Malaysians Naquib Azlan and Mitchell Cheah claimed their first ever race win in the Super Compact division of the Thailand Super Series with a remarkable last corner overtaking maneuver to beat the race leader to the chequered flag by just a front bumper’s length.
Qualifying 9th fastest, Cheah who started the race for the pair, patiently mounted his challenge before making his way to the front of the pack in the 1-hour race at the 4.554km Chang International Circuit. The final stint was driven by Naquib who chased down race leader Ayrton Achitaphon but was unable to overtake until the very corner in the run up to the chequered flag.
“This has been what we have been working towards and to finally win is testament to all the hard work the team has put in throughout the season. The race win is also extremely special considering the team worked throughout the night to repair a damaged car sustained during yesterday’s qualifying session,” said Cheah.
Pulling double duty, team mate Naquib then immediately jumped into the Wing Hin Motorsports Toyota GR Supra GT-4 to prepare for the qualifying session alongside fellow young Malaysian Amer Harris. Both drivers went on the clock the fastest time to claim double pole positions for Race 1 and Race 2.
“Although it is our first full season competing in the Thailand Super Series, we’ve been competitive throughout the season and we’ve been on the podium on several occasions but never managing to win a race. Frankly it has been a season of learning for us especially in the company of so many competitive and more experienced teams. This race win in Super Compact, especially in the manner in which it was won – at the very last corner – makes up for all the hard work and will lay a strong foundation for the team moving forward,” said Wing Hin Motorsports Team Manager K. C. Chua.
