SJM Iron Lynx Theodore Racing makes storming Lamborghini Super Trofeo Asia debut
SJM Iron Lynx Theodore Racing and their all-star driver line up of Macau talent Charles Leong Hon Chio and Miki Koyama made an impressive entrance to the prestigious Lamborghini Super Trofeo, taking two podium finishes on their championship debut amongst a strong international field.
At Malaysia’s 5.543km Sepang International Circuit, Leong and Koyama brought the team’s Lamborghini Huracán Super Trofeo EVO2 sportscar home in second place overall in each of the two, gruelling 50-minute races to complete a stunning first appearance. The results put them second in the PRO Driver championship standings after the first of the six-round season which spans Southeast Asia and Oceana, a mere seven points off the lead.
A lightning start and strong opening stint from Leong in race one was followed by an epic charge from Koyama on the final lap of the race to cross the line in second. In race two, it was Leong’s turn to seal the team’s second consecutive podium after another confident run from team mate Koyama.
SJM Iron Lynx Theodore Racing next head to Adelaide, Australia where their quest for Lamborghini Super Trofeo Asia trophies and championship points continues at The Bend Motorsport Park from June 7-9.
Race 1
With their only experience of the Lamborghini Huracán Super Trofeo EVO2 on a dry track, Charles Leong Hon Chio and Miki Koyama were greeted by a whole new challenge when the Malaysian heavens opened for the two 15-minute qualifying sessions. Despite drastically altered track conditions, the pair rose to the challenge, with Leong locking in P5 for the start of race one, and Koyama securing P3 on the grid for race two.
As the lights went out, Leong made a strong getaway, gaining a place on the opening lap, and holding firm against a trio of rivals behind. At the half way point, he handed over to Koyama from P4. Taking the mantle from her team mate, Koyama came out fighting, making up places and regaining P4.
Koyama climbed to P3 with just over two minutes of the race remaining, but the determined Japanese athlete was far from done. On the final lap, and just meters from the flag, Koyama caught and overhauled the car in front to claim second place in the opening race of the season.
Race 2
This time it was Miki Koyama’s turn to take the opening stint, starting from third on the grid at the rolling start. Despite losing ground off the start, she was quickly back on the pace and gaining ground. After the driver changeover during a perfectly-timed pitstop, Charles Leong Hon Chio took the wheel, emerging onto the track in second.
Although Leong managed to reel in the race leader, the clock ran down before he could get close enough to make a move for the win, but gave his rivals another glimpse of the formidable pace of the SJM Iron Lynx Theodore Racing newcomers.
Driver Quotes:
Charles Leong Hon Chio:
“My thanks to SJM Iron Lynx Theodore Racing. It was a very good weekend and to win two podiums on our debut was fantastic. The Lamborghini racing car is a whole new experience for me and a new chapter in my career. I’m improving with every lap and learning all the time. I’m looking forward to the next round in Australia and flying the flag for Macau there, and to delivering more good results for the team.”
Miki Koyama:
“I understand the car better now and I’m so happy to be a part of SJM Iron Lynx Theodore Racing and the Lamborghini Super Trofeo Asia. Thank you to everyone who supports me!”
