TEAM LAND Rover Philippines, represented by the experienced duo of Larry Mendiola and Atoy Jamila, sets out to surpass its fifth-place finish when it competes in the second China Sanya Off-Road Rainforest Challenge in China’s southernmost city from Aug. 18 to 24.
The Filipinos will be driving a Land Rover Defender 90, powered by a 3.9 liter V8 petrol engine, the same machine they used when they placed eighth in the Malaysia Rainforest Challenge last year.
“We are proud to be racing for the country,” said team leader Robby Cosunji at a press conference.
Cosunji said the change to a petrol engine should enhance the team’s chances of surpassing its fifth-place finish last year.
The Filipinos emerged stock wench champion in last year’s race, but they will be competing in the mechanical wench class this year.
“We have a great car and a great team,” said Marc Song, executive director of Land Rover Philippines.
“We tested the car last year in Malaysia,” Cosunji said. “It’s been modified for extreme events.”
Also part of the Philippine team is Mendiola’s son, Hirryan, the chief mechanic.
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