MANILA, Philippines - Young ace driver Paolo Mantolino of Ethanworx Racing Team wrapped up his campaign with a bang as he pulled a big sweep to emerge the 2014 Philippine Touring Car Championship champion.
Mantolino ruled both the 10-lap sprint and 17-lap GT Main Race to seal the Overall GT200 plum of the recently concluded 2014 Yokohama Philippine Grand Touring (GT) Car Championships at the Batangas Racing Circuit in Rosario, Batangas.
And as the new PTCC champion, the local governing Motorsports body Automobile Association Philippines (AAP) also bestowed him with the highest prestigious distinction as the 2014 Driver of the Year.
It was a huge milestone for the 26-year-old Mantolino who carved out an exceptional feat as the youngest champion in PTCC history.
Moreover, it’s a rare and extraordinary accomplishment for any driver to clinch the coveted PTCC plum on his rookie year in the premiere Division 1 and, even more significantly, barged into the elite circle of marquee racing champions only on his second season in the circuit racing scene.
“I never really expected to win the title. But I’m thankful to be blessed with the prestige and distinction as the youngest PTCC champion and I offer the glory back to our Lord who made all these possible,” said Mantolino.
Paolo expressed deep gratitude to the all-out support of his father Joey Mantolino, his inspiration Karen Pungtod, Ethanworx Racing team owner Jon Mark Ong and his friend Jon Zapanta for accepting him into their fold as well as racing tuner Jayson Ong for keeping the car competitive during the season together with mechanics Joey, Nante and Ga.
He also gave credits to teammate Carlos Anton and friend Alfie Concepcion who served as his morale booster throughout the season.
Mantolino is sponsored by Jolly Management Solutions Inc with friends Monique and Julius Loquine, Regine’s Salon owned by his sister Karina, Mic Rojas of Rota Wheels, Richmond Ong of Maxxspeed Brakes, Jeff Tan of Recaro Philippines, Terry Flores and Reynan Asuncion of Stage 21 Bodykits and Joseph Castelar of Autoholic Garage.