The Clark International Speedway recently came alive with the roar of engines and the thrill of high-speed racing as Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) kicked off the 10th season of the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippine Cup (TGR Philippine Cup). The opening race weekend saw thousands of enthusiastic spectators witness an exhilarating display of skill and sportsmanship from over 30 talented racers.
Headlining the event was the debut of TMP President Masando Hashimoto, who took to the track as a participant in the new Novice Class. Joined by influencers, media personalities, and sim racers, the Novice Class provided an opportunity for these newcomers to showcase their abilities alongside seasoned circuit racing veterans.
The day’s action-packed schedule featured two sprint races and an endurance race, with drivers navigating the challenging conditions as the morning’s sunny skies gave way to afternoon rain showers. This shifting weather tested the mettle of both the racers and their cars, leading to intense wheel-to-wheel battles that had the crowd on the edge of their seats.
Beyond the on-track excitement, the event offered numerous activities for the spectators. Car club members showcased their GR performance vehicles in the Car Club Track Day, while drifting demos allowed select audience members to experience the thrill of high-speed drifting firsthand.
“The opening race weekend of the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippine Cup has once again proven the unwavering passion and talent of our local motorsports community,” said TMP President Masando Hashimoto. “We are thrilled to witness the growth and evolution of this premier racing program, and we look forward to more adrenaline-fueled action in the upcoming race weekends.”
The TGR Philippine Cup is supported by a roster of esteemed partners, including Official Fuel Partner Petron, Official Tire Partner GT Radial, Official Timekeeper Seiko, and various automotive and racing-related brands.
Racing fans can look forward to the second race weekend of the TGR Philippine Cup on September 28, 2024, where the competition is sure to reach new heights of excitement and drama.
Race Results Recap:
RACE 1: SPRINT RACE 1
NOVICE CLASS
Pos. Name Team
1 Jamil Lacuna TOYOTA GAZOO Racing PH
2 Russel Reyes TOYOTA GAZOO Racing PH
3 Jose Altoveros TOYOTA GAZOO Racing PH
PROMOTIONAL CLASS
Pos. Name Team
1 Bong Garbes Inbox – Toyota San Fernando
2 Rex Abrenilla Toyota Team Cebu
3 Johndale Dy Toyota Team Cebu
SPORTING CLASS
Pos. Name Team
1 Jiro Garbes Inbox – Toyota San Fernando
2 Jarond Mesina Toyota Team Cebu
3 Danzel Waytan JD Motorsport – Ribbon Arc
SUPER SPORTING CLASS
Pos. Name Team
1 Red Diwa JBT Racing / Toyota Isabela
2 Iñigo Anton Toyota Balintawak – Obengers Racing Team
3 Russel Cabrera Toyota Team Cebu
RACE 2: SPRINT RACE 2
NOVICE CLASS
Pos. Name Team
1 Russel Reyes TOYOTA GAZOO Racing PH
2 Jamil Lacuna TOYOTA GAZOO Racing PH
3 John Rey San Diego TOYOTA GAZOO Racing PH
PROMOTIONAL CLASS
Pos. Name Team
1 Julia Delos Angeles Toyota Marilao/San Jose Del Monte – Obengers Racing Team
2 Bong Garbes Inbox – Toyota San Fernando
3 Rex Abrenilla Toyota Team Cebu
SPORTING CLASS
Pos. Name Team
1 Jay Lao Happy Hotels Racing Team
2 Danzel Waytan JD Motorsport – Ribbon Arc
3 Carlo Suarez Toyota Team Cebu
SUPER SPORTING CLASS
Pos. Name Team
1 Russel Cabrera Toyota Team Cebu
2 Mikey Keilani Jordan Jordan Racing
3 Iñigo Anton Toyota Balintawak – Obengers Racing Team
RACE 3: ENDURANCE RACE 1
NOVICE CLASS
Pos. Name Team
1 Russel Reyes TOYOTA GAZOO Racing PH
2 Jamil Lacuna TOYOTA GAZOO Racing PH
3 Lexi Mendiola TOYOTA GAZOO Racing PH
PROMOTIONAL CLASS
Pos. Name Team
1 Julia Delos Angeles Toyota Marilao/San Jose Del Monte – Obengers Racing Team
2 Bong Garbes Inbox – Toyota San Fernando
3 Rex Abrenilla Toyota Team Cebu
SPORTING CLASS
Pos. Name Team
1 Danzel Waytan JD Motorsport – Ribbon Arc
2 Jarond Mesina Toyota Team Cebu
3 Carlo Suarez Toyota Team Cebu
SUPER SPORTING CLASS
Pos. Name Team
1 Iñigo Anton Toyota Balintawak – Obengers Racing Team
2 Russel Cabrera Toyota Team Cebu
3 Ian Rosales Toyota Team Cebu
