The Philippines recently played host to the 9th Yamaha ASEAN Cup Race which saw riders from all over the region battle it out for the top spot of the well-known one-make race. Launched in 2003, the Yamaha ASEAN Cup Race is a one-make championship race competed by riders who have been chosen through qualifying races held in their respective countries.

The motorcycle race, which was held in the country for the first time, was organized by the Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. and held at a specially prepared course at the SM City Sta. Rosa shopping mall in Laguna.

Forty-three riders from the five participating countries including the Philippines, India, Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand were chosen through national qualifiers. Two riders from Japan joined the pack as special entries.

The race machines used included the T135 or Sniper MX for the manual transmission Class and the AL125 scooter or Yamaha MIO 125 MX for the new automatic transmission Class.

There is a growing interest for motorcycle sports in the ASEAN region which is a main market for Yamaha Motor’s arterial motorcycle business. In recent years, a growing number of young people have demonstrated a desire for a more active lifestyle.