Rapid Rise: Teen Racer Chenuka Caldera Accelerates into National Glory
Maduranga Caldera is a familiar name among Sri Lankan motorcycle and motorsport enthusiasts, and today his son, Chenuka Caldera, is making waves of his own. At just 14 years old, Chenuka is already showing that talent, discipline, and dedication can propel a young athlete to extraordinary heights.
A student at Asian International School, Chenuka is a versatile sportsman, excelling in swimming, cricket, athletics, and, of course, motorcycle racing, all while maintaining focus on his studies. His journey reflects a rare combination of natural ability and relentless effort, placing him firmly among Sri Lanka’s most promising young competitors.
Chenuka’s racing career began in 2023, progressing through 125cc, 150cc, and 250cc categories with remarkable speed and maturity. This year, he has taken a bold step into the Super Sport Open Class, piloting a formidable 1000cc BMW M1000 race machine—a remarkable achievement for someone of his age. Extensive rider development programmes in Malaysia, Thailand, and India have sharpened his technical skills and racing intelligence, giving him experience well beyond that of his peers.
His debut in the Super Sport Open category at the Rotherham Circuit Meet 2025 – Round 1, with qualifying on 16th August and race day on 17th August, marked a significant milestone. Alongside this, he will compete in the Group O 160cc and Super Sport 250cc classes, demonstrating versatility across multiple racing formats.
Chenuka etched his name in Sri Lankan motorsport history at the Rotherham Circuit Meet 2025 by becoming the youngest-ever Best Rider in Tarmac Racing. Displaying precision and composure well beyond his years, he managed the BMW M1000 across 22 demanding laps, claiming both the race victory and the coveted Best Rider Trophy. This achievement broke a seven-year-old record previously held by Aaron Gunawardena, who earned the title at age 15 in 2018. Chenuka’s triumph at just 14 is a landmark for the sport and a proud moment for enthusiasts nationwide.
This year, Chenuka also represented Sri Lanka at the Idemitsu Asia Talent Cup 2026 Selections in Sepang from 21st–22nd October. Competing against 83 riders from 18 countries for just 11 main slots and 7 reserves, he advanced steadily through the knockout sessions to reach the penultimate round—a commendable feat for his age. Although he did not secure final selection, feedback emphasised that prior FIM-level racing experience, such as MiniGP championships, would be essential for future success. Plans are now underway to ensure Chenuka meets all necessary benchmarks for upcoming Asia Talent Cup seasons.
Reflecting on the experience, Chenuka commented, “The competition was extremely high, with riders from across Asia. I made it to the penultimate session, which was a great learning experience.” Looking ahead, he aims to compete in the FIM MiniGP series overseas, an important step in preparing for elite global championships.
Chenuka’s achievements extend beyond circuit racing. At Drag Wars – Round 2, organised by the Colombo Racing Club in November at Katukurunda, he completed the quarter-mile in an astonishing 9.740 seconds on his BMW, earning the title of fastest biker of the day.
The potential for motorsport in Sri Lanka extends far beyond individual success. The development of racing technology, rapid diagnostics, and vehicle performance optimisation can create opportunities for young engineers, mechanics, and technologists. Institutes and design groups can foster expertise in racing cars and motorcycles, while collectors’ museums and motorbike clubs can attract both local and international enthusiasts. Such initiatives would boost tourism, stimulate the economy, and create employment opportunities for young, adventurous talent.
Furthermore, building registered motorsport vehicles and establishing controlled racing environments can complement tourism development. Well-managed events can engage families, youth communities, and elite enthusiasts alike, while private and government-backed initiatives can promote safe, competitive racing. Exchanges of ideas with motorbike and car experts internationally would ensure Sri Lanka remains at the forefront of modern racing technology, encouraging the growth of a vibrant, sustainable motorsport culture.
Talented young riders like Chenuka are helping to put Sri Lanka on the map, showing that the country has the skill, ambition, and infrastructure to host exciting motorsport events. Whether it is bike racing, car racing, or mixed categories, the island is gradually emerging as a destination where speed, precision, and adventure come together. For fans and visitors keen to follow the sport, updates on competitions and rising stars can be found on Racing in Sri Lanka social media platforms.
With a clear vision, support from mentors, and growing national interest, Chenuka Caldera is set to accelerate Sri Lankan motorsport into an exciting future. Each race demonstrates that his journey is not only about personal achievement but also about inspiring a new generation of riders, engineers, and enthusiasts, contributing to the nation’s sporting and economic growth.
