Pics mailed to all Pune: Eight years ago, budding teacher Diana Pundole from Pune got an unexpected phone call from Coimbatore to participate in a car racing championship . She was one of the 200 women from India to undergo rigorous trials as part of a national talent hunt. She pursued the opportunity and became one of the top six contenders.
On Sunday, Pundole, a mother of two children, clinched a coveted podium position, securing the national championship title in the saloon category of the MRF Indian National Car Racing Championship 2024 held in Chennai which featured men and women. Her victory marked a significant moment in Indian sports history, breaking gender stereotypes and setting a new precedent for women in car racing . It was also her birthday weekend, and Pundole's championship win was a gift wrapped in dedication and skill.
Her coach confiscated her cellphone one to two days before the race, and she missed all the birthday wishes. "The sacrifice proved worthwhile when I clinched the championship title," she said. MSID:: 112656406 413 | She added that the focus required during the competition is intense.
"When I finally turned on my phone after securing the championship title, I was overwhelmed by the birthday greetings and congratulatory messages from family and friends," Pundole added. She made numerous sacrifices along the way, including staying away from her children, who are her biggest cheerleaders, during competitions. She faced taunts and skepticism from .