Team Suzuki Pilipinas Set to Conquer ARRC-Indonesia, New Rider Replaces Buncio

It’s full speed ahead for Team Suzuki Pilipinas as they set out for the 2ndleg of the Asia Road Racing Championship in Sentul, Indonesia. Slated to take over the SuperSports 600cc category is Japanese Rider Yusuke Teshima.

Maico Buncio, the Philippines’ fastest man on two wheels, was originally part of the duo tapped by Suzuki Philippines (SPH) to represent the country in the ARRC, but his untimely passing spread speculation about Team Suzuki Pilipinas’ fate in the competition. However, it is clear that SPH is not giving up on their bid for an ARRC title just yet.

“We are not stopping our journey to the ARRC. We are going to offer the ARRC to Maico and Suzuki will achieve his dream for him.” said SPH president, Satoshi Uchida.

And they could not have chosen a better replacement for Buncio. Teshima is no stranger to motorsports as he was crowned Champion of the Superstock 600 class in the All-Japan Road Race Championship in 2009. He was also the
wildcard rider for 6 legs in Moto 2 in 2010, with Moto 2 being the
2ndhighest level in racing, just a notch lower than Moto GP. He was
also tapped
by SPH, along with Yoshimura Japan, to coach and assist Buncio in his
preparation for the ARRC this year. Thus, it seems only fitting that he will
take Buncio’s place.

Teshima will compete in the 2nd leg and all other legs until such time that
SPH can find a Filipino rider to finish the races. For now, Teshima will
join John Lery Enriquez who will be riding in the Underbone 115cc category.

The Indonesia leg will try Enriquez’ mettle, as Indonesia’s racers are known
to have some of the best Underbone racers. Still, Enriquez is not one to
back down, as he is hell bent on making his mark in the international racing
scene.

With his impressive background, there is no doubt that Teshima will fare
well in the ARRC. Although his ride with Team Suzuki Pilipinas is only
temporary, Teshima will wave the Philippine flag loudly and proudly. And as
he becomes part of Team Suzuki Pilipinas, he will surely get Filipinos’
support in conquering the roads to the ARRC.**