Stuart Oliver wins first-ever Indian truck-racing championship

Stuart Oliver of Castrol Vecton emerged winner of the inaugural Tata T1 Prima Truck Racing Championship at the Buddh International Circuit here today.
The ten-time British Truck Racing Champion took 30:26.848 minutes to complete 15 laps of the 2.5 km loop on the 5.1km-long BIC track.
Starting at pole position, the 50-year-old staved off stiff challenge from Mathew Summerfield (30:31.522 mins) of Team Cummins, who overtook his opponent early. Summerfield, who started fourth on the grid, was surpassed by Oliver in the eighth lap.
David Jenkins, who was representing Tata Technologies Motorsports, finished third with timings of 30:32.413 minutes among 12 contestants.

Oliver maintained his grip on the race as he started to increase his lead and finished 4.674 seconds ahead of his nearest rival.
"It's really amazing to win this inaugural edition race. The competition was very close as everyone had the same vehicle. It's about holding onto your nerves. I did that quite well and won the championships," said Oliver.

"Though the trucks had less power as compared to the ones used in European circuit, the experience was very enjoyable. I would love to be back here," he added.
Oliver also registered the fastest lap of the race when he took just 1.58.227 minutes to complete the fourth round. Conducted under the aegis of FIA and FMSCI, the race saw six teams having two drivers each vying for honours.

Earlier, the inaugural racing competition witnessed a fabulous opening ceremony with the grand stand full in attendance. Percussionist Sivamani started the show with his drum work. Other activities that kept the adrenaline high amongst spectators included truck stunts show, Truck art and fashion show by designer Manish Arora.
Meanwhile, Race Director Alex Felix was impressed with the maiden spectacle and said truck-racing can garner a lot of followers in India.
"I am quite impressed by the race was hosted. The track is well-suited for truck-racing. I am sure this event can become a regular feature on the motorsport calendar in India. I am sure the public loved it. They were cheering for every participant," Felix said.