BTS OF THE 2022 TOYOTA GAZOO RACING VIOS CUP SEASON
The biggest racing program in the country just closed its 2022 season. The ninth year of the Toyota GAZOO Racing Vios Cup was especially memorable because it showed how things are returning to normal after the pandemic. One of the top draws of racing is its connection with its audience. The racers get exhilarated by the cheers of the fans and camaraderie with their fellow competitors. While the competition on the track can get really intense and tempers
can sometimes flare up, handshakes and beer toasts are exchanged as soon as the checkered flag is waved and the official results are out after all the post-race discussion with race stewards.
Because of the pandemic, TGR Vios Cup in 2021 was run with no audience, and racers were socially distanced. This year, we saw the fans trooping to the race venue from different parts of Luzon. We also saw the Cebu team competing once more. The fans, organizers, and media are excited to hear the engines roar and feel the energy in the air.
I had a great time reconnecting with the Toyota officers, media, and some of the sponsors over bowls of champorado in the TMP suite. I haven’t seen some of them for almost two years, and sharing our excitement about the races and how the trackside reporters can talk for nearly three hours straight is a fond memory.
Next year is going to be the 10th year of the TGR Vios Cup which is definitely another milestone to get excited to go to the track.
JP Tuason
It made me happy seeing the fans being on the grid and have their photos taken with their favorite racers. As a race organizer and former racer, making this activity possible makes my heart full.
Elvin Luciano, TMP
One of my most memorable moments was witnessing the supporters and spectators come in upon opening the venue. It brings us, the organizers, fulfillment and satisfaction, seeing the look of excitement and anticipation, especially among friends and families with their young kids already taking great interest in motorsports. Also, this year’s TGR Vios Cup saw our TGR GT Cup virtual racers tackle real-world tracks, and for me, seeing them have fun and gain new experiences is a significant season highlight.
Sunshine Cabrera, TMP
Seeing the Race fans coming to the event was the most memorable. It was fun to watch people lining up with their whole families, with flags and their favorracing ite team’s uniform. Seeing the races with a live audience is different from watching them online.
Fabio Ide
most memorable moMy ment this season happened
during leg two on the 5th race, where I started in pole position but then forgot the handbrake on, so I couldn’t start up. Then was able to get back on track and ended up in third place.
Julia Delos Angeles (TGR Vios Cup )
Although it may not have ended the way we hoped, my most memorable moment this season was leading the championship in the promotional class coming into the last leg, especially since I was the only girl in my class. This year, we also had a lot of new faces, and it’s nice to have gotten to know and race against them because I learned a lot from them.
Enzo Pineda ( TGR Autocross)
My most memorable moment this season is winning first place after several near misses in the Autocross.
Riz Javier (TGR Autocross)
“My most memorable moment is getting a podium finish, especially since this is my first season. I didn’t get a podium finish during the first two legs, so I was motivated to do well in the last one. I also have fond memories of hanging out with my fellow racers and my supportive friends. I will always remember the lessons I learned during the training, which I can use in my everyday drive.”
Royce Sarmiento (Vios Cup Winner - Race 8)
It was such a close race that every point counts. Winning Race 8 was the most memorable for me because it made me the overall points leader.
Iñigo Anton (Vios Cup Winner - Race 9)
The most memorable moment for me was crossing the finish line ahead of the pack and taking the checkered flag. I had to win in the final race to clinch the 2022 championship. The competition was challenging the whole season, so this championship was extra special. I want to thank Team Obengers Racing for trusting and supporting me.