Muklada makes history in Asia Road Racing

Muklada, who raced under number 44 from A.P. Honda Racing Thailand, crossed the line first in 19:11.671 minutes, beating 24 male rivals to make history.

"It was the best day for me. I made a few mistakes yesterday and I managed to correct them all today. I'm so happy that I won the race for my Thai fans and the team today. I'd like to thank my team for their hard work throughout the weekend and Thai fans from around the country," said Muklada after Race 2 of the Asia Production 250cc in Buriram on Sunday.

The first race of Asia Road Racing Championship 2018 was held in the afternoon of Sunday March 4, 2018 at Chang International Circuit, Buriram. The distance of each round is 4.554km, which the Asia Production 250cc class made a 10-lap race.

Thai racers under A.P. Honda Racing Thailand holding an outstanding performance in the qualifying round were newcomer : Kritchaporn “New” Kaewsonthi, number 35, who took off in grid 2, and Muklada “Muk” Sarapuech, number 44, who was the only female racer took off in grid 8.

Kritchaporn took the lead in the first lap before Muklada overtook his position in the third lap. The two dominated the competition during the halfway stage.

During the eighth lap, Muklada slipped out at the fifth turn which made her drop to the 10th in the race. However, with her determination, the Thai female racer maximized her effort to become the first to cross the finish line.

She beat Indonesian RAfid TOpan Sucipto of Yamaha Yamalube and Kanatat Jaiman of Yamaha Thailand Racing team who finished at second and third with 19:11.853 and 19:11.856 minutes respectively. Kritchaporn had to be content with his 12^th place.

Apart from the fierce race, fans were given a treat with the presence of girl pop group  BNK48 who came to support A.P. Honda Racing Team.

The second leg of Asia Road Racing Championship 2018 will be held during April 19-22 at the Bend Motorsport Park, Australia.