Our country hit another milestone as our very own Vincent Floreindo placed third in the Coppa Shell category at the Australian leg of the Ferrari APAC Challenge 2014, held at Sydney Motorsport Park. Floreindo is the first Filipino to accomplish a podium finish in the highly competitive racing series.
Meanwhile, Max Blancardi finished first in the Pirelli pro classification, as Philippe Prette took the top spot in the Pirelli classification for experienced drivers. David Tjiptobiantoro clocked the fastest time in the Coppa Shell race for newcomers in both races.
“We applaud Vincent for his amazing third place finish in the 458 Challenge. The Filipinos can excel in international racing, Vincent’s success is further proof of that. May he continue to inspire others to participate in motor sports. We are behind him all the way.” said Marc Soong, executive director of Autostrada Motore Inc., the official importer and distributor of Ferrari cars in the Philippines.
Dedicated to non-professional drivers in different classifications, the Ferrari Challenges were the Trofeo Pirelli, Trofeo Pirelli Pro, Coppa Shell and for the first time this year, the Gentlemen Cup for drivers over 50 years old.
Mr. Floreindo, is no stranger to the race track. He is two-time Driver of the Year of the Yokohama Philippine GT Championship Series, winning the championship in 2011 and 2012. He is also a veteran racer in karting, circuit and Formula 3 competitions.
Also making its debut in this series is the 458 Challenge EVO, a package of aerodynamic improvements such as Manettino dial, CCM2 Brakes, dual clutch gearbox and more. All the Ferrari 458 Challenge cars for the competition must have the EVO Kit. Cars will be produced in Italy and flown directly to the race track in Asia. Ferrari is also flying in its technicians and engineers for each race to prepare and manage all the cars over the racing period.
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