Toyota flags off GR Supra GT Cup Asia-PH esport program in July

MANILA: COVID-19 might keep us away from each other physically, but it shouldn't keep us from doing fun things together.

Yes, we are largely kept from the activities that we love doing, but the online platform in particular enables us to keep in touch, and even indulge in a number of our normal hobbies or undertakings.

Toyota Motor Philippines Corporation (TMP) now says we can partake in some motorsports excitement — even if it is only, for the meantime that is, confined to the e-realm.

This July, TMP will roll out its esport program, GR Supra GT Cup Asia-Philippines.

In a release, TMP said, "This move was brought about by the latest situation where safety is of highest concern to everyone and mass gatherings like physical races are foreseen to be limited in the coming months."

Added TMP President Atsuhiro Okamoto, “The safety of our customers, employees, and fans are always at the top of our priorities. But we also recognize the value of waku-doki spirit in everyone! This is a great way to sustain the excitement of motorsports program in the Philippines in a safe environment.”

The GR Supra GT Cup Asia-Philippines is an e-racing event under Toyota’s Gazoo Racing motorsports program. Take note that it will be held online and is open to the public, ages 18 and above.  “Finally, Toyota fans can participate in our sports program at the comfort and safety of their own homes.  We also expect this activity to reach a wider and younger audience, based on the profile of gamers,” added Okamoto.

The e-race will feature the newest iteration of Toyota's iconic sports badge, the GR Supra,

Local winners of the e-race will get a chance to participate in the regional finals, the GR Supra GT Cup-Asia.

TMP noted that "esports in the Philippines has grown in popularity over the years. The addition of esports programs in various international competitions, producing Filipino medalists, have further legitimized the sport."

The country's number-one carmaker said that, for now, the esport activity is a "fun and safe alternative to... the Vios Racing Festival." It added. "Usually held in three legs from the second to the fourth quarter, the current situation makes it very challenging for Toyota, the racings teams, the drivers, and public spectators to do this physical event."

TMP promises to release more details of the GR Supra GT Cup Asia-Philippines soon.  For more information, visit toyota.com.ph and facebook/ToyotaMotorPhilippines.

Photo from Toyota Motor Philippines

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