Defending champion Jonathan Tiu roared to a double victory in the 2015 Philippine Drag Racing Championship Northern Series kickoff held recently at Clark International Speedway.
Tiu dominated both Quick 8 and M&H Super Pro classes in the race that lured a record field of 170 drivers.
Parading his Nissan R35, Tiu clocked 9.075 seconds in turning back TJ Pangilinan in the Quick 8 race. Allan Ararao claimed third place following a technical infringement on John Ron Atienza.
Tiu later registered 9.161 seconds to bet Danes Sarmento in the M&H Super Pro.
The M&H Pro, meanwhile, was a duel between former national champion Martin Manalo, who eventually won, and younger brother Marc. They also faced off in last year’s finals.
Marc, the 2013 Southern Series winner, fought his way up from the loser’s circle and turned back John Ryzia for a finals slot.
Martin sealed the title showdown after winning his semifinal race match against Fred Germar.
It was an even race at the start until Martin surged ahead in the last 300 meters to prevail in 12.457 seconds.
Action shifts to the Batangas Racing Circuit Drag Strip for the kickoff of the Southern Series on Jan. 31.
For inquiries, call BRC’s Nelson Gayola or Rodini Rivera at 7295365, 0932-8604522. Steve Silva, Contributor