Yamaha Motor Philippines, Inc. welcomed a sunny Saturday morning with a roaring opening of the Yamaha Grandprix 7 at the Carmona Racing Circuit. Riders were ready to take on the track and eager to start their season on a high note but before their engine started Yamaha had something that would fire up their passion. 3-time MotoGP World Champion Jorge Lorenzo graced the event and showed the motorcycle enthusiasts in the Philippines his world-class talent.
Jorge took the circuit riding the limited edition Movistar YZF-R15 and gave the crowd 10 laps of pure greatness. He ended his run right in front of the bleacher area where he gave away exclusive JL99 merchandise to the lucky spectators. He addressed the crowd by starting with the local language that drew applause and screams from his already star struck supporters. He wished the riders the best in the race and for their careers that may one day lead to the first ever Filipino MotoGP rider.
The presence of the “X-FUERA” ignited the drive of each competitor that resulted in a fierce race that brought at the best in the Filipino riders. The winners were:
| 150 Open UB | 130 Open UB | AT 160 Open | 115 Vega Force i |
| James Mendez | Aljon Valencia | Dustin Esguerra | Kyle Paz |
| Herbert Lopez | Aldeine Valencia | Cassey Ng | Eane Jay Sobretodi |
| Masato Fernando | Reggie Adia | Eane Jay Sobretodo | Gian Carlo Mauricio |
| YZF-R15 | Sniper 150 Mxi | Mio 125 Mxi |
| James Mendez | Kyle Paz | Amber Torres |
| Paul Mark Doblada | Jeff Teopengco | Elijah Olayvar |
| Dustin Esguerra | Victor Laude | Mark Derrek Ondillio |
The 1st leg of the YGP7 showcased a champion inspiring champions and it can only get better for the aspiring riders in the country. The next leg kicks off at MalayBalay and Champions will once again emerge. – YMPH