Circuit racing opener draws bigger field, top car makes

MANILA, Philippines - Circuit racing returns to limelight as the 2009 San Mig Coffee-Yokohama Philippine GT Championships kicks off this weekend at the Batangas Racing Circuit in Rosario, Batangas.

This season is expected to be more exciting as more drivers have signified their intention to take the challenge of the unique setup of this event sanctioned by the Automobile Association Philippines and sponsored by San Miguel Corporation, San Mig Coffee, Yokohama, Aeromed and Pagcor.

The series also breaks the monotony of one-make cars as it gives various competitive car brands equal chances for the titles at stakes using Yokohama tires.

Defending champion Felix Perez of Alps Racing is eyeing another successful title defense after sweeping all four races last season against equally talented rivals.

Participants will be vying for the crowns in the GT 125, GT 200 and GT 300 divisions as they put their talents and versatility on the line racing in an individual 40-km morning race in the sprint event and the 60-km main race in the afternoon.

Perez will be facing Fern-C’s Rey Panaligan, William Tan, Renan Morales, Antonio Moncupa and Pocholo Paragas in the GT 200 class.

Nicolo Fernandez is the top favorite in the GT125 division against Jonas Lopez in the GT 125 class while Danes Sarmiento hopes to lord over the GT 300 division against Emerson Manaog, Antonio Moncupa, Romeo Manuel, and Jeffrey Villanueva.

The other top drivers to watch are John Asuncion, JV Colayco Leo San Juan and Quincy Buenaflor.