By Tamilavel

IT HAS always been Suriya Bala Kerisnan Thevar's dream to become Singapore's first Formula 1 driver. The 17-year-old, who prefers to be called Suriya, is taking one step towards that destination at the SingTel Singapore GP weekend.

He will be participating in the Formula BMW Pacific race, one of the many support races of the Singapore Grand Prix.

Suriya, who has earned his racing stripes via the Asian go-kart racing circuit, will be the first Singaporean to take part in the Formula BMW race.

He will be driving the Formula BMW FB02 car which is powered by a 140 horsepower BMW engine and is capable of reaching 230kmh.

Spotted by officials from the Shanghai-based Asia Racing Team (ART) Motorsports, Suriya was asked to test drive a single-seater race car last year. He performed beyond expectations and has since taken part in four Formula Renault races for the team.

Though unable to finish in the top three, he proved to be a safe and competitive driver despite his lack of experience. It was enough to convince his team manager to choose him as the team's driver for the Singapore leg of the Formula BMW series.

The Formula BMW series is the stepping stone to bigger things in the world of single-seater racing. It is from here that a young driver gets to progress into the Formula racing arena... first starting with Formula 3, then Formula 2 and eventually Formula 1.

Suriya, who is serious about making a career as a racing driver, got another boost in the form of his first-ever sponsorship last week. He was presented with a cheque for $5,000 by Mr Palaniappan Ramanathan, owner of Abiraame Jewellers and Dickson Goldsmiths.

Mr Ramanathan, who is an avid racing fan, hopes many more firms will come forward to support young sportsmen so that they achieve their dreams.

"Money should not be a hindrance to success," he says.

As for Suriya, he is all geared up to prove himself in front of the home crowd.

"I am extremely happy and proud that my maiden BMW race is happening in Singapore," he said. "The competition will be tough, but I will do my best and hope to do Singapore proud."

tamilv@sph.com.sg

Tamilavel is a Correspondent with Tamil Murasu