Formerly known as the Toyota Racing School, the TGR Academy brings together motorsports enthusiasts in the country in a bid to jumpstart their journey in the world of motorsports. The team of mentors and instructors is comprised of tenured racing trainers from the country with at least 10 years of experience on the track and former champions of the Toyota Vios Cup in the Philippines.

The TGR Academy has two tiers. Level 1: Basic Circuit Car Class, is where future racers learn the basic skills and essential safety rules needed to properly drive a race car around the track. This class also tackles threshold braking, downshifting, racing line, and track lapping. The theory lecture was conducted through a virtual webinar and supplemented by an on-ground training at the Clark International Speedway (CIS). The Level 2: Advance Circuit Class teaches racers eyeing a position on the podium of the upcoming Toyota Vios Cup 2021.

Unlike previous racing school classes, this year’s class no longer allows students to share the vehicle with other participants to ensure the health and safety of each racer. Registrations were done online and some parts of the race class were conducted through video conferencing. Students and staff were tested upon entering the circuit at CIS. A dedicated time slot for each batch of students was strictly followed and driving instructions were conducted through two-way radios. All equipment and vehicles were disinfected before every use.

The TGR Academy is a great stepping stone for anyone interested in joining the Toyota Gazoo Racing Vios Cup, which is slated to be back this July. This season, Toyota Motor Philippines will introduce a new batch of racers as well and is bringing back the Super Sporting class, which will be joined by the country’s seasoned racers.