Young Cortez sparkles in Asian Karting race

MANILA, Philippines - Formula-E Racing new recruit Larco Rafael Pesigan Cortez  continued his march to fame this season by winning the Formula Cadet Novice crown back-to-back in another eye-popping performance recently in the 2013 Asian Karting Open Championships at the Carmona Racetrack.

The 11-year-old Don Bosco-Makati student stayed close behind the main pack of Expert karters in the combined 15-lap final race which he completed in 13 minutes, 21.484 seconds or just 2.4 seconds behind the overall winner.

Influenced by his idol Gabe Tayao-Cabrera to go into karting, Cortez not just showcased his natural talent but further proved his big potentials when he posted the third fastest laptime of 52.353 seconds, faster than other Expert drivers in the race, underscoring his marked improvement in only his third competitive race.

His qualifying time trials showed his driving consistency – a best time of 53.290 which shaded the 53.456 seconds of top favorite Flynn Jackes.

“Our strategy was to minimize mistakes and maximize the power of the engine.  The plan really worked well for us,” said Larco.

Formula-E Racing Management chief Elson Carpio, who placed Larco under his close supervision, believes his newest protégé still has a lot more to reveal in the coming races.

“From the start, I’ve seen that distinct determination and drive to win which convinced me that Larco is a strong champion material,”   said Carpio.