Racing rider Evon Gurusinghe won the Group M modified 250cc and the Group R- MX 250cc events and was clearly the most outstanding rider of the day at the Thunder Valley championships last month when other top riders, including the defending 2019 champ Jacques Gunawardane who is currently overseas representing Sri Lanka, could not contest.
The Thunder Valley was inaugurated last year at Kaluaggala where the ground conditions are different in most sections presenting a challenge for both bikes and 4x4 vehicles.
The event was organized by Sean Hameed from the Four Wheel Drive Club of Sri Lanka and Two Wheels Motor Racing Club in conjunction with RAC Asia. The two wheelers were on a typical MX track designed by the track owner itself Haren Yatawaka, while the Four wheelers were on one of the most rugged and unforgiving terrain that took competitors through mud, slippery slopes, deep ruts, gullies and landslides that were so demanding according to the organisers.
The event attracted 21 entries in the 4x4 touring class and 64 bikes for events including junior riders under 9, 12 and 15 to the competitive MX 250 and Supermotard Open events.
Besides Evon Gurusinghe, Rajith Silva secured first place on both races in the Supermotard category while Jaden Gunawardena raised many eyebrows with an entry in to the Supermotard event.
Kavindu Kevitiyaga, Shanuka Jayana, Rumisha Buultjens, Bhanuka Ratnayake and few other top riders kept the crowd on their toes with a fantastic performance and close competition. Junior riders Shakeeb Ahamed, Dineth Mihiranga, Esala Madanayeka, Gagana Fernando and Kesara Godage the defending 2019 Junior Champion also put on a fine show in their respective junior events.
“This location where access is convenient for enthusiasts from Colombo and its suburbs would definitely see more action packed events throughout the year.
“Who knows with passionate organizers like Sean Hameed, Shane Gunawardena and track owner Haren Yatawaka we might even see an international event happen too,” said an organising committee spokesman.