 30, 2017 Publication: EiSamoy


Published Date: July 31, 2017 Publication: Punjab Kesari


Published Date: July 31, 2017 Publication: Vijay Karnataka


Published Date: July 31, 2017 Publication: Kannada Prabha


Published Date: July 31, 2017 Publication: Dainik Jagran


ONLINE


Edition: Online Page No:

MRF FMSCI Indian National Rally Championship flagged off

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/racing/top-stories/mrf-fmsci-indian-national-rally-

championship-flagged-off/articleshow/59823837.cms

The MRF FMSCI Indian National Rally Championship (INRC) 2017 will be held here on Sunday, with the

country's best rallyists squaring off and renewing their battles for top honours. A total of 32 teams will

be in fray at the opening round of the championship.

The championship was flagged off by the Coimbatore district collector TN Hariharan at the Codissia

Grounds on Saturday. He congratulated the organisers and wished luck to the competitors.

With two-time APRC champion Gaurav Gill (Team Mahindra Adventure), defending champion Karna

Kadur (ARKA Motorsports INRC), two-time INRC champion Amittrajit Ghosh (Team Mahindra Adventure)

and Arjun Rao (AR Racing) likely to be the main contenders once again.

The rally will cover a distance of 200km in and around Kethanur, on the outskirts of the city, with

71.40km earmarked for five special stages on gravel roads. It traverses through closed sections of both

public and private roads.

Addressing a press conference Arindam Ghosh, director, RRPM, said, "The 2017 edition of INRC is a big

season for us. For the first time, we will be hosting a round in Arunachal Pradesh and the good news is

that it is being backed by Arunachal Tourism. In all, there will be six rounds this year and all of them will

be held in different locales and different terrains."

"For the first time in Indian motor sports, we will have an air ambulance to cope with any emergencies

or contingencies," J Prithviraj, the Clerk of the Course, said. As for the rally itself, he said that the stages

would be very different compared to last year as the layout has been changed. "We have created

artificial jumps in consultation with the promoter at spectator points to get their adrenaline pumping,"

Prithviraj added.

FMSCI president Akbar Ebrahim said that the new rally season would be highly competitive. "We have

close to 35 teams which is a very good start," he said.

Defending champion Karna Kadur, who will be competing for a new team this season, conceded that he

would need some time to get his car into the groove. "I am feeling good and confident. It should be fun

as we have more rounds," Kadur said.




http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/racing/top-stories/national-rally-revamped-inrc-to-boost-

competition/articleshow/59828943.cms

The MRFFMSCI Indian National Rally Championship (INRC) returns in a bigger and better format this

season with MRF Rally of Coimbatore here on Sunday. Thirty-two cars will be in fray in the opening

round which will be held at the Kethanur village some 40 km from here.

This time, with the addition of one more round in Arunachal Pradesh, the competition will have six

rounds in all giving it a more pan-Indian look.

All the leading drivers of the country will be in fray with Team Mahindra's Gaurav Gill and Amittrajit

Ghosh renewing their old rivalry. However, defending champion Karna Kadur, who is with a new team

(ARKA Motorsports), cannot be counted out.

The cars will have to negotiate five very fast and technical gravel road stages which constitute 71.40 km

of the 200-km rally.

Last year's champion here, Ghosh, however, looks a bit rusty having being out of action for seven

months. "I am returning to my car after seven months. So I have set myself a modest target. My main

aim is to get my rhythm back for the season ahead," the Kolkata-based driver said.

Gill, who failed to finish here last time after his car developed a mechanical snag, is determined to make

amends. He agreed that the last INRC season didn't go well for him. "Yes it was not the best of INRCs for

me as I missed out on points in some rounds. But this time with special gravel tyres and good

preparation, I expect good results," the two-time Asia Pacific Rally Championship (APRC) winner stated.

However, doing away with the Indian Rally Championship (IRC) and introduction of new step-up cars is

expected to add more zeal to the contest.

Published Date: July 29, 2017 Publication: DNA



http://www.dnaindia.com/sports/report-gill-karna-amittrajit-to-square-off-at-national-rally-c-ship-

2517856

Top rallyists, including Gaurav Gill, Karna Kadur and Amittrajit Ghosh, will be squaring off and renewing

their battles for top honours when the curtain goes up on the MRF FMSCI Indian National Rally

Championship (INRC) here tomorrow.

Thirty-two teams will be in fray at the opening round of the championship, the MRF Rally of Coimbatore,

with two-time APRC champion Gill (Team Mahindra Adventure), defending champion Karna (ARKA

Motorsports INRC), two-time INRC champion Amittrajit (Team Mahindra Adventure) and Arjun Rao (AR

Racing) likely to be the main contenders once again.

The rally will cover a distance of 200 kilometres in and around Kethanur, on the outskirts of the city of

Coimbatore, with 71.40 kilometres earmarked for 5 special stages on gravel roads. It traverses through

closed sections of, both, public and private, roads and the entire route map has already been shared

with the competitors for reconnaissance.

Arindam Ghosh, Director, RRPM said: "The 2017 edition of INRC is a big season for us. For the first time,

we will be hosting a round in Arunachal Pradesh and the good news is that it is being backed by

Arunachal Tourism. This is a great development as globally tourism plays a major role in sponsoring

motor sports, including in the WRC." In all, there will be six rounds this year and all of them will be held

in different locales and different terrains which will test the skills of the drivers to the hilt.

"Last year my car broke down so I couldn't be among the top contenders. But that s in the past," Gill

said.

"I am ready and raring to go now. We are going to have new car set-ups from the next round which will

make the cars faster and so a lot more exciting for us," he added.


would need some time to get his car into the groove.

Amitrajit also revealed that he was a little rustic as he hadn't been in a rally car for seven months. "I will

get into my rhythm soon," he said.

Published Date: July 29, 2017 Publication: Sportskeeda



https://www.sportskeeda.com/motorsports/gill-karna-amittrajit-to-square-off-in-round-1-of-mrf-fmsci-

indian-national-rally-championship-on-sunday

The curtain goes up on the MRF FMSCI Indian National Rally Championship (INRC) 2017 here in

Coimbatore on Sunday, with the country’s best rallyists squaring off and renewing their battles for top

honours, glory and handsome winners’ purses.

Thirty-two teams will be in fray at the opening round of the championship, the MRF Rally of

Coimbatore, with two-time APRC champion Gaurav Gill (Team Mahindra Adventure), defending

champion Karna Kadur (ARKA Motorsports INRC), two-time INRC champion Amittrajit Ghosh (Team

Mahindra Adventure) and Arjun Rao (AR Racing) likely to be the main contenders once again.





Arindam Ghosh, Director, RRPM said: “The 2017 edition of INRC is a big season for us. For the first time,

we will be hosting a round in Arunachal Pradesh and the good news is that it is being backed

by Arunachal Tourism. This is a great development as globally tourism plays a major role in sponsoring

motor sports, including in the WRC."

In all, there will be six rounds this year and all of them will be held in different locales and different

terrains which will test the skills of the drivers to the hilt.

J Prithviraj, the Clerk of the Course, was expectedly excited. “For the first time in Indian motor sports,

we will have an air ambulance to cope with any emergencies or contingencies,” he said.

As for the rally itself, he said that the stages would be very different compared to last year as the layout

has also been changed. “We have created artificial jumps in consultation with the promoter at spectator

points to get their adrenaline pumping,” he explained.

During the media interaction, the main contenders looked eager and confident.

“Last year my car broke down so I couldn't be among the top contenders. But that’s in the past,” Gaurav

Gill declared.

“I am ready and raring to go now. We are going to have new car set-ups from the next round which will


FMSCI president Akbar Ebrahim agreed that the new rally season would be highly competitive.

"We have close to 35 teams which is a very good start," he said. "We have six rounds which will test the

drivers a lot more," he said.


would need some time to get his car into the groove. Beyond that, though, I am feeling good and

confident. It should be fun as we have more rounds," he said.

Amitrajit Ghosh also revealed that he was a little rustic as he hadn't been in a rally car for seven months.

"I will get into my rhythm soon," he said, talking about his chances.

Published Date: July 29, 2017 Publication: India Today


Gill, Karna, Amittrajit to square off at National Rally Cship

http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/gill-karna-amittrajit-to-square-off-at-national-rally-

cship/1/1014175.html



Championship (INRC) here tomorrow. Thirty-two teams will be in fray at the opening round of the

championship, the MRF Rally of Coimbatore, with two-time APRC champion Gill (Team Mahindra

Adventure), defending champion Karna (ARKA Motorsports INRC), two-time INRC champion Amittrajit

(Team Mahindra Adventure) and Arjun Rao (AR Racing) likely to be the main contenders once again. The

rally will cover a distance of 200 kilometres in and around Kethanur, on the outskirts of the city of

Coimbatore, with 71.40 kilometers earmarked for 5 special stages on gravel roads. It traverses through


with the competitors for reconnaissance. Arindam Ghosh, Director, RRPM said: "The 2017 edition of

INRC is a big season for us. For the first time, we will be hosting a round in Arunachal Pradesh and the

good news is that it is being backed by Arunachal Tourism. This is a great development as globally

tourism plays a major role in sponsoring motor sports, including in the WRC." In all, there will be six

rounds this year and all of them will be held in different locales and different terrains which will test the

skills of the drivers to the hilt. "Last year my car broke down so I couldn’t be among the top contenders.

But that’s in the past," Gill said. "I am ready and raring to go now. We are going to have new car set-ups

from the next round which will make the cars faster and so a lot more exciting for us," he added.


would need some time to get his car into the groove. Amitrajit also revealed that he was a little rustic as

he hadn’t been in a rally car for seven months. "I will get into my rhythm soon," he said.

Published Date: July 29, 2017 Publication: One India



http://www.oneindia.com/sports/gill-karna-amittrajit-square-off-inrc-coimbatore-2509875.htmll



Championship (INRC) here tomorrow. Thirty-two teams will be in fray at the opening round of the

championship, the MRF Rally of Coimbatore, with two-time APRC champion Gill (Team Mahindra

Adventure), defending champion Karna (ARKA Motorsports INRC), two-time INRC champion Amittrajit

(Team Mahindra Adventure) and Arjun Rao (AR Racing) likely to be the main contenders once again. The

rally will cover a distance of 200 kilometres in and around Kethanur, on the outskirts of the city of

Coimbatore, with 71.40 kilometers earmarked for 5 special stages on gravel roads. It traverses through


with the competitors for reconnaissance. Arindam Ghosh, Director, RRPM said: "The 2017 edition of

INRC is a big season for us. For the first time, we will be hosting a round in Arunachal Pradesh and the

good news is that it is being backed by Arunachal Tourism. This is a great development as globally

tourism plays a major role in sponsoring motor sports, including in the WRC." In all, there will be six

rounds this year and all of them will be held in different locales and different terrains which will test the

skills of the drivers to the hilt. "Last year my car broke down so I couldn’t be among the top contenders.

But that’s in the past," Gill said. "I am ready and raring to go now. We are going to have new car set-ups

from the next round which will make the cars faster and so a lot more exciting for us," he added.


would need some time to get his car into the groove. Amitrajit also revealed that he was a little rustic as

he hadn’t been in a rally car for seven months. "I will get into my rhythm soon," he said.

Published Date: July 29, 2017 Publication: S4 News



https://www.s4news.in/k/fmsci


















said.

Published Date: July 29, 2017 Publication: Covai Post



http://www.covaipost.com/coimbatore/mrf-fmsci-indian-national-rally-championship-from-tomorrow/

With best rallyists, including defending champion Karna Kadur squaring off and renewing their battles

for top honours, the curtain goes up on the MRF FMSCI Indian National Rally Championship (INRC) 2017

here tomorrow.

In all, 32 teams will be in fray at the opening round of the championship, the MRF Rally of Coimbatore,

with two-time APRC champion Gaurav Gill (Team Mahindra Adventure), Karna Kadur (ARKA Motorsports

INRC), two-time INRC champion Amittrajit Ghosh (Team Mahindra Adventure) and Arjun Rao (AR Racing)

likely to be the main contenders.

The rally will cover a distance of 200 kilometres in and around Kethanur, on the city outskirts, with 71.40

Kms earmarked for five special stages on gravel roads. It traverses through closed sections of, both,

public and private, roads and the entire route map has already been shared with the competitors for

reconnissance, Arindam Ghosh, Director, Ramakrishna Race Performance Management (RRPM), the

hosts, told reporters here. “The 2017 edition of INRC is a big season for us.

For the first time, we will be hosting a round in Arunachal Pradesh and the good news is that it is being

backed by Arunachal Tourism. This is a great development as globally tourism plays a major role in

sponsoring motor sports, including in the WRC,” Ghosh said.


terrains which will test the skills of the drivers to the hilt, he said. “For the first time in Indian motor

sports, we will have an air ambulance to cope with any emergencies or contingencies,” the Clerk of the

Course, J. Prithviraj, said.

As for the rally, he said that the stages would be very different compared to last year as the layout has

been changed.

“We have created artificial jumps in consultation with the promoter at spectator points to get their

adrenaline pumping,” Prithviraj said.

Published Date: July 29, 2017 Publication: Outlook India



https://www.outlookindia.com/newsscroll/gill-karna-amittrajit-to-square-off-at-national-rally-

cship/1111427


















said.










http://www.thehindu.com/sport/motorsport/mrf-rally-kadur-gill-and-ghosh-raring-to-

go/article19386884.ece

Defending champion Karna Kadur (ARKA Motorsports), Gaurav Gill and Amittrajit Ghosh (from Team

Mahindra Adventure) will look forward to begin the season with a bang in the first round of the MRF

Rally of Coimbatore at the Kethanur Windmill farm near Palladam here on Sunday.

“Last year my car broke down so I couldn’t be among the top contenders. That’s in the past but now I

am ready and raring to go. We have new car set-ups from the next round which will make the cars faster

and so a lot more exciting for us,” said Gill, the two-time APRC champion.

As for Kadur, he will be competing for a new team this season. “I will need some time to get the car into

the groove. But I am feeling good and confident,” he said.

Ghosh, the two-time INRC champion, said he was a little rustic. “I hadn’t been in a rally car for seven

months but I will get into my rhythm soon.”

FMSCI head Akbar Ebrahim said the new rally season will be highly competitive.

“We have close to 35 teams, which is a very good start, and we have six rounds as well, which will test

the drivers a lot more.”

This year, the stage layout has been changed. “We have created artificial jumps to make it a bit

exciting,” said J. Prithviraj, the Clerk of the Course.

Interestingly, for the first time the promoters will be hosting a round in Arunachal Pradesh, backed by

Arunachal Tourism.

Another first in Indian motorsports is the use of an air ambulance to cope with any emergencies.

Published Date: July 29, 2017 Publication: NDTV Auto



https://auto.ndtv.com/news/2017-fmsci-indian-national-rally-championship-to-kick-start-on-sunday-

1730884

The adrenaline levels are certainly running this weekend as the MRF FMSCI Indian National Rally Championship (INRC) is back for the 2017 season and will kick start on 30th July 20 17. This year's edition will bring the country's best rallyists taking the wheel to traverse some of the most difficult terrains as they battle for the top honours and the ultimate win. The INRC will also be moving to Arunachal Pradesh this year for the fi rst time. The opening round begins tomorrow in Coimbatore with 32 teams competing for the title.

Some of the more prominent names participating in the 2017 MRF FMSCI INRC include two -time APRC champion Gaurav Gill for Team Mahindra Adventure, defending champion Karna Kadur for ARKA Motorsports INRC, as well as two-time INRC champion Amittrajit Ghosh for Team Mahindra Adventure and Arjun Rao for AR Racing.

From LtoR: Karna Kadur, Amittrajit Ghosh, FMSCI president Akbar Ebrahim, Gaurav Gill and Arjun Rao

The first round of the rally will cover a distance of 200 km in and around Kethanur, on the outskirts of the city of Coimbatore. Out of the total run, 71.40 km has been earmarked for five special stages on gravel roads. The special stages will see the rally pass through closed sections of both public and private roads.

J Prithviraj, the Clerk of the Course said that the stages would be very different compared to last year with a change in the layout. Artificial jumps have been created at spectator points to get their adrenaline pumping.

Arindam Ghosh, Director, RRPM said, "The 2017 edition of INRC is a big season for us. For the first time, we will be hosting a round in Arunachal Pradesh and the good news is that it is being backed by Arunachal Tourism. This is a great development as globally tourism plays a major role in sponsoring motor sports, including in the WRC."

Defending champion Karna Kadur aims to retain his title in MRF FMSCI INRC 2017

There will be six rounds this year that will be held across different locales and terrains, putting driver's skills to the test. In addition, the 2017 season will also see a major push towards better

safety with an air ambulance on standby to address to any emergencies. This is a first for Indian motorsports.

As for the contenders, the top drivers are ready towards an exciting season. Gaurav Gill said, "Last year my car broke down so I couldn't be among the top contenders. But that's in the past. I am ready and raring to go now. We are going to have new car set-ups from the next round which will make the cars faster and so a lot more exciting for us."

Defending champion Karna Kadur, who will be competing for a new team this season, said that he would need some time to get his car into the groove. "Beyond that, though, I am feeling good and confident. It should be fun as we have more rounds," he added.

Amitrajit Ghosh also revealed that he was a little rustic as he hadn't been in a rally car for seven

months. "I will get into my rhythm soon," he said.

Published Date: July 29, 2017 Publication: Pioneer



http://www.dailypioneer.com/sports/2017-07-30-184087.html

Thirty-two teams will be in fray at the opening round of the MRF FMSCI Indian National Rally

Championship (INRC) 2017 here on Sunday, with the countrys best rallyists squaring off and renewing

their battles for top honours, glory and handsome winners purses. Two-time APRC champion Gaurav Gill

(Team Mahindra Adventure), defending champion Karna Kadur (ARKA Motorsports INRC), two-time

INRC champion Amittrajit Ghosh (Team Mahindra Adventure) and Arjun Rao (AR Racing) are likely to be

the main contenders for the title once again. The rally will cover a distance of 200 kilometres in and

around Kethanur with 71.40 kilometres earmarked for five special stages on gravel roads.

Published Date: July 29, 2017 Publication: Business Standard


32 teams in fray for Round 1 of MRF National Championship (Preview)

http://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ians/32-teams-in-fray-for-round-1-of-mrf-national-

championship-preview-117072900664_1.html



their battles for top honours, glory and handsome winners purses.

Two-time APRC champion Gaurav Gill (Team Mahindra Adventure), defending champion Karna Kadur

(ARKA Motorsports INRC), two-time INRC champion Amittrajit Ghosh (Team Mahindra Adventure) and

Arjun Rao (AR Racing) are likely to be the main contenders for the title once again.

The rally will cover a distance of 200 kilometres in and around Kethanur, on the outskirts of Coimbatore,

with 71.40 kilometres earmarked for five special stages on gravel roads.

It traverses through closed sections of both public and private roads and the entire route map has

already been shared with the competitors for reconnaissance.

Commenting on the event, Arindam Ghosh, Director, RRPM said: "The 2017 edition of INRC is a big


that it is being backed by Arunachal Tourism. This is a great development as globally tourism plays a

major role in sponsoring motor sports, including in the WRC."




"Last year my car broke down so I couldn't be among the top contenders. But that's in the past," Gaurav

Gill said.








"Beyond that, though, I am feeling good and confident. It should be fun as we have more rounds," he

said.

Amittrajit also revealed that he was a little rustic as he hadn't been in a rally car for seven months.


Published Date: July 29, 2017 Publication: India.com



http://www.india.com/news/agencies/32-teams-in-fray-for-round-1-of-mrf-national-championship-

preview-2362400/



















Gill said.









said.



Published Date: July 29, 2017 Publication: IANS Live



http://www.ianslive.in/index.php?param=news/32_teams_in_fray_for_Round_1_of_MRF_National_Ch

ampionship-559005/SPORTS/9



















Gill said.









said.



Published Date: July 29, 2017 Publication: Shafaqna



http://sportnews.shafaqna.com/EN/US/194132



















Gill said.









said.



Published Date: July 29, 2017 Publication: Nerve



http://www.nerve.in/news:2535003946658



















Gill said.









said.



Published Date: July 29, 2017 Publication: Article.Wn



https://article.wn.com/view/2017/07/29/MRF_Rally_Kadur_Gill_and_Ghosh_raring_to_go/



















Gill said.









said.



Published Date: July 29, 2017 Publication: Article.Wn



https://article.wn.com/view/2017/07/29/MRF_FMSCI_Indian_National_Rally_Championship_flagged_of

f/



















Gill said.









said.



Published Date: July 29, 2017 Publication: Magz Mumbai



http://www.magzmumbai.com/gill-karna-amittrajit-to-square-off-in-round-1-of-mrf-fmsci-rally/



















Gill said.









said.



Published Date: July 29, 2017 Publication: Sify



http://www.sify.com/news/32-teams-in-fray-for-round-1-of-mrf-national-championship-preview-news-

others-rh3uaghjdcghb.html



















Gill said.









said.



Published Date: July 29, 2017 Publication: SportzWiki



http://sportzwiki.com/more/preview-32-teams-fray-round-1-mrf-national-championship/



















Gill said.









said.



Published Date: July 29, 2017 Publication: Yahoo



https://in.news.yahoo.com/32-teams-fray-round-1-mrf-national-championship-141204648.html



















Gill said.









said.



Published Date: July 29, 2017 Publication: Motorsport.com



https://www.motorsport.com/indian-rally/news/inrc-rally-of-coimbatore-kadur-gill-the-ones-to-watch-

out-for-936053/

Kadur (co-driver Nikhil Pai), who has switched from Team Yokohama to ARKA Motorsports INRC this season, is hoping to make the best of the conditions. However, he is wary of the challenge from Team Mahindra Adventure’s Gill (Musa Sherif).

Two-time INRC champion Amittrajit Ghosh (Ashwin Naik) of Team Mahindra Adventure and Arjun Rao (Satish Rajagopal) of AR Racing are the other competitors to watch out for.

There is a fair grid of 32 cars in Coimbatore, India’s hotbed for motorsport. The event is being organised by the Coimbatore Auto Sports Club.

The total rally distance is 200Km and will be run in and around Kethanur, which is on the outskirts of Coimbatore. The total special stage distance is 71.40 kilometres with five gravel stages to compete on.

Following the shakedown on Saturday, Kadur told Motorsport.com: “The shakedown went well and we are about 1.5 seconds quicker on the MRF Tyres as compared to last year.

“However, we are still waiting for the car upgrades. Last year, things fell into place after the Delhi round. We hope to have some upgrades soon but our effort will be on scoring points,” he added.

“It is a challenge to compete against Gaurav. He is the best in the country and beating him is the target.

“Our car is set up perfectly. The stages are bigger, wider and quicker this year. But they are also rougher.

“Since we will be the first to start, there will be advantage in some parts, while it may not be to our advantage in others,” he felt.

Two-time and defending Asia-Pacific champion Gill said: “Our car is faster this year and we have moved to the 17 inch gravel tyres from MRF that have never been used but made specially for Mahindra.

“So, the overall grip is better than before.

“The average speeds are higher here. Last year, I clocked about 98Kmph, but this year, I see it crossing 100. We have to make the best of it in the morning.

“It is always a delight to come back to Coimbatore. The stages are twisty and fast. High speeds are possible, even about 180Kmph in some places,” he added.

Ghosh hoped to get back into the groove soon as he has not been in the car for seven months. "I will get into my rhythm soon," he said.

Clerk of the Course J Prithviraj said: “For the first time in Indian motorsport, we have an air ambulance to cope with any emergencies or contingencies.

“We have created artificial jumps at spectator points to get their adrenaline pumping,” he explained.

Published Date: July 29, 2017 Publication: Sports Star Live



http://www.sportstarlive.com/motorsport/mrf-rally-hot-battle-on-the-cards/article19385615.ece




“Last year my car broke down so I couldn't be among the top contenders. That’s in the past but now I



For Kadur, he will be representing a new team this season. “I would need some time to get the car into

the groove. But I am feeling good and confident," he said.

Ghosh, the two-time INRC champion, said he was a little rustic. “I hadn't been in a rally car for seven

months but I will get into my rhythm soon."

The FMSCI Head Akbar Ebrahim said the new rally season would be highly competitive. "We have close

to 35 teams which is a very good start and

we have six rounds as well which will test the drivers a lot more.”

This year, the stage layout has been changed. "We have created artificial jumps to make it a bit


Interestingly, for the first time the promoters will be hosting a round in Arunachal Pradesh. The good

news is, it is being backed by Arunachal Tourism.


Published Date: July 29, 2017 Publication: News Eleven



http://www.newseleven.in/2017-fmsci-indian-national-rally-championship-to-kick-start-on-sunday/




“Last year my car broke down so I couldn't be among the top contenders. That’s in the past but now I



For Kadur, he will be representing a new team this season. “I would need some time to get the car into

the groove. But I am feeling good and confident," he said.

Ghosh, the two-time INRC champion, said he was a little rustic. “I hadn't been in a rally car for seven

months but I will get into my rhythm soon."

The FMSCI Head Akbar Ebrahim said the new rally season would be highly competitive. "We have close

to 35 teams which is a very good start and

we have six rounds as well which will test the drivers a lot more.”

This year, the stage layout has been changed. "We have created artificial jumps to make it a bit


Interestingly, for the first time the promoters will be hosting a round in Arunachal Pradesh. The good

news is, it is being backed by Arunachal Tourism.




Gill glides to easy win in INRC opener

http://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/gill-glides-to-easy-win-in-inrc-opener-

117073000352_1.html

Two-time APRC champion Gaurav Gill began the 2017 FMSCI Indian National Rally Championship on a

dominant note, winning Round 1 with consummate ease here today. The 35-year-old ace rallyist and co-

driver Musa Sherif, who were fourth off the blocks, stormed into the lead in the first stage itself. Gill

tackled the gravel road with all its twists and turns in his typical aggressive way to round it up in just 12

minutes and 11 seconds, a full 18 seconds ahead of the 24-car field. Driving for Team Mahindra in an

XUV 500, Delhi's Gill showed his class and gumption in the remaining four stages too, sweeping each of

them in style. He kept increasing his lead by a minimum of 20 seconds in each stage to finish the 70-odd

kilometres in one hour and thirty-six seconds, almost in a canter. Defending INRC champion Karna Kadur

and Nikhil Pai (Arka Motorsports) from Bengaluru finished one minute forty-five seconds behind to take

the second position. Amittrajit Ghosh and Ashwin Naik (Team Mahindra Adventure) grabbed the last

place on the podium even though they had technical issues with their vehicle. Karna showed immense

speed in his Polo but just couldn't match Gill's pyrotechnics; he, however, stayed ahead of the pack in

the INRC 2 category. Rahul Kanthraj and Vivek Bhatt who finished overall fifth took the second position,

cruising into the park ferme just three seconds later. Dean Mascarenhas and ShrupthaPadival claimed

the honours in INRC 3, finishing fourth in the INRC pecking order. One of the leading pairs, Arjun Rao

and Satish Rajgopal, pulled out in the first stage itself. Five other teams joined them on the DNF list, with

the heat playing a role. AroorVikram and Somayya AG, in fact, had a bad crash and their car literally

burnt down; luckily, both the driver and the co-driver escaped without a scratch. RESULTS: INRC: 1.

Gaurav Gill & Musa Sherif (Team Mahindra Adventure); 2. Karna Kadur& Nikhil Pai (Arka Motorsports);

3. Amittrajit Ghosh & Ashwin Naik (Team Mahindra Adventure) INRC 2: 1. Karna Kadur& Nikhil Pai (Red

Rooster Performance); 2. Rahul Kanthraj&Vivek Bhatt (Red Rooster Performance); 3. Younus Ilyas &

Harish Kumar INRC 3: 1. Dean Mascarenhas&ShrupthaPadival; 2. DrBikuBabu&Milen George; 3. KM

Bopaiah&Karumbaisah G.



Rallyist Gill takes Round 1 of MRF National Championship

http://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ians/rallyist-gill-takes-round-1-of-mrf-national-

championship-117073000359_1.html

Two-time Asia-Pacific Rally (APRC) champion Gaurav Gill began his MRF FMSCI Indian National Rally

Championship (INRC) on a positive note, winning the first round of the compititon here on Sunday.The

35-year-old ace rallyist and his co-driver Musa Sherif, who were fourth off the blocks, stormed into the

lead in the first stage itself.

Gill tackled the gravel road with all its twists and turns in his typical aggressive way to round it up in just

12 minutes and 11 seconds, a full 18 seconds ahead of the 24-car field.Driving for Team Mahindra in an



km in an hour and 36 seconds, almost in a canter.

Defending INRC champion Karna Kadur and Nikhil Pai (Arka Motorsports) from Bengaluru finished one

minute 45 seconds behind to take the second position.Amittrajit Ghosh and Ashwin Naik (Team

Mahindra Adventure) grabbed the last spot on the podium even though they had technical issues with

his vehicle.

Commenting on his win, Gill said: "It was a good win. I enjoy driving here in Coimbatore and it's always

nice to start the season with a victory.""It was a nice smooth round, with no drama and no fuss. I

particularly enjoyed the second stage where our skill and control came into play," he added.

Second spot finisher Karna showed immense speed in his Polo but just couldn't match Gill's

pyrotechnics.However, he stayed ahead of the pack in the INRC 2 category. Rahul Kanthraj and Vivek

Bhatt who finished overall fifth took the second position three seconds later.

Dean Mascarenhas and ShrupthaPadival claimed the Round one honours in INRC 3, finishing fourth in

the INRC pecking order.One of the leading pairs, Arjun Rao and Satish Rajgopal, pulled out in the first

stage itself.



Gill takes Round 1 in style

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/racing/top-stories/fmsci-indian-national-rally-championship-

gaurav-gill-takes-round-1-in-style/articleshow/59833359.cms



























http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/coimbatore/rallyist-gill-takes-round-one-of-mrf-national-

championship/articleshow/59838003.cms

Two-time APRC champion Gaurav Gill began his MRF FMSCI

Indian national rally championship 2017 on a dominant note, winning round 1 with ease in the city on

Sunday.

The 35-year-oldrallyist and co-driver Musa Sherif, who were fourth off the blocks, stormed into the lead

in the first stage itself. Gill tackled the gravel road with all its twists and turns in his typical aggressive

way to round it up in just 12 minutes and 11 seconds, a full 21 seconds ahead of the 24-car field.

Driving for Team Mahindra in an XUV 500, Delhi-based Gill showed his class in the remaining four stages

too, sweeping each of them in style. He kept increasing his lead by a minimum of 20 seconds in each

stage to finish the 70-odd kilometrein one hourand 36 seconds.

Defending INRC champion Karna Kadur and Nikhil Pai (Red Rooster Performance) from Bengaluru

finished a minute 45 seconds behind to take the second position while Amittrajit Ghosh and Ashwin Naik

(Team Mahindra Adventure) were further adrift by 28 seconds to grab the third place.

Karna managed great speed in his Polo but could not match Gill's pyrotechnics. He, however, stayed

ahead of the pack in the INRC 2 category. Rahul Kanthraj and Vivek Bhatt who finished overall fifth took

the second position, cruising 3 seconds later.

Dean Mascarenhas and ShrupthaPadival claimed the round 1 honour in INRC 3, finishing fifth in the INRC

pecking order.

One of the leading pairs, Arjun Rao and Satish Rajgopal, pulled out in the first couple of stages itself,

joining six other teams on the DNF list. AroorVikram and SomayyaA G had a bad crash and their car

burnt down in the opening stage itself. Luckily, both the driver and the co-driver escaped without a

scratch on their persons.

Published Date: July 29, 2017 Publication: Network 18



http://www.news18.com/news/sports/gill-takes-round-1-of-mrf-fmsci-indian-national-rally-

championship-1477513.html
























Published Date: July 29, 2017 Publication: Hindustan Times



http://www.hindustantimes.com/other-sports/gaurav-gill-glides-to-easy-win-in-indian-national-rally-

championship-opener/story-7SPsBJ0ZmTwj6ogcFe2lfM.html
























Published Date: July 29, 2017 Publication: Indian Express



http://indianexpress.com/article/sports/motor-sport/gaurav-gill-glides-to-easy-win-in-inrc-opener-

4774510/
























Published Date: July 29, 2017 Publication: Outlook



https://www.outlookindia.com/newsscroll/gill-glides-to-easy-win-in-inrc-opener/1111999
























Published Date: July 29, 2017 Publication: Sify



http://www.sify.com/news/rallyist-gill-takes-round-1-of-mrf-national-championship-news-others-

rh4stRcgfjccb.html
























Published Date: July 29, 2017 Publication: PTI



http://www.ptinews.com/news/8937076_Gill-glides-to-easy-win-in-INRC-opener.html
























Published Date: July 29, 2017 Publication: IANS



http://www.ianslive.in/index.php?param=news/Rallyist_Gill_takes_Round_1_of_MRF_National_Champi

onship-559076/SPORTS/9



Sunday.














pecking order.





Published Date: July 29, 2017 Publication: Eastern Mirror Nagaland



http://www.easternmirrornagaland.com/rallyist-gill-takes-round-1-of-mrf-national-championship/




lead in the first stage itself. Gill tackled the gravel road with all its twists and turns in his typical

aggressive way to round it up in just 12 minutes and 11 seconds, a full 18 seconds ahead of the 24-car

field.Driving for Team Mahindra in an XUV 500, Delhi’s Gill showed his class and gumption in the

remaining four stages too, sweeping each of them in style. He kept increasing his lead by a minimum of

20 seconds in each stage to finish the 70-odd km in an hour and 36 seconds, almost in a

canter.Defending INRC champion Karna Kadur and Nikhil Pai (Arka Motorsports) from Bengaluru finished

one minute 45 seconds behind to take the second position.Amittrajit Ghosh and Ashwin Naik (Team


his vehicle.Commenting on his win, Gill said: “It was a good win. I enjoy driving here in Coimbatore and

it’s always nice to start the season with a victory.”“It was a nice smooth round, with no drama and no

fuss. I particularly enjoyed the second stage where our skill and control came into play,” he

added.Second spot finisher Karna showed immense speed in his Polo but just couldn’t match Gill’s


Bhatt who finished overall fifth took the second position three seconds later.DeanMascarenhas and

ShrupthaPadival claimed the Round one honours in INRC 3, finishing fourth in the INRC pecking

order.One of the leading pairs, Arjun Rao and Satish Rajgopal, pulled out in the first stage itself.

Published Date: July 29, 2017 Publication: India



http://www.india.com/news/agencies/gill-glides-to-easy-win-in-inrc-opener-2364117/





aggressive way to round it up in just 12 minutes and 11 seconds, a full 18 seconds ahead of the 24-car

field.Driving for Team Mahindra in an XUV 500, Delhi’s Gill showed his class and gumption in the

remaining four stages too, sweeping each of them in style. He kept increasing his lead by a minimum of

20 seconds in each stage to finish the 70-odd km in an hour and 36 seconds, almost in a

canter.Defending INRC champion Karna Kadur and Nikhil Pai (Arka Motorsports) from Bengaluru finished

one minute 45 seconds behind to take the second position.Amittrajit Ghosh and Ashwin Naik (Team


his vehicle.Commenting on his win, Gill said: “It was a good win. I enjoy driving here in Coimbatore and

it’s always nice to start the season with a victory.”“It was a nice smooth round, with no drama and no

fuss. I particularly enjoyed the second stage where our skill and control came into play,” he

added.Second spot finisher Karna showed immense speed in his Polo but just couldn’t match Gill’s


Bhatt who finished overall fifth took the second position three seconds later.DeanMascarenhas and

ShrupthaPadival claimed the Round one honours in INRC 3, finishing fourth in the INRC pecking

order.One of the leading pairs, Arjun Rao and Satish Rajgopal, pulled out in the first stage itself.

Published Date: July 29, 2017 Publication: India



http://www.india.com/news/agencies/rallyist-gill-takes-round-1-of-mrf-national-championship-

2364131/



Sunday.














pecking order.





Published Date: July 29, 2017 Publication: Nyooz



https://www.nyoooz.com/news/coimbatore/882425/rallyist-gill-takes-round-one-of-mrf-national-

championship/

Two-time APRC champion Gaurav Gill began his MRF FMSCI Indian national rally championship 2017 on

a dominant note, winning round 1 with ease in the city on Sunday.The 35-year-oldrallyist and co-driver

Musa Sherif, who were fourth off the blocks, stormed into the lead in the first stage itself. Gill tackled

the gravel road with all its twists and turns in his typical aggressive way to round it up in just 12 minutes

and 11 seconds, a full 21 seconds ahead of the 24-car field.Driving for Team Mahindra in an XUV 500,

Delhi-based Gill showed his class in the remaining four stages too, sweeping each of them in style. He

kept increasing his lead by a minimum of 20 seconds in each stage to finish the 70-odd kilometrein one

hourand 36 seconds.Defending INRC champion Karna Kadur and Nikhil Pai (Red Rooster Performance)

from Bengaluru finished a minute 45 seconds behind to take the second position while Amittrajit Ghosh

and Ashwin Naik (Team Mahindra Adventure) were further adrift by 28 seconds to grab the third

place.Karna managed great speed in his Polo but could not match Gill's pyrotechnics. He, however,

stayed ahead of the pack in the INRC 2 category. Rahul Kanthraj and Vivek Bhatt who finished overall

fifth took the second position, cruising 3 seconds later.DeanMascarenhas and ShrupthaPadival claimed

the round 1 honour in INRC 3, finishing fifth in the INRC pecking order.One of the leading pairs, Arjun

Rao and Satish Rajgopal, pulled out in the first couple of stages itself, joining six other teams on the DNF

list. AroorVikram and SomayyaA G had a bad crash and their car burnt down in the opening stage itself.

Published Date: July 29, 2017 Publication: Web India 123



https://news.webindia123.com/news/articles/Sports/20170730/3158227.html

Two-time APRC champion Gaurav Gill began his MRF FMSCI Indian national rally championship 2017 on

a dominant note, winning round 1 with ease in the city on Sunday.The 35-year-oldrallyist and co-driver

Musa Sherif, who were fourth off the blocks, stormed into the lead in the first stage itself. Gill tackled

the gravel road with all its twists and turns in his typical aggressive way to round it up in just 12 minutes

and 11 seconds, a full 21 seconds ahead of the 24-car field.Driving for Team Mahindra in an XUV 500,

Delhi-based Gill showed his class in the remaining four stages too, sweeping each of them in style. He

kept increasing his lead by a minimum of 20 seconds in each stage to finish the 70-odd kilometrein one

hourand 36 seconds.Defending INRC champion Karna Kadur and Nikhil Pai (Red Rooster Performance)

from Bengaluru finished a minute 45 seconds behind to take the second position while Amittrajit Ghosh

and Ashwin Naik (Team Mahindra Adventure) were further adrift by 28 seconds to grab the third

place.Karna managed great speed in his Polo but could not match Gill's pyrotechnics. He, however,

stayed ahead of the pack in the INRC 2 category. Rahul Kanthraj and Vivek Bhatt who finished overall

fifth took the second position, cruising 3 seconds later.DeanMascarenhas and ShrupthaPadival claimed

the round 1 honour in INRC 3, finishing fifth in the INRC pecking order.One of the leading pairs, Arjun

Rao and Satish Rajgopal, pulled out in the first couple of stages itself, joining six other teams on the DNF

list. AroorVikram and SomayyaA G had a bad crash and their car burnt down in the opening stage itself.

Published Date: July 29, 2017 Publication: Overdrive



http://overdrive.in/news-cars-auto/2017-rfc-india-gurmeet-virdi-and-kirpal-tung-emerge-victorious-

again/

GurmeetVirdi and Kirpal Singh Tung have been declared the winners of the 2017 Force Gurkha

Rainforest Challenge India. The duo racked up a total of 2019 points, out of 2600, on their way to Overall

Champions at the event. They are the only Indian duo to have claimed victory in the RFC India, since the

event was first held in 2014, and have now won it twice in a row.

Second RFC India win in a row for GerrariOffroaders' GurmeetVirdi and Kirpal Singh Tung

Finishing the event second overall, was JagatNanjappa from Team V5 Offroaders from Coorg, who had a

total of 1906 points in the event. Nanjappa, a veteran rally driver from India, was co-driven by Chetan

Chengappa. Third place went to Virdi and Tung's GerrariOffroaders team-mates - Sanbir Singh Dhaliwal

and Gurpartap Singh - who scored1685 points.

It was disappointment for Team BODA (Bangalore Offroad Drivers Association), with drivers Siddartha

Santosh and navigator Prithviraj AC, who were running as high as second at one stage of the event,

being relegated to fourth in the closing stages of the 2017 RFC India.

Kirpal Singh Tung and GurmeetVirdi with their winners' trophies at the prize distribution ceremony of

the 2017 RFC India

Speaking of his second RFC India crown in a row, Virdi said, "I am overjoyed that we've successfully

managed to defend our title. It was a pretty tough competition, the positions kept on jumbling

throughout, but we are happy that we came out victorious. There was no pressure throughout the

event, but the last stage of the competition gave me some serious chills as the competition was really

close. It's the first time that our club GerrariOffroaders has clinched two positions on the podium in RFC

India. Overall, I couldn't have been happier."

Given that Gurmeet is the highest-placed Indiandriver at the 2017 RFC, he will be awarded monetary

benefits that total up to USD 8000. This includes fully-paid entry for the RFC 2017 Grand Finale in

Malaysia, travel to and from the event, and the cost of arranging the competition vehicle at the event.

"We witnessed an unprecedented level of competition this year. With the enhanced toughness quotient

of the Special Stages and addition of the night stages, I expected the competition to be intense and I am

happy that's exactly what it turned out to be. The superior performances showcased by some of the

drivers this year makes me believe that the off-roading culture in our country has matured considerably

and Indian off-roaders are all-set to give a tough time to the best drivers in the international arena," said

Ashish Gupta, founder of Cougar Motorsport, the organisers of the Force Gurkha Rainforest Challenge

India.

The Team Spirit Award went toRSumanth Shenoy from Chikmaglur, the Jungleman Award to Dr.

Chaitanya Challa of Hyderabad Jeepers Adventure Association, the Most Unique 4X4 Award to 'The

Hornet' driven by Yamunanagar-based Sushant Saini, the Environment Award to William Dwaine Jungen

from Arizona (US), the Best Service Team Award to GerrariOffroaders Chandigarh and the Team Award

to Team BODA. The newly instituted 'Rookie of the Event' award went to Goan driver

DattarajRautDessai and his co-driver Pratik PrabhuDessai for their exemplary performance out of all the

13 new teams that made their debut in the competition this year. The Lifetime Achievement Award was

given to Mr. Vijay Kumar for his outstanding contribution to off-road motorsport in India.

Published Date: July 29, 2017 Publication: Trinity Mirror



http://www.trinitymirror.net/news/gill-takes-round-1-mrf-fmsci-national-rally-championship-style/

Two-time APRC champion Gaurav Gill began his MRF FMSCI Indian National Rally Championship 2017 on

a dominant note, winning Round 1 with consummate ease here in Coimbatore on Sunday.

The 35-year-old ace rallyist and co-driver Musa Sherif, who were fourth off the blocks, stormed into

the lead in the first stage itself. Gill tackled the gravel road with all its twists and turns in his typical

aggressive way to round it up in just 12 minutes and 11 seconds, a full 21 seconds ahead of the 24-

car field.

Driving for Team Mahindra in an XUV 500, Delhi’s Gill showed his class and gumption in the remaining

four stages too, sweeping each of them in style. He kept increasing his lead by a minimum of 20 seconds

in each stage to finish the 70-odd kilometres in one hour and thirty-six seconds, almost in a canter.


finished one minute forty-five seconds behind to take the second position while Amittrajit Ghosh and

Ashwin Naik (Team Mahindra Adventure) were further adrift by 28 second to grab the last place on the

podium.

Karna showed immense speed in his Polo but just couldn’t match Gill’s pyrotechnics; he, however,

stayed ahead of the pack in the INRC 2 category. Rahul Kanthraj and Vivek Bhatt who finished

overall fifth took the second position, cruising into the park fermé just 3 seconds later.

Dean Mascarenhas and ShrupthaPadival claimed the Round 1 honours in INRC 3, finishing fifth in the

INRC pecking order.


joining six other teams on the DNF list. AroorVikram and Somayya AG, in fact, had a bad crash and their

car burnt down in the opening stage itself; luckily, both the driver and the co-driver escaped without a


A good holiday crowd assembled at the spectator points on the outskirts of Coimbatore to enjoy the

spectacle. They were treated to some brilliant and daring driving, with the stars of Indian rallying hitting

the chicanes at high speed and leaving behind a dust trail.

Results: INRC: 1. Gaurav Gill & Musa Sherif (Team Mahindra Adventure); 2. Karna Kadur& Nikhil Pai

(Red Rooster Performance); 3. Amittrajit Ghosh & Ashwin Naik (Team Mahindra Adventure)

INRC 2: 1. Karna Kadur& Nikhil Pai (Red Rooster Performance); 2. Rahul Kanthraj&Vivek Bhatt (Red

Rooster Performance); 3. Younus Ilyas & Harish Kumar.

INRC 3: 1. Dean Mascarenhas and ShrupthaPadival; 2. DrBikuBabu&Milen George; 3. KM

Bopaiah&Karumbaisah.

Published Date: July 29, 2017 Publication: Drive Spark



https://www.drivespark.com/four-wheelers/2017/indian-national-rally-chamionship-rally-coimbatore-

gaurav-gill-wins-023184.html

Two-time APRC champion Gaurav Gill began his MRF FMSCI Indian National Rally Championship 2017 on

a dominant note, winning Round 1 with consummate ease here in Coimbatore on Sunday.

The 35-year-old ace rallyist and co-driver Musa Sherif, who were fourth off the blocks, stormed into the


aggressive way to round it up in just 12 minutes and 11 seconds, a full 21 seconds ahead of the 24-

car field.

Driving for Team Mahindra in an XUV 500, Delhi’s Gill showed his class and gumption in the remaining

four stages too, sweeping each of them in style. He kept increasing his lead by a minimum of 20 seconds

in each stage to finish the 70-odd kilometres in one hour and thirty-six seconds, almost in a canter.


finished one minute forty-five seconds behind to take the second position while Amittrajit Ghosh and

Ashwin Naik (Team Mahindra Adventure) were further adrift by 28 second to grab the last place on the

podium.

Karna showed immense speed in his Polo but just couldn’t match Gill’s pyrotechnics; he, however,

stayed ahead of the pack in the INRC 2 category. Rahul Kanthraj and Vivek Bhatt who finished

overall fifth took the second position, cruising into the park fermé just 3 seconds later.

Dean Mascarenhas and ShrupthaPadival claimed the Round 1 honours in INRC 3, finishing fifth in the

INRC pecking order.


joining six other teams on the DNF list. AroorVikram and Somayya AG, in fact, had a bad crash and their

car burnt down in the opening stage itself; luckily, both the driver and the co-driver escaped without a


A good holiday crowd assembled at the spectator points on the outskirts of Coimbatore to enjoy the

spectacle. They were treated to some brilliant and daring driving, with the stars of Indian rallying hitting

the chicanes at high speed and leaving behind a dust trail.

Results: INRC: 1. Gaurav Gill & Musa Sherif (Team Mahindra Adventure); 2. Karna Kadur& Nikhil Pai

(Red Rooster Performance); 3. Amittrajit Ghosh & Ashwin Naik (Team Mahindra Adventure)

INRC 2: 1. Karna Kadur& Nikhil Pai (Red Rooster Performance); 2. Rahul Kanthraj&Vivek Bhatt (Red

Rooster Performance); 3. Younus Ilyas & Harish Kumar.

INRC 3: 1. Dean Mascarenhas and ShrupthaPadival; 2. DrBikuBabu&Milen George; 3. KM

Bopaiah&Karumbaisah.

mrf fmsci indian national rally championship 2017 … · 2018-10-08 · mrf fmsci indian national...

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