San Andres back with a bang in NAMSSA series

MANILA, Philippines - Multi-titled rider Kenneth San Andres picked up from where he left off last season as he swept the premier Pro Open and Pro 125 categories of the 2012 Philippine NAMSSA National Motocross Series’ opening round at the Dulong Bayan, Sta. Maria, Bulacan recently.

San Andres, a major awardee for motorsports in the motocross category of the coming Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Awards Night at the Manila Hotel on Saturday, was unmatched in the series’ opening leg with a pair of scintillating wins that further cemented his status as the country’s No. 1 rider.

The Valenzuela native ruled the Pro Open (MX1) with a masterful ride that had him turning back the challenge of rising star Jerrick Mitra (second) and motocross legend Jolet Jao (third).

He was, however, more impressive in the Pro 125 (MX2), where he decided the race as early as the first lap as he jumped the gun on his rivals en route to the same Pro Open finish, with Mitra and Jao taking runner-up and second runner-up honors.

San Andres, who is backed by Oakley, Bridgestone Tires, Polisport, FOX, Go Pro, HJC Helmets, Auto Plus, Motul Philippines, Bike Plus, Inside Racing, Starting Line Magazine, EZ Trailer, JBS Motorcycle Shop and GCG Pipe, is shooting for his 15th national crown this season, counting his exploits as a Junior Rider.

“The many obstacles and jumps in the race course kept my competitive juices flowing. I really couldn’t wait to take part in my first competitive race after the holidays,” said San Andres after his twinkill in the race held under the auspices of the National Motorcycle Sports and Safety Association, the governing body of the sport in the country and the only one sanctioned by the Philippine Olympic Committee and the Philippine Sports Commission.

San Andres earned a major award from the PSA following his three international triumphs last season – one in the Chinese Taipei International Supercross and the two others from the Friday Night Light (Milestone) Championships, in San Bernardino, California, where he emerged champion in the 4-stroke 250 and Open Production.