Lagman makes grand Asian Karting debut

MANILA, Philippines - Promising rookie driver Archim Lorenz “Kim” Lagman of PCR-Tough Gear Racing had a grand debut in international racing scene, ruling his class in the 2009 Asian Karting Open Championship recently at the Kartodromo de Coloane Circuit in Macau.

Lagman, a 14-year-old high school junior at Chevalier School MSC in Angeles, Pampanga, reigned supreme in the Yamaha Cup Junior category.

“It was one great experience. It feels good to win an international race on my first try. I never gave up despite a spill in the pre-finals,” said Lagman, who’s backed by Migarch and FERN-C.

Lagman got pole position after topping the qualifying heat, but nearly blew away his bid as he spun out during the warm-up for the pre-final race due to the slippery track caused by rain.

He failed to catch the pack when the start signal was hoisted, but that didn’t dampen his spirit.

Lagman staged a determined rally as he passed one karter after another before winding up a respectable third in the pre-final.

Later, he showed aggressive driving and full concentration to win the final race.

Lagman even overlapped runner-up Gab Dacasin before completing the 15-lap race in 16 minutes and 10.878 seconds.

“It was the first time Kim ran in a wet race. Nevertheless, he gave his all and the experience came as a big lesson for him,” said Roger Lagman, Kim’s father.

With back-to-back wins in Batangas and Cebu, Lagman enjoys a wide lead in the MBA class.