McKinley Kyle Paz of the Yamaha PH racing team is still looking for a repeat of his Round 1 success, which saw him at the podium in Thailand. After back-to-back finishes inside the top 10, he entered round 3 with momentum on his side. However, unfamiliarity with the racetrack would be the number one obstacle for the former UB150 Champion. This would be the first time that the tournament will be held in the Mobility Resort Motegi after previously being in Sportsland Sugo International Circuit. “The Wonderboy” is also seeking to banish the memory of his performance in 2019, where he suffered a DNF in Race 1 and placed 13th in Race 2 at the Suzuka Circuit.
For Gian Carlo Mauricio, who was race champion in the recent China leg, it was a different challenge altogether. His teammate and fellow Filipino April King Mascardo suffered an injury in practice which would keep him out indefinitely for the season. This will be the first time in three seasons that either rider will be without the other. Mascardo as the older of the two, “RocketBoy” served as an inspiration and anchor to the younger Mauricio who has become formidable on the track this season in the ARRC. This challenge will be part of the continuing growth of “The Flash” who will be tested even further in the races to come.
On Raceday, the difficulties in the land of the rising sun continued for “The Wonderboy” who finished 11th in Race 1 and suffered a DNF in race 2. Almost mirroring his last performance when he competed in the UB150 category years ago.
If there was a silver lining for the Yamaha Tekhne Racing Team Asia, it would be their continued hold of 1st place in the team standings for the SS600 category. They will definitely make sure to defend their position in the next round where Paz looks to return to form.
For Mauricio, who placed 11th in qualifying, improved one spot and finished race one in 10th position. Although in race two he lost a few places due to a crash late in the race and settled for 13th place.
The team currently sits at 5th in the team standings of the UB150 category and will look to improve their position when they race in Indonesia.
Round 4 of the ARRC continues at the PERTAMINA MANDALIKA INTERNATIONAL CIRCUIT, INDONESIA on July 26-28.
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