TGR Festival Archives

Day 2 Report – TGR Festival & Vios Challenge Season 4, Round 2

After yesterday’s racing in hot and sunny weather, the second racing session of Round 2 of the Vios Challenge at the Sepang International Circuit was run in both wet and dry conditions. But like yesterday, the competition was intense for both the new and existing drivers in the series which is now in its fourth season.

“Looking at all the action on and off the track, it was obvious that everyone in the community has been eager to get back to doing what they do best – racing! The competition was just as intense, if not greater, than it had been before the pandemic and this is precisely the boost of energy we all need to steer out of these challenging times,” said GAZOO Racing Malaysia’s Chief Motorsport Officer, Akio Takeyama.

“As an event organizer, one of the most demanding aspects of the weekend in these times has not so much been in managing the racing on the track but to ensure that all safeguards are in place and adhered to in order to protect everyone on site from the threat of COVID-19. This remains our number one priority,” he stressed.

The event was closed to the public and spectators in accordance with conditions set by the National Security Council (MKN) pertaining to the organizing of sporting events. However, some 2 million people watched the races online in Malaysia as well as anywhere that was connected to the internet.

SUPER SPORTING CLASS
Unlike Race 1 which was held in blistering hot conditions, Race 2 got underway in the rain with drivers not only having to contend with a slippery track but also poor visibility. Those conditions however, seemed to Favour M7 Japan Project Team’s Syafiq Ali who catapulted himself into the lead from fourth position in the first corner, followed closely by team mate Faidzil Alang.

However, all the excitement of Lap 1 was cut short when the Safety Car had to be activated and circulated for 3 laps. During this time, Syafiq led the convoy behind the Safety Car and ahead of Faidzil, followed by Hayden Haikal who started from pole position.

Mark Darwin who was running in fifth behind overall championship leader Tengku Djan Ley eventually spun going into the first corner after the restart, dropping to 12^th. The fight at the front of the pack was extremely fierce with Cheah charging aggressively with the hope of making it a double race win. After passing Hayden, his duel with Faidzil for second position lasted for 2 laps before he got past and away. His sights were then set on catching race leader Syafiq who was 2.1 seconds ahead.

As conditions worsened, the Safety Car was again called out on lap 10. This erased whatever lead Syafiq had built up. As the rain got heavier, the race was eventually red flagged which meant all racing was suspended. However, the race was able to be resumed minutes later, again under Safety Car conditions, and with 1 lap to go, Syafiq held his ground to take the chequered flag just half a car’s length in front of Cheah, and Faidzil in third position.

SPORTING CLASS
Like the Super Sporting Class race, this race was also run in wet conditions. But the rain was just the ‘x-factor’ Crestmax Motorsport’s Adam Khalid needed to make a huge impact on the race results when he stormed from 15th position on the starting grid to win the 20-lap race.

Adam, who finished the race ahead of Aylezo Motorsport’s Mirza Syahmi Mahzan and Eric Yong who came in third, said: “The rain really helped me, and the team did an awesome job to prepare the car… it was just perfect and by the 6th lap, I found myself in the lead. From then on, I just kept my head down and focused on track ahead.”

ROOKIE CLASS
In the Rookie Class, 17-year-old Amer Harris was the highest placed young driver running seventh overall, in the race which shared the grid with the Super Sporting Class racers. Amer took the chequered flag ahead of fellow teenager Mika Hakimi and 14-year-old Putera Adam.

The race win was Amer’s second podium finish over the weekend, having completed Race 1 yesterday (Saturday) in third position. Finishing fifth and failing to make it four race wins in a row was Naquib Azlan, followed by Jwan Hii in fifth position.

PROMOTIONAL CLASS
The Promotional Class race was almost a repeat of Race 1’s results with actor Shukri Yahaya once again claiming race victory, his second for the weekend. It was a closely-contested 18-lap race, and he finished 7.1 seconds ahead of TV presenter Nabil Ahmad. In third place was fellow actor Zizan Razak.

Starting from fifth on the grid, Shukri piled on the pressure from the very beginning as he picked off one by one Wany Hasrita, Akio Takeyama, and singers Nabila Razali and Khai Bahar to move into the lead.

“I realized that I can be rather impatient in past races and that led to some bad decisions and mistakes on track. Patience is very important in racing. I’ve also been working really hard at improving my driving skills and I made a conscious effort over the last 7 months of break to work on my driving and racecraft on a simulator – that has helped a great deal to prepare me for this weekend,” said Shukri.

With two race victories, both Shukri and Zizan now have a solid chance of taking the overall championship title in the Promotional Class and that is what he is eyeing for. “As a super senior in the class by virtue of this being my fourth season in the Vios Challenge, I owe it to myself and my fans to become champion. I’m definitely going for it!” said Shukri.

Round 3 to be a night race
Round 3 and the season finale of the Vios Challenge will be held on November 20/21, again at the Sepang International Circuit. However, there will be a twist as it will be a night race! At this time, it is not known yet whether conditions will be relaxed to allow spectators to be present. To stay informed, visit the Toyota Malaysia website at www.toyota.com.my, or the Facebook pages of Toyota Malaysia and Toyota GAZOO Racing Malaysia.

Day 1 report – TGR Festival & Vios Challenge Season 4, Round 2

Round 2 of Vios Challenge to be broadcast live from Sepang circuit this weekend

At last, after the forced suspension of public activities – including motorsports – the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Festival can resume and with it, the second round of the Vios Challenge. As with the first round in March, Round 2 will also be run at the Sepang International Circuit this weekend (October 23/24).

Unfortunately, spectators will not be allowed to watch the racing from the stands as the health authorities do not permit such gatherings at this time. Therefore all the action will be broadcast live on the Toyota Malaysia website at www.toyota.com.my, and on the Facebook pages of Toyota Malaysia and Toyota GAZOO Racing Malaysia.

This second round is part of the fourth season of the popular Vios Challenge, a one-make series that has grown in popularity. As many of the participants have gained more experience with each season, the racing has also become more competitive. And because the cars are all technically similar – and strict inspections ensure that – the racing is close and what matters more is driver skill.

Round 1 brought out the best in all the racers, some going on to stamp an early sign of dominance in the opening races (two per round) of the season, while several newcomers demonstrated talent that have all the makings of emerging champions.

The Vios Challenge consists of 4 classes, including the Rookie Class which has 5 graduates of the GAZOO Racing Young Talent Development Program. These are promising racers who are stepping up from karting and sim racing to racing in a real saloon car for their very first time. There is also the ever-popular Promotional Class which has 10 local celebrities who are closely followed by their thousands of fans across the country.

*Some of the local celebrities taking part in the Promotional Class.*

The more serious drivers (not to say those in the Rookie Class and Promotional Class are not serious) are in the Sporting Class for amateur drivers and the Super Sporting Class for the veteran and professional drivers.

The battle of the rookies is currently being led by Naquib Nor Azlan, whose transition from sim racing to real racing has had little impact on his dominance on the racing track, virtual or otherwise. Naquib won the first two races of the season, closely chased by 17-year old Amer Harris and Mika Hakimi.

The Super Sporting Class see the dominance of professional driver, drifter and GAZOO Racing Ambassador, Tengku Djan Ley who was victorious in both season-opening races. Other contenders in the running include last season’s runner-up Mark Darwin, last season’s second runner-up Freddie Ang, and accomplished veterans the likes of Boy Wong, William Ho, Kenny Lee, Keifli Othman, Syafiq Ali and former Sporting Class champion Brendan Paul Anthony. Also competing in the class is teenager Hayden Haikal who was last year’s Sporting Class champion and has been upgraded.

An individual who has been equally dominant in the season opener is actor Zizan Razak who, like Tengku Djan and Naquib Azlan, also rejoins Round 2 with a perfect 2-race victory in Round 1 despite being in his first ever season of the Vios Challenge. Others competing in the Promotional Class include actor Shukri Yahaya, actress Janna Nick, presenter Nabil Ahmad and singers Wany Hasrita, Nabila Razali and Khai Bahar. They will be joined by singer/song writer Talitha Tan and television personality Ahirene Ahirudin.

The Sporting Class remains a class that is still too close to call with Adam Khalid and Haji Sutan Mustaffa Salihin each with one race victory to their name. 19 competitive drivers will be gunning for the chance of collecting more points this weekend and ending the season as champion.

“We are extremely grateful that the season can continue, and I am sure that all the racers are eager to get back into action. I do not foresee the long break having an adverse impact on their performance. Instead, like Round 1, the competition will be even stiffer and closer all the way to the chequered flag,” said GAZOO Racing Malaysia’s Chief Motorsport Officer, Akio Takeyama, who is also a racing driver himself.

The story behind TOYOTA GAZOO Racing and why it was created

Challenging times for UMW Toyota Motor with operations suspended

With the ongoing Movement Control Order (MCO) which began on 1 June 2021, many business sectors have had to remain closed. This has had an impact and in the auto sector, new vehicle sales for the whole industry have dropped tremendously in the month of June.

Commenting on the situation, President of UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT), Ravindran K., said that the continued closure of all Toyota and Lexus showrooms nationwide meant that no business could be conducted. Manufacturing of vehicles including the supply chain and logistic efforts have also come to a halt. While accepting that the Government has had to act for the good of the country, it has presented a challenge for the company.

*Lexus and Toyota showrooms throughout Malaysia have to remain closed, which has meant that no sales can be conducted.*

“We still have an encouraging order bank for the various models. Nevertheless, we are hopeful that the restrictions of the lockdown can be eased to allow us to operate in a limited and safe way. Naturally, we will abide by all Standard Operating Procedures, as we have during the past year,” he said.

Online showrooms and booking available
While the showrooms remain closed, the public can still obtain detailed information about Toyota and Lexus vehicles at their respective websites – toyota.com.my and lexus.com.my. They can find out about the models available in Malaysia and the attractive financing schemes for different requirements. Bookings can also be made online.

Mr. Ravindran reminded customers of the exemption of Sales & Service Tax (SST) which is extended until the end of 2021. The exemption covers both locally-assembled and imported Toyota and Lexus models and provides meaningful savings.

“We encourage customers to make their bookings online as we can then plan production at our two assembly plants to minimize waiting time when the restrictions are lifted, to enable customers to enjoy the current financial incentives,” he added.

*Toyota and Lexus owners can still get help in emergencies as support services are still allowed to operate 24/7.*

Aftersales support still available
Selected UMWT service centres continue to operate according to the provisions by the state and local authorities. Vehicle owners can therefore obtain assistance in emergencies. For assistance at any time, owners can call the Toyota and Lexus Helplines at 1-800-888- 247 and 1-800-225-3987, respectively.

Effects of prolonged restrictions
“While the government has formulated a National Recovery Plan (NRP) in four phases, we are still in Phase 1, which is the most restrictive. The current situation also makes planning for recovery difficult,” said Akio Takeyama, Deputy Chairman of UMW Toyota Motor.

Mr. Takeyama said that prolonged restrictions on vehicle production can have an impact not just on passenger vehicles but also commercial vehicles, which are essential for transportation of goods around the country.

*Some of the parts which are made in Malaysia and supplied to local assembly plants as well as exported to factories in other factories assembling Toyota vehicles.*

“Furthermore, export business will be affected as well as our subsidiaries export a substantial amount of automotive components as part of Toyota’s global supply chain. If this situation continues for long, we are concerned that our overseas customers may look for new suppliers as they cannot have their own production delayed due to shortage of parts from Malaysia. This could have an impact on Malaysia’s economy as a whole if export business declines,” he warned.

The prolonged situation could also impact progress with regard to the company’s initiatives for carbon neutrality through the manufacturing of hybrid electric vehicles. This was announced earlier in the month and will see UMWT making a RM270 million investment at its assembly plant in Selangor.

TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Festival
This year sees the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Festival (TGR Festival) being run for the fourth consecutive season. The event has grown in popularity and scale over the years, with the highlight being the Vios Challenge which is the only one-make race in Malaysia.

*Only the first round of the fourth season of the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Festival’s Vios Challenge could be held so far.*

“It is unfortunate that the ongoing pandemic and strict MCO conditions do not allow running of public events. This includes motorsports so the fourth season of the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Festival (TGR Festival) and Vios Challenge are on hold. When we ran the exciting first round on March 2 at the Sepang International Circuit, we were looking forward to the next two rounds as well as the introduction of the GAZOO Racing Vios Sprint Cup and GAZOO Racing Enduro Cup,” said Mr. Takeyama, who is also Chief Motorsports Officer of GAZOO Racing Malaysia.

“Let us all do our part and pray that the number of COVID-19 cases quickly reduces, and the government will be able to relax the regulations to allow public events,” he said.

Toyota and Lexus owners assured of assistance and support during FMCO

Day 2 Of TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Festival/Vios Challenge Season 4/Round 1

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed many things in our lives but mankind has survived for so long by adapting to changes and moving on. This has been the case in motorsports, in Malaysia as well as in other countries; to continue to have such activities requires change, at least in the short-term. The TOYOTA GAZOO Racing (TGR) Festival had to change for its fourth season this year, with the most significant difference from the past three seasons being that there could not be the huge crowds attending.

With this change, the organisers moved the action online with a livestream over two days to bring the action to fans not just around Malaysia but also globally as the internet is accessible from virtually anywhere on the planet. According to a GAZOO Racing Malaysia official, there were more than 2 million viewers online – certainly way bigger than any audience that a single round has had.

“On track especially, the suspense and quality of racing in the Vios Challenge has not diminished, in fact amplified even more, despite a one-year break. Brand affinity for GAZOO Racing has grown tremendously over three seasons of organizing what is today recognized as Malaysia’s premier motor-racing series, and I would like to thank all our GAZOO Racing fans and online viewers for their continued support, even in the absence of an on-ground festival,” said UMW Toyota Motor’s President, Ravindran K.

“Looking ahead to the following rounds, we hope to bring spectators back to the festival and enhance our live broadcast reach in line with our mission to bring motorsports to the masses,” he added. “One of the biggest challenges has been to organize the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Festival while doing our utmost best to retain the same level of energy and excitement it has been known for over the past three seasons. Yes, there are many limitations considering we are now in the recovery stages of a post COVID-19 pandemic era, but we are nevertheless grateful that motorsports activities can continue despite stricter standard operating procedures.”

SUPER SPORTING CLASS
The drama and outcome in the Super Sporting Class was again a repeat of yesterday’s first race victory for Tengku Djan Ley who ended the race weekend with a double race win. Starting from sixth position on the grid, Tengku Djan again played a waiting game before mounting an 11th hour assault for the race win, finishing ahead of Season 2’s Super Sporting Class champion, Boy Wong, who returns to the podium after a long absence, and Laser Motor Racing’s Mark Darwin who rounded up the top three positions.

The lead in the 20-lap race exchanged hands several times with Mark Darwin emerging the top contender in the opening laps of the race. His lead of almost 3 seconds however, evaporated when the Safety Car came out and at the restart, faced the onslaught of challenge from Boy and M7 Japan Project Team’s Syafiq Ali. Tengku Djan’s assault came in the 15th lap and he gradually extended his lead to 3.5 seconds by the time he took the chequered flag.

“In dry weather conditions, everyone was quick and I basically capitalized on the situation out on the track and made full use of it,” said Tengku Djan, well known for his drifting skills as well. “Racing is very much weather dependent, and there are so many variables at play such as the tyres. It’s a long 20-lap race and you have to be able to manage your tyres and car, knowing when to push and when to hold back. Maybe I just managed to do a better job of this.”

ROOKIE CLASS
Naquib Azlan showed that yesterday’s win was no fluke and that he has The Right Stuff. He was victorious again today ahead of Jwan Hii and Amer Harris who makes his second appearance on the podium.

The fight for the lead again exchanged hands several times during the 20-lap race with all three drivers, including Mika Hakimi in contention for victory. “At one moment, I was down to last position and I had to climb my way back up with a damaged car so I really didn’t know what to expect. I just kept my head down, kept my cool,” said 20-year-old Naquib who has actually driven thousands of laps at Sepang – on a simulator.

“Yesterday was really unpredictable with the wet race, and it boiled down to instinctive driving. What I never expected was the high degree of racecraft demonstrated by the Super Sporting Class drivers who were very aggressive, but it gave us a lot of knowledge going into further races in the season,” he said.

“Sim racing helps me prepare before coming to a racetrack and with experienced trainers and a data engineer helping us out in the GAZOO Racing Young Talent Development Program, I have learnt more about my driving…I want to learn more and proceed further,” Naquib added.

For Jwan, the dry conditions were well-suited to his driving preference. “I’m more comfortable in the dry,” said the 18-year-old. “It’s been quite a journey for me coming from karts to saloon car racing. Personally, I feel that the simulator sessions have had a huge impact in terms of racecraft and consistency.”

SPORTING CLASS
Racing to only his second win in the Sporting Class since joining last season was Haji Sutan Mustaffa Salihin had a flawless start which kept him at the front for the 20-lap race. By the time the chequered flag appeared, he was a comfortable 4.4 seconds ahead of Eric Yong and Adam Khalid who finished second and third, respectively.

“I’m actually speechless because we struggled since the practice session on Friday to get the most ideal set-up for the car. And when we finally found a set-up we were comfortable with, the rain started and unfortunately, I had to race in the wet conditions, forcing me to make a strategic decision to play it safe and get the car to the finish to try for a better result for Race 2 with the reverse grid format that would see starting at the front of the starting grid,” said Haji Sutan.

“My strength has always been with my start and the ability to get a strong launch as we head into the first corner. I managed to do this as planned and from then onwards, it was a matter of being precise and consistent throughout the race,” he revealed.

Preparing for Season 4, Sutan made a conscious effort to enhance on fitness stamina and strength. “With the Movement Control Order, I weighed in at 80 kgs and that can be a big disadvantage for me, especially competing in a class with a lot of younger drivers. I told myself I needed to do something and I began exercising and controlling my diet. I managed to reduce my weight by 15 kgs, and that has been a huge motivational push for me,” said the 49-year old veteran racer.

PROMOTIONAL CLASS
The battle of celebrities in the Promotional Class saw actor-comedian Zizan Razak winning again, certainly impressive for a newcomer to the series. He finished the 18-lap race with an unassailable 8-second gap over second place winner singer Khai Bahar and fellow Vios Challenge newcomer TV presenter, Ahirene Ahirudin.

“I expected stiff competition from the very beginning, especially from the likes of Shukri Yahaya and Nabil Ahmad. I knew they were going to be fast because they have the experience of competing in previous seasons but what I can say is my experience so far has been exciting,” Zizan said.

TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Festival Season 4 Rd 1 — GAZOO Racing Malaysia’s Chief Motorsport Officer, Akio Takeyama (left), with Zizan Razak and Shirene Ahirudin (right), the two newcomers who have made a very good impression in their debut races in the Promotional Class.

Commenting on his third season competing in the Vios Challenge, Nabil said his journey so far has indeed been a fulfilling one. “I’ve learnt a lot from my very first race when I tried to beat actress Diana Danielle [who is not among the participants this year]. Back then, I had a hard time controlling my ego which was to not lose to a lady driver. But racing has taught me that it is not all about winning but more importantly, the skill and commitment which helps you to evolve into a better racer,” Nabil explained.

“In the process, I believe we have all also learnt to become more patient drivers on the road,” he said Nabil after leading the race today but then dropping all the way back to 10th position after a racing incident involving Shukri.

*The range of high-performance Toyota GR models – GR Supra, GR Yaris and Yaris GR-Sport – led the racing cars of the Vios Challenge in a Drive of Honour around the Sepang International Circuit.*

The next rounds
After this weekend’s first round, the second Round will be held from July 16 – 18, also at the SIC, while the third and final rounds will be from September 24 – 26. The use of SIC is probably in case there are limitations to the number of spectators, or if the races must still only be run without spectators. By September, perhaps things will be better and a custom street circuit can be used, as with previous seasons. Each round has 2 races with individual round prize money, and with points being scored as a championship series.

Season 4 of the TGR Festival will also see the introduction of the GR Vios Sprint Cup and GR Enduro Cup (an endurance race). The former will consist of 2 rounds with 2 races each, and the latter will be run in conjunction with the annual Sepang 1000km Endurance Race. The 2 Sprint Cup rounds will be in March and May, while the Enduro Cup will be in November.

These additional events are independent of the Vios Challenge series and intended to provide drivers and teams with more racing activities to use their cars, and the opportunity to win additional prizes.

Both the Vios Sprint Cup and Enduro Cup will retain the format of a one-make race, and only cars used in the Vios Challenge will be eligible. The races, however, will only be run as one single open class and drivers competing in the Vios Challenge. Teams meanwhile, are also not confined to competing with their regular driver/s signed up in the Vios Challenge and are free to field new drivers for both events (but they must have the requisite competition licence).

Day 1 of TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Festival/Vios Challenge Season 4/Round 1

Season 4 of Toyota GAZOO Racing Festival to have 6 events with 11 races in 2021

From just a weekend motor carnival and a one-make series with the Toyota Vios, the Toyota GAZOO Racing Festival (TGR Festival) has continued to grow since starting in 2017. The one-make series, known as the Vios Challenge, has been a regular highlight of the TGR Festival which has taken place in different parts of Peninsular Malaysia.

This year, as with other international motorsports events, there was disruption due to the restrictions of the COVID-19 pandemic. Due to the Movement Control Order (MCO) in Malaysia, the fourth and final round scheduled in mid-April at the Sepang International Circuit had to be cancelled. Nevertheless, UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) had alternative motorsport-related activities online as well as the Toyota GR Velocity eSports Championship which had also started in 2018.

Hopefully, the ‘dark period’ is behind us and we can look forward to a new year with less restrictions. UMWT is certainly optimistic about 2021 and has prepared a calendar of events for Season 4 of the TGR Festival. To start next month, the event takes on a new format that offers racers three racing series with a total of 11 races and combined prize money amounting to RM420,000.

“Three individual racing events will spearhead the GAZOO Racing (GR) presence in Malaysian motorsports. GAZOO Racing is the umbrella for all of Toyota’s motor-racing activities globally, and after 3 seasons of successfully organizing the Toyota GAZOO Racing Festival, 2021 will cement an even greater commitment from Toyota to contribute to the development of motorsports in Malaysia,” said UMW Toyota Motor Deputy Chairman and GAZOO Racing Malaysia’s Chief Motorsports Officer, Akio Takeyama.

GR Vios Challenge
The Vios Challenge retains its one-make format with specially prepared Vios sedans, all having identical specifications and performance levels. The idea behind such a series is that while the car must have good performance, driver skill will also be very important. This makes for close racing which is what spectators want to see.

Malaysia has a long history of motor racing so there are already many drivers of varying levels of skill, as well as newcomers who want to enter the sport. For this reason, the Vios Challenge has 4 classes so that the newcomers and those with limited racing experience can still have a chance at winning races and gaining encouragement. For the skilled drivers, there is the Super Sporting Class, while the Sporting Class is for amateurs and newcomers.

*Some of the celebrity racers have raced in earlier seasons, and some are new. All have received training prior to the events to familiarise themselves with the cars as well as learn racing techniques.*

Then there is the popular Promotional Class for celebrities and this is a big draw as the celebrities have their fans who follow them around the country to the different venues. In the Promotional Class, some of the ‘old-timers’ from the previous seasons are racing again – Shukri Yahaya, Janna Nick, Nabil Ahmad, Wany Hasrita, Nabila Razali and Khai Bahar.

*Janna Nick (left) and Akio Takeyama (right), two of the celebrity racers, have taken part in all 3 seasons to date.*

*The three newcomers to the Vios Challenge Promotional Class – (from left) Talitha Tan, Zizan Razak and Ahirine Ahirudin.*

They will be joined by three newcomers – actor Zizan Razak, singer/songwriter Talitha Tan and television personality Ahirine Ahirudin. Zizan and Ahirene have competition experience, though Ahirine’s has been on 2 wheels. She has done superbike racing and also does pretty well on a motocross bike. And being a reservist in the Royal Malaysian Navy, she would also be quite fit (she also does triathlons). Talitha also does motocrossing, so we can expect these three newcomers to give the others a good challenge. Incidentally, Mr. Takeyama is also racing in the Promotional Class, and has done so for all 3 seasons.

To further its aim of helping promote and develop motorsports, there is also a new Rookie Class for young drivers. This new class will see 6 drivers who are graduates of the GAZOO Racing Young Talent Development Program offered by UMWT.

GAZOO Racing Young Talent Development Program — *The 6 rookies are now undergoing training not only in driving but also fitness, just like professional racing drivers.*

Training program for rookies
The program is first of its kind to be introduced by any Malaysian car company. It has identified 6 drivers to train and develop. They all have a background in karting and/or sim-racing and are now undergoing training from experienced instructors. The training is not just for driving but also many different aspects which a professional driver should be good at, including fitness training.

The 6 drivers are Mika Hakimi (17), Naquib Azlan (20), Amer Harris (17), Jwan Hii (18), Putera Adam (14) and Troy Eimann (16). Though they may already be top-notch sim racers or karters, this will be the first time they are racing on the track in real life, and they will use the Vios racing cars supplied by UMWT.

The opening round of the Vios Challenge will be held at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) from January 28 – 30. Round 2 will be held from July 16 – 18, also at the SIC, while the third and final rounds will be from September 24 – 26. The use of SIC is probably in case there are limitations to the number of spectators, or if the races can only be run without spectators (as was the case with most of the F1 rounds this year). By September, perhaps things will be better and a custom street circuit can be used, as with previous seasons. Each round will have 2 races with individual round prize money, and with points being scored as a championship series.

*Most of the races will be held at the Sepang International Circuit.*

GR Vios Sprint Cup & Enduro Cup
Season 4 of the TGR Festival will also see the introduction of the GR Vios Sprint Cup and GR Enduro Cup (an endurance race). The former will consist of 2 rounds with 2 races each, and the latter will be run in conjunction with the annual Sepang 1000km Endurance Race. The 2 Sprint Cup rounds will be in March and May, while the Enduro Cup will be in November.

*The cars eligible for the two additional events – the Vios Sprint Cup and Enduro Cup – will be those already used in the Vios Challenge.*

The story behind TOYOTA GAZOO Racing and why it was created

Final round of Vios Challenge one-make race to be ‘closed event’ at Sepang

The fourth and final round of the Toyota GAZOO Racing Festival (TGR Festival) and the Vios Challenge one-make race will be held at the Sepang International Circuit on April 18 and 19, 2020. However, the event will not be open to the public due to the ongoing COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic.

In a statement just release, UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) said it will be a ‘closed-door’ race. “UMW Toyota Motor undertakes accountability for the welfare of Malaysians at large, and also the well-being of our crew members, racers and race teams,” the statement explained.

Vios Challenge Season 2 — *The final round of the previous season was held for the first time at the Sepang International Circuit,*

Minimal number of participants during races
Only essential crew members, racers and race teams will be invited for the completion of the third season which began last August. On event days, the organisers will be conducting health screenings for racers, race team members and crew prior to entering the race premises.

“We trust that our fans appreciate the current situation. All the races will still be broadcast live on Toyota’s Facebook and Youtube accounts and we invite everyone to cheer on their favourite racers and celebrities by tuning in to the live shows’, said UMWT’s Chief Motorsports Officer, Akio Takeyama, who is also one of the participants.

Information and updates about the TGR Festival are available at toyota.com.my/tgrmalaysia/ .

Motorsports organisers urged to postpone events
Meanwhile, the Motorsports Association of Malaysia (MAM) has also issued a statement urging all organisers to postpone their events until the situation subsides and improves. “This decision is made based on the directives from the Ministry of Health (MoH), Sports Commission, and in consultation with the MAM Medical Commission.

The statement adds that should an organizer choose to still go ahead with its event, the MAM ‘highly recommends that it be held with minimal personnel and spectators, as in a closed-event format’. It calls on the organisers to act responsibly to reduce the risk of infection and to follow the guidelines by the MoH and W.H.O. for participants at the event.

Toyota GAZOO Racing Festival/Vios Challenge to be held in Penang on February 15/16

The Toyota GAZOO Racing Festival (TGR Festival) heads to Penang next weekend (February 15/16) for the third round, again using the venue at Stadium Batu Kawan on the mainland side. Currently in its third season, the highlight of the event is the Toyota Vios Challenge one-make race series. Drivers in all three classes – Super Sporting, Sporting and Promotional class – aim to pick up as many points as possible before the final round at the Sepang International Circuit in April.

“Penang can essentially make or break a driver’s championship campaign this season. For some, it will be the last chance to capitalize on their experience competing on a street circuit and hopefully build an almost unassailable lead in the championship. For others, it will be about fighting to narrow the gap in order to keep their championship hopes alive, enough to cause an upset when the racing moves to a permanent circuit,” said Toyota GAZOO Racing Malaysia’s Chief Motorsports Officer, Akio Takeyama, who is also a participant.

TGR — *Close racing during the first round of the first season. The 1.56-km long street circuit is created specially for the event.*

In the Super Sporting class for professionals, Tengku Djan Ley – currently has the lead with 36 points, just 8 points ahead of Laser Motor’s Mark Darwin. Kenny Lee is just one point behind.

“It’s great to be leading the championship but with 4 more races in the season, I have to make sure I stay focused. We still have a long way to go, and the experience of competing in Season 1 and managing a team in Season 2 has taught me that the overall championship almost always comes down to the last two races of the season and I don’t foresee it being any different this time,” said Tengku Djan, also known as Malaysia’s ‘Prince of Drift’.

TGR — *FIA-approved barriers and fencing allow spectators to be close to the action without being in danger.*

Meanwhile, with 17 drivers on the grid, every single Sporting class race has been nothing short of a dogfight. Automotive journalist Tom Goh, driving for S&D Tama Motorsports, is at the top of the points standings with 28 points, just two points ahead of TGR debutante Haji Sutan Mustaffa Salihin. One point behind him is Crestmax Motorsport’s Adam Khalid followed by another TGR newcomer and young driver Bradley Benedict Anthony with 22 points.

Leading the Promotional class for celebrities is television presenter and comedian Nabil Ahmad who has a 4-point advantage over Season 1 overall champion Shawn Lee at 28 points, with singer Khai Bahar in third position. Diana Danielle; Janna Nick; Shukri Yahaya; Nabila Razali; Wany Hasrita; Ain Edruce; and Syafiq Kyle are the other celebrities who will take part in the rave which draws many of their fans from all over the country.

*The TGR Festival gives fans a chance to get close to their favourite celebrities who also take part in the Vios Challenge.*

Commenting on the TGR Festival, UMW Toyota Motor President, Ravindran K., said: “The excitement of the TGR Festival is not confined to thrills and spills on the track but includes so many activities for the family. It will feature Toyota’s fleet of new vehicles which the public can view and test-drive.”

“There will also be a drift performance, racing simulator challenge, stage games, celebrity performances, promotional activities, lucky draws, the sale of merchandises, and a Super Fans Signing Session for a chance to mingle with the celebrities racing in the Promotional class. Also on display will be the flagship GR Supra!” he added.

For fitness fans, the TGR Festival will also feature a fun run on the 1.56-km track as well as a zumba fitness session on Sunday. Registration is free with goodies limited to the first 500 participants. Also on display will be a Super GT racing car in conjunction with the upcoming Malaysian round of the Super GT Championship at the Sepang International Circuit in July.

TGR — *Drift professionals from Japan thrill the crowds with their precise manoeuvres in Toyota GT86 sportscars.*

Other attractions include the display of a fully restored 1968 Toyota Corolla KE-10 model (one of the very first Toyota vehicles assembled in Malaysia), a retro display by the Art of Speed, and a showcase of motorcycles and merchandise by Harley Davidson, Aprilia, Vespa and Moto Guzzi. Children’s activities include a bey blade competition, the sale of Hot Wheels die-cast models, and a nerf gun competition.

Entrance is free and for those who want to be ‘chauffeur-driven’ to the venue, the organisers are offering subsidized rides with Grab. Use the promo code GRAB2TGR and you will save RM20 on the charge to and from Stadium Batu Kawan.

For more information and updates, visit the Toyota GAZOO Racing Malaysia website.

MOTORSPORTS – Day 2 of the Toyota GAZOO Racing Festival & Toyota Vios Challenge Season 3/Round 2

Day 2 report – TGR Festival & Vios Challenge Season 3, Round 1

The second day of the Vios Challenge, part of the Toyota GAZOO Racing (TGR) Festival Season 3 held in Kuala Terengganu on Friday and Saturday, produced a series of many firsts. For starters, 15-year-old Hayden Haikal stormed to his second race victory and his first ever win on a street circuit in the Sporting Class, while singers Wany Hasrita and Nabila Razali climbed the winners’ podium for their first time in the Promotional Class for celebrity drivers.

SPORTING CLASS
“I’m extremely happy with the race win because Kuala Terengganu is a very challenging track. Frankly, I don’t really enjoy this track because there’s hardly any opportunity to overtake here but thankfully everything fell into place today,” said Hayden who finished the race ahead of Hiewa Racing Team’s Wong Chin Eeg and Panglima City Racing’s Kenneth Koh who crossed the finish line in third position.

Coincidentally, Kuala Terengganu was also the venue where Hayden made his debut in the Vios Challenge in the last season. A rookie then, he started his first ever saloon car race in ninth position and also finished ninth.

The start of the 22-lap race started rather dramatically with pole position man Shanmuganathan Arumugan being squeezed out of contention going into the first corner. Wong had an exceptionally good start from second on the grid to punch a hole in the traffic to slip into the lead, leaving enough space for Hayden and Kulim Topwheels driver Dato’ Kenneth Foo to move into second and third positions respectively. Koh however, overtook Foo for third position by the end of the first lap.

Wong held on to his lead for seven laps until making a slight mistake which allowed Hayden to inherit the lead. “Hayden was a lot quicker on the track and as soon as I made a mistake, I saw him beside me. I then made the decision to back off and let him through. It would not have benefitted any of us had the two cars came together,” said Wong.

“After overtaking, I tried to build a gap to Wong, pace myself and focus to not make any mistakes especially in the corners,” Hayden said of the duel.

Koh meanwhile, was a man on a mission to score as many championship points possible as he claimed his second visit to the winners’ podium in two consecutive races over the weekend. His third place finish was a fitting end to the weekend which also included winning Race 1.

“I felt a slight impact at the rear going into the first corner and from then on, I became rather paranoid of having incurred any damage. I tried to close the gap to the car ahead but in the end, the most sensible thing to do was to pace myself to the end because there was also a big gap between me and the car behind,” said Koh.

PROMOTIONAL CLASS
Rain again came in the late afternoon (like last year) and as the drivers were more cautious, this popular race was uneventful. In fact, the start had to be delayed for 30 minutes before resuming behind the Safety Car.

Vios Challenge — *Rain delayed the start of the Promotional Race and the Safety Car (the latest Toyota Camry) had to control the convoy for a while.*

The wet conditions however, turned out to be in favour of singer Wany Hasrita who stormed into her first ever race win. In second place was fellow singer Nabila Razali, also making her first appearance on the winners’ podium, followed by actor Shukri Yahaya in third position.

“The wet track conditions made the race twice as difficult but I did my best to keep my cool and to avoid making any mistakes. The track was slippery and that meant having to pick an earlier braking point into the corners,” said Wany who started from pole position on the grid.

Victory was also extremely sweet for Nabila who demonstrated a more calm and composed drive to finish in second place and claim her first visit to the winners’ podium.

“Season 2 was really difficult for me and I struggled to finish the race but thankfully, the long hours of practice and with guidance from the instructors, my driving and confidence level on the track has improved so much. I’m hoping to do much better this season,” said Nabila.

Related story: Competitors find new Vios racing car a much better performer

SUPER SPORTING CLASS
With the exception of Brendon Lim who dropped from fourth position on the grid to eighth place and Brendan Paul Anthony who lost one place, all the drivers in the Super Sporting class maintained their track positions from start to finish in the 22-lap race.

Toyotsu Racing’s William Ho led from start to finish, with Telagamas Toyota’s Freddie Ang taking second place some 1.93 seconds behind, and Kenny Lee of Kegani Racing completing the top three a further two seconds adrift.

In the class of the elite professional racers, the race unfolded with all drivers posting super competitive times and remaining within the 1 minute 15 second to 1 minute 16 second bracket around the tight and narrow 1.65-km street circuit. While it is always difficult for any competitor to overtake on a narrow street track, Ho found that leading the race also placed a degree of pressure.

“Freddie was very close to me and I tried my best to pull away but that proved to be very difficult and I tried my best to keep composed and to not hit the concrete barrier. It was a question of maintaining my pace, not pushing too hard and finishing the race to score valuable championship points,” recalled Ho after the race.

TGR Festival — *As in previous seasons, fans got to meet the celebrities and chat with them.*

Round 2 of the Vios Challenge and TGR Festival will be held in the Central Region but the venue has not been confirmed yet. It would likely be at the MAEPS site outside Kuala Lumpur which has a lot of space for setting up the track, as well as plenty of parking areas. To get updates on the event, visit toyota.com.my/tgrmalaysia/tgr-racing-festival/season-3.

Competitors in Vios Challenge Season 3 find new Vios racing car a much better performer

An elaborate list of safety features and some minor performance upgrades makes all the difference in the all-new Toyota Vios racing car which made its debut in all three classes of the Vios Challenge Season 3 yesterday and today. Running to a one-make race format where driving skills take much precedence over any vehicle modifications, the series – part of the Toyota GAZOO Racing (TGR) Festival – was held at the Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin Stadium in Kuala Terengganu.

How different is the new racing car?
“The biggest change in the car is the limited slip differential. The car now feels much more alive and the suspension is good. But the engine and transmission are pretty much the same,” said Laser Motor Racing’s Mark Darwin, winner of Race 1, Super Sporting Class.

“It is a lot more responsive. This weekend was the first time I’ve driven the car as I was unable to do the shakedown. From the practice session, I managed to make small changes here and there and I could actually feel the difference. This year is going to be a good year where those drivers who are able to set up their car for the track will have an advantage. The other biggest difference this season is that the top 9 cars are all within a second of the fastest qualifying time. Everyone is super competitive this year!” said 23 Motors’ Tengku Djan, runner-up in Race 1, Super Sporting Class & Season 1 Super Sporting Class Champion.

TEDCO Racing’s Brendon Lim, who was 3rd in Race 1, Super Sporting Class & Season 2 Sporting Class Champion (TEDCO Racing) noted that car set-up is vital. “Depending on your driving style, the set-up of the car’s camber, toe and tyre pressure is critical to getting the best performance out of the car over a race weekend. Tyre pressure is the most important,” he explained. Of course, whatever adjustments made have to be within the provisions of the regulations and every car is inspected before and after the race.

Quicker times this year
Kenneth Koh of the Panglima City Racing Team can confirm it is better in terms of handling. “The chassis is stiffer and together with better suspension, almost all the drivers posted quicker times in Kuala Terengganu. I was 1.5 seconds quicker in the first unofficial practice session and during the shakedown at Sepang International Circuit, my time was 3 seconds faster. There are a lot of improvements in the car, the car is very different, and it is a lot easier to handle. We also have a lot more grip from this season’s tyres,” he added.

Definitely the biggest strength in the new car is in the more rigid chassis and the suspension which is more firm this season. “We experienced a lot more flex in the older generation car, especially when you hit a kerb on the track but with the new car, it was firm and planted. Our times are also a lot quicker, and I believe this also has something to do with the newer tyres which offer a lot more grip. My qualifying time was half a second faster compared to last season on the same track,” observed William Ho, Super Sporting Class & Season 1 runner-up (Toyotsu Racing).

Set-up will be crucial in Season 3
“The new car has definitely improved, in terms of suspension, brakes, and traction. The biggest challenge last season was fighting for more traction and getting the right balance between getting brake bite and grip. This season is going to be about the driver’s ability to set-up the car well,” said Kenny Lee, one of the drivers in the Super Sporting Class supported by Kegani Racing. It’s amazing how the car reacts better with just minor changes. Understanding the characteristics of the suspension and tyres, as well as depending on the driving style of the driver.”

“We definitely have better grip from the tyres this season. There is also more bite from the car’s LSD. Setting-up the car will also be very important this season. Those who are able to set-up the car to minimize the understeer should be able to be a lot faster on the track. Experiencing understeer means you cannot accelerate because that would just send you into the concrete safety barrier. It’s better to have oversteer because the rear will just point the car in the direction you want and you can immediately be on the accelerator,” explained Syafiq Ali, a Super Sporting Class competitor with the M7 Japan Project Team.

Toyota Vios Racing Car — *The new Toyota Vios racing car*
*Engineered and prepared for the Vios Challenge*

Day 1 report – TGR Festival & Vios Challenge Season 3, Round 1

Former champions Shawn Lee and Tengku Djan Ley produced the best of comebacks in the opening round of Season 3 of the Toyota GAZOO Racing (TGR) Festival and Vios Challenge held at the Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin Stadium in Kuala Terengganu today. After spending Season 2 of the race series competing amongst a competitive pool of amateur drivers in the Sporting class, Shawn and actor Shukri Yahaya were clearly the dominant two on the track in the Promotional class race for celebrities.

Tengku Djan, meanwhile, concluded his comeback race with a second place in the Super Sporting class for professionals. He was champion of the Super Sporting class in Season 1.

TGR Vios Challenge S3 — *Shukri Yahaya and Shawn Lee*

PROMOTIONAL CLASS
Shawn and Shukri underlined a strong comeback into the Promotional category by winning Race 1 and finishing second respectively in the 20-lap race. “It was an exciting race right up to the end because Shukri managed to bridge the gap and that got me a little concerned on whether he was close enough to attempt to overtake. At the same time, I was trying to remain calm and not make any mistakes that could have cost me the race two laps from the end,” said Shawn. “It was a good fight with Shukri and I enjoyed every moment of it.”

Despite setting the fastest time in qualifying, actor Shukri failed to make the most of his pole position after losing track position to Shawn into the first corner. “I made a mistake in the first corner and from then on, the effort was on trying to keep up with Shawn Lee. The lead grew to about 4 seconds at one stage but in the closing stages, I managed to close the gap to about a second but I wasn’t going to risk trying to pass him since we have a second race to think about on Saturday,” said Shukri.

In third place was actress and also defending Promotional class champion Diana Danielle who was gifted a podium finish despite being some 37 seconds behind when Nabil Ahmad clipped the concrete barrier and retired. Also retiring from the race was Syafiq Kyle while Khai Bahar, Nabila Razali, Wany Hasrita, Janna Nick and Ain Edruce finished in fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh and eighth places, respectively.

SUPER SPORTING CLASS
The elites in the Super Sporting class drove a close but clean race from start to finish with Laser Motor Racing’s Mark Darwin winning the 22-lap race just half a second ahead of 23 Motors’ Tengku Djan Ley. In third place was Tedco Racing’s Brendon Lim.

“I had a good start from pole position and I managed to pull away slightly, enough to be comfortable. My tyres however, were badly worn 5 laps to the finish and I could see Tengku Djan catching up,” said Mark.

For Tengku Djan, the visit to podium underlines a great start to the season having won Season 1 and taking a break from Season 2. “The biggest difference this season is that the top 9 cars are all within a second of the fastest qualifying time. Everyone is super competitive this year. The race was good, I had a good car but the track was super tight to be able to make a clean move so I decided to keep my position and finish the race,” he said.

“The most challenging about the race is to be on point every lap, every corner and to not make any mistake because if you do, everyone else will just capitalize on that mistake because we are all driving identical cars. It is not an easy task to do drive in these conditions for 22 laps. There is just no room for error,” said Malaysia’s ‘Prince of Drift’.

SPORTING CLASS
In the Sporting Class, Panglima City Racing Team’s Kenneth Koh took the chequered flag ahead of Team Distinctive Model’s Clement Yeo and Kulim Topwheels’ Dato’ Ken Foo who finished second and third respectively. All three drivers made a textbook start of the 22-lap race, from first, second and third positions on the grid respectively, with only 3 seconds separating them.

“I had a good race and after a week of getting used to the new Toyota Vios, I am comfortable with how we’ve been able to set-up the car for Round 1. It’s the first win of the year and hopefully more to come throughout the season! I’m hoping to be consistently on the podium this season,” said Kenneth who started from pole position.

The race, however, was red-flagged 3 laps before the finish with Team Fokus Tetap’s Lim Chun Beng becoming Season 3’s first casualty of the 1.65-km street circuit’s reinforced concrete barrier. A brush with the barrier damaged his front right fender which resulted in the tyre delaminating and sending his car out of control into the concrete wall.

Race 2 of the Vios Challenge continues tomorrow (Saturday September 7). While the Vios Challenge is the highlight of the TGR Festival, there are lots of other activities for all the family from morning till night. Come and see the action, the latest Toyota models and meet the celebrities who also race in the Vios Challenge. You might also take home a 55-inch Smart TV and other exciting prizes in the Lucky Draw. Entrance is free.

Piston.my

TGR Festival

Day 2 Report – TGR Festival & Vios Challenge Season 4, Round 2

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Challenging times for UMW Toyota Motor with operations suspended

Day 2 Of TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Festival/Vios Challenge Season 4/Round 1

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Day 2 report – TGR Festival & Vios Challenge Season 3, Round 1

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Competitors in Vios Challenge Season 3 find new Vios racing car a much better performer

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Day 2 Of TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Festival/Vios Challenge Season 4/Round 1

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