ALL systems go for the biggest legal drag racing event of 2017 the 12th Hot August Races Sonny Gonzales Cup that will open Friday, August 18 at the Speed City Racetrack at Crocodile Park Complex along Diversion Road, Davao City.
Total Quartz Lubricants area manager Jay Sanchez, in the Davao Sportswriters Association Forum held at The Annex of SM City Davao Thursday, August 17, said the event is the second edition of Total Lubricants' partnership with the Davao Classic Sports Car Club and Pirelli.
"The event will also allow us to promote Total Lubricants Quartz engine oil as well as to urge the drivers not to race on the streets but on the tracks instead," Sanchez, who was accompanied by fellow area manager Joel Ribagorda, said.
From 86 entries last year, Sanchez said they expect between 70 to 86 participants.
Racers from Manila, Bacolod City, Cagayan de Oro City, General Santos City, Cotabato City and Lanao provinces are coming to give defending champion W Auto Sports of Davao City's multi-titled racer Guillermo Torres a tight contest.
Sanchez, meanwhile, said on the first day will be the time trial to be followed by the race proper on Sunday.
Racers may vie in classes A, B, C and Quick 8 categories.
The registration is pegged at P2,500 inclusive of a shirt and a baller ID.
The class A champion and quick 8 champion will receive P10,000 while classes B and C will take home P20,000 each.
The Quick 8 champion will also receive a wheel set courtesy of Tire Smart.
Ribagorda, meanwhile, hopes to bring a similar race in Cebu City and promote safety driving.