By Inigo S. Roces
Toyota Motor Philippines marked the start of the fifth season of the Vios Cup with high adrenaline at the Clark International Speedway in Pampanga, last April 28. The inaugural race weekend hit the ground running with a total of nine races, covering three racing categories, with three race heats each. This brings the current total of drivers up to 53.
Race grids werecomposed of three main categories: Super Sporting Class, Sporting Class and Promotional Class with each cluster crowning their respective champions. The Celebrity Class is part of the Promotional Class category.
The grid also consists of seven celebrity racers joining in the fun. New to this season are actors Sam Milby, Diego Loyzaga, Sofia Andres, and Chie Filomeno. Returning celebrities from last season’s races are Japanese-Brazilian model Fabio Ide, Sportscaster, Gretchen Ho (will participate in Races 2 & 3), fitness influencer, Aubrey Miles, and actor, Troy Montero. Two of last year’s celebrity racers have caught the eye of corporate sponsors with PhoemelaBarranda and Jinno Rufino now joining private teams and competing in the Sporting Class.
Before the start of the races, visitors could even head over to the track itself to meet the drivers and take photos with the race cars lined up on the grid.
“The success of this One Make Series the past four years continues to inspire us in further spreading the Waku Doki spirit in the local racing scene. And this year, motorsports fans and car enthusiasts can expect an even higher level of excitement,” said Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) President Satoru Suzuki.
The event program and race commentary was provided by motorsport enthusiast, James Deakin and veteran racer, Gaby dela Merced. Admission into the Vios Cup general area was free.
Besides the races itself, Toyota, had plenty more on offer for other members of the family. Booths were set up to provide a wide variety of food and drink choices. Exhibitions from sponsors allowed visitors to play games for a chance to win prizes. And of course, eager fans could get photos with their favorite celebrities during the ‘Meet and Greet’ program.
Last April 28 was just the first of many more legs of the Vios Cup, with the next to be held in Filinvest City very soon. With a little something for everybody, the Vios Cup continues to be an exciting family event that shouldn’t be missed.
The 2018 Vios Cup is in partnership with Bridgestone and Rota, official fuel partner Petron, supported by Motul, Brembo, Denso, AVT, 3M, OMP and TuasonRacing.com.