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Why racing in a controlled environment is more fulfilling than public endurance races?

Push your limits without the risk of a speeding ticket

Getting racing tips from moto vlogger MotoDeck who blossomed to become a racer. PHOTO FROM CLUB 200 PHILIPPINES

The Army Navy Club 200 Endurance Race at Clark International Speedway was more than just a race—it was a transformative experience that challenged my understanding of motorcycling.

I always wanted to try the endurance race. It was some sort of personal challenge for me. I also wanted to see the difference when I joined the BOSS Ironman Motorcycle Challenge in early 2024.

Club 200 Philippines crated the Endurance Race Challenge to promote racing in a controlled environment. PHOTO FROM CLUB 200 PHILIPPINES

Unlike the usual endurance events, Club 200 Philippines wanted a different approach—to make it inside the racetrack where the environment is controlled and where the public is safe from any form or road-related accidents. It requires your team to finish 50 laps. Clark International Speedway spans 4.198km. The event lets you do 200km, where the laps can be divided within your team, and the top team to finish the course wins the category.

I used my own motorcycle, a 2019 Ducati Multistrada 950 S sport tourer. We joined as the Ducati Media Team with my fellow media/influencers Naj Abdul and moto vlogger MotoDeck.

This is the first time the author used his personal bike (Multistrada 950 S) in an actual race. PHOTO FROM CLUB 200 PHILIPPINES

Initially, I joined the race with a cautious mindset, rooted in years of safe riding practices. However, the track soon demanded a different approach. The controlled environment, devoid of unpredictable road hazards, allowed me to push the limits of both myself and my motorcycle.

It was thrilling, but also daunting. When I finally shared the track with professional racers, I couldn’t keep up. It was really challenging.

The Ducati Multistrada V4 RS is ready to hit the tracks. PHOTO FROM CLUB 200 PHILIPPINES

I quickly realized that the skills honed on public roads were not enough. Track riding is a unique discipline—requiring precision, speed, and a willingness to take risks.

I also realized that wearing a proper track suit boosted your confidence inside the track. Despite my struggles, my teammates supported me. They were fast. Their encouragement helped me overcome my fears and push my limits.

Together, we secured a podium finish in the Adventure 19” Class. We weren’t really gunning for the win, but to experience the endurance race inside the track was already enough.

Totally unexpected, but the author's team won third place in the race. PHOTO FROM CLUB 200 PHILIPPINES

This race marked a turning point in my motorcycling journey. It ignited a passion for track riding, and opened a world of possibilities.

In the end, here are the things that I learned from it:

1. Track riding offers a unique and exhilarating experience, allowing riders to push their limits in a controlled environment.

2. A strong team can make all the difference in an endurance race.

3. Winning is such a great experience. It is legitimate and a true benchmarking of riding skills.

4. Stepping outside your comfort zone can lead to significant personal growth.

5. If any accidents occurred, I wouldn’t be scared to think about endangering other people on public roads.

Ducati Philippines bagged another sweep in all categories for two consecutive years. PHOTO FROM CLUB 200 PHILIPPINES

I’m grateful for the opportunity. It was an unforgettable experience that helped shape my future as a motorcyclist.



Maki Aganon

Maki is completely obsessed with motorcycles. If he’s not out there riding all over the Philippines, he’s just probably at home composing another rant, or simply looking at new bikes on the Internet. He writes the ‘First to Arrive’ column.



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