2023

SUGO, ALL-TIME FAV!

2023, 2023 Round 3, Latest News, Supersports 600 /

The rebel between riders of the SuperSports 600cc in the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship is endless and their fiery retribution to take lead never fails to create a twist of its own. Soichiro Minamimoto of YAMAHA GEN BLU Racing Team ASEAN may be entangled in the battle but with one mission, to win. With Round 3 just around the corner, what would Sportsland Sugo International Racing Course hold for him? The Japanese rider may have been absent from the ARRC scene last season to be part of the All Japan Championship in the ST1000 race category however he came back sturdy this season with his new team and seeks to realise a much more meaningful goal this year. Riding aboard the Yamaha YZF-R6 machine, Soichiro made it to the podium once after an intense battle in Race 2 at the Chang International Circuit. He said, “Actually, I was thinking of retiring last year but then, Yamaha came along and invited me to participate in ARRC. I was thrilled and am ever grateful for the opportunity once again.” The 23-year-old rider has been in the Asian motorcycle racing domain since 2018 and have showcased gradual improvements in his performances. Soichiro also rode in the Moto 2 race category of MotoGP as a replacement rider this season which adds on to his riding masterpiece. His thoughts on ARRC, “The level of competitiveness has been increasing steadily year-by-year. I noticed a huge difference especially with a strong entry list. The riders performing in the ARRC scenes are the best in their regions hence it is difficult to foresee the end result. It is truly a privilege for me to be racing in the ARRC and I am thrilled to be a part of the much-celebrated Asian motorcycling event.” Commenting on Round 2, Soichiro said, “It was unfortunate that we could not maximise our strengths on the Sepang circuit, even more so with the likes of Malaysian riders who are well-versed with the circuit’s characteristics. Nevertheless, I am still happy with my performances there. I managed to get the 5th position in Race 1 so it is still an amazing achievement for me.” For the upcoming race at Sugo, Soichiro said, “The next race would be on my home-ground. Sugo is one of my all-time favourite circuits and having said that, I think I may have some added advantage on that circuit. It is quite a technical one but having had races there before, I have some understanding of its layout. The team has also worked wonders on my machine and it has been a good match for me since the beginning of the season. So, I’m all out for the upcoming round and if all goes well, I hope to take a win on my home-ground.” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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ASTRA’S YOUNGEST READY FOR SUGO

2023, 2023 Round 3, Asia Production 250, Latest News /

Never ceased the amaze, the boys of ASTRA HONDA RACING TEAM showcased exemplary team work as they worked hand-in-hand to conquer the Asia Production 250cc race category in the last two rounds. Standing out among them is youngest in the team Veda Ega Pratama who has raised eye-brows with his exceptional performances. What would Sportsland Sugo International Racing Course hold for Veda? Round 3 will say it all. As a debutante in the AP250 race category, Veda has stunned fans with his racing actions. In Round 1, the Indonesian lad was seen engaging in furious strides alongside his teammates. He was steady and in control of his machine, maintaining his position among the top three. In Round 1, Veda emerged with a strong front when he bagged the second spot in Race 1. Although a miscalculation in his move brought him down in Race 2, he returned for Round 2 with a greater disposition. Charging ahead in the front troop, Veda made a quick recovery and into the second spot in the overall standings when he took the third place in Race 1 and the winning spot in Race 2. Commenting on the race, Veda said, “Personally, I think that ARRC is one of the toughest championships in the Asian region and it definitely challenges me to be better. I love the adrenaline rush, the speed and the pressure injected by the other riders. My aim with ARRC is to gain more experience. I think the exposure has a lot to offer in terms of helping me in my riding abilities and also in understanding the machine’s technicalities.” Speaking about his team, Veda chirped, “I am happy to compete in ARRC with such a great team as a backup. The team has a highly experienced mechanic who is ever-ready to look into matters pertaining the machine and make the right calls. I have awesome senior riders who have been insightful and ever willing to guide me. To be honest, I have learnt many tricks from them when it comes to riding and I am truly lucky to be part of this amazing team. In fact, I feel privileged to be the youngest riders in the team and I have a lot to be thankful for.” The rider took interest in two-wheels at the age of 4. He said, “My father exposed me to motor-cross at that time and I immediately took a liking for it. The extremity of the sports kind of inspired me to know more and be part of the two-wheels racing scene. So, here I am! Of course, I had to brace through many challenges to be where I am but those are all somewhat the fundamentals of motorcycle racing. So far, the circuits in Thailand and Malaysia have been really a push-factor for me. But I have never raced at Sugo. At this point of time, I put my trust in my team and am confident that they will fight the battle with me.” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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READY FOR SUGO!

2023, 2023 Round 3, Latest News, Underbone 150 /

The Underbone 150cc is one of the most watched race categories among Asians who comprehends its complexities and the unforeseeable challenges that makes it ever interesting from the beginning till the end. M. Murobbil Vittoni of LFN H. PUTRA 969 INDONESIA RACING TEAM is all out to inject more excitement in Round 3 of the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship at Sportlands Sugo International Racing Course. The Chang circuit may not be his favourite playground considering his struggles to take lead but Sepang circuit has definitely made a mark on Murobbil who made it second on the podium in Race 1 amidst the chaos from the casualty at the last turn. The Indonesian rider was quick to make his move, in control of his machine as he accelerated towards the finish line. Race 2 may not have been quite as impressive but he landed himself at the 4th spot. Last season, Murobbil made it 10th in the overall standings with one time podium at the third spot. Commenting on his experience in the UB150 race category, Murobbil said, “I have been racing in this race category for three years now since 2019. Then there was the lockdown and I continued last season before resuming this year. To me, the most important thing about the race category is to understand the situation, the circuit layout and also being aware of the riders’ abilities. The pattern in this race category is usually the same, with a huge troop trailing. Being able to find the pace and striking at the right moment is crucial.” “In Race 1, Round 2, I grabbed the opportunity from the casualty that happened. It was an added bonus for me as there was a gap between them and myself which made it possible for me to avoid the crash. It was probably also luck on my side. The important thing would be to continuously strive. I usually follow the troop from the very start of the race and find an opening where I can make my move.” At Sugo last year, Murobbil took the 4th spot in Race 2. He said, “The Sugo circuit is extremely exciting. I enjoyed the race there last year and I look forward to maximise my potential there. I would like to remain optimistic that I could win the race there. It is important to ensure that my performances are consistent throughout although realistically, it is unpredictable in the UB150 race category. I want to make sure that my points add up to a good position.” Overall, Murobbil said, “I think the UB150 race category is exhilarating. As a lover of two-wheel motorcycle racing, it gives me a good balance. Being a rider, there is need to constantly work on my physique to maintain my stamina and my mental wellbeing. In a highly pressured environment like this, it is very important for any rider to make sure they are well-prepared in all aspects. I am ready and here I come!” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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FOCUSED FROM START TO END

2023, 2023 Round 3, Latest News, Underbone 150 /

The Underbone 150cc race category of Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship has continued to keep audience immersed throughout the race. Reason being – it is the only race category that is filled with action as soon as the race flags off, on each lap as riders grab opportunities, up until the chequered flag comes down. Nazirul Izzat Bahauddin of UMA RACING YAMAHA MAJU MOTOR ASIA TEAM was one the many riders who have scored the big deal at the 11th hour and ready for yet another round in Round 3 at Sportsland Sugo International Racing Course. It is not an easy feat but the UB150 race category riders have showcased persistence, resilience and never-ending determination to succeed. Among them, Nazirul serves as a great example. Last season, the Malaysian born rider took one win and two podiums throughout the season. Being among a large troop of highly competitive riders, the achievements are considered a huge success on the rider’s part although that only meant the 8th spot in the overall standings for him. Currently on the 4th spot in the overall standings, Nazirul made a stunning move in Race 2 of Round 2 at Sepang circuit when he barged ahead of the leading duo in less than a second before stealing the limelight. Commenting on the moment, Nazirul said, “I stayed focused at from the very beginning until the end of the race. With that, I was able to identify the right moment to strike and I did. It was a sweet success for me.” On UB150 race category, Nazirul added his views. He said, “The UB150 race category consists of highly- competitive riders from the Asian region. Therefore, I would say that they are equally on par. Everyone is a potential winner and that what makes it so exciting. It requires full attention – being consistent and being aware of the opportunities that requires immediate action. To me, I enjoy UB150 because it is action packed, all the way from the first lap till the last lap.” Nazirul has been one of the many riders in the UB150 race category who has showcased exemplary performances. He attributed his achievements to his team saying, “My team has been working very hard to ensure that all our riders are well-equipped in terms of machine. Our mechanic and crew have been diligent and constantly find newer approached to optimise the performance of the engine. I owe it to my team therefore, I always strive to do my best to make them proud.” For the race at Sugo, Nazirul said, “Last year, I made it third in Race 2. For the coming race, I will work on whatever I have learnt last season and put it to good use to make sure that I can obtain the best possible points to close the gaps with the ones above me. It will definitely be another nip and tuck battle but the team and I are ready to roll!” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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SUGO WILL BE JUST AS EXCITING

2023, 2023 Round 3, Latest News, TVS Asia One Make /

It gets bigger and more exciting with the TVS Asia One Make Championship of the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship and since its debut last season, it has unearthed hidden talents of numerous Asian riders. Among them, Piyawat Patoomyos of Thailand who has worked his moves in the last two rounds and eagerly awaits the challenge of Round 3 at Sportsland Sugo International Racing Course. Formerly a rider from the AP250 race category, Piyawat ventured into TVS Asia this season to gain different exposure and experience. However, his move not only gave him a new insight but also garnered him a spot on the podium twice this season. He currently sits on the third spot overall with a total of 53 points. Last season, Piyawat made it 6th overall with three podiums throughout the season. Interestingly, it has been a good start for Piyawat this season and he has showcased his competitive side in TVS Asia race category. Commenting on the machine, Piyawat said, “There are many challenges when it comes to the machine although we have riders from the AP250 riding in the race category. The machine is undoubtedly more powerful since it is 310cc but it is fun to ride it. The manoeuvring is much easier but of course, it takes time to get used to the machine.” From being in a team and into a one-make race category, there are other circumstances to consider. According to Piyawat, “The difference is that, we cannot adjust or change anything in regards to the machine as soon as we want it to. Of course, all decisions are regulated to ensure that the standards are not compromised. Nevertheless, being in a one-make championship, we learn to adapt and support each other in the best way we can.” Last season, Piyawat made quite the impression at the Sugo circuit when he took the third place in Race 1. Although it was his first time just like any other ARRC riders, Piyawat was able to make impactful decisions that landed him on the podium. Although he didn’t make it top three in Race 2, he said, “The Sugo circuit is quite an exhilarating one and I enjoyed myself there last season. The pros and cons are part and parcel of riding. I am yet to discover what the circuit holds for me this time around. My assumption is that, it would be highly competitive just like Round 1 and 2. What fun would it be if it is not, right?” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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A WIDER LEARNING CURVE

2023, 2023 Round 3, Latest News, TVS Asia One Make /

Riveting as it may seem, the TVS Asia One Make Championship of the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship gets more competitive each round and riders may just need to buckle up further to make the ride worth the shot. For Ramdan Rosli, it is a different kind of exhilaration and Round 3 at Sportsland Sugo International Racing Course may be just the boost he needs for another round of success. The Malaysian rider who rode in the SS600 race category last season embarked on a brand-new experience with TVS Asia this season and showcased robust moves from the very beginning. However, while luck was not on his side in Round 1 when he was declared “DNF”, he nailed it at Sepang circuit with a double-shot on the podium including a win. He said, “Sepang is one of my favourite tracks. I gave my best for my home race and found my way to victory in Race 2. It was literally making up for the unfortunate incident at Chang circuit in Round 1. Although I made it third once in the SS600 race category at Buriram, the issues with the machine the other day hampered my moves and I could not finish the race.” “For the race at Sepang though, I kept my faith and was off to a good start during that weekend. I made good lap time during the free practices and made it to the pole position during the qualifying session which gave me a booster during the race. With the achievements that day, I am more confident with my performances and hope to be consistent throughout the season.” Ramdan was seen flawlessly cruising on the machine at Sepang, taking lead while also putting the right amount pressure to maintain his position. Speaking about the TVS Apache RR310 machine, Ramdan said, “I have never ridden a 310cc machine before this. For me, there is definitely a huge difference compared to a 600cc machine. Personally though, I enjoy the rider on the TVS Apache and it opens up a whole new experience for me. It is definitely a move to a wider learning curve. I have also picked up on different riding styles which is crucial in complementing the capacities of the machine.” For the upcoming race, Ramdan went on to say, “Sugo is a technical track and one of the toughest I would say. But, lucky for me, I enjoy riding on a technical circuit. Of course, there will be challenges as this would be my first attempt with the TVS machine on the circuit but I have to move quickly from the very beginning of the practice to identify the right settings for the machine. The aim is to repeat my successes I achieved at Sepang and to do that, I will have to be completely focused.” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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TWO WINS IN A ROW

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

Hitting straight into the limelight at blistering speed was Markus Reiterberger of ONEXOX BMW TKKR TEAM when he emerged victorious in Race 2, Round 2 of Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship in the Asia Superbike 1000cc race category held at Sepang International Circuit. German rider, Markus definitely has his fingers wrapped around Sepang International Circuit and yesterday’s victory in Race 1 speaks volume of his abilities and strengths. While Malaysian riders Azlan and Zaqhwan took Japanese star, Haruki down in a nail-biting feat, today posed yet another round of extreme force between man and machine. Zaqhwan was off to a good start from the third position on the grid however seconds into the race, Markus geared up from the inside and grabbed P1. Haruki chased Zaqhwan furiously and seconds before the end of lap 1, he took a slide from the inside and into P2. Meanwhile, Kasma was struggling to keep up with his pace at P4 and by the end of lap 3, Azlan replaced him. Second day in a row, the BMW rider was topping up on speed and by the fifth lap, he has drawn up a gap of 0.700 seconds from the contender in line. Meanwhile, the other BMW rider was inching closer to the Honda rider ahead of him, waiting to strike and it was only a matter of time when he finally did. It is definitely a huge comeback for the BMW machines as it went on with powerful force, showcasing a one-of-a-kind capacity. Meanwhile, Andi Farid who was taking laps at P5 was getting closer to Zaqhwan and at the end of lap 10, he moved ahead into P4. With two more laps to go, it was only a matter of avoiding mistakes and maintaining the pace. Markus was on his way towards a double victory with a 3.057s gap and while Haruki did his best to get closer, it was to no avail. Meanwhile, Andi Farid was trying to close the gaps at the final lap however Azlan was at his best pace. Markus clocked in his best at 25’23:219s. Commenting on the race, Markus said, “I am really happy this weekend with maximum points in hand. Not in the championship though but as I’ve mentioned before, never forget to take a look at the competitors they are really strong. I have to push really hard. In the last two laps, I had some spare and I increased my speed. I am really happy for this weekend and am thankful to my team. Next round will be in Sugo. I have never been there so it is going to be difficult but I am really looking forward to it.” At second place, it was Haruki Noguchi of SDG MS HARC-PRO.HONDA.PH marking his best at 25’27:255s. Azlan Shah of ONEXOX BMW TKKR TEAM made it at 25’31:070s. Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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1-2 FOR BOON SIEW BOYS

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

Fantastic showmanship by Khairul Idham Pawi of BOON SIEW HONDA RACING TEAM when he barged towards the winning line in Race 2, Round 2 of Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship in the SuperSports 600cc race category which was held at Sepang International Circuit this evening. Yesterday was momentous for BOON SIEW HONDA RACING TEAM when Malaysian trio, Azroy, Khairul and Helmi summed up the race with a 1-2-3. It was a team strategy which kept the troop of riders behind at bay with a hug gap in between before the riders worked their strength towards the placement on the podium. It was yet another good start for Khairul from the pole position. Behind him was Helmi Azman and Ratthapong at P3. At the last turn of lap 1, Azroy sneaked into P3 while Nakarin found his pace at P4. Ratthapong dropped two positions down into P5. While the BOON SIEW boys stayed close in the top three positions, Thai riders Nakarin and Ratthapong were having a battle of their own. By the end of the fourth lap, the Malaysian trio have strongly drawn a wide gap with the troop behind and Azroy began working on the moves but Helmi was not about to give in. As Helmi and Azroy battled for a better position, Khairul worked on defending his position, one lap at a time. However, at the last corner of lap 7, Azroy took a slide from the inside and moved ahead of Khairul but the latter is not about to be defeated. He came back into lead position before the end of lap 8. At P4, Nakarin was facing his own battle with fellow countryman, Ratthapong before Japanese lad, Keito claimed P5. With one more lap to go, Khairul has drawn a gap of 0.230s with Helmi. Azroy unfortunately was left out of the scene when his tires gave way leaving the two BOON SIEW boys to fend for themselves. By then, Khairul was in a strong position. At the last corner, he went on a blistering speed towards victory at 21’47:715s. Commenting on the race, Khairul said, “It has been an incredible race today. From the very beginning, I had a good pace so I kept pushing all the way. Yesterday, my father sent me a message telling me to stay behind to save the tires but I had a better idea which is to stay in front and find the right rhythm. Of course, I also managed the front and the rear to avoid losing it. Azroy did manage to overtake me but I was confident with my pace and managed to take back the position in turn one. Overall, it was an awesome ride today!” Md Helmi Azman made it second on the podium at 21’47:937s. Nakarin Atiratphuvapat of HONDA RACING THAILAND grabbed the opportunity for third place at 21’56:36s. Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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1-2-3 FOR ASTRA HONDA RACING TEAM

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

Striking in his moves and showcasing mastery in the Asia Production 250cc race category, Veda Ega Pratama of ASTRA HONDA RACING TEAM went on a grand finish when he swiped victory in Race 2, Round 2 of Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship that took place at the Sepang International Circuit. It was a day to celebrate for the Indonesians when trio of ASTRA HONDA RACING TEAM bagged all three spots on the podium in Race 1. Steady and poised, Herjun, Rheza and Veda were relentless in their pursuit towards their goals leaving a trail of robust riders, defeated. With the flag off, ASTRA HONDA boys were off to a fiery start with Rheza taking lead followed by Herjun and Veda. However, before the lap ended, Thai rider Jakkrephat made a slide past Herjun into P3. His moves did not last when he crashed before the end of lap 2 opening up the space for Herjun to move back into P3. Meanwhile, in the second group behind the leading trio were Aiki Iyoshi, Irfan Ardiansyah and Thanat. Into lap 4, Herjun picked up speed as he moved past Rheza. Veda remained in P3. A wide gap started forming between the trio and the pack behind. Between teammates Irfan and Aiki, a battle of their own forced them in and out of P4 and P5. The Kawasaki Ninja riders may not make it into P3 considering the huge gap in between nevertheless, its all about scoring. With two more laps the go, Herjun was fearlessly taking charge drawing up almost a 1-second gap from Rheza. Into the last lap, Herjun was on fire as he picked up speed while staying focused to avoid any mishap. Seconds towards the end of the game, Veda made his final move into P1. At the last turn, teamwork prevailed as the trio rode towards a 1-2-3. Commenting on the race, Veda said, “This is my first win for the season in the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship and I am beyond thrilled. I did face some difficulty in a few laps and I was left out in the beginning. But I am grateful to have picked up the momentum and maintained the right rhythm after that. It is a huge achievement for my team members and I in the AP250 race category. I thank my team members, the crew who have been supportive towards us throughout.” Veda clocked in at 19’13:176s followed by Herjun Atna Firdaus at 19’13:274s and Rheza Danica Ahrens at 19’13:517s. Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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WAY TO GO FOR NAZIRUL

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

It was not an easy feat with an unpredictable temperament in the Underbone 150cc race category however Md Nazirul Izzat Bahauddin of UMA RACING YAMAHA MAJU MOTOR ASIA TEAM moved swiftly alongside more than twenty riders to make the most and best of Race 2, Round 2 of Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship before claiming victory. It is a common scene in the UB150 challenge for riders at the back to move up into the lead position within seconds. Yesterday saw multiple exchange of positions among riders however Wawan was striking at the last corner when was stayed focused despite the chaos of the casualty and went on to put on one last fight with his closest contender, Murobbil before bolting ahead. It was a good start for Wawan who was at the pole position. He immediately took lead at the first turn and dashed ahead. Unfortunately, seconds into the race, Wawan encountered issues with the machine and was out of the equation for the day. Wahyu however found his way to the lead position by the end of lap 1 with Fazli Sham and Haziq Fairues close behind. By the end of lap 2, Murobbil pulled himself up the line while Haziq and Nazirul motioned into P2 and P3. By mid-race, Nazirul was taking lead and from all the way back, Izam Ikmal moved up and positioned himself at P2. With two more laps to go, the riders were fiery, fuelled to succeed. At the last corner, as riders embraced for one final push, it was strategizing at place when Nazirul slip-streamed ahead of Hafiza Rofa for a dramatic finish. He clocked in at 15’43:701s. Commenting on the race, Nazirul said, “I put on a good fight from the start of the lap till the end. Each lap posed different kind of challenge but I was determined to surpass it. I gave my best shot throughout, knowing that at the end of the day, it is not just the act of mastery but also fate. Ultimately, today’s win is a blessing from Allah. I am truly happy and grateful. Thank you to my mum especially for the endless support and of course not forgetting, the team who have been there throughout.” Second and third place went to Md Shafiq Rasol and Md Hafiza Rofa at 15’43:710s and 15’43:715s respectively. Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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