2023 Round 1

TITLE DEFENSE IN PROGRESS

The roar of the ASB1000 grew louder today in the first practice session with riders pushing beyond  limits, testing their engine capacities with the hope that tomorrow would score them their first goal for the season. In that bid Md Zaqhwan Zaidi of HONDA ASIA-DREAM RACING WITH SHOWA emerged  fastest with the combined result at 1’35:486s, held at the Chang International Circuit.  Earlier this morning, Md Zaqhwan Zaidi of made the fastest in Practice 1 when he clocked in his fastest  followed by Markus Reiterberger of ONEXOX BMW TKKR TEAM at 1’35:755s. At third fastest, it was  Andi Farid Izdihar of HONDA ASIA-DREAM RACING WITH SHOWA at 1’35:805s. During Practice 2 in the  noon, Markus and Zaqhwan exchanged positions with the former clocking fastest at 1’36:069s while  the latter at 1’36:132s. Andi remained at third fastest, marking his best at 1’36:336s.  Markus hit it back again in Practice 3 at 1’35:623s while Zaqhwan and Andi followed suit in second and  third fastest spots. However, with the combined result, Zaqhwan was recognised fastest while Markus  and Andi concluded at second and third.  Commenting on the session, Zaqhwan said, “It definitely felt very good. I was happy, excited and  challenged. This year is foreseeably a tough one ahead with the likes of Markus, Andi, Noguchi and  other international riders making up the entry list. If you noticed, the earlier session was pretty tough with the difference of less than a second. I have to be forward thinking in my approach during the race  especially in managing the pace, even more so with such hot weather. The machine is indeed at its  best and I am feeling really good manoeuvring it. Using the No. 1 on the machine definitely amplifies  the pressure but I like the pressure. It pushes me further to do well especially my defence of the  championship title.” “The weather will be somewhat similar tomorrow, I presume. I can already imagine the strain during  the race especially among the top 5. I have to work on some strategies – perhaps, work on widening  the gap or even trail someone close. But the more challenging bit would be preserving the tire till the  end of the race. It is not going to be easy and I expect the tires to wear out by the 5th lap. Well, anyhow,  I will keep my fingers crossed.” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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SUPER KIP, SUPERB SPEED

The blazing scene of the SuperSports 600cc came into action today with practice session throughout  the day. The day ended when Khairul Idham Pawi of BOON SIEW HONDA RACING TEAM emerged  fastest in the combined practice, clocking in his best at 1’39:204s.  In Practice 1 this morning, Khairul made his best lap time for the day followed by Thai duo Nakarin  Atiratphuvapat of HONDA RACING THAILAND at 1’39:230s and Ratthapong Wilairot of YAMAHA  RACING THAILAND at 1’39:406s. At noon, as the heat picked up, Khairul was relentless and once again went ahead with brave speed, clocking in fastest at 1’39:717s in Practice 2. This time around, Keito  Abe of ONEXOX TKKR RACING TEAM flexed his muscles, marking his fastest at 1’39:993s followed by  Azroy Hakeem Anuar of BOON SIEW HONDA RACING TEAM at 1’40:068s.  In Practice 3, the Malaysian lad, fondly known as Super Kip did not give up despite the steaming  temperature and made it again, while his teammate Muhammad Helmi Azman emerged third fastest  at 1’39:824s. Pannasorn Kaewsonthi of HONDA RACING THAILAND made it in between at 1’39:66s.  The combined result at the end of the three sessions marked Khairul as fastest for the day while  Nakarin and Ratthapong took the third and second fastest spots.   Commenting on the practice session, Khairul said, “Honestly, this was a huge improvement for me  compared to last year. I wondered why I could not perform last year and based on my analysis and  performances, I realised that I needed to change my direction and this year has been good. I recognised the changes in me and I am better-able to fine tune my riding techniques. I made many  mistakes with my riding style and of course with the fact that I did not race for two years prior to that,  it was difficult for me to find my momentum back then. But that gave me the real push to do better  this time around and I am calmer now, too.”  “In the morning, it was not too hot and it was a good ride. But as the temperature increased further,  I noticed that it was difficult to find my pace, the braking system did not work that well and speeding  only increased the risk with the rear tires. But, it gave me good insights as to how it would work for  tomorrow’s race and I am ready to race tomorrow.” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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ASTRA HONDA LADS BOOSTED

The Asia Production 250cc race category went on with a swift move throughout the practice session  today despite the heat at the Chang International Circuit. Herjun Atna Firdaus of ASTRA HONDA  RACING TEAM emerged fastest for the combined practice session when he clocked in his best for the  day at 1’50:661s. In Practice 1 this morning, riders of ASTRA HONDA RACING TEAM aboard the Honda CBR250 RR conquered the three fastest spots with Herjun at his best lap time followed by Rheza Danica Ahrens  and Veda Ega Pra Tama at 1’50:772s and 1’51:187s respectively. Pumped up further, the trio of ASTRA  HONDA RACING TEAM went on to make the fastest in Practice 2 with Rheza taking lead at 1’51:116s,  followed by Veda and Herjun at 1’51:374s and 1’51:898s respectively.  In Practice 3 however, Thai lad, Jakkreephat Puettisan of HONDA RACING THAILAND made fastest at  1’51:104s while ASTRA HONDA RACING TEAM duo, Rheza and Veda concluded with second and third  respectively.   With the final practice session, the combined result placed Herjun and Rheza in the first and second  fastest spot while Jakkreephat took the third fastest spot.  Commenting on the practice session, Herjun said, “The temperature was not too high in the morning but during the afternoon session, the asphalt temperature was close to 60 degrees which made it very  hard to maintain speed. With an increased temperature, we face limitations with the tire and the grip becomes less functional in terms of speed.”  “My teammates are excellent riders. Rheza has a lot of experience as a rider in the AP250 race category while Veda has gained his bulk of experience from ATC and MSF. So, it would definitely be an  interesting ride with them and definitely, my hope is to win the race tomorrow.” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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NAZIRUL CONFIDENT ON LONG-STRAIGHTS

It was a fiery morning with the sound of the Underbone 150cc race category machines filling up the  air. As the day went by, Nazirul Izzat Md Bahauddin of UMA RACING YAMAHA MAJU MOTOR ASIA  TEAM emerged fastest in the combined practice session held at the Chang International Circuit, with  his best time at 1’59:120s.  In Practice 1 this morning, the top 3 fastest spots were marked by Yamaha riders with Nazirul Izzat marking fastest followed by Md Hafiza Rofa of ONEXOX TKKR RACING TEAM at 1’59:661s and teammate Ahmad Fazli Sham at 1’59:686s.   In the afternoon, as the riders were further fuelled, Fazli Sham braced the scorching heat to showcase  his strengths consequently made his fastest at 1’59:706s. At second and third fastest, it was Murobbil  Vittoni of LFN H. Putra 969 Indonesia Racing Team, logging in at 2’00:202s and Wawan Wello of  PITSBIKE JRT TECH 2 ONEWAY RACING TEAM with his best at 2’00:443s. The combined result however placed Nazirul at the top. Taking the second fastest with the combined  result was Hafiza Rofa with his best for the day at 1’59:661 while at the third fastest was teammate,  Fazli Sham with his fastest time for the day at 1’59:686s.  Commenting on this lap time, Nazirul said, “In the morning, the weather was not too bad. But in the  noon, it became extremely hot which makes it difficult to find the right setup of the machine. With  Race 1 to be held in the afternoon tomorrow, it worries me as the weather is expected to be similar  to what it was today but I will try to do my best.”  “I am good with high-speed track and Chang International Circuit has many turns and long straights.  It is also a little technical hence we have to strategize to ensure that we are able to compete  competitively.” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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PIYAWAT STRONG ON HIS HOMEGROUND

It was a good start for the TVS Asia One Make Championship with riders in full form to mark their best  in the practice session. At the end of the day, it boils down to one man and this time around, Piyawat  Patoomyos of Thailand made the fastest in the combined practice at 1’50:012s.  The two practice sessions witnessed riders taking charge of their machines amidst the scorching heat  throughout the day. In practice session 1, Md Muzakkir Mohamed of Malaysia made the fastest when  he clocked in his best at 1’50:854s. The second and third fastest spot was filled up by Piyawat  Patoomyos of Thailand and Md Ramdan Rosli of Malaysia at 1’50:950s and 1’51:683s respectively.  In practice session 2, Piyawat took better control of his machine and emerged fastest at 1’50:012s while Muzakkir and Ramdan took the second and third fastest spots.  With his most recent lap time, Piyawat beat the rest with his speed in the combined result but he has  definitely found his closest rivalry among the Malaysian duo who logged their fastest time combined at 1’50:854s and 1’51:408s respectively.   Commenting on the practice session, Piyawat said, “The performance of the machine was very good.  At this point of time, I am not very confident but I take it one step at a time. The weather has been  extremely hot which also impacts the machine negatively especially with the power. Each lap that I take, it reduces the speed especially in practice 2. But, I still hope that I would be able to find my pace  tomorrow during the qualifying and race 1.” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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READY TO ROLL ONCE AGAIN

Sweeping victory for Vorapong Malahuan of Thailand at the FIM Asia Road Racing Championship  (ARRC) last season as he carved a historical mark for TVS Asia One Make Championship. Quoted saying, “The race only takes 10 minutes but I have waited to become the Asian Champion over 10 years. This  is a new victory for me and I am truly grateful.”  With the new season just around the corner, it is a moment to redefine championship. During its debut  season, we witnessed power and prowess, interchangeable between man and machine. As TVS Asia  One Make Championship gears toward greater advancement and innovation in motorcycle revolution,  riders are flexing their muscles and inching towards yet another form of excellence. That’s motorcycle  racing championship in its essence.  So, what does the new season mean for Vorapong?  “I can never run away from the challenges in the race category as I foresee a competitive stride among  the robust riders. But my main aim is to defend my title and push towards a new record at each circuit.  After all, as a rider, I represent the TVS machine hence I will do my best to magnify the full capacities  of the machine. Since the testing at Chang International Circuit last year, TVS has gained numerous  data that can be applied this season to achieve better outcome. More importantly, we will be riding  on a machine geared with slick tires which means that there will be improvements in speed at the  corners.”  “I am not here only for the competition but even more so, to create a standard that would serve as a  benchmark for all the other riders in the TVS Asia One Make Championship.”  While the game plan remains the same for the existing Asian riders of the TVS Asia One Make  Championship, it may require practice for new entries like Md Ramdan Rosli and Md Muzakkir  Mohamed of Malaysia who will be taking a stance on the battlefield. It may not be an entirely new  challenge for the Malaysian duo who have been actively involved in the SS600 and AP250 classes  respectively, however riding aboard a TVS Apache RR310 may call for disparate set of manoeuvring  techniques.  Commenting on the upcoming season, Ramdan said, “It will be a much lower cc machine for me, but  I am looking forward to the new experience that TVS Asia has to offer. Time may be required to further  understand the new machine but the mind is prepared to enjoy the ride. It will not be an easy feat but  I am a go-getter – I always work towards improvements. There are many excellent riders in this  category and so, there is no room for complacency. With minimal data in hand, it is quite difficult to  predict the outcome but I believe that the more time I spend on the machine and the circuit will result  in an ideal performance.” Muzakkir commented, “TVS Asia will be an entirely different ballgame for me and that would be my  biggest challenge. I know that the machine is completely different from any of the machines I’ve  ridden. Adding on to that strain, I have never gotten the chance to test it before the start of the season  compared to the other riders who have already gained experience riding it last season. Having said  that, it’s a challenge that I am looking forward to. I would definitely like to take a step on the podium  but my fear of failure is always there. Nevertheless, I am confident with my abilities and my fitness level.” “Part of working towards the goal is by watching the TVS Asia races. Racing in the AP250 race category  is pretty similar in terms of the lap time and I use that as my guide. The fascinating aspect of the  machine is that it gets faster each round and that’s a fantastic progress. I certainly am excited and  can’t wait to get my hands on the machine!” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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PLEASURABLE PRESSURE IN ASB1000

High in performance with higher engine capacity is not the only stimulating factor in the Asia Superbike 1000cc race category. What makes it even more invigorating is the mastery of riding techniques that complements the machine in achieving a sole purpose – victory. Md Zaqhwan Zaidi of Honda Asia- Dream Racing with SHOWA was exemplary in his showmanship last season when he reigned champion in the FIM Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC). Zaqhwan is geared up this season for a foreseeable strenuous act of title defence alongside contenders of the past season Haruki Noguchi and Kasma Daniel Kasmayuddin. The ASB1000 race category is steaming up with notable names marking the entry list. Will Zaqhwan be able to withstand the mounting pressure? Teaming up with Andi Farid Izdihar, Honda Asia-Dream Racing with SHOWA might just be in for a delightful experience. Zaqhwan commented, “No doubt, I have mixed feelings between being nervous and excited. I have to admit that last season was a struggle for me. I was frustrated with my performances and with the machine. We have had a number of tests last season and have gained good feedback on the machine. So, I feel better and am more confident now. My goal is certainly to defend my title but it is not going to be an easy task especially with new riders this season aboard the BMW and Yamaha machines. Of course, teaming up with Andi would be a great experience. Andi is an exceptional rider and it would definitely be an added bonus for our team.” One man army of SDG MS Harc-Pro.Honda.Ph, Haruki’s goals may have been shot down last season due to unfortunate circumstances however there is no backing away for this Japanese lad. Haruki is fired up to regain his assets this season. Recalling the act in his debut season, Haruki was relentless in marking his territories with great dexterity and speed. What’s in store for Haruki this season? Haruki said, “I missed out a big opportunity of becoming the champion last season. I know that this season would be a tough call but again, this is my second season in the ARRC and I am glad to have grasped as much knowledge and experience as I could last year. I have high expectations therefore I would not settle for less. The goal is to get over the injury and be a champion. I always believe in fighting with all my might and not giving up till victory is in hand.” All the way a Yamaha boy and representing YAMAHA GEN BLU Racing Team ASEAN, Kasma has been fearless in his debut season as he braced the demands of the highly competitive stride among the best of Asians. It may not have been his year to celebrate but Kasma is poised for greater accomplishments and will return to dazzle the scene of ASB1000 race category. Commenting on the race, Kasma said, “I enjoy riding the Yamaha machine – it is powerful and well- equipped with braking system, the much-needed strength when overtaking an opponent at the corners. I do hope though that this machine has been upgraded in terms of its top speed for this season. Frankly, I would not consider last season a very competitive feat but this season definitely foresees greater challenges especially with the season’s entry list. So, maybe this year would be a little tough for me. One of the things that I value most in my experience of riding is being calm and working with the rhythm. That allows to push further within my limits while having a smooth rider. Above all, ASB1000 riders can’t afford to make too many mistakes. I will give my best shot despite the challenges ahead and hopefully strike while the iron is hot.” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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THE ROAR OF SS600 GETS LOUDER

Honda CBR600RR versus Yamaha YZF-R6 – that’s the rhythm of the SuperSports 600cc at the FIM Asia Road Racing Championship scheduled for its first beat this weekend at the Chang International Circuit. Andi Farid Izdihar of ASTRA HONDA Racing Team uplifted the spirit of Honda in its revolution when he hailed champion in Season 2022. Is triumph in the cards for Honda once again? It was flying colours for Andi in the last race, last season when he took the circuit by a storm with his swift moves and blistering speed that placed him at the top of the chart. Although his greatest rival, Muhammad Helmi Azman of Boon Siew HONDA Racing Team put on a brave fight to seize victory, Andi was indomitable especially after the casualty at Sepang International Circuit. Andi said, “My success is attributed to the preparedness of our team. Although the outcome is often unpredictable, sometimes with luck but most important is that we give our best shot all the way. The learning process is never ending with motorcycle racing even more so with so many excellent riders striding for the same goal. I learnt so much not only on my own but from the experiences of other riders too. My word of advice to the riders of SS600 would be to always concentrate during the rider. With the big machine in your hands, you can’t afford to lose concentration otherwise, all effort goes to waste.” Andi has fulfilled his dreams in SS600 race category and now, the Indonesian will pursue the next level of the Asian motorcycle racing championship. Helmi on the other hand will return to make up for his loss. An otherwise rider of great calibre, Helmi lost his chances to Andi when he was knocked down in the final determining race. Nevertheless, Helmi’s performances last season was a feather in a cap, undeniably, which will go a long way in gearing him up for this season. Commenting on the race, Helmi said, “I was disappointed at the end of Season 2022 – second overall? That’s not what I aimed for. But that will not dampen my spirits. I am fuelled further for the new season. There is more work to be done for sure but for me, the endgame is to be at the top. That’s motivation enough for me. Last season was an eye-opener for what I am capable of and this season, it is all about working on my strengths to achieve a better outcome.” It was also a home-ground celebration when Nakarin Atiratphuvapat of HONDA Racing Thailand bagged the third place overall last season. Performing consistently throughout the season, Nakarin strode competitively despite the stiff competition among the riders of an extremely powerful domain. It is evident that Nakarin has an upper-hand at his homeland circuit where he bragged the second spot, twice last season. Teaming up with Nakarin this season would be Pannasorn Kaewsonthi. Nakarin commented, “There was a great need for deep concentration in controlling the machine with my body and that was a huge challenge for me. It is not as easy as it may have seemed to be. This season however I would have to be quick in managing the issues while on the ground and manage my pace to avoid losing the riding momentum. My favourite part of the machine is its fantastic behaviour at the corners. It is pretty light-weighted but its power is simply fascinating. Once I am in tune with the machine, my goal is nothing less than being the SS600 Asian Champion.” This season will also see Ahmad Afif Amran, Muhammad Adenanta Putra, Muhammad Andy Fadly, Soichiro Minamimoto, Gerry Salim and Sha Juntong among others taking bold arduous strides in the SuperSports 600cc race category. Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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AP250 IN MOTION

It was a triumphant triple celebration for fans of Indonesia at the FIM Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC) last season when all three spots of the overall standings in the Asia Production 250cc were swept by their countrymen. Even more so, when Andy Muhammad Fadly of Motul Sniper Manual Tech Racing Team emerged champion for the second consecutive time. Andy’s advice to the riders of AP250 race category, “You know you are fast and talented, yes, but pay great importance to physical fitness and hard work. Having the right attitude and utilising the heart intelligence will take you one step ahead. When you enter the paddock with hope and optimism, you are ready to be a champion.” “The important lesson that I have learnt would be to take a step back, when necessary, before taking two steps forward. The mental strength is crucial when it comes to riding and that would allow you to maximise your potentials. I have many moments to celebrate as I recall but the best would be my first podium in 2019, Australia that led to my champion title in 2019 and 2022. If I could do it again, it will be a race to the top.” Andy will move forward with bigger aspirations this season in the SuperSports 600cc race category with YAMAHA Racing Indonesia. With Andy out of the equation, would it be an opportunity for ASTRA HONDA Racing Team’s rising stars? Rheza Danica Ahrens and Herjun Atna Firdaus have made striking impact last season in the AP250 race category when they charged relentlessly and competitively, spiking intensity and potential threat to the leading opponent. This season, the ball may just be in their court. Getting on board with the team for the season would be 15-year-old Veda Ega Pratama who bagged the third spot in the Asia Talent Cup Championship last season. Rheza commented, “Season 2023 comes with an additional round and consistency is a challenge that needs to be mastered. I joined AP250 since 2017 and moved to SS600 in 2019. Last season, coming back to AP250 posed some difficulties but I am happy to have made it thus far. My goal is to become the next AP250 Asian Champion and from the experience last year, I am confident that I can achieve it. As for Herjun, “I have enjoyed all the races in the AP250 race category. The machine was excellent, the speed was powerful. As a rookie rider, I was surprised with my performances throughout last season and making it at the third place was an amazing achievement for me. Of course, it was tou gh in the beginning of the season, not just for me but also for my mechanics. Nevertheless, the team came up with good setup and I was able to complement that with my achievement. This year, I hope to further establish my skills and enjoy the ride. Can’t wait to once again ride past the last corner – my fav spot!” Injecting pressure into the AP250 race category scene is Chinese Taipei’s lady riders in EEST NJT Racing Team and Motul Sniper Manual Tech team alongside Japanese and Thai’s best females in SDG MS Harc-Pro.Honda.Ph. team and Honda Racing Thailand team, respectively. Will the lads be fuelled further this season? The game will usher in a new experience for its riders and fans are sure to be entertained this season. Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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MASTERY, THE BEST GOAL

It was a celebratory note for fans in Indonesia when Wahyu Aji Trilaksana made justice for ONEXOX TKKR Racing Team with the champion trophy in hand at the FIM Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC) for the Underbone 150cc race category. Come new season, Wahyu will embark on a new venture in ARRC with RACETECH SIXTY Racing team in a bid for greater success. Commenting on the move, Wahyu said, “Season 2022 was not an easy one. We had numerous ups and downs between races including crashes and engine failures. But, key to these unavoidable circumstances is being consistent and to trust that the team knows best. This season, I am more confident but we hope that luck will be on our side too.” “Teaming up with a new team is not really new for me after all as I have been working with them in the National Championship. I have strong faith in them and know that they will work their best in terms of the machine. The machine will be similar except that the setup will be a different. We hope for a better suspension that would enhance its characteristics. At the end of the day, we want to be excellent, consistently.” It’s the risk-taking, the pump of adrenaline rush and robust moves as riders go on full-throttle to be ahead of the troop that makes UB150 race category an ever-exciting feat in ARRC. The riders of Yamaha and Honda knows what it takes to pull a stunner that will leave their fans awed. As we count the days to the season opener, riders and teams from the Asian continent are buckled down to meet their goals for the year. Md Izzat Zaidi was merely one point shy of taking the winning glory last season. Pits JRT OneWay was a booster to an enhanced performance for Izzat. While he bagged more wins last season compared to the likes of his rival, this season is about rescripting his approaches, upping his performances and rewriting his accomplishments with CARDINALS FACTORY RACING TEAM. Could this season be his to celebrate? Izzat is inspired and confident but it’s the wild and unpredictable nature of the UB150 race category that needs to be tackled and tamed. Izzat said, “There were a number of successful moments last season, personally but in the Underbone 150cc challenge, it is beyond the speed of the machine and dexterity. That is the beauty of the race category. Everyone has a chance to win therefore each round matters. And in each round, its about being 100% focused.” “Being in a new team, I hope to adapt as soon as possible and hopefully during the pre-season test, we will be able to fine tune the machine and find the right setup needed for the machine. I will aim to be the best. I missed out on the chances of claiming the victorious title by just 1 point and so, I hope that this year would be my year to celebrate!” In the Philippines, it was the sound of cheer from fans who were treated to April King Mascardo’s final accomplishment for the season when he made third overall on the chart. Teaming up with UMA Racing MMR YAMAHA Philippines once again, April is not about to miss his opportunities to strike and claim. The Philipino lad is equipped with the experience but so are the rest of the twenty-three riders in the UB150 race category. Will April make the cut this season? As April said, “Being in the 3rd place overall is already a huge achievement for me and my team. I consider it an award for a great teamwork. The win has definitely boosted my confidence. I am more hopeful that nothing is impossible with hard work and sheer determination. Along with that, I also believe that being attentive and alert is crucial. We have to be wise in making the right moves and this season, I hope to work with the experiences I have gained.” “My only goal is to make my fellow Philippine citizens proud and bring home the bacon! To be able to do that, it is a lot of practice and hard training. I do a lot of cycling and play basketball to build my stamina. My team has been a solid support system, more like a family who has given me the right supplements to fuel my aspirations. They are the best I can ask for.” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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