'My lap-times were proving to be faster and more consistent'

Diana Pundole has finished the 2022 racing on a high note with a top spot in the women's category and third overall, tearing it up on track. She talks to Car India about what it has been like

- Jim Gorde

It's been a fruitful year for you, to say the least. Tell us about it.

It surely has been. I participated in the MRF FMSCI MMSC Indian National Racing Championship but what must be noted is that I did not race in just one but in two categories. I was at the wheel of a semi-modified 160-hp Honda City i-VTEC GM3 with a limited-slip differential on the IJTC [Indian Junior Touring Cars] grid with Team Race Concepts Motorsport, while also tackling the one-make MRF Saloon Cars category with what was a pretty much stock Toyota Etios of Team Redline Racing.

Your performances have been stunning this year. What stood out for you?

I had four rounds to contend with this season. I don't know about stunning performances but I did come through and saw my lap-times right up there with the fastest boys on track. I was the only lady taking part in the class, but I think I found my rhythm and kept my cool on track, even with the racing and the Chennai weather heating up further. That makes me the only female Touring Car racer in the country and the fastest one, too (laughs).