Asian Motor Sports

After a one year absence in Autopolis, the Asian Touring Car Series and Fariqe Hairuman got off to a good start with a winning performance in front of the 12,100 Japanese spectators today.

The 24 year old led from pole to finish, but not without having a few tense moments being followed by his closest rival, Masaki Kano. The Engstler Motorsport driver is keen to make a good impression in front of his countrymen and he stayed close to Hairuman for the first part of the race.

“I was a little worried about Kano, he is my closest competitor. I tried to hold him off because my tyres were not warm enough at that time and so I struggled to get them to the right temperature. Luckily I managed to do that in front of him.

“I just want to thank my team for doing such a great job. I’m really happy that we can win here because the last time we raced here, I did not get a good result. I’m really happy with the result today” said Hairuman after the podium ceremony.

Flanking him on the podium was Masaki Kano and Hong Kong driver, Cheung Chi Sing. Both drivers maintained their pace throughout the race and finished the race in the same position.

Behind them, there was a great duel for fifth and sixth with the ever battling duo of Danny Satcy Chau and Melvin Choo. Danny Chau kept his pace throughout the race until lap seven when Choo crept up behind him. Danny Chau managed to keep his position by applying his many years of experience.

One lap later, Danny Chau’s car slowed slightly leaving Choo with an opportunity to make his move. “It was quite exciting today. The only realistic person I could make a move on was Danny and I think both of us had a bad start unfortunately. We tried to catch up with the guys in front but they were just a bit too fast.”

“I was just being patient behind Danny, waiting and hoping that I can catch up to him enough to make a move and that’s what happened. It was really worthwhile being patient” said Choo with a laugh after the podium ceremony.

The Asian Touring Car Series continues tomorrow, Sunday 14 October 2007 at Autopolis International Racing Circuit at 10.05am (local time).

Asian Touring Car Championship, Asian Motor Sports, Sports, Asian Festival of Speed, Auto Racing, Motorsports