An exclusive interview with Yuven Sundaramoorthy , Indian American Open Wheel Racer
In the thrilling world of open-wheel racing, one name has been making waves with speed, skill, and a passion for the track – Yuven Sundaramoorthy. Born with a need for speed and raised in the United States, Yuven’s journey from a young motorsport enthusiast to a competitive Indian American open-wheel racer has been nothing short of inspiring.
As he accelerates through the ranks, Yuven’s dedication to the sport, coupled with his relentless pursuit of excellence, has established him as a rising star in the racing community. Today, we have the privilege of delving into the life and experiences of this talented driver, exploring the challenges he’s overcome, the milestones he’s achieved, and the exciting road that lies ahead.
Congratulations on your remarkable journey in the world of open-wheel racing, Yuven! Can you take us back to your early years and share what initially sparked your interest in motor racing?
Yuven Sundaramoorthy: Thanks a bunch! So, it all kicked off when I was about 9, living in China. My dad took me to watch a Formula 1 race, kinda on a whim. I got totally hooked on the whole speed and adrenaline vibe.
When we moved back to the US, I got into karting, realizing it’s not just about going fast – it’s this mix of patience, fitness, racecraft, and the mental game that makes you a real racer. So, yeah, that F1 race in China was the accidental spark that ignited the whole racing journey for me.
You started your racing career at a young age. How did your family support and contribute to your passion for racing during your childhood?
Yuven Sundaramoorthy: My family’s been my rock, seriously. When I got into karting after that F1 race, they were all in. From travelling for races to just being there for support, they’ve been my biggest cheerleaders. And trust me, racing isn’t a cheap gig, so their backing, both emotionally and financially, made it all possible. My dad, especially, has been super supportive. He saw the passion early on and went all-in to make sure I could chase this dream.
Many young talents face challenges in pursuing a career in motorsports. What were some obstacles you encountered, and how did you overcome them on your path to success?
Yuven Sundaramoorthy: Up until now, it’s been a ride, for sure. One big hurdle was the transition from karting to open-wheel racing. Different beasts, you know? The competition gets tougher, the cars get faster, and suddenly, you’re dealing with no power steering in INDYCAR.
That’s a whole new level of physical demand. Being a picky vegetarian added another layer. I needed a squad – physical trainers, a nutritionist, an eye-care specialist, and mental coaches – to handle the grind. Also, people often think it’s a solo game, but racing is a team sport.
Teaming up with legends like Alexander and Pieter Rossi was a game-changer. Their experience helped us avoid rookie mistakes. It’s all about adapting and building a killer support system to conquer those challenges.
Your progression in the racing world has been rapid and marked by notable achievements. Can you highlight some key moments or milestones in your career that you are particularly proud of?
Yuven Sundaramoorthy: There’ve been many moments that really stand out. Particularly, winning at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway at just 14 – that’s a memory I’ll always hold dear. It’s like this place soaked in history, and getting that win was massive.
Then, jumping into the USF2000 series in 2021 and clinching victories at iconic tracks like Barber Motorsports Park and the Indy Grand Prix – that really put me on the map. Also, being the first Indian American to bag a win in an NTT INDYCAR SERIES event – that’s a big deal for me. Each win, each step up the ladder, like transitioning to higher tiers of racing, has its own special vibe.
As an Indian American racer, how do you feel your cultural background has influenced your approach to racing and your interactions within the racing community?
Yuven Sundaramoorthy: I come from this blend of American and Indian cultures, and it reflects in how I approach things. In racing, diversity is key, and having that global outlook from my background has been an asset. It’s not just about the driving; it’s about connecting with people from all walks of life in the racing community.
Plus, there’s a cool sense of pride, being one of the first Indian Americans doing this. It’s like breaking stereotypes, you know? And it’s awesome to see the racing community embracing that diversity more and more.
The world of motorsports can be highly competitive. What strategies or mindset do you adopt to stay focused and maintain a competitive edge in races?
Yuven Sundaramoorthy: It’s all about the mental game. Staying focused in such a competitive world is no joke. I work closely with a mental coach, practising visualization and mindfulness to keep my head in the game. Gotta be razor-sharp with those reflexes and decision-making, especially when every second counts on the track.
Likewise, clear vision on the track is non-negotiable, so I do regular check-ups with my eye specialist to make sure that my view is crystal clear when I am tearing up those corners. Besides, physical fitness is a big part of it. With these cars getting more intense physically, I’m all about hitting the gym hard and keeping my body in top shape.
As a role model for aspiring young racers, what advice would you give to those who dream of pursuing a career in open-wheel racing?
Yuven Sundaramoorthy: To all the young guns dreaming of hitting the racetrack, I’d say two things: One, never stop learning. Racing is this constant evolution, and the more you soak up, the better. Learn from every race, every mistake, and every success.
Two, resilience is your best friend. The road to the top isn’t a smooth ride – you’ll hit bumps, sharp turns, the whole deal. But every setback is a setup for a comeback. Stay hungry, stay focused, and most importantly, have a blast on the track. It’s a wild ride, and loving what you do is the real secret sauce.
How do you stay connected with your fans, and what role do they play in motivating and inspiring you throughout your racing journey?
Yuven Sundaramoorthy: Staying connected with the fans is a big part of the game for me. Social media’s a great tool – I share behind-the-scenes stuff, race updates, and just shoot the breeze with everyone. It’s awesome hearing their energy and excitement. The fan support is legit motivating. When you see people cheering you on, it amps up the adrenaline.
They’re not just spectators; they’re part of the journey. Their messages and enthusiasm keep me pushing harder, especially when things get tough on the track. It’s this whole community vibe, and knowing I’ve got that squad behind me is a real boost.
Finally, as you celebrate your 20th birthday, what reflections do you have on the past year, and what are you looking forward to in the upcoming racing season?
Yuven Sundaramoorthy: Turning 20 is a bit surreal, honestly. Looking back, the past year’s been a rollercoaster of wins, challenges, and tons of learning. Graduating from college in a few weeks is a big win off the track, too. Looking ahead, I’m pumped for the upcoming racing season. Partnering up with Abel Motorsports for INDY NXT 2024 is next-level exciting. Can’t wait to hit the track, put the pedal to the metal, and chase some more wins.
In conclusion, our conversation with Yuven Sundaramoorthy unveils not just a gifted racer, but a determined individual whose journey reflects the fusion of heritage and a relentless pursuit of dreams.
As an Indian American open-wheel racer, Yuven’s story serves as an inspiration to aspiring racers and enthusiasts alike, transcending cultural boundaries and exemplifying the universal language of passion for speed and competition.
As he continues to navigate the twists and turns of the racing world, one thing is certain – Yuven Sundaramoorthy is a force to be reckoned with, and his future on the track promises to be as exhilarating as the races he conquers.
We eagerly anticipate witnessing the next chapters of his racing career and the impact he will undoubtedly make on the open-wheel racing landscape.
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