'Wonder Boy’ Paz anxious yet excited to race in FIM CEV Repsol-Moto2

The country's motorcycle child prodigy McKinley Kyle Paz said that that he is both excited and anxious to join the 2021 FIM CEV-Repsol Moto2 Category.

During the virtual meet and greet prior to his debut in the race series, Paz—also known as “The Wonder Boy”—revealed that while he is motivated as the first Filipino rider to join the said race, he is nervous because of the opportunity.

Over the weekend, Paz made his first appearance at this year’s FIM CEV-Repsol Moto2 Category after being the victor at the 2019 Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC) UB150. Paz is also the first Filipino to be invited to the highly exclusive VR46 Master Camp.

“Sobrang saya ko po dahil ako po yung unang (Filipino) na sumakay dito. May konti kaba pa po, pero ang saya ko. Dati pinapanuod ko lang itong Moto2. Yung mga lugar dito, dati nilalaro ko lang sa PlayStation, ngayon naiikutan na namin, (I am very happy as I am the first Filipino to join this series. Although a bit nervous, I am very happy to be here. Back then, I’m used to watching Moto2 when I was younger. Also, I am now going to places I only saw before in my Playstation).” Paz told reporters.

He also shared that the biggest challenge for him so far is adjusting to the riding style for the Moto2, where they are using a 600cc motorcycle.

Paz shared that the transition from riding a Yamaha Sniper150, to a 600cc Moto2 Grand Prix motorcycle is huge. “Kakaiba yung handling, magaan pero powerful. Pero ngayon, medyo nageenjoy na ako gamitin (the handling is different. It is light but very powerful. But I am beginning to enjoy it,” he said.

Yamaha Motor Philippines (YMPH) Motorsports and Safety Promotions Head Jordan Cornista said that they are expecting Paz to have a good finish in Paz maiden race in the competition. “The experience is great, but we have to overcome this challenge (that Paz is experiencing),” he said.

Further, Paz shared that he is enjoying the company of his seven-man pit crew, describing them fun to be with.

Meanwhile, YMPH Marketing Assistant Section Manager Toni Boi Acuesta urged Paz to just savor the moment. “Enjoy, be proud, and raise the flag of the Philippines with Yamaha,” Acuesta said.

Photos from Yamaha Motor Philippines

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