The feisty appearance of the Asia Production 250cc machines will once again be seen on the grounds of Chang International Circuit this weekend for the season opener of the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship. The entry line-up is just about everything that ups the ante in the race category.
On for another season of competition and exhilaration is Herjun Atna Firdaus of ASTRA HONDA RACING TEAM who was close to sealing the deal as champion last season. However, bowing defeat to Rheza Danica is all he needed to be back with a renewed aspiration and this time around, it’s nothing but tripled-effort to take the crown. It was a tough game and standing out among his equally competitive teammates was not as easy at it seemed, however Herjun settled for 1st runner up after taking four wins including a hat-trick. Accompanying him on the team’s strategic plan this season is 14-year-old Kiandra Ramadhipa who made a one-time appearance last year filling in for Veda Ega on his home- ground circuit, Mandalika. Together, the team seems all set for the race this weekend.
Commenting on the season, Herjun said, “Last season was a great experience for me although it was a stiff battle between my own teammate. This season however, it is all about making it to the top spot on the podium. I want to be the Asian Champion for the season, no doubt! As usual, my preparations include activities like physical training and bike practices. I have to work on my riding techniques so that I don’t lose touch. With the machine, I am aware that the power is slightly decreased compared to last season which means I would have to be more aggressive to take chances. With the new regulations being implemented, I think that there will be many good opportunities for an enhanced performance. On my part, I need to be more consistent and focused in achieving my goals. Chang circuit is an interesting one as it keeps the riders going on a good fight from the very first lap to the last one. Of course, there is also one tricky corner at the circuit’s tail end. It’s all about one round at a time though and my aim for the coming round is to quickly adapt with the regulations. I believe my team is also well prepared in helping me achieve my dream for the season.”
Kiandra on the other hand said, “This year is going to be a lot more different for me but I am excited to be a part of the ARRC community. It will be the platform that changes the direction of my riding career and I am quite positive that it will have a big impact on it. I had the opportunity to have a feel of what it would be like riding in ARRC, specifically in the AP250 race category last season when I came in as a replacement for Veda. Although it was only for a round, I somehow have a rough idea in terms of the strategies and rhythm. Of course, there will also be a lot of learning on the go and the plus would be my teammate who has had way more experience and is also superb in what he does. I just have to learn from him and get the fastest time as possible in a short period of time. Overall, I think I am quite ready to race and most importantly is to have the right mindset on the circuit ground. Part of my preparation includes maintaining my physical fitness and picking up on riding techniques on the bike. For sure I will utilise my experience from last season in TTC Racing as best as possible for make the most out of ARRC.”
If last year was not his year to celebrate among the top five riders, this year may just be the year for Aiki Iyoshi of Motul Sniper Manual Tech team. The Japanese rider lost his chance when he was trumped by lady rider Muklada Sarapuech. But that is not going to dampen his esteems as he prepares himself for another season of uphill battle. Aiki may have concluded last season with only one shot on the podium however rewinding to his past performances, traces of unpredictable tricks can be tracked in his moves which gives us a hint that he has what it takes to make, only with a little more push. Perhaps, his new teammate Diandra Trihardika may just be the boost he needs to up his game.
Aiki commented, “Last year was really tough for me. I was fully aware that there were huge gaps between myself and the riders ahead of me. It was quite competitive and I could not keep up. This season, I am hoping that it would be different, more so with some changes to the machine. We will be riding aboard a 250cc 4-cylinder. Of course, it is not just about the machine but all in, it is also my ability to strike where possible. I will definitely try and do my best to take advantage of the situation where it permits. So far, I haven’t met my teammate so I am not sure what it would be like however, I believe we are on the same page. Therefore, it is all about progressively improving and helping each other out. Chang circuit is one of my favourites but I think the biggest challenge is from the second half section to the final corner. So, that’s where I have to work on. It is all about winning and that’s where it begins for me!”
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