What is "sholavaram"

Sholavaram is a quiet town north of Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.Chennai 600067 is the pin code of sholavaram.It is primarily known for its Lake and the motor racing track.

Sholavaram lake is one of the many water bodies that are used as water sources for Chennai.

The race track once used to be an air strip during World War II; racing events were conducted between the early 60's and well into the late 80's. Racing events usually took place during the month of February every year until the Madras Motor Sports Club built a new track at Irungattukottai near Sriperumbudur just outside Chennai. The Sholavaram race track still evokes strong memories and nostalgia from several drivers and spectators.

Racing categories included Mopeds(sub 50cc bikes), Scooters, 100cc motorbikes, 250cc motorbikes, 350cc+ motorbikes, Superbikes and Cars like Fiats, Standard Heralds, Dolphins, Ambassadors, Indian formula cars and custom-built 4 wheeler open class cars. Some of the most powerful cars from Formula 5000s, Formula Two and Formula Atlantics participated during the racing events.

While the Sholavaram races was a boon for the local nascent talent,over the years it started attracting overseas riders and drivers. The most famous contingent was from neighboring Sri Lanka (Ceylon then..)with names like U.D Jinadasa,Raja Perera on their YAMAHA TZR and Zacky Deen as regulars. Towards the end (late 80's) even some riders from Malaysia (Sonny Soh,Abdul Aziz) and UK pitched in with their effort to give an even more wider international flavor. Notable local riders on imported bikes were Sherif Dyan and his nephew Hasmat Sheriff- who probably had a lightning good reflex to be out of the blocks ahead of the pack!Other famous local riders on Indian bikes were Subash Chandra Bose,Royapuram Abdullah (his daughter Alisha is now a racer of high standing), Royapuram "RD"Santosh, "Bullet" Bhasky to name a few,Dr.Saboo,Kamlesh,Shanbag made it an absolutely memorable period with their modified Heralds and Fiats.The legendary Kari ushered in the era of modified Maruti Single seater racing car which eventually paved the way to some big names emerging in this field like Vicky,Akbar Ebrahim and others.

Race track is still present but with some damages and it is used for four wheeler driving lessons.

Sholavaram is now used For Rc Flying for Many Aeromodelling Enthusiast in the city. Every Sunday Morning there will be Flying Meet Organized by Local Radio Control Aircraft Flyers with At least 50 RC Planes and Helicopters lined up for Flying . Many People come just to watch the Planes flying in Air with a great amusement

Now compound wall is being built around the airstrip for using it as military 4-wheeler training atea