RIGHT after being awarded top academic honors at the Baguio Achiever’s Academy last week, Baguio boy Iñigo Anton proceeded to Clark International Speedway where he again dominated the 2nd Vios Autocross Challenge and remained on the top step of the podium.
The 14-year-old is not only a racing phenom but is also a consistent 1st honor in school despite having a very hectic racing schedule the whole year round.
“His mom always tells him to prioritize his studies but of course racing also takes a lot of time and preparation so we’re just really amazed on how he can manage to juggle school and racing and come out a champion in both. We are really proud of his achievements and how hard he works for them,” father Carlos said about son Iñigo.
Anton, on board a stock Vios 1.3 E model prepared by Mark Young racing, consistently set the fastest time during practice, qualifying and the finals at the Vios Autocross Challenge. He set a blistering time of 51.46 seconds over number 2 qualifier Michael Scott Carbonel who checked in at 53.51 seconds, both booking their slots in the finals.
It was in the finals where Anton really picked up the pace and set an almost unbelievable time of 49.99 seconds to take the win against Carbonel’s 52.65 seconds. Alexis Lavapie checked in at third place with a time of 53.02 seconds.
“I’m glad we came out on top for the second time in this series. I thank the Lord and Mama Mary for keeping me safe in the races,” Iñigo said after his win. Anton set the best time of the day against 50 other racers in the Autocross Challenge and now holds a good lead in the championship with two more rounds remaining.
“We are so proud of Iñigo representing Mark Young-Cars Unlimited in this series. It is a unique series because they all use Toyota Vios cars only and Iñigo is still on top,” team owner Mark Young said after the race.
The team now heads to Meycauayan Bulacan for the 5th Round of the Philippine Autocross series where Iñigo leads the Open Championship.
Anton is backed by Mark Young, Cars Unlimited, Yokohama, Parts Pro, Mohspeed, MPTurbo, Special Stage, JSD Autosport, Kilton, Kart Plaza, Carporn and Fix Stop. (SunStar Baguio)