11-year-old Pinoy racer to compete in 2023 Asian Karting Open Championships

Yuan Gavin Bugayong will represent the country's colors in the upcoming 2023 Asian Karting Open Championships in Macau next month.

The 11-year-old karter will be joining the regional racing competition slated on June 30-July 2 in Kartodromo de Coloane following his top-podium finishes at the Formula Cadet (60 cubic centimeter) category in the Petron Rotax Max Challenge Philippine Series last April 29-30.

Bugayong won back-to-back championships in the aforementioned meet conducted at the Palawan International Circuit. Joining him in the podium were Marcus Garrett Young, Franco Patawaran, Ayrton Atienza, and Joaquin Antonio Ferrer.

Surprisingly, the young racer bagged the accolade despite it being his first time to join any local racing series competitively.

Drift Xaust Owner and Managing director GM Bugayong told Carmudi Philippines prior to the win, Yuan was feeling sickly when they arrived at Palawan Airport — and the bad track condition due to the rainy situation did not make it easier for the kid.

What is more surprising is that Bugayong’s son only started karting last year (on electric go-karts in August 2022 and the gas-propelled versions some two months ago).

Amid his young age, the young Bugayong already wants to become a race car driver or a pilot. “Unfortunately, we found out that he is mildly color blind. But that doesn’t stop him from being a racer,” the father shared.

Lastly, he also expressed gratitude to those who have expressed support on Yuan’s endeavors including Renz Pazcoguin (who served as the child’s coach in the races), Charles Jamorabon, and Drift Motor Speedway.

Photos from GM Bugayong

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