Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) recently concluded the exciting second race weekend of the 2024 TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippine Cup on September 28 at the Clark International Speedway. The event attracted a passionate crowd eager to witness intense competition as racers from diverse backgrounds showcased their skills in sprint and endurance races.
TMP President Masando Hashimoto opened the event, sharing his enthusiasm for motorsport and his own journey as a Novice Class competitor. “Motorsports is alive and thriving in the Philippines,” he declared, echoing Toyota Motor Corporation Chairman Akio Toyoda’s motto: “We Love Cars.” Hashimoto emphasized that, with continued fan support, the motorsports scene will only grow larger.
The day featured two sprint races and an endurance race, each delivering heart-pounding moments as drivers navigated shifting weather conditions—from sunny skies in the morning to overcast in the afternoon. This unpredictability tested the racers’ skills, resulting in thrilling, bumper-to-bumper action that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
RACE RECAP:
Sprint Race 1 saw Jamil Lacuna from TOYOTA GAZOO Racing PH take the checkered flag in the Novice Class, followed closely by teammates Pablo Salapantan and Russel Reyes. In the Promotional Class, Ryan Agoncillo surprised everyone with a stellar win, with Bong Garbes and Rex Abrenilla secured second and third places, respectively. Kody Ng dominated the Sporting Class on his debut race while Iñigo Anton triumphed in the Super Sporting Class.
Sprint Race 2 continued the excitement, with Russel Reyes again leading the Novice Class. Johndale Dy from Toyota Team Cebu won the Promotional Class, while Raymond Cudala finally claimed top in the Sporting Class with a come-from-behind drive. Anton maintained his winning streak in the Super Sporting Class, further extending his championship lead.
In the Endurance Race, Iñigo Anton completed a remarkable sweep, showcasing a masterclass performance as he stole the win from Red Diwa in a thrilling finish in the Super Sporting Class. Russel Reyes returns to the top in the Novice Class, with Reph Bangsil and John Rey San Diego following closely behind. Bong Garbes claimed victory in the Promotional Class while nephew Jiro Garbes prevailed in the Sporting Class.
The event was further enlivened by car club displays, hot laps, and thrilling drifting exhibitions by renowned drivers Hanz Jimenez and Dane Cruz. Attendees had the unique opportunity to ride shotgun with the drifters, experiencing the thrill firsthand. This interactive aspect of the event added to the overall excitement, allowing fans to engage with the motorsport community.
As the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippine Cup prepares for its final race weekend on November 9, 2024, racing enthusiasts can look forward to more thrilling action. For updates, visit Toyota’s official site and follow TOYOTA GAZOO Racing on social media. With the stakes rising and the competition heating up, the finale promises to be an event not to be missed!
