Haridharma aims to defend title

JAKARTA (JP): Defending champion local driver Haridharma Manoppo will defend his title in the third stage of the national Formula Asia championships on May 28 at Sentul circuit, near Bogor.

"Yes I am ready to defend my title although I know it will be a difficult task," Haridharma said on Tuesday.

Haridharma, of the Tonsco team, leads the rankings in Formula Asia with 62 points, which he obtained in the earlier two stages.

He acknowledged his biggest rival would be Moreno Soeprapto, who is in second place with 60 points. Moreno is the younger brother of Ananda Mikola, who is concentrating on competing in Formula One races. Both Moreno and Ananda are sons of former national racer Tinton Soeprapto.

Moreno commented that he too would like to take over Haridharma's ranking, but said his vehicle had to be modified first.

"My car needs modification before competing in Sunday's (May 28) race. If all goes well, I believe I can beat Haridharma," Moreno said.

Ten drivers will be competing in the Formula Asia. Chandra Alim, also a former national racer, is the most senior.

Chandra is currently in fifth place with 37 points.

Formula Asia also has other events, including for Timor cars, superbikes, motorcycles and Vespa scooters. (lnt)