Rushab Shah Dominates Inaugural Indian National Hill Climb Championship at Mallappa Konda

Kuppam (Andhra Pradesh), October 20, 2025: Bengaluru’s privateer racer Rushab Shah made motorsport history at the inaugural Indian National Hill Climb Championship (INHCC) for two-wheelers, clinching three class victoriesand the Fastest Rider award on debut at Mallappa Konda on Friday. His performance not only sealed a commanding hat-trick but also saw him set a time faster than the cars, a rare feat in hill climb racing.

The championship, organized by the Motor Sports Club of Karnataka and powered by VM Motorsports Foundation led by Vamcy Merla, marked a historic first — the debut of hill climb racing under the FMSCI National Championship banner.

Historic Debut for Indian Hill Climb Racing

The otherwise serene hills near Kuppam came alive as self-funded riders from across India tackled the challenging 2.5 km tarmac climb carved into the Eastern Ghats. While Sunday’s car round drew major attention, it was the bikers who showcased raw skill and passion that defined the sport’s essence.

Riding a KTM RC 390 prepared by Sreekumar “Poncho” Gopinadhan under the TSS RaceParts banner, Rushab clocked 1 minute 56.261 seconds in the Group B 4-Stroke 261cc & Above class — the outright fastest time of the meet. He followed up with wins in the 4-Stroke Indian Open (1:56.608) and Unrestricted Class (1:58.374), becoming the only rider to go under two minutes in all his runs.

“This course is technical and demanding — every corner demands commitment and precision,” said Rushab. “You need absolute focus and throttle control to master it.”

His father, Sanjeev Shah, a veteran hill climber and motorsport official, expressed pride:
“Rushab now holds the fastest record on Mallappa Konda — faster than the cars, both on the older 4.5 km and the new 2.5 km courses. This new National Championship has tremendous potential to grow.”

Privateers Shine Bright

Fellow Bengalurean Bharath L delivered an equally impressive performance, taking three podiums across smaller-capacity classes. He dominated the Group B 2-Stroke Indian Open (2:13.812) and 4-Stroke Up to 165cc (2:20.900), while finishing second in 166–260cc behind Shabarish (2:15.100).

“You don’t need a big team or a fancy setup — just focus, grip, and guts,” Bharath said, echoing the privateer spirit that defines Indian grassroots racing.

In scooters, Goutham N topped the Group B Scooter Up to 210cc category with 2:24.606, followed by Aditya Duttand Hemanth, delivering some of the event’s closest racing.

Sindy Ananthraj Makes History

The Ladies Class made headlines with Soundari “Sindy” Ananthraj from Chennai becoming the first-ever female winner in Indian Hill Climb history. Returning to competition after three years, Sindy clocked 2:41.342 to win the class, ahead of Mynthuri (2:45.218).

Not stopping there, Sindy borrowed a car the next day to compete in the 4W Ladies Open class and secured a podium finish.

“Hill climb racing was new to me, but I wanted to show that women can challenge gravity on two wheels or four,” Sindy said. “My car overheated chasing the boys, but the thrill was worth it.”

An active FMSCI official, road safety advocate, and member of Chennai’s women rider community, Sindy continues to promote confidence and inclusivity in motorsport.

A Promising Start for a New Era

Despite a smaller grid, the inaugural INHCC was executed flawlessly by promoter Pradeep Urs, a former national rally driver, alongside his team — Janardhan (Start Line Motorsports), Srinivas “Motoport Seena”, and Ravee handling results.

“This round was a qualifier since riders from other regions couldn’t attend,” explained Urs. “We’ve requested FMSCI to structure future championships with regional qualifiers and a grand final — similar to autocross nationals.”

Urs extended gratitude to supporters: “Big thanks to Vamcy Merla and JK Tyres for their faith in our vision. Their support helped make this first national hill climb a success.”

Promoter Vamcy Merla, attending the car round on Sunday, added a surprise gesture:
“All riders and drivers from this round will have free entry for the remaining rounds,” he announced, earning cheers from the paddock.

A New Benchmark in Indian Motorsport

The inaugural INHCC not only showcased the raw talent of India’s privateer racers but also cemented hill climb racing’s place in the national motorsport calendar. With its combination of speed, skill, and steep challenge, the Mallappa Konda debut marks the beginning of a new era for Indian motorsport.