After half a decade of chasing the ultimate prize, Motul Yokohama Mark Young Racing Team finally stood on top of Philippine endurance racing. In a weekend of strategy, grit, and rain-soaked drama, the team captured a historic double overall victory and the coveted Team Award at the Makabayan Endurance Race Challenge Kalayaan Cup, held at Clark International Speedway.
From the outset, the intent was clear. Rising star Iñigo Anton stormed to pole position, setting the tone for a weekend where precision and resilience would matter as much as raw speed. Against fierce rivals — including a 400-horsepower, turbocharged, full-carbon Miata from Canada’s AES team — the squad’s trusted #888 Honda Civic EG became the weapon of choice, powered by Motul 300V oil and Yokohama Advan tires.
The 2-Hour Endurance Race unfolded as a nail-biting duel. Anton traded the lead lap after lap with the Canadian challenger until a perfectly timed pit call from Team Manager Jason Young during a safety car period flipped the race in their favor. From there, the Civic EG never looked back, sealing the team’s first overall triumph.
The 4-Hour Endurance Race delivered even greater drama. Starting from pole, Anton controlled the pace until torrential rain transformed the track. Known as a “Rain Master,” he exploited the wet grip of the Yokohamas to break away. Marky Young extended the lead to five laps before handing over to veteran Carlos Anton, who expertly managed the car’s longevity. A final stint by Iñigo sealed the sweep, crossing the line to thunderous celebration.
The team’s dominance didn’t stop there. Their second entry — the Pista Lubes Honda Civic EK driven by Karol Collantes, Rich Mark Young, and Jeff Angelo Balao — locked out the podium alongside the #888, delivering a 1-2 finish in both Class 1 and Open A categories.
Behind the scenes, meticulous preparation by Mico Vinarao (MRD Performance) and Ernie Sambo ensured the cars were bulletproof. Backed by partners Motul Luzon by Infiniteserv International, Yokohama Philippines, Alpinestars, Pista Motor Oils, Keon Sondra, and Motolite, the campaign embodied teamwork at its finest.
For Team Owner Mark Young, the weekend was more than just a victory — it was the culmination of five years of persistence. With a clean sweep at Clark, the squad has cemented its place as the gold standard of Philippine endurance racing.