It’s been a while since we last heard from the Motorsport Development Program (MDSP). No thanks to the COVID-19, all their activities were put on hold since the start of the pandemic. But as things are going back to normal, the Automobile Association Philippines (AAP) has revealed that their grassroots motorsports program is set to make a comeback this 2022.
With a grant from the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), the AAP is confident that the MSDP can be successfully and safely organized. Considerations taken are the effective rollout of the AAP Return to Motorsport Manual last year and the government’s continuous COVID-19 vaccination program. As a matter of fact, some organizers in Cebu, Misamis Oriental, and Iloilo were able to host local motorsport activities due to their region’s relaxed quarantine restrictions (and with guidance from the MSDP).
“It’s going to be an exciting year for AAP-MSDP since it is envisioned as a new phase,” said AAP Motorsports Manager Ivan Isada. “The theme of MSDP this year is revival, which is defined as not only bringing back something into action, but also bringing it back with strengthening. We don’t just want to make motorsport bigger and have more unity here in the Philippines, we also want the people behind and in the frontlines to become better sportsmen.”
Isada further stresses that the main goal for 2022 is to empower organizers, instructors, and drivers – to equip them with new ways of teaching and coaching, as well as give them confidence to run their own local competitions.
The MSDP is a grassroots motorsport program launched by the AAP in 2015 to develop the future racing champions in the country. With its team of champion instructors and organizers, it promotes the sport to young driving enthusiasts. The program also makes the sport more accessible and safer in the country with its training modules, track activities, and national gymkhana series.
Know more about the AAP Motorsport Development Program by following AAP Motorsports on Facebook or visit motorsports.aap.org.ph.
