2023

MUZAKKIR OPTIMISTIC FOR RACE

2023, 2023 Round 2, Latest News, TVS Asia One Make /

The TVS Asia One Make Championship is on once again for Round 2 of the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship which is being held at Sepang International Circuit. Round 1 posed adrenaline rush and exhilaration as riders with solid experience and background took the scene by a storm. Vorapong Malahuan of Thailand however was determined to take lead and made it when he emerged with a double triumph. In the Free Practice 1 session earlier this morning, home-boy Ramdan Rosli made the fastest at 2’21:905s. Piyawat Patoomyos of Thailand made it second fastest at 2’21:972 followed by Md Muzakkir Mohamed of Malaysia at 2’22:299s. During Practice 2, Muzakkir made fastest at 2’21:880s. Piyawat once again came up as the second fastest at 2’22:261s while Ramdan who was stronger in the earlier session made it third fastest at 2’22:445s. In the combined result, Muzakir clocked in the fastest followed by fellow countryman, Ramdan who took the second fastest spot and Piyawat at the third spot. Commenting on the session, Muzakkir said, “This round, I have been careful in terms of strategy especially in managing the tires. In Buriram, I was not aware that we were only allocated with two sets of tires. Therefore, I avoided long-run this time around by reducing the number of laps. Of course, I had to find the right setup as soon as possible for that purpose.” “In the 1st session, I figured out quite quickly on what needs to be done for the machine which resulted in a good outcome in practice 2. I managed to get a good lap time within three laps. For the race, my target would be to be at the podium but I want to be optimistic and I am confident that I can take the win. Having said that though, it also depends on the weather so keeping my fingers crossed, all will go well.” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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THIRST FOR VICTORY

2023, 2023 Round 2, Latest News, TVS Asia One Make /

The TVS Asia One Make Championship never ceased to make an impression on the scenes of the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship with Asia’s best taking strides for greater excellence. Vorapong Malahuan of Thailand, carved an outstanding victory in its debut season and went on a great defence move with a double-win in Round 1. He is more than ready for Round 2 at the Sepang International Circuit this weekend. While Vorapong fought a good fight in the debut season, this year poses a different kind of challenge for him especially with the likes of many robust riders in the race category. The pressure is certainly mounting for Vorapong and was evident in the races of Round 1. Nevertheless, Vorapong who had the upper-hand at his home-ground circuit and the years of experience managed to overcome the brewing intensity with a swift finish. Commenting on the race, Vorapong said, “This season has been very difficult. Round 1 gave me more insights as to how this season would turn out by the end of the year. We have so many highly competitive riders and it definitely looks like everyone is determined to win. Who will become the winner in the next round is going to be a tough guess but I am equipping myself with the best of my knowledge and experiences and hope that it would help in my performances.” In Round 1, the threats from other riders upon Vorapong were evident. The TVS Asia race category has definitely injected adrenaline rush and thrill into the scene with the selection of highly capable riders. This also means, a new kind of experience for its existing riders. Vorapong continued, “The race in Round 1 was sort of an eye opener to all of us as to how this season would go on. I believe that the riders will be better geared for Round 2 and will return with more aggressive moves. I foresee more riders in a side-by-side challenge but this is where the fun is. It means, working extra harder to push further towards excellence.” On racing at Sepang Circuit, Vorapong said, “Sepang is similar to my home-ground circuit. I am confident with my riding techniques and machine setup for the circuit. I had good memories there. Out of the two rounds last year that was held at Sepang, I took one win. The rest were second and third spot. The goal now is to win. I am aware that Malaysia is home to exceptional riders participating this season whom I am sure have more experience and higher chances of winning there. But I am all in for the challenge.” “It is the thirst for victory that keeps me going. It magnifies the will and determination to do better. Therefore, I will keep doing my best with the aim of guarding the championship title.” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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TECHNICAL MASTERY SETS THE TONE

2023, 2023 Round 2, Asia Superbike 1000, Latest News /

The Asia Superbike 1000cc of the idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship left fans in awe when Haruki Noguchi of SDG MS Harc-Pro.Honda.Ph braced the unforeseen challenges of the season with mastery, defeating the rising rebellion of his contenders and coming out stronger than ever. Round 1 was just tipping point to what the season holds and is about to get scorched. Moves to win is all that is in the cards for Haruki and since his debut in Season 2022, the Japanese- born lad has been fiercely marking his territories with mind-blowing performances on the circuit. Towards the end of last season, Haruki was on his way to claiming victory but his endeavours were brought to a halt when he succumbed to injuries following an accident. While the downside was taking a step back from the scenes of ARRC, the upside was returning with a greater willpower to succeed. “My passion overrides circumstances and I am truly grateful to be back in the scenes of ARRC to pursue my ambition of succeeding at the top. My fans and supporters are my biggest motivational factor and I am further driven to make sure that my performances are constantly above par. Make no mistakes is something that I adhere to.” In the season kick-off, Haruki initially displayed a low profile however came out with a striking manoeuvring gesture in both races that earned him a double-win. It was undoubtedly a heated battle of fiery machines, coupled with the scorch of the heat wave. Nevertheless, Haruki was drilled to succeed and worked his machine to his advantage. Commenting on the race, “During the practice and qualifying sessions, I could not make a good lap time. I had problem adapting to new tires. But the team and I are of the opinion that we should always use new tires during high temperature like the one we faced at Buriram. This is different from the other riders.” The Asia Superbike 1000cc of the FIM Asia Road Racing Championship left fans in awe when Haruki Noguchi of SDG MS Harc-Pro.Honda.Ph braced the unforeseen challenges of the season with mastery, defeating the rising rebellion of his contenders and coming out stronger than ever. Round 1 was just tipping point to what the season holds and is about to get scorched. Moves to win is all that is in the cards for Haruki and since his debut in Season 2022, the Japanese- born lad has been fiercely marking his territories with mind-blowing performances on the circuit. Towards the end of last season, Haruki was on his way to claiming victory but his endeavours were brought to a halt when he succumbed to injuries following an accident. While the downside was taking a step back from the scenes of ARRC, the upside was returning with a greater willpower to succeed. “My passion overrides circumstances and I am truly grateful to be back in the scenes of ARRC to pursue my ambition of succeeding at the top. My fans and supporters are my biggest motivational factor and I am further driven to make sure that my performances are constantly above par. Make no mistakes is something that I adhere to.” In the season kick-off, Haruki initially displayed a low profile however came out with a striking manoeuvring gesture in both races that earned him a double-win. It was undoubtedly a heated battle of fiery machines, coupled with the scorch of the heat wave. Nevertheless, Haruki was drilled to succeed and worked his machine to his advantage. Commenting on the race, “During the practice and qualifying sessions, I could not make a good lap time. I had problem adapting to new tires. But the team and I are of the opinion that we should always use new tires during high temperature like the one we faced at Buriram. This is different from the other riders.” “Personally, I struggled on the long-straight. Definitely, the BMW came back with a much-developed speed and was quite fast. Smooth too. With riders like Zaqhwan who also tested in Buriram and found good setting of the machine, there were definitely some disadvantages on our side. Nevertheless, our strong point was on the technical bit and that definitely superseded the minor setbacks.” Moving forward to Round 2 that will be held at Sepang International Circuit, Haruki is prepping to re- create history. Last season, Haruki made it second on the podium in Race 1 and took the win in Race 2. The robust rider does not seem like he would settle for anything less and is confident to stride alongside homegrown rivals. “The Sepang circuit is quite technical. This would definitely be an interesting race to cross-check the level of mastery. Chances are, the race may not see the formation of a big group but it would definitely be an interesting fight at the last lap when someone makes it into the group.” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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WHO HOLDS THE TRUMP CARD?

2023, 2023 Round 2, Latest News, Supersports 600 /

The battle between Malaysia’s Super KIP and Thailand’s Chip Nakarin was evident in Round 1 of the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship. Taking their turns to flex their muscles and dominate the circuit with their well-rounded expertise, the season foresees exciting scenes as they go on full- throttle to conquer. Circumstances may not have been favourable to KIP in last season but this year is all about making up for the loss, and he flew to a great start. His flawless lap time consequently his win in Race 1 may not have come as a surprise but for Chip, it was about learning his contender’s moves and using his home- ground circuit to his advantage to strike back in Race 2. With HONDA RACING THAILAND and BOON SIEW HONDA RACING TEAM gloating upon equal points, the next challenge would be the drive to dominate the chart. Commenting on the Round 1, Chip said, “There are differences in our riding styles and tactics. Riding alongside my rivals help me understand that better and be more aware. That is important as it helps me adapt to the situation throughout the race. Round 1 was an incredible race. Of course, apart from the rivalry, it was also the heat however that’s the challenge we have to overcome.” As for KIP, he said, “Last year was a struggle for me as I was out of the racing scene for about a year prior to that. So, while I took time to gain back the confidence and pick up on my riding abilities, it helped me project the possibilities clearer. Race 1 was an ultimate boost to get back into the momentum. Now, it is all about being ahead and fighting from here on.” Sepang circuit will definitely be an added advantage for Khairul however Nakarin seemed to have upped his game this season and is in to take up the forthcoming hurdles ahead. The Honda riders may have the machines for speed but what fuels excitement into the game is the amalgamation of engine capacities with manoeuvring techniques. Khairul said, “I love Sepang circuit. It is my home-ground and I have celebrated many success stories there. Nevertheless, key to the success is also the condition of the machine. As such, team work is crucial as they are the backbone to the development of a machine that is near perfect for the race.” As for Nakarin, he said, “The motivation in Sepang would be to have Thailand flag on the podium, preferably on the top spot which is not going to be easy. Riding there would require the skill in braking at the corners and a proper riding plan. I lack skills when cornering hence need more work on that. Furthermore, with Malaysian riders on the circuit ground, it is bound to get fiery!” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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NO ROOM FOR ERROR

2023, 2023 Round 2, Asia Production 250, Latest News /

Beating it at first turn and fleeing ahead, drawing gap with each lap, enough to keep his contenders at bay summarises Rheza Danica Ahrens’ winning moves in Race 1 and Race 2 of Round 1 of the Asia Production 250cc race category, Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship. The ASTRA HONDA RACING TEAM star rider will be back for Round 2 at the Sepang International Circuit this weekend. Rheza missed his golden opportunity of taking the championship title last season but he is fuelled with determination and willpower to turn his disappointment into victorious strategy. During the races at Buriram, his strategy worked when he bolted ahead and worked magic with his machine towards a double-win. He paced up so quickly, leaving the trail of riders behind him to fend for themselves. Commenting on the race, Rheza said, “We had excellent speed in the last round and of course, I managed my consistency throughout the race at Buriram. Although I was ahead of the others, it was still important that I maintained that momentum to ensure that I made no mistakes or provide an opportunity for an attack from the back. One of the challenges that I faced during Round 1 was with the tires. With new tires, it was difficult to find the best setup for the race.” Rheza is no stranger at the Sepang circuit. In fact, the Indonesian lad has carved some memorable achievements at the circuit. Last season, he took the podium twice in Round 2 after putting up a good fight with the Kawasaki riders. He may have failed to live up to his mark in Round 4 but with confidence and performance data in hand, it’s time to step up his game and make his mark. “Our strength relies on the data we have obtained from last season as it would help us prepare and improve for the upcoming race. I have an important role to play which is to understand the circuit better. In the AP250 race category, power of the machines is equivalent as the dexterity of the riders themselves. Therefore, everyone in the top 7 has the potential to win. Most importantly is to maximise our capacities and ensuring zero-error.” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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RIGHT RHYTHM AND CONSISTENCY, KEY IN UB150

2023, 2023 Round 2, Latest News, Underbone 150 /

The Underbone 150cc race category of Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship has always been an intriguing ride especially with highly driven Asian riders in long lines, fighting to catch up in a bid to bag the limelight. Wawan Wello of PitsBike JRT Tech 2 OneWay Racing Team has showcased excellent showmanship in Round 1 and will return for greater challenges in Round 2 at Sepang International Circuit. The 25-year-old Indonesian rider is not a stranger in his homeland and has a huge database of fans and followers. That is undeniably an attribution to his successes in the motorcycle racing scene. Wawan made his debut in ARRC in year 2018 in the last two rounds before coming back for more in year 2019 where he made it second on the podium three times. It was not an easy year for him especially with technical issues surrounding his machine nevertheless, he put on quite a show and landed himself 7th overall. Coming back this season after a long-hiatus on his end is a big move and despite that, Wawan has already made waves on the circuit. “I am quite happy and satisfied with my achievements and the team work in Round 1, more so since I have not raced in the Asian racing scene for over 2 years. My experiences in the years before have definitely been a huge guide in helping me with my riding abilities. The machines in the UB150 race category are almost similar in power and capacities hence practicing on my skills are important to make the cut.” Wawan was fiery in Round 1 where he took lead in most laps. His ability to withstand the pressure trailing him kept him grounded with a steady pace. Commenting on the ride, Wawan said, “This category paves a winning pathway for all riders. Key to this category would be finding the right rhythm that would provide consistency throughout the ride. Consistency can only be achieved if mistakes are minimised.” “The machines in the category are fine-tuned to achieve its maximum capacity. The mechanics are excellent in providing a setup that would work for the circuit. As a rider, my job is to up my performances, aligned with the performances of the machine. For the race at Sepang, I would have to get adapted to the setup of the machine as quick as possible so that I can make my way to the podium.” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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HARUKI TOPS THE CHART

2023, 2023 Round 1, Asia Superbike 1000, Latest News /

The Asia Superbike 1000cc went on swiftly at Chang International Circuit in Race 2 of Round 1, FIM Asia Road Racing Championship. Haruki Noguchi of SDG MS HARC-PRO.HONDA.PH. made Japan proud when he concluded the race for the day with yet another victory. The scene of the Asia Superbike 1000cc kept the audience at the edge of their seats yesterday when Haruki pulled his tricks for a win towards the end of the race. While Zaqhwan was boosted up with a new lap record, he may not have anticipated the consequences of swinging into the act too soon. Azlan on the other hand gave a stunning performance with his slow move up, injecting pressure before calling it a day. In today’s race, Zaqhwan was quick to take turn 1 however Markus made it past him before the second sector. Haruki was playing it cool at P3. At turn 3 of lap 2, Haruki moved to P1 and Azlan sled into P2. Markus on the other hand was finding his pace at P3 while Zaqhwan trailed at P4. The battle was heated up between Haruki and Azlan with the latter flexing up his muscles once again after a long unfortunate season last year. By the end of lap 3, Azlan was in charge. Azlan seemed confident, gliding swiftly lap-by-lap while Haruki followed him diligently. By the end of lap 7, Andi was steady at P3 but inched closer to Haruki before overtaking him at turn 3. Into the 9th lap, Andi worked his magic and took lead at turn 3. With that, he picked up speed. Haruki who was at P3 moved ahead of Azlan. With two more laps to go, the battle heated up. Zaqhwan emerged into P3 with Haruki ahead of him and Andi leading. It was at the last turn where Andi presumably made a mistake. Haruki grabbed the opportunity to strike for a win at 20’57:031s while Zaqhwan swerved in for the second best. Azlan made it into P3. Commenting on the race, Haruki said, “It was not a bad start but everyone seemed to be picking up on speed. Although I was at the front, today seemed a little tougher for me. But the last turn gave me the opportunity and I am happy for the win. I thank everyone who has worked hard for me.” Md Zaqhwan Zaidi of HONDA ASIA-DREAM RACING WITH SHOWA clocked in at 20’57:227s. Azlan Shah Kamaruzaman of ONEXOX BMW TKKR TEAM logged in at 20’57:638s. Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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ONE FOR HOMELAND

2023, 2023 Round 1, Latest News, Supersports 600 /

The SuperSports 600cc was fired up this afternoon with the rush to victory at Chang International Circuit. Nakarin Atiratphuvapat of HONDA RACING THAILAND emerged winner in Race 2 of Round 1, FIM Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC). Time waits for no man and Super KIP knew that phrase all too well when he dove into motion as the race was flagged off yesterday. Nakarin however was not about to bow defeat on his home-ground and went on a chase before taking lead. Unfortunately, SS600 seeks perfection and one wrong move was another man’s advantage. Helmi on the other hand took a calmer approach and braved through confidently for the third spot. In today’s race, Nakarin beat Khairul to the punch at turn 1 but down to the second sector, Khairul was quick to overtake Nakarin before completing lap 1. At P3 and P4, Keito Abe and Soichiro were bracing the challenge but the latter was quicker. Three laps down, Nakarin was chasing Khairul furiously. By the 3rd turn of lap 5, Khairul managed to form a slight gap while Soichiro inched closer to Nakarin. By mid-race, Khairul was 0.446s apart but Nakarin was picking up speed. Meanwhile, Keito Abe was fighting to close up the gap with Soichiro. By the 10th lap, Nakarin made his way closer to Khairul with approximately, 0.239s gap. The Thai lad was determined to close the gap and make his up way into P1. One more lap to go and Nakarin is getting closer towards Khairul and at turn 4, he made it pass the Malaysian. Nakarin broke away from Khairul at 0.105s gap and succeeded victoriously at 20’02:187s. Commenting on the race, Nakarin said, “Last night I couldn’t sleep as I kept thinking about the race and how to do differently today. The game was pretty similar to yesterday but I tried my best to manage to tires till the last lap. Personally, KIP is very strong. But I tried overtake him at the last lap and close the gap at the last corner and I made it.” Khairul Idham Pawi of BOON SIEW HONDA RACING TEAM took second at 20’02:292s. At the third spot, it was Soichiro Ninamimoto of YAMAHA GEN BLU RACING TEAM ASEAN at 20’05:717s. Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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IT’S RHEZA ONCE AGAIN

2023, 2023 Round 1, Asia Production 250, Latest News /

The Asia Production 250cc race category concluded its final race for Round 1 of FIM Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC) at Chang International Circuit with victory in the hands of Rheza Danica Ahrens of ASTRA HONDA RACING TEAM. Rheza was flawless yesterday as he bolted ahead from the start to completion. His in-depth experience was a class of its own as he went on lap-by-lap, increasing speed to create a gap that kept his contender at bay. His feisty teammate Veda Ega may have zero experience in the ARRC domain but was not to be doubted as he went on to spark pressure throughout the race. Herjun on the other hand, fought a good battle with Thai’s female, Muklada before taking her down. It was a great start for the riders of ASTRA HONDA RACING TEAM today with Herjun taking lead at the 1st turn before his teammates Veda Ega and Rheza made their way before him. It was unfortunate though for three other riders who crashed before the 1st turn. As the race went on, Jakkreephat and Rheza engaged in battle before the latter superseded. Meanwhile, Muklada was at P3 while Herjun pressured Irfan from P5 before overtaking. By the end of lap 4, lady rider took over P2. Meanwhile, ahead of them, Rheza was building up on speed and drawing up gap as Muklada and Jakkreephat aimed for P2. Irfan on the other hand was pumped up to take over P3. By the end of lap 7, positions switched and Herjun was leading behind Rheza who was on his way to victory. Turn 6 of lap 8, Irfan made a bold slide from the inside into P2 just before it was snatched by Muklada. The competition was tight between trio, Herjun, Irfan and Muklada who were aiming for the second -best spot. With one more lap to go, Rheza was impeccable, as he strode ahead with an almost 9-second gap. But the race was once again made exciting at the last turn in the battle for P2. In that chaos, Herjun took a fall. Jakkreephat and Muklada avoided the crash and sped towards second and third spot respectively. Rheza Danica Ahrens of ASTRA HONDA RACING TEAM marked his best at 18’38:595s. Commenting on the race, Rheza said, “It the beginning, it was a little tough for me to find my pace but once I was ahead of them, I was focused on finding the right rhythm. I managed to create the gap and went on to pick up speed. This is a good start to the season and I am very happy.” Jakkreephat Puettisan and Muklada Sarapuech of HONDA RACING THAILAND made their best at 18’47:427s and 18’47:463s respectively. Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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DOUBLE VICTORY FOR ONEXOX TKKR RACING TEAM

2023, 2023 Round 1, Latest News, Underbone 150 /

The riders of the Underbone 150cc race category were in full form this afternoon with the mission to conclude the final race victoriously at Chang International Circuit. However, the win was not for all but only for one who was able to prove his worth. This time around, it was Md Hafiza Rofa of ONEXOX TKKR RACING TEAM. With more than twenty riders cramping up the racing line, it was tough to judge who will make the cut. Race 1 was nevertheless mind-blowing when Shafiq who was out of sight worked his way into the winning spot with tight margins. While Haziq and Wawan was seen more often throughout the laps among the top 5 riders, Shafiq was strategizing to strike. That worked when he barged ahead of Haziq with Wawan right behind. As soon as the race flagged off, the troop gathered in a tight line with Wawan Wello taking lead at turn 1 before Hafiza and Fazli Sham went ahead. By the end of lap 1, Izzat Zaidi came into action with Wahyu close behind. By the end of lap 3, Pilipino lad, Gian Carlo took charge but was quickly superseded by Malaysian, Haziq Fairues. Between slip-streaming and the ability to strike at the right time, the riders were in endless exchange of positions. The Underbone race category can be quite a trick but maintaining consistency among the frontliners is essential to avoid losing the momentum. With one more lap to go, the battle was heated up. At the eighth turn, Wawan was ahead with Hafiza following close behind. At the last turn, Izzat sled in between Hafiza and Wawan and made it second while Hafiza who overtook before the final turn made it first at 16’31:171s. Commenting on the race, Hafiza said, “It was a tough fight today. The riders were vigorous but I tried to push in the last two laps to catch up with the middle group before I went for the win. My team and crew members have prepared a fantastic machine and I thank them for it.” Md Izzat Zaidi of CARDINALS FACTORY RACING TEAM ARRC clocked in at 16’31:275s. Wawan Wello of PITSBIKE JRT TECH 2 ONEWAY RACING TEAM made third at 16’31:418s. Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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