Having a sports car (‘sportie’) was Aarti Archana Ram’s passion but this passion has evolved into racing now.

The 29-year-old from Nadi has recently started participating in the Fiji Car Club-organised drags and has in fact been a winner in the past two events.

She has not only participated and won in the ladies open category, but also in the Open Hybrid category competing and winning against the men.

Ms Ram said: “Passion is one thing but when your passion becomes your hobby that’s a totally different scenario.

“I enjoy knowing about cars their aspects, their performance, looks, upgrades and keep on finding new trends. Having a sportie was my passion but I guess racing is now one too.”

Ms Ram My name has worked for Real Forex as a Branch Manager & Compliance Head for Central and Western Division.

But she recently resigned to start up her own business.

“After importing my vehicle and helping out my friends get in their cars, I have decided to start up a car dealership of my own,” she said.

“This is still in process and should be up and running in two months’ time.”

Her ride

Ms Ram has self-imported a Honda CRZ Hybrid 2011 model which is 7-speed triptonic.

She said after my last sporty Toyota Levin “FO-007”, shehad missed driving a ‘sportie’ around.

“I looked at a few in Fiji but nothing suited my taste, thus decided to self-import this beauty,” she said.

“Yes, I self-imported this from Japan – bought from SBT. My CRZ was one of the first CRZ to be driven in Fiji roads and am glad now am seeing plenty coming in!”

The vehicle was standard when bought, but Ms Ram then later changed its color from white to Candy blood red.

“I also bought the entire kit from ebay which was installed and modified in Fiji (modifications done by Naushad Moveen from Naushima Auto Performance).

Ms Ram said she didn’t import the Honda CRZ for racing purpose initially.

“I admire ‘sporties’ and who wouldn’t want to own a sports car, right,” she said.

“Friends’ challenges and family support was one of the reasons for starters and after that just became a hobby.

“For racing, after the challenge, support and encouragement from a dear friend, I had to take part. To my surprise, the car had more strength then I anticipated!

“I have been going to drags since 2011 but just this year decided to try out my skills on tracks just to experience and feel the adrenaline. Guess what, the rush is amazing I tell you!”

Feedback:  rachna@fijisun.com.fj