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 those who questioned her pursuit of a sport with little recognition for women, struggled to balance her personal and professional life, and even encountered discouragement.
Pundole said, "My inspiration to take up car racing comes from my father. We would watch Formula One races together. This early exposure ignited a spark, leading to frequently racing at go-karting tracks.
When the opportunity to participate in the Coimbatore competition came up, my brother encouraged me and I earned a spot among the top six contenders." She holds the distinction of being the first and only woman participant in the prestigious Indian Touring Cars mixed category, a fiercely competitive racing championship for seasoned racers with a minimum of 10 to 20 years of experience. Pundole was candid about the immense financial burden, the need to secure sponsors, and the mental fortitude to perform at the highest level on race days.
Her racing journey has taken her to the Dubai Autodrome, Hockenheimring, F1 Circuit de Spa in Belgium, and other Formula 1 racing circuits across Europe. She has raced in Renault Clio Cup, Ferrari 488 Challenge, BMW M2 Competition, and Porsche 911 GT3 Cup. Her meticulous study of data and driving techniques helps her in the fast lanes on different tracks.
Pundole, recounting a pivotal moment on mental resilience, said, "Despite leading the pack in a round during my last race, a Sri Lankan competitor rapidly gained ground. I maintained my composure and belief in my abilities and continued to navigate the track. When I glanced in the rear-view mirror, I saw his car spin.
This incident gave me a lead of about 10 car lengths." MSID:: 112656406 413 |.
