PAC: Mohd Afiq Ikhwan Guangdong summary

AFIQ: MY BEST RAYA PRESENT

KUALA LUMPUR (SEPT 9, 2010): Mohd Afiq Ikhwan, who was the best Malaysian driver on the first day of the Formula BMW Pacific races at the Guangdong International Circuit, said his podium finish was just the impetus his career needed.

Describing his third place drive as the best Hari Raya gift, the 19-year-old Meritus Grand Prix driver has now set his sights on finishing on top of the podium in Singapore for the Formula BMW Pacific Rounds 11 and 12 which will be supporting the Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix at the Marina Bay Circuit from Sept 24-26.

"This is my first season in Formula BMW and the results weren't going my way," said the 19-year-old Afiq.

"I was feeling a little down as I had expected more, especially as I had set good times in the tests sessions. Unfortunately, I have had some bad luck on the track in the previous 10 rounds.

"I still need to improve on my driving but finishing third in China has given me hope that I can do well in the remaining races. After Singapore we will move on to Japan (Oct 29-31) before the season ending race in Macau (Nov 19-21)."

Afiq, who is taking a short break for the Hari Raya holidays, said he will be watching what he eats when he is back at his 'kampung' in Ulu Langat.

"I love all the Hari Raya delicacies but know I have to stay in shape. Despite it being the holidays, I will still be working out in the gym," said Afiq, who has earned 34 points after 10 races.

"I would love to win in Singapore, especially as it will be my first street race. It will be an exciting time for me and the team and I hope to contribute to our team's points."

Meritus.GP have won the Formula BMW team title for the past seven years but face a fight to hold on to their crown. They are second in the standings with 193 points, 49 points behind Eurasia with five races to go.

-source: YNWA