2024 Round 2

ADYTYA SHINE DESPITE RAIN

2024, 2024 Round 2, Latest News, Underbone 150 /

The Underbone 150cc category kicked off its journey at Round 2 of the IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship with thrilling practice sessions at the Zhuhai International Circuit. Despite challenging weather conditions with rain adding an extra dimension to the competition, Adytya Fauzi of RACETECH SIXTY Racing Team showcased remarkable performance, taking fastest for practice sessions, combined. In Practice 1, Adytya demonstrated impressive prowess by claiming the top spot with a blistering lap time of 2’06:835s. Close on his heels was Dimas Juli Atmoko of One For All, securing the second position with a fastest lap time of 2’07:747s. Gupita Kresna Wardhana of 4S1M EVO YAMAHA Racing Team rounded up the top three with fastest lap time of 2’08:036s. Going into Practice 2, rain continues. But Adytya steadily reaffirmed his speed with a better lap time of 2’06:389s, securing the top spot once again. Md Akid Aziz of PitsBike OneWay JRT Tech2 Racing Team who placed sixth in Practice 1 with 2’08:658s seemed to have adapted well to the wet track when he claimed the second position with fastest lap time of 2’06:422s. Gupita maintained his strong performance, secured the third spot with the fastest lap time of 2’06:551s. The combined results of the practice sessions, notably Adytya’s standout performance catapulting him to the forefront as the fastest overall, followed by Akid and Gupita preparing for best result in Qualifying session in determining grid position. Adytya said” I am happy to see my result today, especially on the overall results. Even though racing on the wet track, I am satisfied that I was able to maintain the momentum to stay on the top spot. Of course I like to win the races on this weekend, and I know that it is going to be tough, but I will do my best to give the best result to my team.” Fastest Lap Time:Practice Session (Combined) Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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HIROKI MAKE WAVES IN WET WEATHER

2024, 2024 Round 2, Latest News, TVS Asia One Make /

The TVS ASIA One Make Championship roared into action at Round 2 of the IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship, facing the elements head-on as rain soaked the Zhuhai International Circuit. But to Japanese rider, Hiroki Ono, nothing stops him from grabbing the best result. In Practice 1, Hiroki set the pace with impressive lap time of 1’56:408s to claim top spot. After Hiroki, Md Muzakkir Mohamed from Malaysia maintained his stable but fast riding to grab the second position with a commendable time of 1’57:630s, and Thailand rider, Vorapong Malahuan rounded off the top three with his best lap time of 1’57:685s. As the rain slowed down in Practice 2, the battleground remained slippery, challenging the riders to push their limits. Hiroki Ono once again asserted his dominance, clocked the fastest lap time of 1’52:979s to maintain his lead. Sarthak Chavan of India surged forward watched him filling the second position with a remarkable time of 1’54:891s, showcasing his adaptability in adverse conditions, while Md Muzakkir Mohamed continued to impress, clinching the third position with a strong performance, clocking the fastest lap time of 1’55:022s. The combined results from the practice sessions unveiled the true contenders in the field, with Hiroki as the fastest overall, setting a remarkable benchmark with his stellar performance. Sarthak and Muzakkir closely trailed behind, setting the stage for an exhilarating battle in tomorrow’s Qualifying session. Hiroki said, “Today was the first time I rode TVS machine in wet track condition. We completed many laps and worked on setting up the bike and it felt good on the wet track condition too. And this week, I will be adjusting my riding style depending on the asphalt condition. I want to go full speed in dry track condition in Qualifying session, even in wet track comditiomn I will still aim for the pole position and make a time attack.” Fastest Lap Time:Practice Session (Combined) Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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MAKE OR BREAK?

2024, 2024 Round 2, Asia Superbike 1000, Latest News /

The Asia Superbike 1000cc race category went on a blistering start despite the minor hiccups of what is known as the season opener jitters. However, taking dominance and setting his target straight was Andi Farid Izdihar of Honda-Asia Dream Racing with Astemo who made quite an impression with a double-podium at Chang circuit. What would it be like for him in Round 2 of the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship at Zhuhai Internation Circuit this weekend? Well, it seems like Zhuhai circuit will not be a major problem for the Indonesia rider who took the fourth place in both races last season considering being only a debutante in the race category back then or will it? For someone fresh in the game, he had quite the appetite for a bigger chunk of pie and he pulled out all the stops to reward himself with the second runner-up position at the end of the season. Andi Farid reigned champion of the SuperSports 600cc race category in Season 2022 and is definitely playing his cards right this season in the ASB1000 with eyes on the prize. Running for a second term, it is not just about learning and managing the machine but it also includes integrating strategies and aiming for an outcome worthy of applause. Andi went straight for the kill in Race 2 when he grabbed the opportunity to strike his closest contender and that was an ability that comes with complete focus and anticipation of “what could possibly happen”, a quality that makes good sportsmanship. Andi went on to complete the remaining laps and bagged his first win for the season. Commenting on the race, Andi said, “It was a great start for me this season but to be honest, I struggled quite a bit in Round from the very beginning. It was very difficult to find the right setting of the machine but we kept on trying. Finally, we manged to find the right setup and continued to work on it until I felt really good about it. In Race 1, I did exactly in the way I have targeted which is to push from the very beginning and it worked out really well. Unfortunately, the tyre wore out in the last 4-3 laps which gave Azlan to opportunity to catch up. In Race 2, I changed my strategies to make sure that I save up on the tyres. I followed the troop and waited for the right time to attack and it was a profound finish.” “The machine is a completely different one and it definitely requires time to find the right settings. But once the settings are achieved, the outcome is nothing but positive. The machine is much lighter than the older version. While struggling, we have also been analysing the previous data from the very beginning and finally found the direction. Zhuhai is not my favourite circuit. Last season was very difficult for me but it is good to get back there and challenge myself further. I have to make the most from the race and be better off than the last time. I can’t wait to be there, frankly.” On a team of three riders, Andi said, “It has been really good to have three riders in the team. We learn a lot together, progressively and we try to help each other improve. We share our thoughts about the machine and also the circuit. Different perspectives are good and important so that we see things from different lenses. When you have a strong teammate, it makes it easier to step up in the game. The entry list for this season is a tough one. Everyone is of high-calibre although each one of us have our own individual strengths and weaknesses. Somehow, that makes it even more interesting and it sparks the will to excel further. The target for me is to be on the podium this time around in Zhuhai. Last season, as I said was a struggle but I am fully motivated and energised to take the leap. So, keeping my fingers crossed!” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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GO, PHILIPPINES!

2024, 2024 Round 2, Latest News, Supersports 600 /

The SuperSports 600cc race category posed a challenging twist for the season in the presence of highly robust riders, setting the bar at a different height while pushing their limits towards greater excellence. McKinley Kyle Paz of YAMAHA TEKHNE Racing Team ASEAN is an addition to the race category with hidden calibre and is all set for Round 2 of the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship which will be held at Zhuhai International Circuit this weekend. Kyle Paz is no stranger to the ARRC scene. He made a stunning finish in season 2019 when he hailed champion in the Underbone 150cc race category before graduating into the SS600 in Season 2020 with the determination to make it big. His brief entry came to a halt during the 2-year hiatus however with opportunities to soar, he took a leap into the international domain. Returning to ARRC after four years may not necessarily be a drawback considering his time at CEV Moto2 series but having said that, it may not necessarily be an upside as well considering the hard-core bunch making the entry list for the season.  From what was seen in Round 1, Kyle definitely has what it takes to accelerate further into stardom but it will come in various phases, different levels of push and a whole load of exposure and learning in an environment that is rough and tough. Race 2 was a booster that was needed to set the momentum for Kyle in a highly demanding season and with that podium-finish, it is presumed that he would be pumped further to fit the expectations into reality. Commenting on the season, Kyle said, “It is truly great to be back in ARRC after many years. The challenges are real in the sense that I ned more time to get adjusted to a different machine. For the last three years, I have been riding the Moto2 machine and of course, different machines would require different manoeuvring techniques. But my team has been really helpful especially in providing me with an excellent machine which made it quite effortless for me to get adjusted. Round 1 was tough for me though as I started 9th on the gird. My plan was to get along with the pack but unfortunately, the incident before the 1st corner disrupted my pace and I ended up riding alone at the back. In Race 2 however, I was determined to pick up speed from the very beginning. When the race resumed after the red flag, all I ever thought of was to fight a good battle, to make my country proud, to prove that we can fight equally with the best of Asia. I did it and I thank God not only for the safe ride but also a prize on the podium.” “So far, I think the machine has got a good top speed. The machine is a very good one and handling is easy. That is definitely an advantage for us. The team has also prepared the machine well and even though I am still familiarising, surprisingly, I don’t really feel uncomfortable. It is user friendly and I am quite satisfied with it. My riding buddy, Apiwath has been my idol for a long time and he has taught me how to improve my lap time. He allows me to trail him so that I can understand and get into the right pace. I am thankful for him as a teammate and with the chemistry that we both have, I have a strong feeling that we will get through any challenges well, together.” On the circuit, Kyle said, “Zhuhai is my 2nd time racing. I had my first experience there in 2019. But that was in the UB150 race category. Right now, the challenge would be adapting to the circuit with a 600cc machine but I am confident that I will pick up fast especially with the help of my team and with the right setup. The goal is to make it first, just like every other rider. But that will not be possible without the desire and perseverance. We are currently full on, practicing for the coming round here in Philippines with the support of Yamaha Philippines. Every day counts. There is not time to waste. We need to be physically and mentally fit once again for our country! See you Zhuhai. Gaspoll!” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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BIG MISSION IN ARRC

2024, 2024 Round 2, Asia Production 250, Latest News /

It was a spectacle in the Asia Production 250cc race category with riders showcasing their strength to dominate the wild chase around the circuit. Picking up the momentum after a long break from the scene of Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship was Md Sharifuddin Azman of Idemitsu Boon Siew Honda Racing Team, eager to continue his bid in Round 2 which will be held at Zhuhai International Circuit this weekend. Getting back on the saddle, on the Asian ground after many years may not have been that easy for the Malaysian born rider although it is safe to say that he has put on quite a show in Round 1. Although he did not make it the top three positions in Race 1, his immediate reaction in picking up, reading the character of the race and learning resulted in a much better outcome in Race 2 where he made third on the podium. Syarifuddin or fondly known as Damok may have the right experiences from the international front however, riding among the Asians certainly induces a different kind of pressure and the trick to making it is by adapting as quickly as possible. In this case, Damok seems to have got what it takes. Damok said, “The ARRC scene has definitely changed a lot from my perspective. There is a big difference from what it was like in 2019 during my first entry compared to what it is now. In terms of performance, competency and of course my own personal and professional growth over the years, everything is different. I have grown a lot in my capacities and am able to perform better, more so among the front troop and I am quite pleased with it although I still have more to improve.” On his performances in Round 1, he said, “My team and I are quite aware of our limitations and where we lost. We struggled quite a bit on the straight so that’s where the focus is for the time being. I learnt a whole lot from Round 1 and I know where we need to further improve. It is all about working on it and moving forward and I would say that we are quite prepared for Round 2. Of course, we have the likes of our opponents specifically Herjun whose machine is quite fast but again, nothing is impossible I suppose!” “I have ridden on the grounds of Zhuhai before this and I am quite familiar with the layout of the circuit. Of course, there definitely would be some challenges and some adapting to do. I foresee that the ride would be just as competitive as the previous round but I am ready to perform and I am going all out for the first spot. The goal this season is to get my first win for my team. But, the target for every round would be to finish podium and collect enough points to claim the first Malaysian Champion in AP250. Keeping mu finger crossed!” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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JUGGLING IS FUN

2024, 2024 Round 2, Latest News, Underbone 150 /

The Underbone 150cc race category of the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship has its way of enticing the crowd with its performances but what catches the eye is the rider’s brilliant moves in striking while the iron is hot. Wahyu Aji Trilaksana of RACETECH SIXTY Racing Team knows the tricks of the trades all too well and eyes on the prize, he is determined to make the most of Round 2 at Zhuhai International Circuit this weekend. Last year may not have been all sunshiny for the Indonesian rider who has been in the game for a while now especially with the multiple DNF status and the load of running his very own racing team. Nevertheless, the former 2022 Champion is a strong character who seems to not have been deterred by circumstances instead rather be challenged to move forward with his game plan. This season, he has not only added an extra member in his team but has also showcased a well-done performance in Round 1, taking a stance one step below the defending champion in the overall chart. It is too early to say though especially in the UB150 race category which is deemed a race category that presents every rider with the opportunity to win. Having said that, it is also a game which requires superb concentration level and quick-thinking in bagging chances. But for Wahyu Aji, “I feel a lot more confident this season. My team and I had good, positive start this season and that has definitely been a great boost for all of us. Right now, we are back in the game and it is all about making the finest cut.” “The machine is in a superb condition. Based on the data obtained last season, we were able to fine tune our machine to increase its performance and capacity. But it is an on-going process and the goal is to consistently and progressively increase the performances so that it is faster in each round. Having a teammate is equivalent to a positive growth. Adit is a strong rider and his opinions and feedback has been beneficial for us as a team. We are still working on some lap strategies though to get the best result. After all, two heads are better than one!” On his personal achievements, Wahyu Aji commented, “Juggling between being a rider and a team owner is quite fun. It is no pressure at all as I am quite focused with my goals, which is to win the race. Zhuhai circuit is one of my favourite racing grounds. With the performance of my machine at the moment, I am quite confident that I can win the race there. I am one of the riders with the most experience in the UB150 race category. I don’t think I have any weaknesses but more so, it’s the bad luck that has always disrupted the mission. My team and I have only one goal with the coming round which is to get onto the podium and take lead in the rider and team championship points.” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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ONE-UP FOR SARTHAK

2024, 2024 Round 2, Latest News, TVS Asia One Make /

The TVS Asia One Make Championship of the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship has been in the last three years a combination of craftmanship and showmanship in the performance of man versus machine. Complementing the essence of the race category alongside others is Sarthak Chavan of India, pumped up for Round 2 which will be held at Zhuhai International Circuit this weekend. Sarthak made his debut in the race category last year as a wildcard rider in the season finale. While he may not have flaunted his manoeuvring patterns just yet back then, he made his entry for a full season this year in style, captivating audience in an entertaining twist before rounding up the season opener with a double-podium. The Indian national rider may not necessarily have had the equivalent experience in TVS Asia series however he was definitely able to leverage on his experiences and skills from other championships to find his footing in the current domain. The Indian national rider has claimed some outstanding and noteworthy victories in the motorcycle racing championship. However, bringing his level of competence to the Asian domain, specifically the TVS Asia series is not all bed of roses considering the threats lurking around and the pressure from the raging hormones on track. But, he is poised and recognises his abilities well, giving him a one-up to be on par with the contenders. Commenting on the race, Sarthak said, “It was an excellent experience in Round 1. To be honest, I did expect a double-podium. I worked hard towards it, strategized and achieved it. It is definitely a proud moment for me and I am totally happy about it. Of course, the contenders are pretty strong. Hiroki, Ramdan, Muzakkir were in their A-game and I am very sure that they will do extremely well in the coming round. Furthermore, they have already gained some experience there and are strong in their manoeuvring techniques. So, I know that it is going to be a highly-competitive stride.” “Racing in Zhuhai will be my first time so I do not have any on-ground experience but I am studying the track by looking at previous race videos and the performances of the other riders to get an understanding of what the possibilities will be like. I have a feeling that the circuit would be high-speed one and tyre-management would be the toughest part. The RR310 is a very smooth machine and a reliable one. There is good power delivery and the grip is pretty amazing therefore, the machine would not be a problem. I am quite comfortable on it. There is definitely a lot of work to be done but my goal is to fight a good fight to win it.” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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