Against the roar of engines and the dust of the track, women rise—defying norms, mastering machines, and claiming their place in the world of motorsports. Bani Dabholkar and Ashrafi Gaikwad are redefining what it means to lead
At just 19, Bani Dabholkar from Chapora is redefining what it means to chase dreams—with dust in her face and fire in her heart. A student at St. Xavier’s College, Mapusa, Bani is making waves as one of the most promising young talents in India’s off-road racing circuit.
From hobby to passion
Bani’s journey began just two years ago, thanks to encouragement from fellow riders and friends—Yoshva Lobo, Mario Fernandes, and Swapnil Korgaonkar. What started as a weekend hobby soon became a serious pursuit. Her first bike, a Hero Xpulse 200 4V, was a gift from her father. Without access to professional tracks, she trained on hilltops, off-road paths, and open fields around her village. “I didn’t have fancy tracks,” she says. “I just rode wherever I could—and I learned something new every time.”
Turning point at Valpoi Dirt Arena
Her recent milestone came at the Valpoi Dirt Arena Time Trial on April 27. Known for its tough terrain and optical challenges, the track tested every rider’s skill and focus. During one of the most difficult sections, Bani’s handlebar locked, causing her to crash. “It was a heart-stopping moment,” she recalls. “But I had to keep going. I checked the bike quickly and got back on.” Her determination paid off—despite the fall, she regained her rhythm and went on to finish in first place, proving both her technical skills and mental toughness.
A record of consistency
Bani’s achievements are impressive. She has clinched first place in the Goa Time Trial in both 2024 and 2025. Other notable finishes include third place at the MRF National Rally Championship in Chikmagalur and the Goa Dirt Race in Valpoi, fourth place in Nashik, and fifth in Kolhapur. Her progress reflects her ability to learn, adapt, and push through under pressure.
Ashrafi Gaikwad is blazing across India’s toughest dirt tracks, driven by passion, supported by family, and fuelled by an unshakable mindset. With multiple podium finishes to her name, she’s emerging as one of the standout figures in Indian motorsports.
Humble beginnings
Her journey began not with a race-ready machine, but a stock Hyundai i10—no modifications, just sheer willpower. While others arrived with customised cars, Ashrafi proved that determination could beat horsepower. Today, she’s celebrated across Goa and beyond as the Fastest Goan Lady Driver.
Dominating the Dirt Prix Circuit
In just four years, she has evolved from underdog to title-winner, collecting over a dozen podiums in FMSCI-sanctioned events. At Dirt Prix 9 in Chikmagalur, she took home three titles, winner of the Ladies Open Class, winner of the Diesel Open Class and the first runner-up of the Street Stock Petrol Open Class. Earlier at Dirt Prix 8 in Mangalore, she placed first runner-up in the Ladies Open Class.
Rising through the ranks
Her momentum peaked at the 2025 Athoor round in Karnataka, where she secured double golds, winner of the Ladies Class and Fastest Lady Driver and winner of Stock Class. Her racing milestones continue to grow. She has been the first runner-up at the Dirt 5 (2022), All Goa Motorsport’s Association, Goan Fastest Lady Driver (2023), INAC and Pro Ladies (2023), INAC and was awarded as the winner and the Fastest Goan Lady Driver (2024), Dirt 6, Goa.
Preparation, focus, and family support
Her race routine includes carefully walking the track and mentally locking in. “Don’t panic. Don’t overthink. Just focus.” Her husband, a motocross champion, is both her coach and strongest supporter. Fellow racers like Athul Thomas and Aeman Ahmed have also played vital roles in her journey.