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FASTEST IN TVS ASIA PRACTICE SESSION

Vorapong Malahuan from Thailand did it once again with a remarkable lap time during the practice session at Round 3 of the FIM Asia Road Racing Championship which was held in Sugo International Racing Course. Earlier during the day, Vorapong clocked in 1’45:951s during practice session 1, taking the third fastest position after Japanese riders Hiroki Ono and Hayato Kobayashi, who clocked in fastest at 1’44:006s and 1’44:922 respectively. However, with the first practice session, Vorapong who is also known as a seasoned rider seemed to have familiarised and found his pace around the circuit. He picked up on his speed during the second practice session and completed the 20 minutes ride, fastest in nine laps when he marked 1’42:644s. Commenting on the session, Vorapong said, “This is my first-time riding here so I took a step-by-step approach. There are challenging spots within the circuit but I tried to get some feedback from other riders of different classes. I did better in practice session two and managed to get the fastest time. I hope that tomorrow will be a fun ride.” Following suit at the second and third fastest spots were Japanese duo, Hiroki and Fugo Tanaka who made their fastest at 1’42:860s and 1’44:020s. Top 5 Fastest – Combined Result Vorapong Malahuan, Thailand, 1’42:644s Hiroki Ono, Japan, 1’42:860s Fugo Tanaka, Japan, 1’44:020s Hayato Kobayashi, Japan, 1’44:056s Watcharin Tubtimon, Thailand, 1’44:079s Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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VORAPONG GEARING UP FOR A WIN

Vorapong is prepping to set the Sportsland Sugo International Circuit ablaze in the TVS Asia One Make Championship of the FIM Asia Road Racing Championship, Round 3. As TVS Asia One Make Championship made its debut in the Round 2 of the Asian motorcycle racing championship, Vorapong carved history in the 6-lap race when he clocked in fastest, making him the first ever winner in the category. The Thailand born rider was full on throughout the race weekend. He not only made the fastest time in the score sheet for the practice sessions but made an impactful ride when he took the pole position after the qualifying session. His riding skills were further amplified as he went on to set abenchmark with his win in Race 1. Race 2 however did not work very well with him. Although the race concluded with only 4 laps due to a casualty, Vorapong failed to replicate his moves thus landed him at the third spot on the podium. Commenting on the race, Vorapong said, “Winning Race 1 is an inspiration to me – I made history! As far as the machine is concerned, TVS has made some big changes since 2020 especially in the development of engine and its control that makes it an excellent ride for racing. Personally, I get along very well with the TVS RR310 and I am able to optimise its capacity.” As for his thoughts on riding at Sugo, “It is an entirely new experience for me. The expectations are also different compared to when I raced at Sepang. But I have a feeling that it will be a fun ride at Sugo. From what I have viewed on YouTube, Sugo circuit has layers – uphill and downhill which is sure to induce some exciting moments. I will do my best as I want another victory on the grounds of Japan.” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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SUGO, AN ADVANTAGE FOR HARUKI

The Asia Superbike 1000cc category never ceases to amaze fans and spectators and is the cream of the crop in the FIM Asia Road Racing Championship. With Haruki Noguchi of SDG Motor Sports HARC-PRO Ph. charging in with great prowess and speed alongside some of the best names in the scene, the race is bound to get even more exciting in rounds to come. The Japanese rider finally got his shot at the top spot on the podium in Race 2, Round 2 when he clocked in at 25:44.793. His performances throughout the races have been far from ordinary with a certain riding style in place. One would recognise Haruki’s move as the race flags off with him bolting ahead of the others. Haruki definitely showcased an improvement in Round 2. Although he is undoubtedly one of a kind in his game, Round 1 was rather unsatisfactory for his standards when his close contenders knocked him down the chart. He buckled up and in Round 2, he moved himself upward on the podium, taking the second spot in Race 1 and concluding the finale at the top spot. Commenting on his strategies, Haruki said, “For Round 1 and Round 2, there were no specific strategies except that I kept pushing myself to do better. That worked!” For the upcoming race, Haruki said, “It is extremely exciting to race in my own country. I personally feel that I would do better with minimal stress compared to when I race abroad. Additionally, we have done one race in All Japan Championship at the circuit hence we have some data in hand that would help the team to identify the right settings for the machine. I am also better prepared as I am aware of the circuit’s layout. I will do my best as usual.” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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ANDI, WORK IN PROGRESS

The fiery representation of the Supersports 600cc in the FIM Asia Road Racing Championship is everything about riders, armoured with agility and the mind that manifests victory. Andi Farid Izdihar of ASTRA HONDA Racing team is geared up for Round 3 at Sportsland Sugo International Sugo where he anticipates yet another win. Andi is no stranger to the scene of the SS600 category with years of riding experience and progressive growth in his professional endeavours. This season, he took the circuit by the storm when he marked fastest during Race 1 of the season opener. While he fell short in Race 2 due to an incident, he pulled himself back up in Round 2 with a win in Race 2. Commenting on his ride, Andi said, “I always aspire for a win in each race. However, we are at times defeated due to unforeseen circumstances. The most important thing is to not be disappointed instead take it as a motivational tool to do learn and do better.” “The category itself while it is highly competitive, we also have extraordinary riders who contribute to the overall challenge. To me, all riders are an inspiration for me to constantly look into my riding techniques and make the necessary changes required to stay on par or to be one step ahead.” Like all riders, Andi is work in progress for Round 3. He said, “As usual, preparations surround fitness routines and trainings with my team. Apart from that, I would also have to learn the layout of the circuit so that I am able to identify the right strategies for the race. Like many of the riders, I too have never raced on the circuit prior to this. Adapting quickly is crucial so that I am able to ride competitively.” “I definitely want to take a win at Sugo for my team as well as for our 77th Independence Day of the Republic of Indonesia.” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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AIKI AIMS WIN FOR HIS HOMELAND

The Asia Production 250cc has been injecting adrenaline and excitement into the domain of FIM Asia Road Racing Championship for many years now. With Aiki Iyoshi of Motul Sniper Tech Racing Team revved up for a stride at his home-ground, Sugo Sportsland International Circuit will be a location not to be missed this weekend. It was merely about finding the right pace and getting used to the setup of the Kawasaki Ninja 250 for Aiki in Round 1 especially after the long drought in the championship. While he was not able to get ahead in line in both races of Round 1, it was quite the opposite for Aiki in Round 2. In Round 2, Aiki showcased outstanding performances in both races when he grounded himself steadily among the robust riders who were competing for the best spot on the podium. He strode confidently flaunting his professional moves alongside his rivals who were fiercely charging in to claim victory. Aiki however took better speed ahead of the others, clocking in at third spot in Race 1 and second spot in Race 2. Commenting on the race, Aiki said, “It was a challenge for me in Round 1 and I was not able to get ahead on the final lap. But I managed to pick up from there and do better for Round 2.” As a Japanese rider who has been on the riding scene for years, the circuits in his homeland may not pose much challenge however Sugo Circuit may be a little different for him. He said, “I have never ridden on the circuit. In my opinion, Sugo circuit might be a technical one which means it would also be a lot of fun riding on it. The corners are my weapon and I pick on my strength around those edges. It is stimulating and easy at the same time.” “We are aiming to win in Round 3. There is no other joy than taking a win for my country.” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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PHYSICAL AND MENTAL FITNESS IS A MUST

John Emerson Inguito of 4S1M Yamaha Racing team is sharpening his skills in preparation for his race at the Sportsland Sugo International Circuit for the Underbone 150cc category of FIM Asia Road Racing Championship. The season opener may not have been a very good start for John. Pacing aboard the Yamaha Sniper 150, John’s agility kept him afloat among the lead group. Unfortunately, some may say it’s timing or perhaps the inability to find the right moment to strike, he was soon overshadowed by the velocity of riders in the highly unpredictable category. In Round 2, John took the sixteenth spot on the grid upon completing the Super Pole session. While Race 1 of Round 2 held a setback for John when he couldn’t complete the race, he made a strong finish in Race 2 when he took the third spot on the podium. John currently sits at the ninth spot overall. Commenting on his previous challenges, John said, “For Race 1 of Round 2, my machine went into a serious mechanical problem and I could not complete the race. For Race 2, thankfully I was able to catch up when the issues were rectified. I was more confident in making the necessary moves needed to not just complete the race but to put on a good fight for a spot on the podium.” For Round 3 at Sugo, John said, “I am excited. We took an overall look into the performance of the machine and gave it the required boost it needs for an enhanced performance. As a rider, I have been working on my physical and mental wellness to ensure that it has what it takes to embrace thechallenges at Sugo. I want to be on the podium!” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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ROUND 4 OF FIM ASIA ROAD RACING CHAMPIONSHIP TO BE HELD AT SEPANG INTERNATIONAL CIRCUIT

Round 4 of the FIM Asia Road Racing Championship (“ARRC”) will be held at the Sepang International Circuit, Malaysia. The 4th round was initially scheduled to be held at Zhuhai International Circuit however due to the quarantine restrictions in place within China, it will be difficult to host the race there hence the decision to move the race to Sepang International Circuit, Malaysia. Commenting on the change of venue, Ron Hogg, Promotions Director of Two Wheels Motor Racing Sdn. Bhd. said, “It was an important decision made to minimize the impact of travel restrictions on all parties involved in the ARRC. The ultimate goal is to provide an alternative that would reduce the overhead expenses of our participants.” “Malaysia has a lighter travel restriction which we believe would provide the right support needed by our participants. As such, Sepang International Circuit would serve as the ideal location in this short period of time to reorganize and accommodate those who are travelling in from other neighboring countries.” FIM Asia President, Stephan P Carapiet said, “Is it unfortunate that Zhuhai is not possible this time around due to the unavoidable situation in China. However, we are grateful to have secured an alternate venue within the available time frame. Those involved in this championship remain as our top priority and our task is to ensure that all of our efforts lead to the success of this championship.” Additionally, there will only be five rounds all in for ARRC, 2022 due to unforeseen circumstances. The final round will be held at the Chang International Circuit. The updated championship calendar as follows: Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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YOUNG STAR ABE SET FOR HOME DEBUT WITH ONEXOX TKKR RACING TEAM IN SUGO

JAPANESE youngster Keito Abe will provide a timely boost to the OneXOX TKKR Racing Team in the Supersports 600 class after being signed in time for what will be a fitting debut on homeground in Round 3 of the FIM Asia Road Racing Championship at the Sugo International Racing Course in Japan on Aug 12-14. The 19-year old is already in his third year of racing the Yamaha YZF-R6, having competed in the MFJ All- Japan Road Race Championship ST600 the past two years, finishing eighth in the standings in 2020 and fifth last year and is looking forward to breaking into the Asian scene. “I am excited to be able to race in ARRC at SUGO with a great team. A new team in a new Championship for me, is a challenge I like,” said Abe, the Tokyo-born who concurrently is also competing in this season’s MFJ All-Japan Road Race Championship ST600 class where he is ranked fifth. His local knowledge and familiarity with the SUGO Circuit will also be of benefit to 20-year old Malaysian teammate Muhammad Izam Ikmal, who has yet to really get his season off the ground, currently ranked 13th in the Supersports 600 class, no thanks to two non-finishes, a seventh and a sixth place in the first two rounds of the season at the Chang International Circuit and Sepang. “SUGO is obviously not new to me. If I can also be of help to the team in this aspect, I would be more than happy to. I thank the team for welcoming me, and to all of my supporters that made it possible for this to happen,” said Abe. OneXOX TKKR Racing Team principal Bobie Farid Shamsudin said the team was happy to finally welcome a talented rider to fill their second slot in the Supersport 600 class and Abe’s reputation as the fastest Yamaha rider in the All Japan Road Race Championship meant that it was an ideal fit. “Since 2020, we have been looking for suitable riders to fill our seats in the SS600 class. In 2021, we persuaded Khairul Idham Pawi to come out of retirement to ride with us in the Malaysian Superbike Championship, with a view of running him in the ARRC this year. However, Khairul Idham decided that the grass in Honda’s camp was greener and thus he went there. We managed to get Izam to replace him,” said Bobie. “I have been following the progress of riders around Asia including the All-Japan Series. Keito is one of those riders I have been monitoring. And being the fastest Yamaha guy, he certainly ticks all the boxes. I hope that both Keito and Izam would work together to achieve good results for the team.” RIDER PROFILE Keito Abe Birth date: September 13, 2003 Birth place: Tokyo, Japan Height: 168cm Career Highlights2007 Starts racing at the age of 4, on a pocket bike (Daijiro74) 2011 Step up to Mini-bikes2015 Tsukuba Roadrace S80 category 2017  Tsukuba Roadrace J-JP3 Ranked 2nd; 2018  MFJ All Japan Road Race Championship J-GP2 Ranked 14th 2019  MFJ All Japan Road Race Championship J-GP2 Ranked 8th 2020  MFJ All Japan Road Race Championship ST600 Ranked 8th 2021  MFJ All Japan Road Race Championship ST600 Ranked 5th Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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FIRST WIN FOR THE JAPANESE IN ASB1000

It was a victorious moment for the Japanese when Haruki Noguchi of SDG Motor Sports HARC-PRO Ph when he nailed the top spot of the podium for the Asia Superbike 1000cc of Race 2, FIM Asia Road Racing Championship. It’s been a long time coming for Haruki who has showcased incredible speed in the last two rounds. While he was defeated in the last three races, towards the end almost all the time, today, he was unbeatable when he took speed in the first lap and soared till the end. What started as a competitive feat among the best of Asia sizzled down when Haruki left the pack and took the last few laps gracefully, knowing that he has played the game well. By then, it was all about consistency. Clocking in at 25:44:793s, Haruki rode to a grand finish, 4.133s ahead of the next in line. Commenting on the race, “It was a highly competitive race, both Race 1 and Race 2 but today was a much better feat.” “I am truly thankful to my crew members and sponsors who have been supportive of my journey.” Meanwhile, Md Zaqhwan Zaidi of Honda Asia-Dream Racing with SHOWA who appeared as Haruki’s biggest contender kept up to his pace. He was seen taking his stance as Adam tried to get in the way nevertheless, Zaqhwan beat him to the clock at 25:48:926s. Adam Noroddin of ONEXOX BMW TKKR TEAM clocked in right behind, taking the third spot at 25:49:248s. Race 2 Provisional Result:Asia Superbike 1000cc – Top 5 Riders: Haruki Noguchi, SDG Motor Sports HARC-PRO Ph., 25:44:793s Md Zaqhwan Zaidi, Honda Asia-Dream Racing with SHOWA, 25:48:926s Adam Noroddin, ONEXOX BMW TKKR TEAM, 25:49:248s Kasma Daniel Kasmayudin, YAMAHA GEN BLU Racing Team ASEAN, 25:49:342s Apiwath Wongthananon, YAMAHA Thailand Racing Team, 25:49:585s Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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MALAYSIAN RIDER BAGS THE TOP SPOT

The finale of Supersports 600cc came was a celebration to Malaysians when Md Helmi Azman of Boon Siew HONDA Racing Team bagged the winning spot on the podium for Race 2. The Honda CBR600 RR rider who took the fourth spot in Race 1 bucked up for the final race of Round 2 and fought a good fight throughout the race. Helmi started 5th on the grid but pulled off impressively when positioned himself second in line of the troop. He took a competitive stride alongside his team mate Khairul Idham Pawi and Andi Farid Izdihar who was taking the lead for five laps before Helmi dominated the circuit. Helmi maintained his pace for the next three laps before slipping one position down in lap 9. The last lap kept the spectators at the edge of their seats as the trio competed aggressively to steal the winning spot. Helmi gave his final push at the last turn, slid into the top spot before making a dash to the finish line. He clocked in at 21:53:364s. Commenting on the race, “The team has worked tirelessly to ensure that our machines are at its best. I am glad that our strategy worked out well for both myself and Khairul.” “The weather at Sepang is scorching hot nevertheless the machine picked up a good speed and I am thankful that everything went well.” Andi of ASTRA HONDA Racing Team emerged second with 21:53:444s. Khairul of Boon Siew HONDA Racing Team marked third with 21:53:861s. Race 2 Provisional Result:Supersports 600cc – Top 5 Riders: Md Helmi Azman, Boon Siew HONDA Racing Team, 21:53:364s Andi Farid Izdihar, ASTRA HONDA Racing Team, 21:53:444s Khairul Idham Pawi, Boon Siew HONDA Racing Team, 21:53:861s Nakarin Atiratphuvapat, HONDA Racing Team, 21:58:323s Galang Hendra Pratama, YAMAHA RACING INDONESIA, 22:12:316s Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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