Chennai, TAMIL NADU :

Chennai :

Riding on roads is fun. But the track is a completely-different beast — the place is meant to showcase real skills.” This is how Rehana Reya draws the line between your run-of-the-mill, two-wheeled commuting and the adrenaline-filled arena of bike racing.

Rehana won the first place in the Honda Support Race — the first all-women’s race in Indian motorsport history — which was conducted on the sidelines of the National Racing Championship in Irungattukottai on Sunday. The 19-year-old Chennaite’s racing roots started taking shape during her days at the MGR Adarsh Matriculation School (Mugappair). “I started with non-geared scooters in Class 7 and I was quite good,” says Rehana.

Her brother, Abdul Wahab, is also a former professional bike racer. But he did not teach this self-made biker. “Though my brother was my inspiration, he didn’t really want me to become a racer because of the hardships he faced — lack of funds and the general struggle that racers have to endure in our country,” she explains. “Now he encourages me all the time. He was there during this race too to boost my morale.”

A friend’s R15 was Rehana’s first geared companion. “That was when I was in Class 12. I tried riding it myself. I didn’t fall the first time, by the way. I used to drive near Besant Nagar and Marina Beach. That was where the Honda representatives spotted me,” she says.

Rehana, now pursuing a degree in Shipping and Logistics at the AMET University and also modelling during her spare time, is intent on realising her dream of becoming a professional bike racer. But, she is wary of the obstacles.

“This is an expensive sport, and we aren’t that well-off. Being a girl from a conservative family comes with its baggage,” explains Rehana. “Hopefully, if I get funding, I may be able to involve myself in racing more seriously.”

When not on a bike, Rehana likes listening to music. “I love peppy numbers and party songs. Rihanna is one of my favourites. And, no. It’s not because of my name. I really love her voice.”

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Cities> Chennai / by Rahul Ravikumar / February 24th, 2016