Access Plus Racing team scores top finishes in ARRC Thailand

TIMOTHY Joseph “TJ” Alberto and Jonathan Serrapica of Access Plus Racing-Ducati Philippines-Essenza scored top finishes during Round 3 of the Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC) held from May 31 to June 2 at the Chang International Circuit in Thailand.

The two racers, aboard Ducati Panigale V4Rs, competed in Asia Superbike (ASB) 1000.

Access Plus noted it is the only Philippine team to enter ASB1000, adding it was able to slash seconds off their lap times, with Alberto setting a 1:37.793 lap in qualifying to put him 10th on the starting grid. Serrapica started from 12th.

In Race 1 Alberto finished in ninth place. Serrapica maintained his starting position throughout the 13-lap race.

Race 2 saw Alberto crossing the line 10th while Serrapica ended in 12th place.

“This was the best weekend for us so far this season. We are new to the championship and we’ve been able to slash two seconds from our gap to the front runners. That’s a huge improvement and we will continue to work hard to be ready for the next race at Suzuka, Japan. I can’t wait to take on one of the most legendary tracks on the ARRC calendar,” said Alberto after the race.

Serrapica seconded Alberto, saying the team “performed really well” in Thailand.

“Our Panigale V4R ran flawlessly and we saw big improvements in every session. I feel very positive and have gotten faster with each race, so there’s nowhere to go but up. The next round at Suzuka might be tricky as I’ve never ridden there before, but it will be a good chance for me to further improve my riding style and be as competitive as possible,” Serrapica said.

Team Access Plus Racing-Ducati Philippines-Essenza is sponsored by Access Plus Group, Ducati Philippines, Essenza, AELLA, Dickies Philippines, Ohlins Philippines, Century Hotel Angeles City, LV8 and Pradera Verde.