Biker Sarath Kumar keen on more success

CHENNAI: Sarath Kumar's confidence levels are at an all time high, so high that he is unable to articulate it. Then again, he is not known for his oratory. His strengths lie in riding bikes very fast.The Chennai lad made history earlier this month when he became the first Indian to win points in a biking series in Europe, recording a seventh place finish for Mahindra Racing in the 125cc category of the Italian National Championships at Imola.Sarath, who made his international debut last year in the MotoGP 125cc segment for WTR Ten10 Racing, had a torrid time adjusting to the high quality of the competition. His learning curve was steep and marred with injuries. But after joining Mahindra on the Italian circuit where they are "moulding him for bigger things," Sarath has come into his elements which had seen him become national champion on debut.Lastyear his journey was mixed but now his points' finish has not only boosted hismorale and removed a mental block, but has "awakened a devil insidehim"."A devil that wants me to push further and win points andultimately win," said the 20-year-old in his highly Tamil-accentedEnglish."It is the urge to get better and better and make it big onthe world stage and bring laurels to the country," he said. Not a bad devil tohave by one's side!Sarath also has the support of Mahindra and hispersonal physical and mental trainers besides guidance from veteran Italianteammate Riccardo Moretti."I do yoga every day to keep my mindfocused and fitness is also key. I have a personal trainer with cardio workouts,cycling, swimming and weights sessions being my constant companion on days I'mnot racing. I can only thank Mahindra for the faith they have shown in my talentand I shall try my best to repay that faith with good results.Havinga former Italian champion as his teammate is also helping Sarath."Iconsult Riccardo during races and get valuable tips from him. In fact I waslosing time while shifting gears and taking corners and he showed me the rightway to go about it and I have improved a lot alongside him. My journey has justbegun and I have a lot to improve," says Sarath, who will fly to the famed Monzacircuit this weekend for the next race.Mahindra's journey in theItalian championships have also been stunning this year, with Moretti winningthe opening two rounds of the series in Mugello and Imola. TheIndian team is also competing in the Moto3 segment of the MotoGP WorldChampionship where they are playing catch up with the big boys at themoment.