MARK Young-Yokohama's 14-year-old racing prodigy, Iñigo Anton, gifted his dad with an overall champion trophy during the 5th round of the Philippine Autocross Championship Series held at Meycauayan, Bulacan last weekend.
The young Anton prevailed over all the racers, including his champion dad, Carlos Anton, who is currently leading in the championship series.
"I really went all out to win today, but losing to Iñigo is the best Father's Day gift I received. For me, this is a case of when losing is winning. Iñigo brings me so much pride and coming in 2nd to him is my greatest victory," said Carlos Anton.
Veteran Asian Gymkhana racer Jevoy Moreno set the pace early during the race with a time of 45.55 seconds, while Castrol-Yokohama's Carlos struggled to find his rhythm during his first runs and trailed behind at 45.75.
Iñigo, on board his Mohspeed prepared Honda EF, initially set a time of 46.15 which was enough to secure his 5th straight win in the open class. The young Anton was just on standby, waiting for his father to get ahead of Moreno before going out for more runs.
Carlos finally set a time of 45.40 late in the day to beat Moreno and he finally let his son do more runs. Iñigo immediately beat the time of his dad and ended up with the fastest time of the day with a blistering time of 44.64 seconds.
"I could see my dad having a hard time in setting the best time of the day and since he is leading the championship, I had to be patient and wait until he gets it. I didn't expect to beat his time. Even though I know my dad does not like to lose, I know he is very happy that I beat him. He is my idol and my mentor and he taught me everything I know in racing. I think it the best father's day gift that I can give him," Iñigo said about his win.
Iñigo recorded his 5th straight open championship win and his second overall victory. He now trails his father in the championship by just seven points. With three more legs remaining in the series, the overall championship is up for grabs and both father and son will be giving their best in the coming rounds.
"We have no team orders so Iñigo and I will be trying to go for the overall championship. May the best racer win and I definitely have my work cut out for me in the coming rounds," Carlos added.
The Anton's are backed by Mark Young Racing, Cars Unlimited, Yokohama, Castrol, MPturbo, Mohspeed, JSD Autosport, Special Stage, Kilton, Parts Pro, Fix Stop, Car Porn and Kart Plaza. (SunStar Baguio)