SHILLONG: The Motor Sports Club of Meghalaya on Friday felicitated two emerging racing talents from the state—Banteilang Jyrwa and Jayden Nongkhlaw—for their outstanding performances at the national level.
The felicitation ceremony was held at the Shillong Press Club.
Jyrwa was honoured for clinching the Indian National Supercross Championship 2025 in the Class 4 Indian Expert category. Meanwhile, Nongkhlaw secured the first runners-up position in the MRF National Supercross Championship 2025 (Novice Class).
Speaking to the media, Jyrwa said he began racing in 2018 and entered the national circuit in 2019. In the same year, he was inducted as a support rider by TVS Motor Company.
During the COVID-19 lockdown, he continued training independently and went on to compete in the novice class championship in 2020. He described his 2025 title win as a major milestone, especially after competing against some of the country’s top riders.
“It was a tough competition, and I am grateful to have emerged victorious,” Jyrwa said.
He credited his father for constant financial and emotional support, noting that motorsports is an expensive discipline involving high costs for maintenance, safety gear, and equipment.
Encouraging aspiring riders, Jyrwa urged them not to give up on their dreams and offered his support whenever needed. He also cautioned against racing on public roads, stressing the importance of practicing only on proper tracks.
Sharing his journey, Nongkhlaw said his interest in racing began after watching a friend practice near his home. He would often borrow his father’s bike to train whenever possible.
His first race was a friendly event in Guwahati, where he finished third. At the age of 14, he began competing across the Northeast. Impressed by his performance, TVS trained him for a year and later signed him on contract to represent the team.
Nongkhlaw credited his father for playing a key role in his training and his parents for standing by him throughout his journey.
Echoing Jyrwa’s views, Nongkhlaw urged young enthusiasts to avoid racing on public roads, warning that it could endanger both riders and pedestrians.
“Use proper tracks and facilities. Safety should always come first,” he advised.
He also recalled that he was among the youngest competitors when he started and had to race against older riders, but consistent family support helped him reach the national stage.
