Checkered Flag: Yamaha Grand Prix Season 9 

And they’re off!

The circuit arena was filled with accolades and boisterous cheers as the crowd went wild as soon as the checkered flag was waved. It was a sign — the ultimate sign — that the Yamaha Grand Prix season 9 was in session.

Last September 9, Sunday, the Palawan International Circuit welcomed participants, dealers and just about anyone into one of the most anticipated race of the year. On its 9th year, the Yamaha Grand Prix has been the venue for riders, both young and young at heart, and racing enthusiasts to come together and meet under one roof to support their teams as they race to become the best in the field.

Previously held races catapulted the riders on this year’s YGP season 9. Hence, giving the crowd an inevitable reason to cheer and rally behind their favourite teams and of course, riders.

YGP Underbone 150 Champion, Masato Fernando, together with John Emerson Inguito and Justine Bethany Tolentino, YGP first female champion, echoed their happiness with sincere gratitude of thanks to their team and supporters who pushed them to be this year’s ultimate riders.

“I am lost for words. Ever since last (YGP) season, I have prepared myself for this race,” said 18 year-old Justine Bethany Tolentino, who was hailed as the first female Yamaha Grand Prix Champion. “It’s all worth it”, she added with a smile.

Like her, crowd favourites Masato Fernando and JE Inguito, who gave an exhilarating race, foretold of the steps they took to prepare themselves for this year’s race. “I kept myself healthy, my mind clear and told myself to just enjoy every rev on my bike,” said Fernando.

“I prepared myself for the endless possibilities I might encounter while on the circuit course. I focused on my goal and of course, enjoyed every second inside (the circuit)”, shared Inguinto.

Yamaha Motor Philippines Senior Marketing Manager Ryan June Camus, during his welcome remarks, said, “This is just the beginning. To everyone on the circuit and those who are looking into racing, we look forward to racing with you and bringing the Philippine flag all over the globe. And yes, keep on driving”.

Participants of the 9^th Yamaha Grand Prix came from all over the archipelago. For the male category, teams were composed of the best riders (from each island) representing either Luzon, Visayas or Mindanao and a Wildcard team. For the females, teams were also composed of the most skilled riders (from each island) plus a Wildcard team.
Dealers were also given the opportunity to race amongst themselves — Motor Ace, New Nemar, CycleHaus, RGC, DES Marketing and MotorHub.

Akihiro Maruo, Yamaha Philippines Sales and Marketing Director, expressed his happiness as he congratulated and thanked everyone for making the Yamaha Grand Prix season 9 possible. “This is an opportunity to be part of history.” he said. He further added, “Good luck and stay safe, everyone.”

Awarding Ceremony came right after the final leg of the race.

YGP OVERALL SEASON RESULTS
For YGP Underbone 150 Championship 
1^st Masato Fernando (188 Pts)
2^nd John Emerson Inguito (170.5 pts)
3^rd Mckinley Kyle Paz (131 pts)
4^th Bornok Mangosong (127.75pts)
5^th Garry Caneda (85.25pts)

ALL FEMALE
1^st Justinne Bethany Tolentino (50pts)
2^nd Erica Ondillo (40pts)
3^rd Alicia Ortega (29pts)

Dealer Cup – Expert
1^st Epharim Onahon (62.5pts) – Rhean Marketing
2^nd Durraine Dan Carlos (50pts) – LYR Motorhub
3^rd Ernie Daguio (36.25 pts) – DHCI Cyclehaus

Dealer Cup – Intermediate
1^st John Paul Lantape (62.5) Motorace
2^nd Bornok Mangosong (45pts) Rhean Marketing
3^rd McDon Dave Sande (38.75pts)

Dealer Ranking
1^st Rhean Marketing (208.5pts)
2^nd Motorace (204 pts)
3^rd LYR Motorhub (197.75 pts)
4^th DES Marketing (148.5 pts)
5^th DHCI Cyclehaus (118.25)