Ruthuparna Vivek
From lush green coffee bean estates of Chikmagalur to racing circuits, Ruthuparna Vivek’s journey was predestined. Coming from a family of racers, this young 23- year old had racing right in his DNA. He started racing when he was 19-years old at Chetan Shivram Motorsports (CSM) and his first race was with Chetan Shivram himself at the Aruani Autocross Mixed Dirt and Tarmac. From there on, there has been no looking back for Ruthuparna.
This young lad of 23, has already won 55 trophies till date. He recently won a rally in Nagaland and came second in rally of Arunachal. He has also been selected for the FIA rally star program.
As a kid, he dabbled in various sports. He played cricket for Bangalore clubs, took part in several hockey tournaments, played badminton for Chikmagalur club and even won in rifle shooting events. But his true calling was in motor racing.
With several racers in his family and residing in a terrain that attracts racers from all across the country, Ruthuparna grew up watching off-roading events, autocross events and TSD rallies in Chikmagalur. This made him automatically attracted to the sport and turning his childhood love and passion for cars into his profession. His dad, who has been his biggest support, sees to it that he never misses a race and even preps his car before every race.
Riding the success, Ruthuparna’s ultimate aim is to be at the top of his game – a national champion and finally showcase his talent in international circuits
FWM EXCLUSIVE
1)What inspired you to pick up motorsports as your career?
I chose motorsports because my family has a strong connection to racing, and where I come from, Chikmagalur, there is a vibrant motorsports culture with thrilling off-roading events, autocross events, and TSD rallies. Growing up, I have been exposed to these events since I was born, and it has instilled in me a deep passion and love for cars and this exhilarating sport.
2) Who is your inspiration in the motorsports field?
My inspiration is Chetan Shivram as he introduced me to this sport and played a significant role in my growth as a motorsports enthusiast. He has always been there to support me, ensuring that I never miss a race and encouraging me to start each one with enthusiasm. However, if the question were related to television, I would say that Kalle Rovanperä is also a source of inspiration for me
3) Please talk a little bit about the beginning of your journey.
I never thought I would be involved in motorsports. It’s amazing how one person or even just listening to someone (Chetan Shivram) can change your world. My first car was a Polo diesel, and with it, I learned a few basics. Although I lost many races, I realized that I learned the most through those losses
4) Who was your support system when you embarked on your motorsports journey?
My family is the best, providing unwavering support to my motorsports journey. They are with me every step of the way, with my dad taking special care to ensure I have everything I need for racing. He never lets me miss a race and remains actively involved, monitoring the car’s performance and preparations. Their encouragement and involvement have been invaluable in my racing endeavors.
5) What were some of the challenges you faced at the beginning of the course of your journey?
I started off with various different teams, often renting out cars for races. Due to my age, I got my chances a little later than others, and as a result, I had to shift between 3-4 teams within a short span of a year. During that time, I didn’t have Chetan Sir as a mentor, so I had to rely on myself to acquire skills, learn the ropes, and understand the basics of racing.
6)At what age did you participate in your first rally race/ competition? How did you get that opportunity?
I began my racing journey at the age of 19, participating in an event called “Aruani Autocross,” which featured a unique combination of dirt and tarmac surfaces. This thrilling experience marked the beginning of my exciting adventure in the world of motorsports.
My first race was alongside Chetan Shivram himself, who encouraged me to participate in more events. He generously provided guidance on driving techniques, car handling, and the fundamentals of racing. In 2019, I had the incredible opportunity to compete in my first race at the autocross track in Aruani Grid. It was a thrilling experience that further fueled my passion for motorsports.
7)Name of the major championships that you have won to date? A total number of championships you have won to date.
I feel incredibly fortunate to have achieved significant milestones in my motorsports career. Winning “The Rally of Nagaland” and securing the second position in the “Rally of Arunachal” are moments of great pride and accomplishment. Additionally, in autocross events, I have been honored with close to 55 trophies. Moreover, being selected for the FIA Rally Star program is a remarkable achievement that reflects the recognition of my skills and potential by the motorsports community on a global level.
8) What have you been doing before taking up motorsport? Any other career background (apart from motorsport)
I have been involved in various sports throughout my life. I played cricket for a club in Bangalore and actively participated in numerous hockey events. Additionally, I played badminton for a club in Chikmagalur and achieved 3rd place in rifle shooting, earning a gun license. Apart from these, I have a great passion for cycling and even took part in the Vodafone Marathon in Bangalore
9) What is your next target/plan?
Hopefully, I aim to be among the top athletes in my nation and seize the opportunity to compete internationally.
10) What’s your Goal as a Motorsport racer?
Discipline is a fundamental aspect of my approach to rallying. I understand that setbacks and losses are part of the journey, but my focus is always on bouncing back stronger in the next race. I am determined to reach the international level of rallying by maintaining a positive mindset, relentless training, and learning from every experience.
“I have been involved in various sports throughout my life.”-Ruthuparna Vivek
