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2017.4.1
SUZUKI ASIAN CHALLENGE opens its 3rd season in Johor
SUZUKI ASIAN CHALLENGE (SAC) started its 3rd season with 16 riders from 9 countries at Johor Circuit in Pasir Gudang, Malaysia. SAC is a single platform race using the new Suzuki GSX-R150. It was established in 2015, spearheaded by former MotoGP and World Superbike rider, Yukio Kagayama. SAC aims to develop young Asian riders, to become a rider with a high caliber, not only on track but off the track as well.
Two practice sessions took place on Day 1. The riders already had their taste of the track 2 weeks prior to the race weekend, as they participated in the pre-season test at the same circuit.
Practice 1 took place in the morning in hot weather. The riders took their laps setting up their GSX-R150s. #11 Ahmad Saugi Muchtar (Indonesia) took the first lead of the season, by finishing the session in 1’58.507, the only rider to break the 1’59 mark. #78 Punchana Kulrojchalalai (Thailand) came in 2nd with a laptime of 1’59.037, followed by #32 Prahbu Arunagiri (India) with a laptime of 1’59.056.
Practice 2 started at 16:30, but the session had to be stopped due to rain and thunder.
Yukio Kagayama | General Manager
“Please allow me to thank everyone that supported us to make SAC reach its third season. The new Suzuki GSX-R150 made its debut in SAC this week, and I am looking forward to witness its potential this week. I ask for your support to all of our riders at SAC this season.”
Shunji Yatsushiro | Rider Coach
“We weren’t expecting Practice 2 to be cut short due to bad weather, but overall, the riders have been improving on their lap time, and i am expecting a good race this weekend. I wish the riders will do well in qualifying, and show us an exciting race for Race 1 tomorrow.”
