Eastern Cape racer Aashay Nagura delivered a standout performance in his OK-Junior debut at the second round of the National ROK Cup Kart Championship. Stepping up from Mini ROK, in which he competed at the season opener, the Score Immune Booster-backed driver adapted quickly to the faster machinery at the Killarney Kart Circuit in Cape Town.
Qualifying proved to be a learning experience for Aashay, who had to settle for a fourth-row start in the opening heat. However, he showed resilience and maturity beyond his years, steadily moving through the pack. By the third race distance, he had already made up several positions and continued to push, eventually crossing the line in a strong fourth place.
Heat 2 was the highlight of the weekend for the Kokoro Academy driver. A lightning start and some clever driving saw him slot into second place early on, and he kept the pressure on the leader throughout the race. Despite being passed in the closing stages, his tenacious effort was rewarded after post-race penalties were applied, promoting him to third in the official classification allowing him to secure his first podium in OK-Junior.
In the final heat, Aashay maintained his consistent form with another fourth-place finish, which was enough to secure him an overall podium on debut in the highly competitive and talented-filled OK-Junior class.
Speaking after the event, Aashay said: “It was a big step up from Mini ROK, but I really enjoyed the challenge. The racing was intense, and I learned a lot every time I went out on track. I’m proud of what we achieved this weekend and excited for the rest of the season.”
Round 3 heads to the Eastern Cape and the Celso Scribante Kart Track in Gqeberha on 27-28 June. Aashay enjoys the support of the Bronscor Group, Sparco South Africa, INGCO South Africa, and Score Immune Booster.
Published by: Motorsport Fanatix
Picture Caption: Aashay Nagura
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