Yamaha Motors Philippines held their “Champions Rising: Racing Beyond Limits” event to introduce their racing teams for the upcoming season. Held at the Yamaha headquarters in Manila, the function gave fans and media a first look at Yamaha’s elite circuit and off-road riders.
Leading Yamaha’s circuit racing charge is McKinley “The Wonderboy” Kyle Paz. After three seasons honing his craft in European junior grand prix, Paz has returned to Asia. He will represent the Yamaha Tekhne ASEAN Team in the premier SuperSport 600 class of the Asia Road Racing Championship. Joining Paz under the UMA MMR Yamaha Philippine Racing Team banner are April “Rocketboy” King Mascardo and Gian Carlo “The Flash” Mauricio. Mascardo and Mauricio will be seeking redemption in the Underbone 150 category after podium finishes in past seasons.
On the off-road side, Bornok “The Lion” Mangosong continues to establish his dominance. With an unprecedented three straight National Rider of the Year awards, Mangosong cements his place as Philippines’ greatest motocross talent. Alongside him is Pia “The Princess of Philippine Motocross” Gabriel. A two-time Female Rider of the Year at just 18 years old, Gabriel’s star continues rising both domestically and regionally.
Yamaha also recognized up-and-coming junior riders. Moy Reyes, Zain “The Missile” Kaizzer Doblada and Mytchell “MJ” Joshua Ngo earned coveted spots representing Asia-Pacific in the FIM’s R3 bLU cRU championship. Satellite teams 4S1M Yamaha Evo, led by veteran sprinter J.E. “The Hitman” Inguito, and SEC Yamaha, with rising prospects JD “Speed Demon” Purino and Bethany “Toli” Tolentino, round out Yamaha’s formidable contingent.
Fans can expect Yamaha’s top-tier riders to be battling for overall victories throughout the season in championships like the ARRC, national series and more. Yamaha’s grassroots development efforts will also be on display as their riders chase podiums and championships across circuits and off-road disciplines.
