Srinagar, Jul 09 (KNO): When Saimah Ajaz Baig’s father gifted her a motorcycle, neither of them imagined it would set her on the path to becoming one of India’s leading female motorcycle racers.
Born into a Kashmiri family from Srinagar and raised in Maharashtra, the 26-year-old has become the first national-level female motorcycle circuit racer from Jammu and Kashmir.
With national titles, podium finishes and international training under her belt, Saimah is steadily making her mark in a sport long dominated by men.
Speaking exclusively to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), the Pune-based BCA graduate said her fascination with motorcycles began as a hobby before evolving into a professional career.
“I have loved motorcycles from a very young age. The motorcycle my father gifted me changed my life. Initially, I rode just for the joy of it, but with time I became fascinated by the precision, discipline and thrill of racing. That curiosity eventually turned into my profession,” she said.
Unlike many professional racers who begin through structured academies at an early age, Saimah found her own way into the sport. She said entering motorsport required years of perseverance, self-belief and continuous learning.
“There wasn’t a clear roadmap for someone like me. I had to learn, improve and prove myself at every stage. I suffered crashes, broke bones, got back on my feet and kept going. Today, my motorcycle is my biggest passion,” she said.
Saimah credited her family for standing firmly by her despite her unconventional career choice.
“My parents never asked me to abandon my dream. Their encouragement gave me the confidence to continue even when the journey became difficult. Their faith in me has been my biggest strength,” she said.
The racer said every setback, including crashes and disappointments, became a lesson rather than a reason to quit. “Every fall teaches you something. Racing is not just about speed, but it is about discipline, preparation, patience and resilience,” she said.
Her breakthrough came in 2024 when she won the TVS One Make Championship in the women’s category, a title that established her among India’s top female circuit racers. She followed it with a second runner-up finish at the Indian National Motorcycle Racing Championship (INMRC) 2025 and first runner-up in the KTM Cup 2026, cementing her place among the country’s elite riders.
Over the years, Saimah has raced motorcycles, including the Yamaha R15 and KTM machines, secured more than 20 podium finishes at the national level, trained at Malaysia’s iconic Sepang International Circuit, participated in prestigious racing events across India and founded The Race Syndicate, a motorsport coaching platform in Maharashtra aimed at nurturing young talent.
Proud of her achievements, Saimah said her journey is far from over. “Dreams do not have boundaries. If you are willing to work hard, stay disciplined and believe in yourself, nothing is impossible. I hope more girls step forward and choose the path they truly love, regardless of stereotypes,” she added—(KNO)