Supersports 600

The Supersports 600cc category brought the heat to practice sessions at the Round 2 of the IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship, held at Zhuhai International Circuit, China, with different riders conquering each practice session that ended on Friday. In Practice 1, the track came alive with Muhammad Helmi Azman of IDEMITSU Boon Siew Honda Racing Team leading the pack with a blazing lap time of 1’39:057s. Apiwath Wongthananon – YAMAHA TEKHNE Racing Team ASIA made it second at 1’39:647s followed by Mohammad Adenanta Putra – ASTRA HONDA RACING TEAM at 1’39:832s. In Practice 2, Apiwath asserted his dominance, topping the session with the fastest lap time of 1’45:409s. Wahyu Nugroho of YAMAHA Racing Indonesia who clocked his best lap time of 1’46:441s and Thanat Laoongplio of Honda Racing Thailand at 1’46:783s filled the second and third spots respectively. As Practice 3 started, Mohammad Adenanta Putra of ASTRA HONDA RACING TEAM displayed a impressive performance to clocked fastest lap time of 1’38:474s, solidifying his position as a front runner. Azroy and Rheza continued to impress with fastest lap time at 1’38:766s and 1’38:862s respectively, rounding out the top three position. The combined practice results, Adenanta appeared as the fastest overall, while Azroy and Rheza closely followed suit, intensifying anticipation of a gripping showdown in tomorrow’s Qualifying session as they vie for pole position. Adenanta said, “Today’s practice sessions’ intensity was high, where everyone was giving their very best to be on the top, And alhamdulillah, I clocked the fastest lap time despite the challenge from the wet track condition. There are more room to improve and improvements in terms of setup need to be done for me to perform better in tomorrow’s qualifying.” Fastest Lap Time:Practice Session (Combined) Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

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

The Supersports 600cc went on swiftly at Chang International Circuit in Race 2 of Round 1 IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship. Apiwath Wongthananon of YAMAHA TEKHNE Racing Team ASIA made Thailand proud once again when he concluded the race for the day with yet another victory. Apiwath Wongthananon, taking an early lead at the front of the pack as the race commenced. Close behind him were Muhammad Helmi Azman and Azroy Hakeem Anuar both from IDEMITSU Boon Siew Honda Racing Team, vying for positions in the top three. Apiwath continued to maintain his lead, with Helmi and Azroy in hot pursuit. However, on the fourth lap, a dramatic turn of events unfolded as both Azroy and Helmi suffered crashes. The red flag was raised. After a brief interruption, the race resumed with five laps. Although it was a short period of time, there was a serious battle between the Yamaha and Honda riders. While Apiwath fended his position at P1, Mohammad Adenanta Putra of ASTRA HONDA RACING TEAM went to pressure him in the front troop. At P3 Veda Ega Pratama of ASTRA HONDA RACING TEAM put on a good fight however Mckinley Kyle Paz of YAMAHA TEKHNE Racing Team ASIA went on to supersede him. At the final lap, while Apiwath went on to claim a double victory, his teammate, Kyle increased his speed after the final turn and bagged the third spot at 8’23:894. Mohammad Adenanta Putra took second place when he logged in at 8’22:053s. Apiwath who clocked in 8’21:918s commented, “I started in a good position, after lap 5, I pushed to maximum because the tyre is very less. But when restarting the race, the tyre was really finishing. Honda riders were very strong, but I’m glad I could fight with them and win the race.” Top 5 Fastest – Race 2 Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

Round 1 of the IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship continued with Race 1 in the highly competitive category of Asia Superbike 1000cc. Amidst the excitement and anticipation, Apiwath Wongthananonof YAMAHA TEKHNE Racing Team ASIA emerged victorious, showcasing exceptional skill and strategy at Chang International Circuit. Apiwath began third on the grid after the Qualifying session with his fastest lap time at 1:38.734s behind duo of the same team, Muhammad Helmi Azman Azroy Hakeem Anuar and Azroy Hakeem Anuar of IDEMITSU Boon Siew Honda Racing Team who finished first and second with their fastest lap time at 1:38.600s and 1:38.606s respectively. As the race started, Apiwath was quick to take lead, setting a blistering pace from the outset. Behind him, Helmi and Azroy closely followed, eager to seize the opportunity to challenge the Thailand rider. In a thrilling exchange of positions, Apiwath maintained his lead from the early laps, with Helmi chasing him down furiously. However, Helmi’s determined efforts paid off only for a short while as he overtook Apiwath on the third lap, before theThai lad reclaimed the position. The intensity of the race escalated on the fifth lap as Azroy encountered a crash with Wahyu Nugroho from YAMAHA Racing Indonesia, forcing Azroy out of the race while Nugroho continued without falling. As a result, Wahyu took over P3. Meanwhile, Mohammad Adenanta Putra of Astra Honda Racing Team showcased remarkable resilience as he climbed up the ranks, eventually overtaking Wahyu Nugroho on the seventh lap to bag the third position. In a breathtaking display of speed and skill, ApiwathWongthananon surged ahead in the final laps, leaving a gap between him and Helmi, ultimately crossing the finish line in first position with total time of 20’00:231s. Apiwath Wongthananon expressed gratitude to his team and Yamaha for their support, stating, “Today is a perfect day for me. At the start in Qualifying session, I forgot to concentrate on the game, but I pushed 100% in the race. I am rather grateful that the bike was very fast and easy to ride, thanks to Yamaha for making the necessary settings.” Coming in second was Muhammad Helmi Azman form IDEMITSU Boon Siew Honda Racing Team clocking in at 20’02:752s. Mohammad Adenanta Putra clocked in at 20’03:385s which placed him at the 3rd spot on the podium. Top 5 Fastest – Race 1  Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

The excitement was palpable as the Chang International Circuit played host to the opening round of the  IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship, featuring the intense battles of the Supersports 600cc  category. Practice sessions saw Apiwath Wongthananon of YAMAHA TEKHNE Racing Team ASIA  pushing the limits, setting the stage for a weekend filled with adrenaline-fueled racing. In Practice 1, Apiwath stormed to the top of the leaderboard with a blistering lap time of 1:38.902s,  showcasing his speed and skill on the track. Rheza Danica Ahrens from ASTRA HONDA RACING  TEAM with his best lap time of 1:39.514s and Muhammad Helmi Azman of IDEMITSU Boon Siew  Honda Racing Team at 1:39.570s were also impressive with their performances, securing the second  and third positions, respectively.  Practice 2 witnessed Apiwath maintaining his momentum, reaffirmed his dominance with another  impressive lap time at 1:38.898s. Azroy Hakeem Anuar from IDEMITSU Boon Siew Honda Racing Team  showcased his consistency, securing the second spot at 1:39.283s, followed closely by Muhammad  Helmi Azman at 1:39.366s.  The intensity reached new heights in Practice 3 as Azroy Hakeem Anuar delivered a stellar  performance, clinching the top spot with the fastest lap time at 1:39.419s. Mohammad Adenanta Putra  from ASTRA HONDA RACING TEAM showcased his skill with the best lap time at 1:39.524s, securing  the second position, while Apiwath rounded out the top three at 1:39.555s.  As the combined practice results were unveiled, Apiwath came out fastest for the day with his best lap  time at 1:38.898s. Azroy who clocked the best lap time of 1:39.283s in Practice 2 and Muhammad Helmi  Azman too recorded 1:39.366s in Practice 2 showcased their consistency, securing the second and  third positions, respectively, setting the stage for an electrifying battle in the upcoming races.  Apiwath said “I am happy with the result for today, and I will try more new parts on my bike tomorrow  and see how it goes. For sure, it will be better in the race. Besides that, the weather is very hot and the  track temperature hit 70 degrees Celsius, but I learned how to keep the tyre at minimal consumption. I  am quite confident for this round, Although I must admit that the Honda riders are very fast, but we will  figure out a way for a better performance tomorrow.” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

The distinguishing sound of the Super Sports 600cc machine will be heard once again on the vast space of the Chang International Circuit this weekend during the season opener of the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship. Even more exciting is the entry list for the season which will complement the roar of the engines. If last season, Apiwath Wongthananon was seen making strokes in favour of his teammate, Soichiro Minamimoto in locking the championship deal, this year, he will be filling in the vacant spot as the latter graduates into ASB1000 race category. It was a brilliant move by the team, placing Apiwath as a wildcard rider in the grand finale considering his recognizable capacities in conquering the machine and his home-ground circuit. Apiwath may have missed the full-season but what he brought to the table was worthy of an applause. This year, he is full-on to take lead in the narratives of the SS600 race category. It is not an easy feat though with rivals waiting to prey at just about every inch. Striding alongside him would be Pilipino rider, McKinley Kyle Paz. Commenting on the season, Apiwath said, “I am extremely excited to be back in ARRC for a full season. This definitely feels like home to me. Although I am fully aware that this season will be filled with a different kind of challenge for me, I am determined to strike it in the best possible way and make the most of my time here this season. Everyone wants to win for sure so, it is going to be a pretty tight fight. For sure, I have to be very careful. I can’t afford to be careless because these players watch like a hawk for their moment of opportunity. Having onboard with Kyle Paz would be something new as I have not worked with him but I am certainly looking forward to it. It all looks good with the machine and as far as I know, there has not been much changes to it from the last season. We will still use the original specs and test further during the pre-season test. The upside to the season opener would be my home-ground for sure. Chang has always been my favourite racing ground. Having said that, I would still have to practice hard and be more detailed oriented during the race week. Also, I have to constantly remind myself that Chang is also a favourite to many seasoned riders which means, it’s a one up for them too. My overall aim is nothing less than to be a champion.” Of course, with one of the main contenders, Khairul Idham Pawi off to a different play-ground, it would probably be much easier for Apiwath to make his mark. However, it would be presumptuous to claim that it would be touch and go for him with the remaining duo of Boon Siew, Helmi Azman and Azroy Hakeem still on the scene. The dynamic duo has proven their dexterity last season in the midst of the highs and lows. They definitely seemed poised aboard their machines and were bold in their moves in injecting the right amount of pressure on their counterparts. The synergy between the two buddies is exactly what is needed for a more competitive stride in the race category. Commenting on the coming race, Helmi said, “Last year, I was already there, maintaining top three throughout the championship but unfortunately, in the last round at Chang, I struggled with the machine and couldn’t make it with a better result. This season, it is definitely going to be more challenging because there will be many experienced riders as well as new comers. It is pretty clear that Apiwath would be a strong contender as he already gained a different kind of experience at WSSP. Also, he has been in the ASB1000 race category so it would surely be an uphill battle. Machine wise, there has been some improvement compared to last season and the team is working really hard to ensure that the details we struggled with last season are rectified. At Chang, my favourite part would be turn four, there is a fast corner which is crucial in making a good lap time. In terms of preparation, I am focused on building up my physique through bicycle rides. It improves my overall stamina and gives me the advantage of handling the machine better. Personally, SS600 is an interesting race category and what I love most is speed and the weight of the machine which gives a better slide when the throttle is maximised. That feeling is the best for me!” As for Azroy, he said, “Last year has been quite a bitter-sweet experience for me. Somehow, while I did my best and I am sure that I was great with the machine, luck was just not on my side. Therefore, this season is all about redemption. I am in a better space, mentally and emotionally and I am prepared to do better than last season. Keeping my fingers crossed, that luck will be on my side too! As for the rider line-up, it is hard to say who will be my closest contenders. We have quite a strong bunch of them riding this season so we have to wait and see how it goes. In terms of the machine, nothing much has been changes. We will still be using the same machine, like last season. It is all about warming up and getting into the right mindset for now. The Chang circuit is one of the hardest circuits for me to be frank. It is quite hard for me to maximise my speed on each lap. There is also a tricky corner in the second sector which I would need to familiarise and practice on more. At the moment, I focus on my fitness training every single day. It is an important aspect in racing to maintain our physique. The exciting thing about SS600 is that

A much-anticipated race category, the SuperSports 600cc was a show-stopper today at the Chang International Circuit as the Japanese and Malaysian rider went all out to make it or break it. But the one who walked away with the bragging rights was Apiwath Wongthananon of YAMAHA GEN BLU Racing Team ASEAN when he won Race 2, Round 6 of the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship. In Race 1 that happened yesterday, pole-man, Soichiro was dominant on the circuit, taking lead from flag off to chequered flag. While his teammate, Apiwath trailed closely behind, it seemed rather conspicuous that it was to keep Khairul Idham at bay. Nevertheless, Khairul went on a solo-mission, keeping himself positioned firmly on the racing line throughout the 12-lap race. Soichiro who has improved significantly over the last few rounds proved his calibre when he crossed the finish line first with Apiwath taking second and Khairul succumbing to third. As soon as the race flagged off, once again, Soichiro took lead with teammate Apiwath right behind him. At P3, Khairul struggled to keep up. By the end of lap 1, Azroy took P3. Into the third lap, Khairul who was in contention of the championship title crashed. His teammate, Azroy however found his way ahead of Apiwath as he went on to chase Soichiro. The Japanese rider was already ahead by 0.9s. Apiwath tried to close the gap with Azroy and he made it but Azroy was fiery as he went on to pressure the Thai rider. With 7 more lap to go, Nakarin made close contact with Azroy, took a shot ahead of him before Azroy slide back ahead of him. By mid-lap, it was almost evident that Soichiro would be the man of the hour as he went on to draw a gap of 2.016s with the Honda rider trailing behind. Apiwath remained protective at P2. The battle continued between Azroy and Nakarin who kept looking for possible ways to strike but Azroy was careful. Nakarin didn’t give up and finally he swiped past Azroy. But of course, the battle did not end just yet. The duo went on to challenge each other. Ahead of them, Apiwath, knowing that it’s a safe bet, finally made his move ahead of Soichiro before both teammates of YAMAHA GEN BLU Racing Team ASEAN raced towards victory with Apiwath, winner of Race 2 at 19’57:324s and Soichiro, Champion of SS600 race category, Season 2023 at 19’58:553s. Commenting on the race, Apiwath said, “It was a wonderful and amazing race, today. It was a little difficult for me in the beginning of the race. The engine was not really heated up but lap-by lap, I manged to overtake Azroy and finally made my way up to the top spot. It has been amazing day for us as a team.” Soichiro Minamimoto said, “It is a perfect weekend for me. This season it has been difficult especially in the beginning of the season up until Japan. From Mandalika onwards, there have been many improvements in my performances. I never expected this but I am so happy to have made it. Thanks to Apiwath for being supportive of me. Thank you, Yamaha and all the sponsors who made this a success! Third place went to Azroy Hakeem Anuar of Boon Siew Honda Racing Team at 20’00:216s. Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

The SuperSports 600cc was a striking show as riders braced through the mounting pressure and rivalry in Race 1, Round 6 of the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship today. Coming out stronger than ever was Soichiro Minamimoto of YAMAHA GEN BLU Racing Team ASEAM who claimed victory at the Chang International Circuit. During the qualifying session that was held earlier today, Yamaha riders Soichiro and Apiwath of YAMAHA GEN BLU Racing Team ASEAN were strong on the circuit and made it first and second on the grid with their best lap time at 1’38:447s and 1’38:894s. Honda rider, Khairul Idham of Boon Siew Honda Racing Team took third spot with his best lap time at 1’39:209s. It was an awesome start for Soichiro in the 12-lap race when he immediately took lead with his teammate, Apiwath right behind him. At turn 2 however, Apiwath took a slide from the inside and took lead for a moment before Soichiro grabbed it back. Khairul was at P3 before Azroy went ahead of him. Khairul regained his momentum quickly and made it back P3 at the last turn of lap 1. The Yamaha riders remained sturdy on the grounds of Chang as Honda rider, Khairul tried to close the gap. Nakarin who began on the 6th spot made his way into P4 by the end of lap 3. The three riders in contention for the championship title, Khairul, Nakarin and Soichiro went on to make the cut. By mid-race, the positions of the trio in the front troop remained unchanged. Nakarin at P4 kept pushing to close the gap of 3.5s as Azroy chased him furiously. With 3 more laps to go, Soichiro and Apiwath glided confidently ahead as Khairul tried to catch up. By then, it was almost impossible for Khairul to close the gaps. On the last lap, Soichiro avoided mistakes as Apiwath looked for ways to overtake but to no avail. Soichiro went on to take one last turn before heading towards victory at 19’55:372s. Commenting on the race, Soichiro said, “Today’s race was great really great. My planning was to get to the top. The tire was a little worn out towards the end of the race but Apiwath who stayed close behind me was a great help and support to me. I am at the top of the championship now but tomorrow is another day to fight and that is all that matters. So, we shall see!” His teammate, Apiwath Wongthananon made it second at 19’55:522s. Khairul Idham made it third at 19’58:301s. Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

The riders of the SuperSports 600cc were pumped up today in their bid to make the most at the season finale of the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship help at Chang International Circuit. Apiwath Wongthananon of YAMAH GEN BLU Racing Team ASEAN emerged fastest today at the practice sessions, combined. In FP1 earlier today, Thai lad Nakarin of Honda Racing Thailand went on enthusiastically on his home- ground to score the fastest at 1’39:709 followed by fellow country-men and wildcard rider, Apiwath of YAMAHA GEN BLU Racing Team ASEAN with his best lap time at 1’39:949s. Malaysian rider, Azroy Hakeem made it third fastest with his best lap time at 1’40:232s. In FP2, Apiwath worked on his performance and made it fastest at 1’39:243s followed by his teammate, Soichiro with his best lap time at 1’39:579s. At third fastest was Nakarin with his best lap time at 1’39:965s. In FP3 that was held in the evening, Apiwath emerged fastest with his best lap time at 1’39:393s and once again followed by his teammate Soichiro with his best lap time at 1’39:483s making them the fastest and second fastest for the day. The duo of the same team seemed to have worked out a plan to keep themselves well ahead of the others in the lap chart. With Soichiro in contention for the championship, Apiwath’s participation may be the boost that he needs to make the weekend a success. Apiwath completed his full season in the World SuperSport and his experiences has definitely given him the added value needed to make the most of the season finale. Taking third fastest in FP3 was Ratthapong of YAMAHA Thailand Racing Team with his best lap time at 1’39:854s. Commenting on the session earlier, Apiwath said, “I am happy to be back at ARRC and I would say that the level of competitiveness is equally amazing. Chang circuit has become quite an easy ground for me right now with all the other experiences that I have gained over the course of one year. Having said that, of course, there are the likes of contenders such as Nakarin who is a home-grown rider, KIP and Helmi who are extremely strong in the race category which does not make it an easy feat after all. But I do look forward to winning tomorrow.” Nakarin Atiratphuvapat made it third fastest in FP, combined with his best at 1’39:709s. Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com

It was a fast and fury ride among the SuperSports 600cc race category’s rising stars in the recent race which left an unsettled ambiguity in its rivalry. Who will become the next champion? Could it be the long-standing leader Khairul Idham Pawi of Boon Siew Honda Racing Team, the equally competitive Nakarin Atiratphuvapat of Honda Racing Thailand or Soichiro Minamimoto of YAMAHA GEN BLU Racing Team ASEAN who has been raking up the chart very quickly? Round 6 of the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship which will be held at Chang International Circuit will say it all. Season 2023 has blurred the lines of the best especially with the likes of extraordinary riders who have successfully pulled a stunner throughout five rounds. But, among them, the intensity spiked among KIP, Chip Nakarin and Soichiro who blazed the trails for newfound benchmarks in the SS600 race category. The trio made it onto the podium six times and has presented a unique disposition in the art of manoeuvring the high-powered machine – all of which sums up to their advantages and disadvantages on the circuit ground. What would Chang circuit hold for them? Both KIP and Chip’s performances on the circuit speak a volume of their mastery but with Soichiro’s formidable progress over the last few rounds, the duo has to belt and brace at all cost. Commenting on the race, KIP said, “The coming round is definitely going to be a tough one. The championship points are very close to each other therefore the pressure is going to be mounting. But again, we are all in the game together hence I believe the anxiety is pretty much the same for everyone. We will do our best for sure. In Zhuhai, I made a mistake during qualifying and that impacted my overall result for the weekend. It is undoubtedly tough to start a race from the back. But I made a good finish in Race 1. I learnt my mistakes which is good so that I don’t repeat that in the coming round. My main contender would be Chip because it is his home-ground and he is strong there. This season, overall, has been really good for me. I have managed to maintain my consistency throughout. Although there were I did not finish the race or didn’t finish podium but I have improved a lot this season compared to the last. It takes time and I think I can do more. The machine is similar to the other teams but of course, there are some advantages and disadvantages in each machine that makes up for an equal fight. The goal is to fight for the championship title. It is definitely also the goal of the team. But I will not stress myself too much instead just focus on doing my best and give my 100% to the race.” Hearing it from Chip, he said, “The coming round would probably be the most exciting one throughout the season because I stand a chance to take the champion title on my home-ground. I have prepared myself both physically and mentally and I think I am much stronger now. No matter what happens, I will make sure that I try my best to make the most of it. The race at Zhuhai was quite unpredictable. For example, the red flag in Race 1 saved the day as it gave me an opportunity to finish fourth. In Race 2, I made a mistake but I was able to recover and win. I was very lucky that weekend. My greatest rival is definitely the leader, Super KIP. He rode very well in Round 1 and not the mention his preciseness in each corner. The most valuable lesson for me was in Round 3 when I made a mistake that resulted in a DSQ. I lost my points there. In terms of the machine, there is barely any disadvantage. Equally important would be the rider’s adaptation towards the machine and so far, it has been good. I aim to the champion in the SS600 race category this season and if I do, I would like to step up in my game and move to a higher cc race category. My goal is to continuously strive and become better wherever I am.” Soichiro said, “In my opinion, the final round is going to be superbly interesting for sure as the championship is close. Frankly, the Chang circuit may be a little tough for us, Yamaha riders. The braking of our rivals is very strong on that circuit ground. We do have our strategies in place though and it is a matter of applying right. The goal for every top rider would be to take the championship title. I will first have to win he race as usual. Looking back at the recent race in Zhuhai, I thought that it would be tougher there but I was really happy to have gotten myself onto the podium in both races. For me, my ultimate rivals are KIP and Nakarin. They have definitely showcased their strengths in Round 1 at the circuit. I did not really expect to compete this well throughout the season considering their abilities to defend the positions. I tried to pick up during each round and I know that my team has been working hard to make sure stay on par with the best in the game. Winning the championship would be a gift to my team for their endless support. So, key in this would be focusing on win and nothing less!” Connect with Us! Latest news at asiaroadracing.com