Multi-awarded race driver Gabe Tayao is back in Manila after completing his freshman year in college.
Currently pursuing a business degree in the United States, Tayao is kicking off his summer break by competing in The Federal Tyres King of Nations ProSeries at the Clark International Speedway this week.
Popularly known as the King of Nations Philippines 2018 (KONPH 2018), the event is organized by BackStage Events and sanctioned by the Automobile Association of the Philippines.
With legs held in several countries, the series is known to have the world’s best drifters compete against each other. The Philippine leg will be the last round of the King of Nations Asia ProSeries 2018.
Powered by Car Porn Racing in collaboration with DMF Drift, and backed by Seaoil, Wanli Tires, and DC Shoes, 18-year-old Gabe will be firing up the track in the amateur division. Car Porn Racing previously suited up Tayao’s Toyota GT 86 with top of the line products from Airrex, Accuair and Stoptech.
In preparation for the KONPH 2018 event, Perrin gauges were added to Tayao’s race car. Perrin gauges are currently available at the CPR shop exclusively. On the other hand, DMF Drift pulled off an impressive build by fitting the Toyota GT 86 with a 1JZ engine.
Over 20 drifters are slated to see action in the kick-off event of The King of Nations Philippines 2018. The event is expected to draw in drifting fans who are hoping for heated battles in both the amateur and pro divisions.
As one of, if not, the youngest drifter in the event, Tayao’s entry is highly-anticipated after a brief hiatus from racing. It also marks a significant career milestone, since Gabe will be following in the footsteps of his uncle Kevin, a former drifting champion who initially drove for DMF Drift, and later on for Yellow Cab Drift Team.
Prior to his drift debut, Gabe was a multi-titled karter who started his racing career at 11. He became the first Filipino Formula 4 champion at 16 before moving on to win several podiums in the national autocross scene last year.