Rivera off to flying start

Six races down, six races won.

With the first half of the 2017 Phoenix – RACE Motorsports Club National Slalom Series done, three-time defending National Slalom Champion Milo Rivera has been off to a flying start.

The 2016 FIA Gymkhana Champion and 2017 PSA President's Award recipient's latest victory came last July 9 during the championship's 6th leg held at Robinsons San Fernando, Pampanga – with a winning time of 49.44 seconds, a good 0.28 second faster than second place finisher, 13-year-old wonder kid, Iñigo Anton (90.72 seconds).

What made the victory sweeter for Milo was that his brother, former Vios Cup ace driver, Estefano Rivera finished a very impressive third place with a best time of 50.22 seconds.

Capping the Top 5 finishers were Doctor Pewee Mendiola (50.38) and Carlos Anton (50.72), respectively.

The multi-titled Rivera credited his victory to his uncle, former three-time National Slalom Champion, Noel Rivera, and his team, for their relentless efforts in keeping his trusty 1981 Toyota Starlet in winning form.

“Racing is never a one-man sport. There will always be men and women behind you and your car to continuously give you the winning edge, and I'm very blessed to have with me people who are more than perfect for the challenge,” said the 22-year-old Rivera who is backed by Blade Auto Center Philippines, Foil A Car, United Auctioneers, Inc., and Placewell Intl. Services, Corporation.

Rivera, who is also a co-host of the hit reality motorsports show, Garahista, is looking forward to the rest of his 2017 season as he looks to not only gun for a fourth straight slalom crown, but to also defend his FIA Gymkhana title which kicks-off its 4-leg championship this July in Indonesia.

Aside from that, Rivera also looks to compete in several championships in and out of the country.