The 2025 Makabayan Endurance Race Challenge opened with an impressive performance by Team MSCC Mazda Miata Spec, whose #55 race car dominated both the 2-Hour and 4-Hour categories of the Kagitingan Cup, the first leg of the season.
Guided by Angie Mead King, the team’s vision was clear: build a race car that goes faster, lasts longer, and performs more efficiently with every passing year. That goal was realized when the car, powered by a stock 2.0-liter Skyactiv-G engine, recorded 63 laps in the 2-Hour Race and 120 in the 4-Hour Race. The vehicle clocked fastest lap times of 1:49.8 and 1:53.7 respectively—clear benchmarks for endurance performance.
Far from a mere factory build, the MSCC Miata Spec was carefully developed over three years, its modifications tailored for both speed and durability. Enhancements include a carbon fiber body kit, Brembo braking system, Cusco suspension, a HGT 6-speed sequential gearbox, and upgraded differential and tires. Angie pointed out that the sequential gearbox alone helped cut lap times by as much as 4.5 seconds.
“The goal is simple: to be better every year. We want to beat last year’s times and keep evolving as a team,” Angie shared. That spirit was evident when the car achieved a 1:47.969 lap during qualifying—a surprising feat given the limited prep time prior to the race weekend.
As with any serious motorsport endeavor, challenges were ever-present. Technical delays, time constraints, and unexpected hurdles were part of the process. Yet, the team’s perseverance paid off—true to Mazda’s ethos of continuous improvement and challenge.
Behind this effort was a strong collaborative network. Mazda Philippines, team principals Windy Imperial and Steven Tan, race engineer Edgen Dy-Liacco, and experienced drivers Tyson Sy, Juha Turalba, and Milo Rivera all played essential roles. Even Mazda Japan’s motorsport head, Takahiro Kobayakawa, provided valuable insight into the car’s setup.
Now looking ahead to the next legs on June 14–15 and November 29–30, also to be held at Clark International Speedway, the team is preparing further enhancements to build on their early momentum.
With continued support from Bermaz Auto Philippines, Inc. (Mazda Philippines), the MSCC Miata Spec is poised to remain a front-runner in the 2025 endurance racing season.
