Aguilar tops record field in supercross

MANILA, Philippines - Glenn Aguilar bucked the heat, the challenging track and a record 160-rider field as he dominated the third leg of the Kopiko Astig 3-in-One Supercross Series 2013 in Bacolod City recently.

Aguilar, riding for KTM Access Plus, re-displayed the form he showed in the series’ second leg in Bais City last month, jumping ahead of the competition early to sweep both the Pro Open and Pro Lites categories again.

“The track itself was challenging enough,” said Aguilar, referring to the 36 jumps built by the organizing Man & Machine Racing Promotions. “Then we had all the dust affecting our visibility. So it becomes more crucial to get a good start.”

Over 30,000 spectators braved the heat and lined the track for the final heats. Riders competed in 15 categories, including the first-ever team race which combined teammates from various categories.  

Over P500,000 in prizes were disputed in the event held as part of the Panaad festival celebrations. The top finishers also received points for the Rider of the Year award at the end of the 12-leg series sponsored by Kopiko Astig 3-in-One.

Cebuano Jonjon Adlawan and Davaoeño Bornok Mangosong actually provided the thrill and excitement in the Pro Lites as they slugged it out while chasing Aguilar. In the third lap, Adlawan of Team Kopiko drove past Mangosong of Atong Racing, but Mangosong struck four laps later.

But the young Adlawan grabbed second spot again then held off repeated rallies by Mangosong to clinch runner-up honors.

Adlawan’s teammate Juvenille Abellar placed fourth while Ted Conde ended up fifth.

In the Pro Open, Aguilar again jumped out of the gate ahead of the pack again with Adlawan in pursuit and followed by Dondon Yuzon.

Abellar once again finished fourth while Mangosong wound up fifth.

Highlights of the Bacolod races will be aired on April 14 at 11 a.m. over Studio 23 hosted by Bill Velasco. It will include action from all the races and other events held in conjunction with the races.

The next leg of the Kopiko Astig 3-in-One Supercross Series 2013 will be held in Dumaguete City on April 27-28 and will be the only night races in the competition.