By Christopher Lidom
KUCHING, July 16: Two Sarawakians are among four rally drivers selected to represent Malaysia for the FIA (Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile) Rally Star event in India.
Elmyn Michael, 26, from Miri, and Cameron Kechendai James, 22, from Kuching, will be competing in the event, which will be held at Madras International Circuit from Sept 2 until 4.
During the official flag handover ceremony to the two Sarawakian drivers held at a local restaurant today, Deputy Minister of Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneur Development Dato Gerald Rentap Jabu wished both drivers good luck in the competition.
“My ministry fully supports such events to enable youngsters to be exposed to and learn from the best globally,” he said.
He added the ministry also would look into allocating funds to develop the motorsports scene in the State.
Meanwhile, Senator Dato Ahmad Ibrahim, who is also Sarawak Motorsports Association (SMA) president, believed that it is important for the government and corporate and industry players like SMA to continue being key players in the field.
He said while taking pride in some of Sarawak’s national achievements, it is important to continue to push forward.
“This is especially pertinent given the rapid development of motorsports in our beloved Sarawak, which will expand its popularity and enhance competition in this very lucrative and fast-growing sporting spectacle.
“As such, I would like to call upon all relevant parties to strive for excellence in making Sarawak a sports powerhouse, particularly in the motorsports arena,” he said.
For the FIA Rally Star event, LD Motorsports Club (LDMC) and Wheelspin Motorsports from West Malaysia will be sending four drivers, including Elmyn and Cameron.
They will compete with the best drivers in Asia-Pacific, and the winner of this event will be fully trained for the World Rally Championship (WRC) events in 2023. — DayakDaily
