India 23 October 2016: Nayan Chatterjee qualified for the Final race of the prestigious Rok Cup International Final 2016 in Italy on Saturday as the only Indian to take part in the Senior Rok category.
It marked the first time the Mumbai-lad raced in Europe, arriving at the South Garda Karting circuit in Lombardy with no testing miles under his belt for the category. Aided by Karol Basz and the guidance of Rodney Magness of 7 Racing, Nayan showed his potential to get into the group of the final 34 swamped by competitors from Italy and largely other parts of Europe.
"It wasn't exactly easy," said Nayan, who turned 19 on the day of the race. "Without the opportunity for a proper preparation, getting into the Finals was a big thing. It was good Rodney was along all the way and with Karol's inputs, I was able to make a few adjustments.
"It was quite an experience, to finally get to Europe to race. I am sure this is just the beginning."
The Rok Cup International Final is a distinguished event, stamped this year with participation from the sons of former Formula One drivers Rubens Barrichello, Jarno Trulli, Juan Pablo Montoya and two time F1 champion Emerson Fittipaldi, in the Mini Rok category.
After claiming second place overall at the KRS KKS Asia Max Challenge in his rookie season, Nayan has established himself as one of the best kart racers in Asia. Qualifying for the final round of the Rok Cup International Final furthered his status as a racer to watch out for on the international stage.
"I am ever grateful to JK Tyre and Meco Motorsports' Mr Akbar Ebrahim for shaping me up!" Nayan reflected.
In addition to his kart racing credentials, Nayan also has wins in the first 2 rounds of the Euro JK16 series of the JK Tyre National Racing Championship. After being identified as one of the most talented racing prospects in the country by India’s premier racing mentor Akbar Ebrahim of Meco Motorsports, Nayan has been backed by both Cello and Venus