Jehan Successfully Defends Lady Wigram Trophy

Mumbai-based racer Jehan Daruvala will be keeping the Lady Wigram Trophy for the second consecutive year after his win at Ruapuna Park, Christchurch, New Zealand. The teenager is the only racer to successfully defend the title, of a competition that is counted among the most prestigious races in New Zealand, since 1993.

The Lady Wigram Trophy race was the third race of the weekend and thanks to the free practice results, Jehan started from the pole position. Utilising the empty track ahead of him, he quickly pulled away from the rest of the grid, gaining a good lead of three seconds over the nearest car chasing him. The race soon witnessed a couple of crashes, for which the safety car had to be called on two occasions. Meanwhile, Jehan maintained his leading spot until the race was red flagged and suspended. When the race started again, Jehan was able to take the lead from the very start and maintained it until the chequered flag. He was followed by British racer Enaam Ahmed and Pedro Piquet on second and third, respectively.

Apart from the Lady Wigram Trophy, Jehan is also competing in the 2017 Toyota Racing Series. The first race saw him finish second behind debut driver Marcus Armstrong, who was able to make the most of the safety car situation and bag his first victory. In the second race, however, Jehan started fifth on the grid following the reverse grid arrangement. And, after a bad start, Jehan soon fell down to the eighth spot and further into the race, his car made contact with that of an overtaking racer. The contact damaged his (Jehan) car’s front right wheel and he ultimately had to retire in the 15 lapped race. Thomas Randle, who currently leads the Toyota Racing Series, grabbed the top spot in this race.

Commenting on his performance, Jehan said, “Race 2 was unfortunate after I was hit and had to retire. I am happy I could keep my focus up and managed the three restarts well, in the Lady Wigram Trophy Race. My pace was really good and the team have done a fantastic job in giving me a great car. I would really like to thank everyone who have been part of my success and most importantly I must thank Sahara Force India for their continued support.”