Driver Development Program Experience

From Aspiration to Achievement: Manarth Prasad’s Journey with RaceAway Track Time

For many aspiring racers, transitioning from casual track days to competitive motorsport can feel like a daunting leap. But for Manarth Prasad, that leap was made possible through dedication, the right mentorship, and the tailored support of RaceAway Track Time’s Driver Development Program. Guided by our experienced head coach, Phil Alexander, Manarth embarked on a journey that saw him progress through endurance racing, hone his skills in various training days, and ultimately achieve his goal of competing at Challenge Bathurst behind the wheel of an RX8.

Manarth Prasad at Challenge Bathurst 2023 racing the RaceAway RX8 Cup Car

In this blog, Manarth shares his experience — from obtaining his Motorsport Australia Circuit License to thriving in competitive racing — and how the RaceAway team helped unlock his potential, both on and off the track.

“I've loved cars since I can remember, and had been participating in track days since I'd gotten my license. I was ready to step things up and start competing in motorsport and would need a competition license as I had aspirations of competing in the RX8 cup. 

I was referred Raceaway track time for my observed license test and was pleasantly surprised to discover that my license test was to be overseen by Phil Alexander, having been a long time fan of rotaries - I recognised the name, there was a model of one of his former race cars in the workshop I use!

Challenge Bathurst 2023, RaceAway RX8 Cup Car 

It's safe to say that what was meant to be a simple one day exam has turned into a valued partnership with a wonderful group of people. Though I'd obtained my license, I was by no means a racing driver - by utilising Raceaway track times connections I was able to access a variety of entry level events that I would not have known had ever existed.

“I can’t speak enough to the value to be found in working with someone with the breadth of experience provided by Phil. With a keen eye and understanding of each individual driver that he works with, the strong focus on foundational learning has equipped me with the ability to feel confident in a formal race environment. ”

Driving skills aside, understanding how to navigate the formalities of organised racing events, the decorum expected by officials at a race track - all of which is made a thousand times easier with the guidance of someone with decades of experience. It means that you're able to focus on the important part, developing your skills and driving.

I was able to participate in lower level events, frequent practice sessions and within five months, I was offered an opportunity to compete in challenge Bathurst. Through everything I had learnt in working with Phil in that short period of time, I actually felt equipped with the knowledge and ability to enjoy and learn from the experience of driving on one of the best tracks in the entire world. 

Taking everything I had learnt, just under a year on from obtaining my license and now having experienced a wide variety of cars and racetracks, I have now achieved my goal of competing regularly in the RX8 cup - with the knowledge and skills I now possess, I can comfortably look upon my growth and past self and say that none of the joy any of this has brought to my life would have been possible without the guidance, friendship and company of Phil and the team. I highly suggest that anybody with the interest, whether you're an enthusiast, working on your own growth or someone with genuine aspirations towards being a racing driver - reach out to the team, there's a world of experiences and possibilities out there. All that's missing is you.”

Want to start your motorsport career? Check out our Driver Development program and accelerate your motorsport journey today ⤵️

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