WHO’LL BE THE PICK OF THE WEEK?

The machines are lined up and the riders are geared up. Another season of the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship is just days away at Chang International Circuit. What’s new in the Asia Production 250cc? The format remains but the riders are one step away from recognising their worth and strength in what is seen as one of the most competitive feats in the championship.

After many “almost-there” situations, Herjun Atna finally laid his hands on the most sought-after championship trophy last season and with him out of the picture this season, it’s an open spot for the high-achievers of the race category in testing their limits and breaking the boundaries. Coming in as contenders in the race category, representing the two consecutive winning team, ASTRA HONDA RACING TEAM are Fadhillah Arbi and David Britani who may seem like they are dipping their toes but could potentially be the dose of the much-needed challenge to the scene.

As for luck, Cao Viet Nam of HONDA RACING VIETNAM TEAM was not really a strong match last season despite his striking moves and close encounter towards victory. Looking back at his rush of adrenaline, the Vietnamese rider definitely has what it takes to soar to the peak but again, will he be able to fight off the bursting energy from his closest contenders this coming season? “To me, most importantly, I finish all races without crashing or slipping at the eleventh hour. I want to avoid pressure and enjoy the race as much as I can. I like my current machine and I get to compete competitively with the other strong contenders. So, that is a plus for me at the moment. So, at this point of time, luck or not, I would take it with an open mind to do my best.”

The Kawasaki team on the other hand was not bad themselves last season with Aiki Iyoshi of MOTUL KAWASAKI SNIPER MANUAL TECH pushing through and taking fifth on the scoreboard. The Japanese lad definitely knows his way aboard his machined and has even unveiled some of his hidden tactics however this season may come with a considerable challenge especially with 2022 champion, Andy Muhammad Fadly coming back for another shot at stardom. He said, “I am happy that Fadly is back but again, he is also one of my biggest rivals. Having him back on the team means we can together work on strategies, gather enough data with out four-cylinder machines and try out various other approaches in optimising our strengths as a team.”

Andy Fadly on the other hand said, “I am not very coming back racing into the AP250 race category however due to my serious injury last season, I think this is my only option and at that the best one. The goal is to take the championship title once again for sure and with the injuries, it means more work and greater effort. Having had the experience in the AP250 long enough is a plus I would say. Teaming up with Aiki is great and I can’t wait to challenge him further and be on the podium together with him.”