Al Rashed not fazed by TRD 86 Cup challenge ahead

Denzil Pinto 06:41 10/03/2016
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Mail
  • Pinterest
  • LinkedIn
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • WhatsApp
  • Pinterest
  • LinkedIn
  • Following his passion: Al Rashed.

    At just 19, Nahar Al Rashed is the youngest ever driver in the TRD 86 Cup and with a fond love of cars, the opportunity of competing in this season’s championship was one he simply couldn’t miss.

    The Saudi Arabian returns to Friday’s third round at Dubai Autodrome after missing the second stage at Yas Marina Circuit in January due to personal reasons.

    In the season opener in October, Al Rashed showed no signs of nerves behind the wheel, achieving 10th and fourth place finishes in his respective two races. He will be aiming to prove that age is just a number when he gets behind the wheel tomorrow and insists it’s a privilege to be competing in this championship.

    “The organisers told me I’m the youngest driver ever in the history of the competition and I was like ‘wow’,” he said. “That’s a good record to have but I’m not fazed at all.

    “I’ve always followed cars when I was a kid from as young as four. My family wasn’t really into cars but my uncle was, and as I grew up I took more interest and gained more knowledge of the subject.

    “It was at that time, I thought to myself that I wanted to do something with cars whether it was a career or a hobby.”

    With a lack of facilities in his homeland and the opportunity to study in Abu Dhabi, Al Rashed moved to the capital last February where he got his first taste of track day experience.

    “I did a lot of research on the internet and found the UAE have some fantastic facilities where I can learn more about motorsport,” said the Law student at Abu Dhabi University. “I loved the track day and that’s how I found out about the TRD 86 Cup. I really wanted to sign up, I phoned my dad and he agreed.”

    He admits he wants to pursue a career in Law but wants to gain as much experience as possible in the TRD 86 Cup.

    “This is something I want to continue as long as possible,” he said. “This is my chance to prove myself. “I hope in the future, Saudi Arabia can build motoring facilities so youths, who are talented, can learn and develop their skills in a safe environment.”

    Recommended