Now on its 5th edition, the kickoff to the 2023 Formula V1 Challenge surely didn’t disappoint as it delivered an action-packed weekend at the Clark International Speedway (CIS). Inclement weather added to the excitement and ensured that both PRO and AM Class drivers were always on their toes.
It was an odd start to the weekend as only 6 out of the 12 entries managed to set a lap time during Qualifying on Friday. The reigning Toyota GR Vios Cup champion, Iñigo Anton set the early pace with a 2:11.475 lap that would put him on pole for his Formula V1 Challenge debut. Last year’s AM Class champion Joaquin ‘Wakkeen’ Garrido was only 0.769 secs behind, while Oliver ‘Oyi’ Aquino was the highest placed AM Class driver on the 2nd row of the grid.
Race 1 was a head-to-head duel between Anton and Garrido. The pair swapped positions at almost every lap ’til the race had to be red flagged on lap 5 due to torrential rain, thus handing the win to Anton and Obengers Racing – Toyota Balintawak. Garrido was 2nd, while Vita Japan champion Kazuki Takemura was in a very distant 3rd and 2 laps down from the leaders. Rainy Medina managed to pip Aquino and win the AM Class, while Edgesport Racing driver Paolo Ayo was in 3rd.
Anton and Garrido picked up where they had left off the previous day and again fought for the lead in Race 1. With either one giving an inch, the 2 eventually made contact. Anton was fortunate to come out unscathed, but the same cannot be said for Garrido who was forced into retirement. This allowed Inigo to cruise to another race victory while Takemura inherited 2nd. The AM Class saw a repeat performance from Medina, Aquino, Ayo who once again finished 1st, 2nd, and 3rd.
The final race of the weekend was Garrido’s chance to shine and get back at Anton. Having to start from the back of the grid due to his earlier DNF, the OTR Racing driver fought his way through the field to catch up to Anton. It only took him 2 laps to get within striking distance, but again the pair made contact during their scuffle for position allowing Takemura to sail past into the lead. With neither driver willing to back down, the Japanese driver let them through and stayed out of their battle. Garrido was eventually able to overtake Anton and made it stick earning him a hard-fought victory with Anton 0.274 secs behind in 2nd and Takemura a further 0.741 secs in 3rd. Similarly in the AM Class, Aquino was finally able to best Medina to secure the win with Dondi San Jose earning his first class podium in the series.
After a successful opening event, the Formula V1 Challenge now has its sights for Round 2 on the 21st/22nd of July still at the Clark International Speedway (CIS).
The 2023 Formula V1 Challenge is a partnership between Tuason Racing and West Racing of Japan, supported by Motul Philippines, FASA, Filinvest Parkway Corporate Center, TOPTUL, and OMP. Alongside it are media partners, AutoDeal, Autocar Philippines, C! Magazine, Skramble Media, Time Attack Manila, Inquirer Mobility, the Philippine Daily Inquirer, and Wheels Philippines.
