From pit lane dreams to racing lines: Living the TVS YMRP

The TVS Young Media Racer Program (YMRP) at Madras International Circuit wasn’t just about riding fast; it was about experiencing the intensity, discipline, and precision of professional circuit racing firsthand. Conducted as part of the TVS India One Make Championship (OMC) 2026 selection program, the event brought together media professionals passionate about motorsport and performance riding.

As soon as we arrived at the circuit, the participants were divided into two batches of 14 riders each. What followed was a structured mix of classroom learning and practical track sessions led by experienced racers and trainers. From race craft and track etiquette to rider safety and braking techniques, every session was designed to build confidence before heading out on track.

TVS ensured a proper race-ready setup by providing full racing gear, including leather suits, gloves, boots, helmets, and even airbag vests that deploy within milliseconds during a crash, showing the brand’s uncompromising focus on rider safety.

Riding Experience

Once suited up, it was finally time to head onto the Madras International Circuit aboard the race-spec TVS Apache RTR 310. The first laps were all about understanding the racing line, braking markers, body positioning, and throttle control. Every classroom briefing was immediately followed by a practical session, helping riders apply techniques in real time.

The structure of the program stood out. Instead of simply allowing participants to ride freely, TVS Racing created an authentic racer development environment focused on consistency, awareness, and race discipline, something the brand has built over decades through the TVS India One Make Championship.

With each session, pace and confidence increased. The Apache RTR 310 felt sharp, planted, and incredibly confidence-inspiring around the corners. Whether it was attacking apexes, trail braking into turns, or getting on the throttle early during corner exits, the motorcycle communicated beautifully on track.

After three rounds of classroom and practical sessions, we were given a 10-minute practice session to push harder and properly understand both the machine and the circuit. That’s when everything started clicking together. The training, racing tips, and track familiarity began translating directly into lap times.

Soon after came the qualifying session, the moment where everything counted. Adrenaline levels peaked as every rider pushed for clean and fast laps. The atmosphere felt like a proper race weekend.

When the timings came in, I clocked the best lap of 2:19.497, making me the fastest overall rider across both batches. The top 14 riders qualified to compete in multiple races of the championship in the coming months, making the result even more special.

The TVS Young Media Racer Program was far more than a media event; it was a genuine introduction to the world of professional motorcycle racing. From structured coaching and safety-focused preparation to real qualifying pressure on track, the experience felt immersive, competitive, and incredibly rewarding.

TVS Racing’s commitment to building India’s motorsport ecosystem was visible throughout the program. With more than four decades of racing heritage and one of the country’s most established rider development platforms, TVS continues to create opportunities for aspiring racers across categories.

For anyone passionate about racing, experiences like this are unforgettable. And for me, finishing as the fastest overall rider made it even more special. Huge credit to TVS Racing for delivering a world-class experience both on and off the track. I sincerely look forward to the upcoming rounds and to applying all that I've learned in the process.

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