To kick off this year’s Vios Cup one-make race, Toyota Motor Philippines has started stepping out onto the tracks again with the reopening of the Toyota Gazoo Racing (TGR) Academy Philippines.
The TGR Academy (then known as Toyota Racing School) played host to both new drivers and familiar faces in the local motorsport industry—all eyeing to quench the thirst for four-wheel excitement.
The instructors and mentors of the TGR Academy are composed of veteran racing trainers from the country with at least 10 years of experience on the track, and former champions of the Toyota Vios Cup in the Philippines.
The Level 1 (Basic Circuit Car Class) teaches the basic skills and essential safety rules needed to properly drive a race car around the track. The said class—done via online lecture and supplemented by on-ground training at the Clark International Speedway (CIS)—discusses threshold braking, downshifting, racing line, and track lapping.
Meanwhile, the Level 2 (Advance Circuit Class) is for racers eyeing a position on the podium of the upcoming Toyota Vios Cup 2021.
TGR Academy instructor JP Tuason is anticipating an exhilarating season.
“We’ve had a break for a year because of the pandemic, but we’re back and it’s going to be a very exciting season this year. We’ve got new drivers training already with us. So, we’re looking at about 30 cars on the grid at the season this year,” Tuason was quoted as saying.
In accordance with the country’s safety protocols, students will no longer share the vehicle with other participants to ensure the health and safety of each racer. Registration was done online and some classes were made through video conference. Before entering the circuit as the Clark International Speedway, the staff and the students were tested as well. Each batch of students to run on track was given a designated time slot, and driving instructions were communicated via through two-way radios. All equipment and vehicles were disinfected before every use.
Iñigo Anton, who attended the two classes, said that those who attended the program are really interested in participating this season. “We looked forward to this day when we can return to the track once again,” he added.
TMP shared that the Level 2 students will be “armed with advanced techniques and skills to make their way to the finish line” working with official One-Make-Race build of the Toyota Vios. “Students got the chance to have the feel of the competition through a mock race in the Level 2 race class,” the company noted.
“Even though I’ve been racing for a long time, I still learn here. The classes and learnings made me a smoother and faster driver. It’s such a good program and hopefully, those people who are interested to join in racing, in general, would explore the program and start their journey here. It really teaches one all the things to know from being a beginner racer and as one progresses to the next level in racing,” Anton claimed.
Racing neophyte Aleksa Meily explained that joining the program was her way to join racing.
“I enrolled in the Toyota Gazoo Racing Academy because I want to put my foot in the door in the world of racing. I was very inspired after watching Formula 1, and I thought why don’t I try it, instead of just watching in front of the screen.”
Further, TMP explicated that the TGR Academy is a great stepping stone for anyone interested in joining the Toyota Gazoo Racing Vios Cup, slated in July. The said racing series will be bringing back the Super Sporting class, which will be joined by the country’s seasoned racers.
Photos from Toyota Motor Philippines
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