The Leg 2 of the Toyota Gazoo Racing (TGR) Vios Cup was held in an incredible fashion last October 16 at the Clark International Speedway. Toyota Motor Philippines gave us the chance to witness the spectacular event. Without a doubt, the biggest and longest-running one-make race in the Philippines is back.
“With more than 48 racers, we challenged the roadblocks of this pandemic. And now we are back, ready for more thrilling track action,” said TMP President Atsuhiro Okamoto during the opening ceremonies.
Just like Leg 1 of the Vios Cup, Leg 2 was live-streamed on Toyota Motor Philippines’ official social media platforms due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Fans were able to witness the action-packed event online while remaining safe in the comfort of their homes. This is necessary to avoid the further spread of the COVID-19 virus. Even the racers, guests, and folks from Toyota complied with strict safety protocols during the events.
Surprisingly, despite the postponements, the anticipation did not die for Leg 2 of the Vios Cup. The excitement from fans is no less even online. They were showing their support to their favorite racers in the live comment section. Meanwhile, nothing changed on the track. Every race is still action-packed and breathtaking. The COVID-19 pandemic didn’t stop the Vios Cup from being spectacular and amazing.
I was able to experience the entire Leg 2, firsthand. Toyota Motor Philippines gave me the chance to try the new Autocross Challenge. It is where drivers have to drive across a set of obstacle courses, the goal is to finish each track perfectly in the shortest possible time.
The lineup is usually filled with veteran drivers and absolute beginners just like me. Same as the circuit racing, it was also filled with media personalities such as Enzo Pineda, Laura Lehmann, Winwyn Marquez, Aaron Villaflor, John Manalo, Gab Lagman, and more.
To cut the story short, I did not make it. Nevertheless, I learned a lot during that race weekend. For one, I realized that the Toyota Vios is a very potent car. With the right setup, it can easily be a capable track car. The best part is that parts are widely available for this car. A great convenience since track cars are prone to breakdowns due to heavy beating.
Moreover, I realized that Toyota Motor Philippines is going to great lengths just to give Filipinos races like this. Without a doubt, race events like the Vios Cup are very expensive to set up, promote, and organize. This is why they are the only car manufacturer to promote motorsports in the country.
As a fan of motorsports, I can’t help but be grateful that Toyota is doing such a thing, especially when they don’t have to. Although my participation in the event is over, I will continue to support this local event as long as it’s around.
Since 2014, the Vios Cup has served as a platform for many aspiring race car drivers. It is where celebrities, influencers, media personalities, and professional racers compete to showcase their talents using the locally manufactured Vios with similar modifications.
Last time, Julia Delos Angeles took home 2 out of 3 first-place awards in the Promotional Class, while Royce Sarmiento took the top spot for the last race. Meanwhile, Iñigo Anton and Julian Tang dominated the Sporting Class as consistent top 3 contenders. The Super Sporting Class is always exciting with Vios Cup veterans Estefano Rivera, Bryan Co, Gerard Loy, Red Diwa, and Pauland Dumlao taking turns in the Top 3.
As for the Autocross Challenge, social media influencer Jules Aquino was hailed the champion in the Celebrities and Influencers Class, with newcomer Enzo Pineda coming in 2nd, and radio personality Gino Quillamor taking the 3rd place. Autoindustriya.com’s Jose Altoveros won the trophy in the Media Class followed by Brian Dacanay (Tier 1) and Paolo De Borja (C! Magazine).
The third and final leg of the Vios Cup is scheduled for November 6 this year. You can watch the event live through the official Facebook page of Toyota Gazoo Racing Philippines and Toyota Motor Philippines.
