‘Train the Trainer’ Initiative in Nepal: Empowering Officials and Advancing Motorsport Safety

With support from the FIA Sport Grant Programme, the Nepal Automobiles’ Association (NASA) conducted an extensive motorsport training program in Kathmandu and Dhulikhel from March 1st to 3rd, 2024. The initiative aimed to equip marshals and drivers with enhanced safety measures and skills in rallycross, autocross, and karting slalom disciplines, drawing active participation from motorsport enthusiasts.

In collaboration with the Bagmati Sports Development Council, and under the guidance of experienced professionals, over 125 participants delved into the intricacies of rallycross, autocross, and karting slalom. 

The first session, held on March 1st and 2nd in Kathmandu, focused on training rallycross/autocross marshals and drivers, while the second session on March 3rd took place at the Himalayan Motorland, Dhulikhel, targeting karting slalom officials. The aim of this training, which also focused on international-level marshal training, was to cultivate the necessary expertise in Nepal to conduct motorsport events in the coming decade.

The sessions covered various aspects, including safety gear, medical response, marshal signaling, as well as insights into marshaling ethics and driver responsibilities. The hands-on approach enabled participants to actively engage in setting up courses and refining driving skills. Focused on skill enhancement and safety awareness, this comprehensive training program prioritised participant safety, with meticulous safety protocols in place.

Dasarath Risal, President of the Nepal Automobiles’ Association, said: “I am grateful to the FIA for their support. Empowering marshals with knowledge is crucial to upholding safety standards and ensuring our sporting events run smoothly. This dedication to excellence lays the groundwork for a promising future for motorsport in Nepal and the Asia Pacific region, driving its growth and development forward.”

During the event, FIA Asia Pacific Coordinator Vijitha Wijemanne, alongside NASA Nepal officials, had the opportunity to meet with Tanka Lal Ghising, Member Secretary of Nepal’s National Sports Council, to discuss enhancing motorsports in Nepal with support from FIA and the Government. Another productive meeting took place at the International Sports Complex in Lallitpur, Nepal, to explore upcoming motorsports and FIA-related projects.

Trainers:

1. Vijitha Sabhanath Wijemanne, FIA Asia Pacific Coordinator: 

• Introduction to Rallycross and Autocross Marshal & Driver Perspective 
• Introduction to Karting Slalom and hands-on training of how to set an obstacle course/assigning officials/counting debits/etc

2. Santosh Prasad Nyaupane, Coordinator, Rallycross & Autocross Working Group: Safety Gear and Equipment
    
3. Dr. Buland Thapa, Senior Orthopaedic Surgeon and Deputy President, Nepal Automobiles’ Association: 
   Medical Safety and Response in Racing
    
4. Anil Kumar Baral, Senior Nepali Motorsport Player and Vice President, Nepal Automobiles’ Association: 
   Marshal Flag, Signs, and Signals / Ethics and Discipline
    
5. Yaduraj Lamichhane, Coordinator, Marshal & Training Commission: 
   Role and Responsibility of Marshals
    
6. Aashish Bharati, Nepali Motorsport Player: 
   Driver’s Role and Responsibilities
    
7. Govinda Prasad Bhattarai, FIA World Council Member: 
   NASA Nepal Policy, Plan, and FIA Introduction