With World Karting Champion Andrej Petrović
In a world where not everyone starts from the same line, what truly sets individuals apart is their sheer determination, discipline, and unwavering dedication to their dreams. These are the secret ingredients that turn the impossible into reality. Today, we’re chatting with Andrej Petrović, the reigning world karting champion, about his journey and what it takes to make it to the top.
The Awakening Times (TAT): Dear Andrej, thank you for taking the time to speak with us. To start off, could you tell us how you got into karting, when you started driving, and when you started winning?
Andrej Petrović (AP): I started karting when I was seven years old, and already in my first competitive season, I finished third in the Serbian Championship. The following year, I clinched the title. I would definitely highlight last year as the most successful, as I qualified for the World Championship in Bahrain. I triumphed in the senior category and became the world champion. Additionally, I’ve secured many other titles such as the Russian Winter Cup Champion, Central European Champion, Austrian Champion, Sports Still Cup Champion, and Serbian Champion.
TAT: What were some of the biggest challenges you faced in your racing endeavors so far?
AP: Throughout my racing career, the most significant challenge has been the financial aspect, particularly securing funding for races. Unlike some other drivers, my team, comprising my father as a mechanic and myself as the driver, lacked the financial resources to compete in top-tier teams. Competing against well-funded teams, especially in major European competitions, posed formidable challenges. These teams, equipped with engineers, skilled mechanics, and top-notch equipment, often presented tough competition. Despite these hurdles, we managed to reach the podium, even in adverse conditions like driving in the rain, where skill outweighs engine power. Notably, at the World Karting Championship in Bahrain, I showcased my capabilities by clinching victory, becoming the first Serbian to achieve this feat.
TAT: Please share your experience with the Mai-Tri method.
AP: The Mai-Tri method has been instrumental in helping me overcome various mental barriers that previously hindered me from unleashing my full potential. With the help of Mai-Tri, I learned to focus entirely on myself and cultivate unwavering self-belief, a mindset that culminated in my triumph at the world championship.
TAT: We’ve heard that you always ask for someone to do Mohanji’s protection for you before each race. How does this affect you?
AP: When Dejan, my Mai-Tri practitioner, performs Mohanji’s protection for me, I feel a profound sense of relaxation, focus, lightness, confidence, and security.
TAT: Why do you emphasize the importance of discipline in motorsports?
AP: Discipline is crucial in karting, as in any other sport. I believe every athlete must possess a certain level of discipline to excel in their sport. However, what ultimately distinguishes an elite athlete and enables them to achieve top results is their mental and spiritual strength, as Novak Djokovic has demonstrated and what sets him apart from others.
TAT: What drew you to go-karting and eventually to Formula racing?
AP: I chose karting because I love adrenaline and speed. Once the smell of gasoline gets into your blood, it never leaves. And this year, my biggest childhood dream came true – to drive a formula car. I started driving Formula 4 just recently, thanks to sponsors. My biggest aspiration is to reach Formula 1 and compete with the greatest drivers.
TAT: What advice do you have for aspiring drivers?
AP: To aspiring drivers, I offer this advice: believe in yourselves, hold fast to your dreams, and remember that with unwavering determination, anything is possible.
