What a way to celebrate a victory! Thanat Laoongplio of Honda Racing Thailand just gave us the most entertaining post-race moment we never knew we needed after clinching his first win at Race 2 of the MSBK600 during Round 3 of the MAM Malaysia Superbike Championship at the PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit. As he crossed the checkered flag, Thanat felt the thrill of triumph surged through him, and in a burst of exhilaration, he stood up on his bike, throwing his arms wide in a triumphant salute. But here’s the kicker: standing on a speeding motorcycle while wind whips around you isn’t exactly the best plan. In an instant, the adrenaline-fueled celebration took a comedic turn. As he raised his arms in joy, he suddenly realized he could see about as well as a raccoon in daylight. Trying to regain control, he reached for the handlebars—but his hand slipped, sending him tumbling backward like a scene straight out of a slapstick comedy. The bike continued on, oblivious, while Thanat became the star of his own unexpected blooper reel. The audience erupted in laughter, witnessing a moment that instantly became legendary. We caught up with Thanat for his thoughts on this unforgettable moment. He said, “I feel so happy that I can’t describe it—like I just won the lottery! Achieving my goal was amazing, but I might need to rethink my victory moves! It’s my first victory on the International stage! A tough battle, but now I know it’s also about nailing my celebration… or not!” “After crossing the finish line, I decided to stand on the bike to celebrate, feeling like a champion! But then my hand slipped, the wind got involved, and I ended up auditioning for the role of ‘Fallen Hero’! Who knew victory could be so slippery?” “On the positive side, this win is something people will never forget! It’s crucial for my future, plus now I have the best story for gatherings—‘Hey, remember when I won and took an unplanned tumble?’” So here’s to Thanat Laoongplio—a true champion on the track and now, inadvertently, a comedian in the spotlight! Let’s hope his next victory celebration includes a bit more balance, or at least a safety net!
In the rain-affected Race 2 of the MSBK600 category during Round 3 of the MAM Malaysia Superbike Championship at the PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit, Thanat Laoongplio of HONDA RACING THAILAND emerged victorious on the wet track. The race faced a delay due to heavy rain, prompting riders to return to the pits to adjust their setups for the wet track conditions. The race was reduced from 10 laps to 7 laps. As the race commenced, Thanat quickly established himself in the lead, followed by Japanese rider, Okaya Yuta, and Muhd Syarifuddin Azman of BOON SIEW HONDA RACING TEAM. Defending champion Helmi struggled at the back of the pack, hampering his chances of clinching the Weekend Champion title. On lap 2, Thanat demonstrated his mastery of the wet conditions, pulling ahead by 1.865 seconds at an impressive speed of 241.6 km/h. He continued to dominate the race, posting a best lap time of 2’32:663s on lap 3. As the rain began to subside, Okaya started to close the gap, beating Thanat’s lap time with 2’32:447s. By lap 4, Okaya further improved his performance, clocking a best lap time of 2’30:904s. However, a slight mistake on lap 5 allowed Thanat to extend his lead once again, as the top two riders opened a significant 14-second gap over Syarifuddin in third place. As the track dried out, Thanat maintained his lead, and despite Helmi’s impressive lap time of 2’30:160s, he could not catch the front runners. Ultimately, Thanat crossed the finish line first at 17’51:558s, followed by Okaya at 17’52:632s, and Syarifuddin took third place at 18’05:095s. Thanat shared, “I thrive in rainy conditions; they bring me confidence and excitement. As the rain poured, I felt more invigorated. Throughout the race, I kept my focus solely on the track ahead, racing steadily. I am incredibly happy with today’s result!” TOP 5 FASTEST – RACE 2 MSBK600 1. Thanat Laoongplio – HONDA RACING THAILAND (17’51:558s) 2. Okaya Yuta – Japan (17’52:632s) 3. Muhd Syarifuddin Azman – BOON SIEW HONDA RACING TEAM (18’05:095s) 4. Muhd Helmi Azman – BOON SIEW HONDA RACING TEAM (18’07:679s) 5. Chiang Chih Ying – Taipei (19’30:434s)
In an impressive display of performance, Muhd Helmi Azman of the BOON SIEW HONDA RACING TEAM claimed victory in the MSBK600 category at the Race of Round 3 MAM Malaysia Superbike Championship took place today at the PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit today. Helmi led the race from start to finish, showcasing his prowess and setting a commanding pace throughout. Helmi quickly established his lead, with Thanat Laoongplio of HONDA RACING THAILAND in P2 and Muhd Syarifuddin Azman of BOON SIEW HONDA RACING TEAM in P3. By lap 2, Helmi had already created a small gap of 0.679 seconds ahead of Thanat. While Helmi maintained his lead, Thanat faced intense pressure from Syarifuddin, who was eagerly battling for P2. As the race progressed, Helmi continued to extend his advantage, leaving the competition behind with a substantial gap of 3.200 seconds by lap 7. Syarifuddin continued to pursue Thanat, seeking an opportunity to overtake, but Thanat managed to reclaim his position and fend off the challenge. In the end, Helmi crossed the finish line first at 21’54:773s to claimed the victory, followed by Thanat in P2 and Syarifuddin in P3, marking a triumphant day for the Honda riders. Helmi shared, “From the start, I aimed to create a significant gap from the group. I focused on achieving my lap times, and this setup felt excellent. I had a great feeling on the bike, and the temperature wasn’t too hot either. I tried to attack lap by lap, and when I saw the board showing nearly a 3-second lead over the group, I decided to maintain my consistency. As the rain began to fall, I just took care and focused on finishing the race safely.” TOP 5 FASTEST – RACE 1 MSBK600 1. Muhd Helmi Azman – BOON SIEW HONDA RACING TEAM (21’54:773s) 2. Thanat Laoongplio – HONDA RACING THAILAND (21’58:780s) 3. Muhd Syarifuddin Azman – BOON SIEW HONDA RACING TEAM (21’58:934s) 4. Okaya Yuta – Japan (22’10:995s) 5. Chiang Chih Ying – Taipei (23’19:145s)
The Free Practice sessions for MSBK600 took place at Round 3 of the MAM Malaysia Superbike Championship 2024 at the PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit, watched Thanat Laoongplio of HONDA RACING THAILAND led the field for combined result. Thanat Laoongplio set the pace with a fastest lap of 2’11:639s, demonstrating consistent form across both practice sessions. His performance placed him as the rider to beat heading into the qualifying rounds, where competition is expected to intensify. Thanat said, “Today, I did everything I could to improve my performance, and I’m feeling a strong sense of confidence. I’m incredibly excited about the upcoming challenges and ready to give it my all. My primary target is clear: I aim to win the race. I believe that with the right focus and determination, I can achieve this goal and make the most of the opportunities ahead!” Finishing in second place was Muhd Helmi Azman of BOON SIEW HONDA RACING TEAM, who clocked in at 2’11:944s, just 0:305s behind Thanat. Helmi Azman’s steady improvement through the sessions positions him as a strong challenger for the top spot. Rounding out the top three was Okaya Yuta from Japan, who posted a time of 2’13:187s, finishing 1:548s behind the leader. Yuta’s performance was solid, showing potential to close the gap in the upcoming rounds. The qualifying rounds tomorrow will determine the final grid positions ahead of what promises to be an exciting race day. Result – Top 5 Fastest Practice Session (Combined) MSBK600 1. Thanat Laoongplio – HONDA RACING THAILAND (2’11:639s) 2. Muhd Helmi Azman – BOON SIEW HONDA RACING TEAM (2’11:944s) 3. Okaya Yuta – Japan (2’13:187s) 4. Muhd Syarifuddin Azman – BOON SIEW HONDA RACING TEAM (2’13:661s) 5. Chiang Chih Ying – Taiwan (2’19:720s)
Round 3 of the MAM Malaysia Superbike Championship (MSBK) will be happening at PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit (SIC) this weekend. Moved up a notch in the MSBK600 after round 2 is Thanat Laoongplio of Honda Racing Thailand who will back with a renewed enthusiasm in his bid to embrace his next challenge. It was not easy for the Thai rider to find his footing on the grounds of SIC but he certainly made quite an impression with his entry in MSBK. In round 1, the Thai-born rider bagged the podium twice for the third place which placed him third overall. In round 2, the rider may have slipped in his moves resulting in a high-sight and a “DNF” status but he definitely had the initial upper-hand to not just retain his position top three but also to move up a notch at the second spot overall. Thanat now eagerly awaits round 3 however, would he be able to pursue a position higher than second overall? With a difference of 48 points, the chances are bleak, however considering the unpredictable nature of motorsport which relies not only on dexterity but also luck, it is definitely not impossible. The question is really more on whether or not he would be able to retain second overall throughout the remaining rounds. With his closest contender lurking from the third spot overall with a point difference of six, Thanat has definitely got to be more cautious, perhaps also improve further on his riding techniques to maintain his position. Commenting on the championship, Thanat said, “In Race 2 of the previous round, I made a mistake climbing onto the apex at turn 12 which resulted in a nasty crash. I could have done better but that mistake taught me a valuable lesson. Right now, I know how to improve on my riding style and I am better adjusted to the machine. For the coming round, we have everything prepared in terms of the machine. Of course, there are some parts which require further adjustments and I trust that the team will do an excellent job on that part. On my part, I still think that I lack precision which is really important during racing especially when making calculated moves. Racing is all about taking risks and when we do it accurately, it’s rewarding. I believe that with these factors improved, I can be way better in terms of performance. My goal of course mainly is to maintain good pace, keep my position intact and focus on the target which is to be on the podium.”
Race 2 of Round 2 MAM Malaysia Superbike Championship was held at PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit. Md Helmi Azman of BOON SIEW HONDA RACING TEAM claimed victory again in Race 2 of the MSBK600 race category. As the race started, Helmi put on a good fight with Thanat Laoongplio of HONDA RACING THAILAND and his teammate, Md Syarifuddin Azman to be on the top spot. Helmi displayed great confidence throughout the race as he never looked back to the contenders but only focused on the race against himself watched him leaving the pack further behind. Thanat at P2 tried to close up the gap with Helmi, however, crashed on lap 4, watched Syarifuddin and Mohd Danial Syahmi of FGRT PROJECT took over P2 and P3 respectively. Helmi consistently raced with Syarifuddin at P2 at least 5 seconds behind, then comfortably took the win at total time of 22’00:597s.
Round 2 of the MAM Malaysia Superbike Championship took place today at the PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit. Md Helmi Azman of BOON SIEW HONDA RACING TEAM claimed victory in Race 1 of MSBK600 race category. In the qualifying session that was held this morning, Helmi marked the fastest with his best lap time at 2’10:148s. Thanat Laoongplio of HONDA RACING THAILAND made it second fastest with his best lap time at 2’10:380s. At third fastest was Md Syarifuddin Azman of BOON SIEW HONDA RACING TEAM with his best lap time at 2’11:170s. As soon as the race began, Thanat was quick to find his position at the first turn with Helmi right behind him at P2. But Helmi was quick to took over P1. On lap 3, Thanat overtook Helmi again at P1 and picked up his speed in attempt to keep a distance with Helmi. Riders position remained the same before Helmi managed to overtook Thanat and reclaim P1 on lap 7. Helmi stay focused and increased his pace and won the race at 24’27:568s. Helmi commented, “Today’s track presented some challenging conditions. During the warm-up laps, I completed two laps to assess the track. I knew that by lap 4 or 5, it would be fully dry. To manage my tires effectively, I focused on conserving them, especially since we struggled with tire grip initially. I decided to follow Thanat until the final 5 laps, at which point I overtook him and secured the race finish.” Thanat clocked in second at 24’31:553s. Syarifuddin made it third at 24’31:712s. MSBK600 Md Helmi Azman – BOON SIEW HONDA RACING TEAM (24’27:568s) Thanat Laoongplio – HONDA RACING THAILAND (24’31:553s) Md Syarifuddin Azman – BOON SIEW HONDA RACING TEAM (24’31:712s) Mohd Danial Syahmi – FGRT PROJECT (24’31:795s) Rafid Topan – RSEVEN CAUN RACING TECH (26’04:455s)
The MSBK600 category at Round 2 of the MAM Malaysia Superbike Championship, hosted at PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit happened today. Md Helmi Azman of BOON SIEW HONDA RACING TEAM appeared fastest in the Practice Sessions. Md Helmi Azman of BOON SIEW HONDA RACING TEAM emerged fastest in Practice 1 when he set the fastest lap time of 2’11:320s placed Thanat Laoongplio of HONDA RACING THAILAND at 2’11:596s and Md Syarifuddin Azman of BOON SIEW HONDA RACING TEAM at 2’12:145s in second and third place respectively. Then, in Practice 2, Helmi once again led the pack with better lap time of 2’10:729s. Thanat too, maintained in second place with the fastest lap time of 2’11:183s followed by Syarifuddin at 2’11:485s. Combined result for practice session revealed Helmi as fastest overall, while Thanat placed second and Syarifuddin took the third spot. Helmi stated, “Overall, today has been very good for me. However, I am still working on finding the right setup for the rear tire, as the size is now the same as the ARRC specifications, whereas we previously used a larger tire. My feeling with the bike is still not quite right; I’m still searching for the perfect balance. For tomorrow, my goal is to improve my lap times and focus on preparing for Race 1 and Race 2.” Combined Result – Top 5 Fastest Practice Session MSBK600 1. Md Helmi Azman – BOON SIEW HONDA RA CING TEAM (2’10:729s) 2. Thanat Laoongplio – HONDA RACING THAILAND (2’11:183s) 3. Md Syarifuddin Azman – BOON SIEW HONDA RA CING TEAM (2’11:485s) 4. Mohd Danial Syahmi – FGRT PROJECT (2’12:800s) 5. Chiang Chih Ying – Chinese Taipei (2’18:253s)
With the Malaysia Superbike Championship (MSBK) Round 2 fast approaching, Thanat Laoongplio of Honda Racing Thailand is gearing up with both anticipation and determination. Currently holding the 3rd position in the overall standings after a commendable performance in Round 1, where he secured P3 in both Race 1 and Race 2 in the MSBK600 category, Laoongplio is focused on climbing up the leaderboard and making his mark at the PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit. Thanat shared, “After Round 1, it was clear that both the team and I needed to address areas for improvement. We dedicated our efforts to enhancing our physical fitness and fine-tuning our strategies. Our primary goal is to build on our performance from Round 1 and come into Round 2 stronger and more prepared.” Currently positioned 3rd in the standings, Thanat remains optimistic about his chances of ascending to the top spot. “My initial aim when coming to these races was to gather valuable data for the ARRC (IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship). However, my ambitions also include clinching victories and securing the championship. I believe that with the right adjustments and continued focus, moving up to the top spot is entirely within reach.” With Helmi currently leading the standings, Thanat is determined to overtake him. “Helmi is a strong competitor, but my strategy is to outperform him and secure the front position. My focus will be on being faster and more consistent, aiming to stay ahead and capitalize on every opportunity that arises.” The PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit is renowned for its unpredictable nature, where any rider could claim victory on any given day. Thanat acknowledges the challenge and his approach to mastering the track, “Sepang is a track where winning requires both skill and a deep understanding of the circuit. I’ve been meticulously studying the track layout and analyzing past performances. It’s crucial to gather as much detailed information as possible to improve our strategy and execution.” Thanat added, “Competing here not only provides valuable experience but also helps in gathering critical data for the upcoming ARRC Round 5. My aim is to leverage this opportunity to both achieve success in the current race and better prepare for the ARRC.”
MAM Malaysia Superbike Championship (MSBK) is approaching Round 2 at the PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit, Azroy Hakeem Anuar of the BOON SIEW HONDA RACING TEAM stands at the forefront of the competition. Following an exceptional performance in Round 1, where he dominated both Race 1 and Race 2, Azroy now leads the overall standings. In preparation for Round 2, Azroy is focusing on a rigorous and comprehensive physical training regimen. “As always, my preparation for Round 2 involves a comprehensive approach to physical training,” he explains. “I focus on various aspects such as strength, endurance, and flexibility to ensure that my body is in optimal condition for the demands of racing. Physical fitness is crucial for maintaining peak performance over long races and under intense conditions. Additionally, I analyze data from previous races and work closely with my team to fine-tune the bike setup. This holistic preparation helps me stay competitive and perform at my best.” Despite his current top position, Azroy remains grounded and pragmatic about the season’s progress. “Although I am currently leading the overall standings, I’m choosing not to get too wrapped up in the notion of securing the top spot just yet. It’s still early in the season, and while it’s great to be in the lead, there’s a long way to go. My focus remains on consistently improving my performance and learning from each race. It’s important to stay grounded and avoid complacency, as every race presents its own set of challenges and opportunities.” The competition in MSBK is fierce, with seasoned riders such as Azlan Shah Kamaruzaman, Nakarin Atiratphuvaphat, and Passawit Thitivararak all aiming for top positions. Azroy views these competitors as valuable challenges rather than threats. “The MSBK field is incredibly talented, with riders like Azlan Shah, Nakarin, and Passawit all vying for top positions,” he acknowledges. “Instead of viewing them as threats, I see them as valuable competitors who push me to enhance my skills. Racing against such accomplished riders is a great way to test myself and elevate my riding abilities. I’m looking forward to the challenges they present and am committed to fighting hard in every race. Competing with the best helps me refine my technique and strategy, which is beneficial for my overall development as a rider.” Azroy’s deep familiarity with the PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit, being his home track, offers him a significant advantage. “Sepang is a track that offers both excitement and complexity, and having it as my home circuit gives me a distinct advantage,” he says. “I’ve spent countless hours here, understanding every corner, straight, and elevation change. This familiarity allows me to make split-second decisions and optimize my racing line more effectively than others. Knowing the track so well means I can anticipate the conditions and adjust my strategy accordingly. This local knowledge helps me gain confidence and a competitive edge when racing on this challenging circuit.” However, Azroy also faces the challenge of adapting to the high-speed nature of the 1000cc bike. “One of the main challenges I’m currently facing is adapting to the high-speed nature of the 1000cc bike,” he admits. “The power and performance of these machines require a different level of control and precision compared to smaller bikes. Mastering the dynamics of such a powerful bike while maintaining speed and stability is a continuous learning process. It demands a combination of technical skill, mental focus, and physical strength. I’m working hard to address these challenges and push the limits of what I can achieve on the track.”