It was a rhythm not to be missed with the Asia Production 250cc as the robust riders strode with great speed and energy on the Chang International Circuit. Herjun Atna Firdaus of ASTRA HONDA Racing Team celebrated victory in Race 1 when he made a triumphant rush to the finish line ahead of the others.
The race flagged off with Thai rider Piyawat as the pole man, teammates of ASTRA HONDA Racing Team, Adenanta at P2 and Herjun Atna at P3 after the qualifying session earlier this morning. However, at the first turn, Herjun made a quick slide ahead of Piyawat and took lead. However, before the end of the first lap, teammate Rheza managed to take over P1.
The fiery battle went on between the riders in red suit and by the end of lap 2, Adenanta hit fastest followed by Piyawat and Rheza. Meanwhile, Aldi was seen making his way close to the trio ahead of him. Taking P4 in that moment, Aldi was determined to find the opportunity to strike. The trio however was not about to be defeated.
In the fifth lap however, wildcard rider Jakkreephat found his way ahead of the leading trio. But Herjun and Adenanta seemed to have their strategies aligned to make this battle worth their efforts. By the end of the sixth lap, Herjun took the lead position while Adenanta kept close behind him. Piyawat was seen taking strides at P3, hoping to make a comeback to P1. The riders of ASTRA HONDA Racing Team however went on to guard their positions although they were constantly pressured by their closest contenders and by the end of the eighth lap, Piyawat went ahead with great speed at the lead position. With two more laps to go, Piyawat was not in a position to make any mistakes especially with Adenanta just inches away from him.
At the last lap however, trio of ASTRA HONDA Racing Team teamed up to make their moves. Herjun switched places with Piyawat and by the last turn, he was squeezed out of top three position by Adenanta and Rheza. Herjun fled ahead towards victory, clocking in at 19’06:534s.
Commenting on the race, Herjun Atna Firdaus said, “I am extremely happy with the race today. I gave my best to the team and I am proud of that. Also, thanks to my boss and the crew of ASTRA HONDA who worked tirelessly to make this win possible.”
“It was a tough race. The competitors were good however I am thankful for my team members who have helped me too. We will try again tomorrow and hopefully, I will make it back to the same spot on the podium.”
At the second place was Md Adenanta Putra who recorded his fastest at 19’06:696s.
Rheza Danica Ahrens made it third, clocking in his fastest at 19’06:763s.