Over the course of recent history, women have been making headlines in the world of sports, proving that once and for all, there are no hidden figures when it comes to the once-men-dominated realm, especially for motorsports. From the 1901 Paris-Berlin Race to the pre-World War II 24-Hour Le Mans, and until in the present-time Indy Grand Prix where female engineers are also part of the race victories. The sport is for everyone. Just like the spirit of Toyota’s “Waku-Doki”: pounding heartbeats, the adrenaline rush, and the exhilaration of driving, are for everyone. A basic human feeling that is universal
And now, we have the 2021 TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Vios Cup Autocross Challenge. Featuring a diverse cast – celebrities, influencers, gamers, photographers, and even beauty queens. Six out of the 12 participants of the segment are powerful women who come from different industries and were beyond ready to take on the challenges in the racetrack. The Autocross is no easy feat, with its slalom course and sharp turns, it might be even more difficult than racing through long straights and bigger curves in the circuit.
Bianca Yao
Bianca Yao, one of the country’s pioneering game streamer and content creator has admitted that it had always been her dream to join the Vios Cup since its inception. Being tapped to join in the competition, it was a dream come true. Her preparations focused on learning the ropes of the autocross challenge.
Lexi Mendiola
No-nonsense actress and social media darling Lexi Mendiola quickly responded to the call of speed. Gaining popularity with her stylish looks and OOTDs with a balance of honesty, her well-received unaltered image of herself proved a point that true beauty is beyond what we all see.
A person in a red suit standing next to a white car
Jacq Yu
Long-time model and on-screen personality Jacq Yu also took on the challenge in a heartbeat. Being a fan of the race itself, she has set herself in the mindset of the pro driver that never backs out. She’s out to prove that looks could kill and so is her skills.
What part of the activity excited you the most?
Jacq: I got excited during the practice and of course the race itself. And when I got inside the racing car, I think that’s the most thrilling thing that happened. And of course, I got to meet cool and awesome new people. That was fun!
What was greatest takeaway from this event?
Jacq: The greatest takeaway for me is that always enjoy the process of whatever it is you’re doing. Despite of the pandemic, we get to still do things that are exciting and make the most of it. Always keep pushing past your comfort zone and challenge yourself.
Winwyn Marquez
One of the three beauty queens joining in the competition is Winwyn Marquez, candidate to the prestigious Binibining Pilipinas 2015, Miss World Philippines 2017, and crown victor of the Reina Hispanoamericana also in 2017. It would have been a regret for her to say no to the competition. Winwyn is also a Marine reservist and is proud to have completed the program.
Laura Lehmann
Miss World Philippines 2017 titleholder Laura Lehmann also joins in the party. With a strong sports know-how from being a Philippine Softball Team player to becoming a courtside reporter for the collegiate basketball. Currently, she’s been hosting one of the top sports channels in the Philippines delivering news and sharing her two cents on sporting events
What goes on your mind while practicing and in the actual competition?
Laura: It’s a timed competition so there’s that hunger inside of you to drive the fastest and beat out your opponent! Haha! The competitiveness made me feel like I was playing varsity in High school again, so it was so nostalgic! As adults we don’t really get as many chances to engage in sporting activities anymore… so this was such a fun experience!
How would you apply the principle of “pushing limits for the better” in your life?
Laura: I guess just always reminding myself that it’s okay to go out of my comfort zone sometimes. If we do, we find the greatest things! Fear stops us from gaining a lot of good things.
Carla Lizardo
Another beauty from the catwalk is Mutya ng Pilipinas Intercontinental 2010, Carla Lizardo, who also happens to be a game streamer, crushing enemies in virtual gunfights. Carla also ventured into hosting both for television and podcast (alongside fellow pageant queens Pia Wurtzbach and Bianca Guidotti).
