Karting honors racing legend

The first Arthur Tuason Memorial Cup Karting Challenge is a fitting tribute to a legend who has devoted most of his life for the development of motorsports in the country. And his son Jean-Pierre Tuason hopes to continue this vision through this annual event.

The young Tuason, guesting in the weekly Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) forum at the Holiday Inn Manila Pavilion, said the first Arthur Tuason Memorial Cup Karting Challenge set Nov. 18-19 at the Carmona Circuit Philippines will be the biggest gathering of racing figures in Philippine motorsports history.

Over 90 participants have confirmed their participation in this event organized by the Tuason Racing Project and sponsored by Red Horse Beer, Carmona Circuit Philippines, Atkimson Import-Export Co., Rallye Wheels, Demvels Enterprises, Paintworks, Philippine International Karting Association and official radio station Magic 89.9.

Among them are Karter of the Year Philip Alvendia, Jojo Silverio and last year’s Asian Karting Challenge champion Manny Sy.

But JP is more elated over the turnout of 30 karters in the novice division – which is the biggest yet in karting history.

"I’m happy that many of my colleagues in the racing arena responded to pay tribute to the man who’s not only a father but a pillar of motorsports in the country," said JP in the forum sponsored by Red Bull, Agfa Color and McDonald’s.

"He was a moving force towards the growth of motorsports when it was revived in the early 90’s. This is the reason why this event will be focused more on upcoming racing potentials in the novice and cadet divisions," added Tuason who bagged the 1997-98 Karter of the Year award and the runner-up crown of the Formula Toyota Cup on that same year.

Over P100,000 worth of cash and prizes are up for grabs in the first Arthur Tuason Memorial Cup. Participants will be battling for honors in three categories, namely: cadets (8-12 years old), Novice and the Red Horse Expert class where the country’s top race car drivers will try to outdo each other for the crown.

Proceeds of the event will go to Leukemia-stricken beneficiaries of LIFE (Leukemic Indigent Fund Endowment).