Filipino karting prodigy Gaby Garcia rules Asian tilt

A new karting prodigy created ripples in the local racing circuit.

Gabrielle “Gaby” Garcia of De La Salle University recently bagged the gold trophy at the 2015 Asian Karting Open Championship at the Carmona Racing Circuit barely a year after trying her hand in the sport.

Driving a KT100-powered PCR, the 18-year-old topped the Formula SL Ladies Class after racing against seasoned karters with international experience.       

Garcia, trained by racing coach Elson Carpio and veteran mechanic Carlos Villena, clocked the fastest lap times on the wet and dry condition tires during practice and qualifying rounds.       

She also placed second on pole position in the final race before taking the lead for good on the sixth lap.       

“I began karting just September last year. When I started, I had no coach and no idea on how to kart,’’ said Garcia, whose father Jing fuelled her daughter’s passion for racing.       

During the race, Garcia drove the most outdated kart and engine.       

“We’re even ridiculed for it, but my veteran mechanic constantly reassured me that we could still win the race,’’ said the De La Salle freshman from Focal-Praga team.

Second on pole position, Garcia found the opening on the sixth lap and took the lead until the checkered flag was waved that signalled the end of the race.