Sri Lanka’s first motocross event bring out e-bike racing marks a new era for motorsports and tourism, drawing over 85 riders and a crowd exceeding 5,000 spectators.
Well thought-out in collaboration with Royal Automobile Club (RAC) Asia and the Two-Wheels Motor Racing Club (TWMRC), the event was part of a project supported by International Motorcycling Federation (FIM) funding in partnership with the Federation of Motorcycle Sports in Sri Lanka (FMSSL).
The outline of e-bike racing for juniors marks a significant step in developing grassroots motorsport while promoting Sri Lanka as a racing hub and tourism destination.
In the middle of the event highlights was a focus on young talent, with the event spotlighting junior riders with categories such as Junior E-Bikes, PW 50, Under 12 (65 cc), and Under 15 (85 cc), providing a platform to nurture emerging talent.
In the national championship events, adults aged 17 and above competed ferociously in their respective categories.
In terms of female participation, two young female riders took part, reflecting the growing inclusivity of motorsports in Sri Lanka.
The junior e-bike races funded through FIM support brought enthusiasm and drama as winners were determined in the competition.
Sri Lankan riders dominated the early rounds after a crash among the Indian juniors. Though, the Indian riders showcased resilience and talent in the final event, claiming the top positions.
The champion was Vismay Ram Y.R. with A. Rithin Sai being the first runner-up and Shyam Aditya K.B. being placed third.
Three talented Thai riders were set to take part but faced unexpected setbacks. Two were unable to travel due to severe floods and one could not secure a passport in time.
In spite of these drawbacks, the event’s success promises greater international participation in future editions.
Local star Jacques Gunawardena brought a standout performance, securing a winner’s trophy before suffering an unfortunate injury in the second moto.
There were a range of categories at the event. The competition featured bike capacities ranging from 50 cc to 250 cc, with 19 action-packed races, including two Supermotard Open events.
This milestone event was made possible through the collaboration of Mahameruwa Leisure and the Sri Lanka Association of Racing Drivers and Riders (SLARDAR), which developed the state-of-the-art race arena.
Nippon Paint sponsored the event as the Main Sponsor, while the e-bike initiative, funded through FIM support, was facilitated by the FMSSL with additional contributions from Feroz Omar of Proride. The funding has paved the way for young riders to experience cutting-edge electric bike racing, aligning with global trends in motorsport.
This event is likely to herald a bright future for Sri Lanka’s motorsports and tourism. The FMSSL has expressed its joy over the support received from FIM at this crucial juncture.
Events such as this not only motivate the next generation of riders but also position Sri Lanka as a key player in global motorsport. By hosting ground-breaking events such as e-bike racing, the country is gaining recognition as a destination for motorsports while contributing to its tourism industry.
With strong local and international attention, Sri Lanka is dignified to attract more participants from nations such as India, Thailand, and beyond, coagulating its place on the global motorsport map in the foreseeable future.
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