BJ Pepito, Adlawan share spotlight

21st Calambua Motocross Cup

CEBU, Philippines — Multi-titled Cebuano riders BJ Pepito and Jonjon Adlawan shared the limelight after topping their respective divisions in the MS Motosuit-presented 21st Calambua Motocross Cup over the weekend in Barangay Calambua, San Remigio town north of Cebu.

Pepito, known by many as the ‘Wonder Boy’ from Daanbantayan, Cebu for his blazing speed in the racetrack, drove his motorbike with craftiness and savvy despite the highly technical terrain on the way to dominate the expert category.

The 17-year-old Pepito, once honored as ‘Rider of the Year’ of the now defunct MS Motosuit Motocross Series, crossed the finish line ahead of Jonjon Adlawan as the vetreran Denmark Supatan settled for third place honors.

“I am always inspired in every race because of the all-support of my parents. My dad Bill, who is my chief mechanic, coach and mentor wrapped in one, and of course my mom Malou Pepito, who is my number one fan. Seeing her cheering for me every step of the way gives me added energy in the racetrack,” said BJ Pepito.

The Team BP8 ace rider, however, missed a double championship after Adlawan returned the favor on him in the pro open class. They swapped places this time, with Adlawan taking the top spot followed by Pepito as Supatan was still nailed at third.

Pepito actually led in the first five laps but the 27-year-old Adlawan used his vast experience and maturity to overtake the much younger Pepito and eventually seize control of the adrenaline-pumping race the rest of the way.

It was a double celebration for Adlawan as his father Jonas came out the fastest in Executive A. The other executive winners were Arnel Enriquez (B) and Rex Gamallo (C).

The likes of Earljun Codinera, Brylle Ornopia, John Hisoler, and Rio Mahinay also stole part of the show.

Of them all, Codinera shone the brightest with twin titles via the intermediate and novice open production.

Ornopia lorded it over the beginners production, Hisoler stamped his class in the local enduro, while Mahinay snared the open enduro crown.

Rajah Garin topped the mini class 85cc, Lhaz Nadela was the top performer in the mini class 50cc, while Sharlet Gallarde came out on top in the ladies division followed by the fast rising Jeanette Olanda and Rose Johnrale Querol.

Eric Gabuya ruled the underbone race while Rey Pepito won the buggy class to complete the winners’ list.

After Calambua, action shifts to Medellin for the 2019 Mayor Joven Mondigo Invitational Motocross on April 28. (FREEMAN)