Rohith hopes to lower his record at Brands Hatch circuit

(dailynews-2005/07/01) by Bernard Perera
Rohith de Silva a leading Racing driver specialised in Minis is to compete in the Mini Racing event which is to decide the Fastest Mini Driver in the world for the year 2005. Rohith is not a newcomer for the event he has competed continuously since 2000. This year's event is to be held in Brands Hatch Race Circuit in London, England on July 9 and 10. The race is organised by British Racing and Sports Car Club. In 2000 Rohith entered the event but on arrival he was not allowed to drive due to an international licence problem. He was highly a dejected driver on this occasion. But he never gave up the idea and after making all arrangements completely entered the event in 2001 which was conducted at Mallory Park, also in England. This was a good one for him where he managed to win the Group E category. He also set up a new world record for the fastest lap timing. This record still stands under his belt. He said that this year wants to lower the record if things go right in all respects. Rohith could not finish the race on his third appearance in 2002 as he had to retire after three laps due to a mechanical problem. But managed to be among the top three in lap timings. Year 2004 too was not a successful one for Rohith as he had to pull out of the event after the completion of eight laps, this too was mechanical problems that arose with his engine. Rohith has to find a sum of Rs. 3 million for the event which he has to look forward to sponsors. The Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Jeevan Kumaratunga has given the green light for Rohith to drive under Sri Lanka banner and also has granted a part of the sponsorship to Rohith for the event. Many other sponsors have come forward to assist driver Rohith de Silva, Traveller Global (Pvt) Ltd. handed over their sponsorship last week at a simple ceremony held at the Sports Ministry Auditorium. Rohith left the island on Tuesday for England.