The hand prints were a last second decision, but were definitely an eye catching addition to the car.
Many stickers and decals are plastered across the E36 to raise awareness for autism.
A photo during Azad’s best run of the weekend.
Screeching tires, loud exhausts, and a few V8s shaking the concrete with their intimidating growls were amongst the few spectacles that took place this past weekend at the Killarney Speed Festival. From across Cape Town, eager car enthusiasts dusted off their racing shoes to tackle Killarney Raceway track in the first-ever time attack challenge. One car in particular that caught our eye was a E36 boasting autism awareness.
Whether it was a Yas Marina Blue BMW M4, a 5-speed sequential-transmission Mitsubishi EVO 7, or a pristine 1990 Audi S2 Quattro, there was no shortage of unique cars with capable drivers piloting them. An exceptional entry was the colourful E36 sedan driven by Sieraj Azad aimed at spreading awareness for children with Autism and ADHD. The “Mr. Beemer” team entered a white E36 with many multi-coloured hand prints spread out across the car and powered by a slightly modified M54 motor.
The hand prints were a last second decision, but were definitely an eye catching addition to the car.
While speaking to CAR Magazine, Azad elaborated on why he entered into the Killarney Speed Festival: “The purpose of this car is to raise awareness for autism and associated disorders such as ADHD and ADD. I want to create that awareness, especially for younger children at school. We need to create a needed platform to create that awareness for kids who suffer from ADHD or kids who might be undiagnosed.”
The subject of autism awareness and other neurological disorders is often misunderstood within many communities and households. Azad commented on the hush-hush nature of the topic of autism and ADHD within his community and said that there is a need to bring these issues into the spotlight to educate people on how to assist and interact with the Autistic.
Many stickers and decals are plastered across the E36 to raise awareness for autism.
As someone who has ADHD and who’s son is on the autism spectrum, Azad’s mission to spread awareness for the disorder is a dear aspect of his life. “It’s something that we need to create that awareness around. I see a lot of kids in schools and then I tell myself, you know, this child is exactly like my kid, but nothing is really being done.”
“I can’t diagnose the child because he doesn’t run like an engine or gearbox,” said Azad speaking like a true petrol-head. The goal is to raise autism awareness within communities in hopes of people realising that their children or even they themselves have autism or ADHD. Going forward Azad hopes to use his car to spread awareness for people dealing with cancer or to raise awareness for gender based violence.
A photo during Azad’s best run of the weekend.
Before the Killarney Speed Festival, the car had been used in a rallycross event and another event. The car seems to be handling the exploitations well and the team is hopeful that they can continue improving the car. The beginning of the weekend saw the E36 cross the line with a time of one minute and twenty seconds but it slowly and steadily the time improved to one minute and fifteen seconds. According to Azad the car had much more to give but it all depended on his willingness to push it. To Mr. Azad, all the best on your journey.
“We need to create that platform for them where they can come forward. Where people is aware that it is a real thing. I’ve read an article where it says; ADHD and autism – it’s not a disability, it’s just a different ability.” – Sieraj Azad
Keyword: Racing for autism awareness at Killarney Speed Festival