Abdul Wahid Tanveer’s career on the rise

Racer Abdul Wahid Tanveer entered the record books in the recently concluded Merzouga Rally when he became the first Indian rider to win a class in an international rally. Tanveer finished 20th in the Enduro category.

Abdul Wahid Tanveer says the Merzouga Rally finish has motivated him to set his sights on Dakar Rally.

Racer Abdul Wahid Tanveer entered the record books in the recently concluded Merzouga Rally when he became the first Indian rider to win a class in an international rally. Tanveer finished 20th in the Enduro category.

“I never expected to finish in the top-20. My entire focus was on riding, navigation and implementing our team’s strategy for me. I focused on improving stage by stage and it has helped me finish 20,” an elated Tanveer said.

For him, the experience of the Merzouga Rally was unforgettable. “It was a great experience. There was one stage where we had to cross a mountain with rocks. That was the most challenging part, especially with the navigating speed. Once I crossed the stage, I was motivated more to finish the rally,” he said.

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The racer from Mysuru said the Merzouga Rally finish has motivated him to set his sights on Dakar Rally. “Yes, Dakar Rally is in my sights. I would love to compete and it also depends on how TVS is looking at it,” he said.

According to Tanveer, the most important part of rallying is to strike a balance between endurance, skill and managing the bike. “We also need to know how to navigate as that helps us to finish rallies. It all comes through experience. I also have a good talk with my mechanic and team manager as it helps us in understanding the bike better. While the mechanic works on the engine and other stuff, I work on minor adjustments to suit my riding. According to me, only by having a healthy discussion is the only way to improve in this sport,” he explained.

TVS team manager B. Selvaraj lauded Tanveer’s performance in the Merzouga Rally. “Merzouga is one of the finest Rallies in the World and we are glad that Tanveer could start his season of International Rallies on a strong note. His performance has been exemplary to say the least as he has won two out of the five stages in the Rally. This is an impressive stint and the entire team is proud of him,” he said.

Tanveer, who rides an RTR 450 motorbike in rallies, competes in the Desert Storm Rally next month.