For Dato’ Shanmuganathan Arumugam, racing has never been just about chasing podiums—it’s about creating lasting memories. This year, those memories take on even greater meaning as he lines up alongside his 19-year-old son, Ashen, in the 2025 Vios Challenge.

Competing under the banner of Kashash Vina Motorsports Racing, the father-son duo are both racing in the Sporting Class for amateur drivers. Shanmuganathan is no stranger to the series, having been part of the Vios Challenge since its debut in 2017.

“Driving is my passion, and Toyota has given people like me the platform to experience what professional racing is truly about,” he shared. “I started late—at 49—but it’s been nothing short of fun. Now, at 56, I still look forward to every race.”

While their enthusiasm is undeniable, balancing racing with daily commitments is a challenge. Work demands and Ashen’s studies mean that neither can devote their full time to racing. Without professional race engineers, the pair rely entirely on their in-house team—mechanics from Shanmuganathan’s company who typically service trucks, not race cars.

“It’s very much a family effort,” he explained. “Everything is prepared in-house, and although we may be shorthanded, we enjoy the process. At the end of the day, the memories we create matter more than the results.”

For Ashen, sharing the track with his father is more than a dream come true—it’s a milestone in his life.

“I’m grateful to my dad for supporting me in this journey,” said Ashen, who is awaiting his intake to become a commercial pilot. “Watching him race inspired me, and now that we’re competing in the same class, there’s definitely some healthy competition between us. As for who’s faster—let’s just say that’s open for debate.”

Looking ahead, Ashen hopes to progress into higher racing categories if the opportunity arises. But for now, both father and son are savoring the unique experience of racing side-by-side, where speed meets family bonds.

Fans can catch all the 2025 Vios Challenge action through TGR Malaysia on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, or visit www.toyota.com.my/en/tgrmalaysia for race schedules and driver details.