Bacolod City Racers Make History by Breaking 12-Year National Drag Racing Record
Racers from Bacolod City have etched their names in Philippine motorsports history by shattering a long-standing national record during the opening leg of the 2026 National Drag Racing Championship (NDRC). The historic event took place over the weekend of January 17-18, 2026, at the renowned Clark International Speedway in Clark, Pampanga.
Record-Breaking Performance in the 400-Meter Sprint
The triumphant team, composed of Mark Yanson, Carlo Tinsay, and US-based racer Omar Crespo, achieved an official time of 8.824 seconds in the challenging 400-meter sprint. This remarkable feat eclipsed the previous national benchmark for front-wheel-drive vehicles, which had remained unbroken since 2014, ending a record drought that lasted over a decade.
Competing against nearly 100 car entries from across the Philippines in the season-opening NDRC event, the Bacolod trio demonstrated exceptional skill and coordination. Their performance specifically reset the national benchmark for front-wheel-drive drag racing, a significant milestone in the sport.
Key Contributors to the Historic Victory
The success of the Bacolod racers was bolstered by crucial expertise and support. Omar Crespo, who represents Area 51 Car Racers and is based in Orlando, Florida, brought invaluable tuning knowledge to the team. As a respected drag racer and high-performance vehicle tuner in the international racing circuit, his involvement provided the technical edge needed for the record-breaking run.
Additionally, the effort received strong backing from Leo Rey Yanson, a noted sports patron and chairman of the Yanson Group of Bus Companies. His instrumental support played a key role in the team’s campaign, highlighting the importance of patronage in achieving sporting excellence.
Emotional Reactions and Future Plans
In the wake of their achievement, the racers expressed profound pride and humility. "We’re humbled and proud," said Yanson and Tinsay. "This record is not just ours — it belongs to Bacolod. Getting an official Philippine record is a dream come true."
Leo Rey Yanson echoed these sentiments, stating, "Seeing Bacolod achieve an official record makes me truly happy. It’s a testament to the dedication, skill and teamwork of these young racers."
Although the Bacolod racers will not compete in the remaining legs of the NDRC season, their primary objective was to secure an official Philippine record — a goal they have successfully accomplished. This strategic focus underscores their commitment to making a lasting impact in the sport.
Impact on Philippine Drag Racing
The NDRC determines winners through a combination of factors, including outright speed, bracket racing, the Quick 8 shootout among the fastest cars, and official Philippine records. By setting a new national benchmark, the Bacolod team has not only claimed victory but also elevated the competitive standards of drag racing in the country.
This historic achievement is expected to further boost Bacolod City’s growing presence in the Philippine drag racing scene, inspiring future generations of racers and solidifying the city’s reputation as a hub for motorsports talent. The record-breaking run serves as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved through dedication, expertise, and collaborative effort in the thrilling world of drag racing.
