India’s young karting talent, Kiaan Shah from Rayo Racing, impressed in his Senior international debut by securing two podium finishes in Round 2 of the IAME Asia Series and IAME Thailand Series. Despite recovering from a fractured arm that kept him out for two months, the 15-year-old racer transitioned from Junior to Senior category and showcased promising performance among tough competition, including a World Champion and various regional champions.
Kiaan, starting 14th on the grid for the Final, displayed determination and skill, steadily moving up the ranks to secure a fifth-place finish, just 1.6 seconds behind the reigning Asian Champion. His strong performance earned him a podium finish, with the top five finishers recognized as winners in the event.
In a combined round counting for both the IAME Asia Series and Thailand Series, Kiaan claimed the third position overall, securing the second runner-up trophy due to the absence of two registered competitors in the Thai standings. He finished behind Dillan Tan, the Singapore National Champion, and Toby Gale, an eight-time Thai Champion.
Reflecting on his comeback after the injury, Kiaan expressed gratitude to his medical team, physiotherapists, and trainer for their support in his recovery and preparation for the Senior category challenges. His coach, Rayomand Banajee, praised his podium finish on the international stage, highlighting the significance of achieving this feat against such high-caliber competition.
Despite missing the opening round due to injury, Kiaan made a strong impact in a 39-driver field at the Bira International Karting Circuit, qualifying seventh in his group and showcasing consistent performance in the heats. Despite facing setbacks, including a forced retirement in Heat 3 due to damage from a collision, Kiaan’s resilience and skill were evident as he climbed up the ranks in the Final to secure a commendable fifth-place finish in the Asian category.
