Young San Andres up vs odds in Asian moto

Revtex standout rider Kenneth San Andres faces the biggest challenge yet of his colorful career when he pits guts and skills with Asia’s best in the centerpiece Expert 125cc category of the FIM-Asia Motocross Championship’s Round 4 in Macau, China today.

San Andres is dipping his hat in the Pro Open category for the first time in the FIM motocross festival against the region’s greatest bikers at that, but his father and coach Jun-Jun Andres says his son welcomes the challenge.

"I am amazed because he is even excited about this golden chance. Gusto talaga niya," said Jun-Jun. "He probably realizes that this is his best opportunity to hone his talents to the fullest. If he wants to be the best, he had to ride with the best."

The best, of course, includes FIM Asia-Pacific defending champion Glenn Aguilar and Revtex daredevil Bebet Aguilar—San Andres’ teammates, who will be with him pitting their talents with the world’s top riders from China, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, India, Mongolia, Guam and the USA.

The three Caltex Revtex mainstays were chosen by the National Motorcycle Sports and Safety Association (NAMSSA) on the strength of their showing in the Camel Supercross. Joining the three to Macau is another Revtex rider in Jerrick Mitra.

Aside from Aguilar and Dela Cruz, San Andres, who is backed by JBS Motorcycle Shop, KTM, Oakley, HJC Helmet, Renthal, Fox, UFO and Sukida Motorcycles, also has to contend with current FIM leader Tadazaku Ohtsuka of Japan and Aep Dadang of Indonesia.

San Andres has stayed fit and sharp for the coming Macau race not just through practice but in actual competitions locally.

In the Camel Supercross for instance, San Andres has shown his ability to excel by dominating the Novice Open and Novice 125 divisions of the supercross’ first two stops in Roxas City and Bacolod.

"I know that Kenneth will be able to pass his test with flying colors because of his natural riding ability, his passion for excellence and the Revtex oil that he uses," said Jun-Jun. "These three factors will be his chief weapon in giving glory not just for the Caltex organization but to our country as well."