Twentytwo13

Raya takes back seat as racer Adam Khalid gears up to conquer Britain

Talented driver Adam Khalid hopes to use the British GT Series as a stepping stone to bigger things.

The 24-year-old, who studies Graphic Design and Digital Marketing at the University of Coventry, will spend a lonely Hari Raya as he pursues his dream.

“This is my first year in Britain, and I have modest dreams,” said Adam, who wished all Malaysians a safe, and joyful Hari Raya.

“Firstly, I need to find more sponsors as the Covid-19 situation has made it difficult to do so in Malaysia.

“For the first season, I want to collect as much data as I can with the hope of challenging for the title next year.”

The estimated cost for a full-season drive in the British GT Series is RM1 million.

The New Bridge Motorsports driver, whose ultimate dream is to race in the world-famous 24 Hours of Le Mans, said he is confident of doing well in the British GT Series, based on his past performances.

“The highlights of my career were competing against international drivers, such as Lando Norris, and showing that I could be as fast as them,” said the SIC four-wheels development programme driver.

“My dream is to compete at the highest level and make the country proud. That is why I decided to compete in Britain.”

Adam, who hails from Kuala Terengganu, said he got his love of racing from his family.

“My whole family loves motorsports. The biggest influences are my father, uncles and grandfather,” said the former Formula BMW racer.

“When my dad (Khalid Emran Yusof) introduced me to racing, I was hooked, and I never looked back.

“Growing up in an environment where motorsports was not a hobby, but a passion, ‘fuelled’ my desire to get to the top.”

A big Daniel Ricciardo fan, Adam said he loves how the Australian gives 100 per cent, no matter the circumstances.

Like Adam, Ricciardo also raced in Formula BMW before joining Formula One in 2011. He is Lando’s teammate at McLaren.

“Daniel is my favourite driver. He may seem laid back, but he never takes no for an answer.

“He may not have the fastest car, but he has the drive and willpower to show he has what it takes to win races,” said Adam, a member of the winning team in the Merdeka Endurance Series, and runner-up in the Malaysia Championship Series, last year.

“I am like that. I do not give up. I fight for what I want, and I do not take life so seriously.”