Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) wrapped up the National Finals of the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing GT Cup Philippines (TGR GT Cup PH) on August 18 at SM Mall of Asia, marking the first time the event was held in a live public venue.
The finals drew large crowds as the country’s top sim racers competed for cash prizes, exclusive TGR merchandise, seats in the Autocross Challenge, and the chance to represent the Philippines in the Asia Finals.
Quarterfinals and Semifinals Recap
The Quarterfinals, held on August 17, saw the top 40 fastest e-racers compete in the Toyota GR Yaris RZ “High Performance” ‘20 at Trial Mountain. Racers were divided into four groups, each battling in three race heats. Defending champion Russel Reyes, Luis Moreno, and Junior Class champion Enzo Ison dominated their respective groups.
In the Semifinals, the top 20 racers took on the Suzuka Circuit in the Toyota GR Supra RZ ’20. Luis Moreno maintained his lead, consistently finishing at the top, while Russel Reyes secured first place in the second batch.
Thrilling National Finals
The National Finals featured three different tracks with distinct cars: Deep Forest in the Toyota GR Yaris RZ “High Performance” 20, Brands Hatch Grand Prix Circuit in the Toyota GR 86 RZ ‘21, and Fuji International Speedway in the Toyota GR Supra Racing Concept ’18.
In the first race, a strategic pit stop helped Luis Moreno overtake Reyes to win. The second race saw Moreno start at the back but finish first. In the final race, dynamic weather challenged the racers, and Moreno’s strategic pit stop allowed him to gain the lead before a dramatic turn of events saw Matthew Ang take the win.
Final Standings and Awards
Luis Moreno was crowned the TGR GT Cup PH 2024 Champion with 75 points, followed by Enzo Ison in 2nd place with 48 points, and Russel Reyes in 3rd with 45 points. Ison was named Driver of the Day, and Ang was recognized for the Fastest Lap.
“This has been a fun event. Thank you for giving us sim racers the opportunity,” said Russel Reyes. Enzo Ison thanked his supporters, while Luis Moreno praised TMP for hosting the live event and reflected on his new training approach this year.
Moreno, Ison, and Reyes will represent Team Philippines at the Asia Finals in Malaysia on October 13.
Event Partners and Next Race
The TOYOTA GAZOO Racing GT Cup Philippines is supported by Petron, GT Radial, Seiko, Toyota Financial Services Philippines, myTOYOTA Wallet, Denso, AVT, 3M, ROTA, Tuason Racing, OMP, and Kinto One.
Catch more action at the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippine Cup on September 28 at Clark International Speedway in Pampanga. Admission is free!
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