By Avenash Ramzan
Despite facing some challenges in his preparation, Group One driver Raymond Seebarran is looking for a much improved performance on Sunday when he competes in the National Race of Champions 2 at the South Dakota Circuit.
When News Room Sport visited Seebarran’s camp on Tuesday (June 27), mechanics were busy at work on his Toyota Starlet, getting it in peak condition for Sunday’s showdown.
Seebarran will be competing in what is expected to be a highly competitive Street Tuner 1500cc class, and while his preparation has faced some hiccups he is confident of a solid showing this time around.
“I went up (to the track) on Sunday morning and I had a few difficulties with the car- one of the brackets between the engine and gearbox snapped so the engine fell, but we’re coming up good preparation-wise, I should have it done by tonight (June 27) and this race meet we should have some performances from the car,” Seebarran said.
He continued, “Well I’m looking for three podium finishes, preferably first, because the car is showing some pretty good results so far, so I’m expecting to be on top.”
At the last race meet, Seebarran ended with two third place finishes with Azaad Hassan and Roopnarine Dasrat being the two race winners. Looking ahead to Sunday’s race, Seebarran indicated that the real challenge would be to keep Hassan in check, as according to him, he (Hassan) has one of the fastest cars in the category.
“The last race meet I had a few difficulties with my suspension; November (last) I got into an accident, but this race meet I’ve sorted that out. I have excellent suspension back on now and throughout my practice on Sunday it was handling really well,” Seebarran highlighted.
At the Endurance Rental Cup last Friday, Seebarran copped two podium spots, finishing second with Team Speed in the 600lb Class and also second with Team CDR in the 500lb Class. He is hoping to transfer that same form from go-karts to the big track come Sunday. He spoke on the confidence level after that performance.
“Much, much higher. Any podium at all will obviously boost your confidence a whole lot,” he said. Seebarran is sponsored by Big Kahuna Hot Dogs, Clear View Windscreen Repairs and Ray’s One Stop Auto Parts.
The National Race of Champions 2 is expected to attract a large group of drivers and riders, while spectator turnout is also expected to be massive. The day’s activities, set to get underway at 08:00h, will be coordinated by the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club in partnership with a number of sponsors.
Among the major corporate partners are B.M Soat, Palm Court, Ansa McAl Trading, Prem’s Electrical and Mohamed’s Enterprise. Admission to the venue is $1,000 for adults and $500 for children under 12.
