The top racer of 2018 will be known on March 9 when the 16th Golden Wheel Awards pays tribute to the feats of the country’s motorsports stars at the Samsung Hall of SM Aura in Taguig City.
From among the champions in 13 various racing categories will emerge the 2018 Golden Wheel Driver of the Year, the prestigious award won last year by Masato Fernando of Underbone motorcycle racing.
The nominees are Gian Carlo Mauricio (Scooters), John Emerson Inguito (Underbone), Marvin Mangulabnan (Superbikes), Edwin Rodriguez (Grand Touring), Carlos Castañeda (Classic Car Mini), Fil Gulfin (Classic Car Aspirated), Jannery Millet (Drag Racing), Milo Rivera (Slalom), John Dizon (Karting) Bianca Bustamante (Asian Karting, juniors), Kaito Tsukada (Asian Karting, seniors), Mon Dimapilis (Rallycross) and Jherico Lara (4×4 Offroad Racing).
A panel of judges composed of veteran motorsports personalities as well as members of the media will select the top driver, who will receive his trophy from Johnny Tan, the former karter who chairs the Golden Wheel Awards Foundation.
“Local motor racing wouldn’t have been more robust and exciting last year without the exploits of our 13 candidates. Each one of them deserves the top award,” said Tan, who has spent a fortune keeping motorsports alive in the country.