Typhoon Santi forces postponement of Vios Cup

The cars were ready, the drivers were pumped up and the track was fully prepared for the Toyota Vios Cup Exhibition Race this past Saturday at the Clark International Speedway.

As nature would have it, however, Typhoon Santi forced Toyota Motor Philippines Corporation to cancel the October 12 race as the storm literally swept through all of the company's on-site preparations (tent, stage, etc.) during the night of October 11.

The race will push through, as it is a key event to kick-off the actual 2014 Vios Cup Season. Toyota is looking at holding the Vios Cup on either October 23 (Wednesday) or November 15 (Friday). The November 15 race date is looking to be the more likely choice.

Recognizing that many of the car clubs had already made their way to Clark on the morning of October 12, Toyota conducted a club meet and greet for the members and the drivers. In attendance were members of the Vios Club Philippines, Toyota bB club, Toyota Auto Club Philippines and many more.

 The qualifying grid from October 11 will be preserved, and will be as follows:

P1: Phoemela Baranda

P2: Vince Pornelos

P3: Jeff Reyes

P4: James Deakin

P5: Jinno Rufino

P6: Inigo Roces

P7: Brian Afuang

P8: Botchi Santos

P9: Aris Ilagan

P10: Fabio Ide

P11: Rhian Ramos

P12: Aljur Abrenica

With celebrity and model Phoemela Baranda on pole position followed closely by experienced motoring journalist/racers, anything could happen.