MANILA, Philippines?American Ken Kepner aims to continue his mastery of the Clark International Speedway in the second leg of the 2008 Pagcor Drag Racing Championships-Northern Series, which fires off today at the Clark Ecozone in Pampanga.

Kepner, a retired US serviceman driving a classic 1969 Camaro, was crowned pioneer champion of the newly-built CIS, turning back David Lim with his 10.245-second clocking.

Also among the drivers to watch are Jonathan Tiu and Ed Christian Go.

Pepi Santos is seeking a repeat in the pro class, while Paul Henderson Perez of Alps Racing is eyeing the expert division title of this event sanctioned by the Automobile Association Philippines.

Romeo Manuel is favored to prevail in the sportsman class while Ronald Viloria will defend his hot street division title.

Other drivers joining the event backed by Pagcor Sports, San Miguel Corporation, Pilipinas Shell, Yokohama, Motospray and the Clark Development Corporation are Pablo Sarmiento, Anthony Go, Vanni Garcia, When-When Dagondon and Eduardo Pujol.

Race director Fil Gulfin has advised participants to sign up early and join a two-hour free practice starting at 7 a.m.

The qualifying proper is set at 9 a.m.

Steve Silva, Contributor