Paul looking to defend his drag race lead

JAKARTA (JP): Canadian Robert Paul hopes to defend his lead in this year's national drag race series with a win in the series' second leg at Sentul, near Bogor, on May 10.

"I will do my best to defend the 11.517 second record which I achieved during the first leg of the drag race on April 5," Paul said Monday.

The team also includes Ronny Hermawan and Donnie Pangemanan. Paul will drive a Holden Torana, while Ronny is set to use his Ford RS200 and Donnie his Volkswagen Beetle.

Paul won the first stage of the race April 5 clocking in at 11.517 seconds. Ronny came in second at 12.280 seconds and Donnie ninth after experiencing engine trouble.

Wie Wie, driving a Holden Commodore, came in third place.

Paul said his main competitors in the coming race would be Ronny, Donnie, Hery Agung and Wie Wie.

Both Ronny and Donnie said they would do their best in the race and admitted that Paul was a strong contender. "I certainly want to win the race," Ronny said.

Tim Kinlay, also of the Star Mild team, said he was confident that his teammates would place well.

"The cars are in top condition and the drivers are fit for the race. I'm confident the team can win," Kinlay said.

Three hundred drivers are set to compete in the second leg which has a number of categories, including the free-for-all class. (lnt)