It was a history for Team Suzuki Pilipinas as they successfully took the grand slam win over 16 riders from 9 different countries at the recently concluded 2017 Suzuki Asian Challenge (SAC) held at Johor International Circuit in Malaysia.
The team, which composed of Mario Borbon Jr, April King Mascardo, and Eane Jay Sobretodo, showcased their prowess and promising performances by clinching the pole position at the qualifying race. Starting with Mindanao rider April King Mascardo, who got the pole with the fastest lap time of 1:57.66 breaking last year’s record by less than 2 seconds. Following him on third spot was Luzon rider Eane Jay Sobretodo. Later on Race 1, Visayas rider Mario Borbon, Jr. managed to stay on the lead on the last laps despite the slippery and wet track condition, hence grabbing the 1st top podium win of the season.
Mascardo and Sobretodo were alternately leading on the first laps of the race. However, Sobretodo collided with the other riders during the middle part giving chance to leading Mascardo to isolate himself and continuously led the race. This is the first time that Philippine team won at Johor International Circuit in Malaysia.
Round 2 of SAC is scheduled at Chang International Circuit in Thailand on April 14 to 15; while Round 3 at Suzuka International Circuit in Japan on June 3 to 4, Round 4 at Sentul International Circuit in Indonesia on August 12 to 13; and the final round at Chang International Circuit in Thailand on December 2 to 3.