The incessant nip and tuck between countrymen, Azroy Hakeem Anuar of IDEMITSU HONDA RACING MALAYSIA and Hafizh Syahrin of JDT RACING TEAM came to a roaring end when the former bagged a double-victory at Sepang International Circuit in the Asia Superbike 1000cc race category deserving of a double thumb-ups. With Round 3 of the IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship being held at Mobility Resort Motegi, what would the odds be for the duo on a turf familiar to Japanese lad, Keito Abe of SDG HARC-PRO. HONDA PHILIPPINES?
Keito Abe may not be a stranger to the Asian scene and may have had a fair share of flair aboard a 600cc machine that awarded him with the rewarding title in All Japan Championship but inside the bubble of the ASB1000 race category, the brewing pressure is real for the debutante. What’s interesting though is his ability to adapt very quickly to the temperaments and expectations of the high-powered race category. With his recent performance that landed him on 4-3 over the weekend, the quiet yet robust personality is now positioned comfortably for his next move that could make all the difference.
Currently raking it fifth on the overall chart, the Japanese holds the card for an upgrade into top three, potentially threatening the positions of the contenders glamming the top four, especially with his mileage on his home-ground circuit and with only a 15-point difference from the chart-topper. The question is, who does Keito have his eyes on in his attempt to eliminate the load of rivalry off his shoulders? Azroy may be a debutante himself but he is quick to strike whereas Nakarin of HONDA RACING THAILAND is calmly venomous in his moves. Hafizh and Zaqhwan of IDEMITSU HONDA RACING MALAYSIA on the other hand may have showcased some struggling moments here and there but they definitely have grand experiences that keeps them armed for a season of battle.
Commenting on the race, Keito Abe said, “Different circuit grounds come with different kind of challenge but for me, my home-ground is a symbol of power. Definitely, there is pressure that comes with the home-ground but it also is an added advantage for me since I have had a fair share of mileage on the circuit. But having said that, there are the other riders who are equally good, who have also had their run on the ground. Most importantly is for me to make the most of my experience and avoid making any mistakes.”
“I am tuned towards grasping the characteristics of the machine and the team has not only been helpful but they are also very insightful. I am pretty confident with them considering the benchmark that they have stamped in the last few years and I know that they will ensure optimisation in the settings for the machine. With them, it is also my chance to become stronger, professionally. There are the likes of Nakarin, Zaqhwan and Hafizh who have also raced for a long time which means that they have enough experience to compete competitively. But I will come prepared and part of my training regime includes dirt training which enhances my strength and control towards the machine. The focus for this season is to achieve the championship title.”