Perez goes for 2nd top driver plum

MANILA, Philippines - The country’s finest drivers brace for a showdown in the final leg of the 2009 Yokohama Philippine Grand Touring (GT) Championships this Sunday at the Clark International Speedway in Pampanga.

Paul Henderson Perez of Alps Racing seeks back-to-back Driver of the Year award as he guns for a sweep of the races in the event sanctioned by the Automobile Association Philippines and sponsored by Yokohama, Pagcor, San Miguel Corp., San Mig Coffee and Aeromed.

Perez wrested the overall lead following the no-show of John Asuncion in the last leg where he took the runner-up finish in the sprint race and captured the title in the 16-lap main race.

He has 139 points while Asuncion dropped to second overall with 110. Nicolo Fernandez, third with 108 points, is expected to be Perez’ toughest rival for the GT125 title.

With 60 points staked, a wide-open battle for the overall crown is expected this weekend.

Asuncion will see action in the GT200 division where he will face off against Wlliam Tan, Quincy Buenaflor, Monty Buhay, Angelo Purugganan and JP Tuason of the Ford-Tuason Racing Team.

Emayrson Manaog eyes the GT300 plum against Leo San Juan, Jerry Villanueva and Moncupa Antonio.