Last Updated on October 20, 2026 by alizni
As the vibrant festival of Dashain fills the streets of Nepal with family gatherings, traditional feasts, and festive joy, two dedicated motorsport athletes have chosen a radically different path this season. Nepalese racers Robin Sunuwar, popularly known as Rehan, and Bipasna Tamang have set aside local holiday celebrations to fly the national flag high on the international racing circuit. Representing Nepal at the prestigious Asia Auto Gymkhana Championship (AAGC), the duo has landed in Thailand for the next thrilling round of the competition following an intense showcase in Hong Kong.
Their participation marks a crucial moment for Nepali motorsport, proving that dedication and professional ambition know no holiday breaks. While the rest of the nation celebrates, Robin and Bipasna are focusing on track precision, technical maneuvering, and bringing international honor to their homeland.
Trading Dashain Festivities for High-Speed Motorsports
Dashain is widely considered the grandest and most cherished festival in Nepal, a sacred time reserved for family reunions, receiving blessings from elders, and enjoying rich cultural traditions. Choosing to travel overseas and compete during this festive period highlights the incredible commitment and sacrifice made by Nepal’s growing motorsport community.
For Robin Sunuwar and Bipasna Tamang, the opportunity to compete in the Asia Auto Gymkhana Championship was an honor that simply could not wait. Sacrificing the warmth of holiday gatherings at home, the drivers have embraced the demanding schedule of professional racing. Their journey is a powerful testament to the passion driving young Nepalese athletes onto the global stage, proving that their ambition to elevate Nepali motorsports supersedes personal leisure.
From Hong Kong to Thailand: The Asia Auto Gymkhana Journey
The Asia Auto Gymkhana Championship is one of the continent’s premier competitive driving series, attracting elite drivers from dozens of nations. Before arriving in Thailand, the Nepali contingent competed in Hong Kong, where racers from 24 Asian countries gathered to showcase their technical driving abilities.
Navigating tight courses and fierce competition in Hong Kong tested the resilience and skill of both Robin and Bipasna. Having successfully demonstrated their talent in the initial leg, the team immediately transitioned to Thailand for the upcoming round scheduled from October 23 to October 25. With back-to-back international fixtures, the duo has had little downtime, maintaining an intense focus on performance, mental preparation, and course analysis.
Meet the Drivers Representing Nepal on the Track
The duo representing Nepal brings a compelling mix of skill, grit, and inspiration to the Asia Auto Gymkhana Championship.
Robin Sunuwar (Rehan): Known for his composure under pressure and sharp vehicle control, Robin has been a rising star in the local and regional racing scene. His relentless drive to push the boundaries of Nepali racing has earned him respect among peers and fans alike.
Bipasna Tamang: Breaking barriers in a traditionally male-dominated sport, Bipasna Tamang stands out as a strong symbol of empowerment and athletic excellence. Her participation in high-profile international events highlights the growing presence and capability of female racers in South Asia.
Together, Robin and Bipasna represent the promising future of Nepalese automotive sports, showing that with determination, drivers from Nepal can hold their own against seasoned international competition.
What Is Auto Gymkhana and Why It Matters for Nepal
Auto Gymkhana is a unique and highly technical form of motorsport that emphasizes agility, precise car handling, and quick reflexes over raw engine power. Drivers navigate a complex, obstacle-filled course laid out with cones, executing rapid maneuvers such as 180-degree turns, 360-degree spins, figure eights, and sudden stops.
Because Gymkhana events often utilize standardized, equal-spec vehicles, success depends almost entirely on the driver’s technique and spatial awareness rather than budget or machine superiority. This makes the discipline particularly valuable for developing motorsport nations like Nepal. Participating in events like the Asia Auto Gymkhana Championship gives Nepali athletes a fair platform to measure their true skills against regional powerhouses without being disadvantaged by hardware limitations.
Looking Ahead: The Road to Victory in Thailand
As the action shifts to Thailand from October 23 to 25, expectations are high for the Nepali duo. Navigating unfamiliar asphalt, adapting quickly to tactical course layouts, and managing hot climate conditions will be key challenges for Robin and Bipasna. However, the experience gained from the Hong Kong round has fortified their confidence.
Supporters back in Nepal are closely following their progress, offering enthusiasm and pride across social media platforms. A strong performance in Thailand will not only boost their individual standings in the AAGC rankings but will also serve as a major catalyst for the growth of regulated motorsport events and infrastructure back home in Nepal.
Conclusion
While the sounds of Dashain music and festive laughter resonate across Nepal, Robin Sunuwar and Bipasna Tamang are making their presence felt through the roar of engines and the squeal of tires in Southeast Asia. Their willingness to trade holiday comfort for international competition embodies the true spirit of sportsmanship. As they take on the best drivers in Asia during the Thailand leg of the Asia Auto Gymkhana Championship, the entire country stands behind them, celebrating their dedication and cheering them on toward victory.