LAST week (June 14th and 15th), I spent the weekend watching Round 3 of the PETRONAS Malaysian Cub Prix held at LYL International Karting Circuit, Bandar Sg Long, Kajang. The race was poised to be a pivotal moment in the championship. This relatively new circuit, located within the Monkeys Canopy Resort grounds, was the only new addition to the championship’s 2025 calendar, promising an unknown challenge for even the most seasoned riders. It 18 corners were known to be incredibly technical, demanding not just raw speed but also pinpoint precision, immense physical endurance and a strong mental game.The race agenda began on Friday (June 13th) and the air on the day was thick with anticipation as teams arrived. Mechanics swarmed around their machines, making final adjustments, while riders walked the track to study every apex, every braking point. Shahrol Syazras Shahrol Yuzy of HONDA ESTREMO YUZY RACING, a rider known for his analytical approach, had meticulously studied the circuit’s layout and he even trying his hand at karting there to gain a feel for its unique character, despite missing the initial test ride due to technical issues. He knew that adaptability would be the key, with limited time in free practice before qualifying.
On Saturday (June 14th), dawned with a clear sky and it was a perfect condition for racing. The free practice sessions were a blur on revving engines and screeching tires as riders pushed their limits, trying to find the fastest lines. The technical nature of the LYL Circuit meant that managing tire wear was a critical concern, adding another layer of strategy to the mix. As qualifying began, the intensity ratcheted up. Riders like Kasma Daniel Kasmayudin (PETRONAS SPRINTA YAMAHA MAJU MOTOR) in CP150 and Md Irfan Haykhal Amidi (HONDA KC RACING) in CP125, who had shown strong form in previous rounds, quickly established themselves as contenders.
Sunday, (June 15th) was race day. Half of the grandstands were filled-up by team supporters, buzzing with excitement. The atmosphere was electric, a symphony of anticipation and the raw power of the cub prix machines. The Wira KBS race kicked off the main events, a demonstration of raw talent from the young future stars. The battle was tight with several lead changes, showcasing the grit and determination of these aspiring champions. The 7-lap race saw Farres Putra Md Fadhil – PETRONAS SPRINTA YAMAHA–31 RACING rider, Farres Putra Md Fadhil (pix) won the race recording a time of 12’25.887s followed by second place, Md Akif Abdullah (ZYNERGYS HONDA KC RACING TEAM) who clocked 12’26.348s. Third was Md Akid Md Shah Khearul Nisiam (YAMAHA ESTREMO 27 RACING) with a time of 12’26.724s.
Then came the CP125 category final. From the drop of the flag, it was a high-octane spectacle. Riders fight for position into the tight first corner, a cacophony of engines and tire squeals. The 18 corners tested every rider’s nerve. There were spectacular saves and a few heartbreaking tumbles, but the marshals were quick to react ensuring safety. The lead group was a tight pack, swapping positions relentlessly. In the final laps, a masterful display of cornering speed and late braking allowed a rider to pull a decisive gap, crossing the finish line to a thunderous ovation. It was Md Idlan Haqimi Raduan of ZYNERGYS HONDA KC RACING TEAM stole the limelight as he crossed the finishing line of the 8-lap race with a fastest time of 14’44.063s. Md Adib Arsyad Md Hisam of PETRONAS SPRINTA YAMAHA MAJU MOTOR with a time of 14’44.507s came in second while Md Khairi Asyraf Mahmood (JETRON YAMAHA YY PANG RACING TEAM) finished the race in third with 14’45.029s.
The victory is very important for Idlan as he has been waiting for it for a long time. “It’s not just about today, but about all the efforts and challenges that I and the team have gone through. I want to express my deepest gratitude to the team that never stops working hard to get the best setup for my bike.”
The hot sunny day at LYL Circuit was concluded the final battle for CP150 category. Its the most powerful machines on the circuit, ridden by the championship’s elite riders. The LYL circuit, with its challenging sequence of turns, separated the contenders from the rest. Tactics came into play, with riders looking for slipstreams on the short straights and trying to outmaneuver each other in the technical sections.
The race was a chess match at blinding speeds. A few riders emerged from the pack, locked in a wheel-to-wheel duel that lasted for several exhilarating laps. The crowd was on its feet, sensing a classic finish. In a breathtaking final corner maneuver, one rider found an inch of space, lunged forward and snatched victory by the smallest of margins, igniting celebratory cheers from their pit crew and the ecstatic fans. It was Ahmad Afif Amran of PETRONAS SPRINTA YAMAHA-CKJ RACING which saw his last minute effort gave him the podium finish of the 11-lap race clocking a time of 18’48.052s. HONDA ESTREMO YUZY RACING rider, Azroy Hakeem Anuar came in second with a time of 18’46.117s while third was Ahmad Darwisy Ahmad Sahi of HONDA ESTREMO YUZY RACING (18’54.932s).
Overall, the Round 3 race at the LYL International Karting Circuit lived up to its promise. It was a true test of skill, endurance and strategy on a challenging new track. The champions celebrated their hard-fought victories, while others learned valuable lessons and vowed to return stronger. As the sun set on the Monkeys Canopy, the echoes of screaming engines and roaring crowds lingered, a testament to the thrilling spectacle that is the Malaysian Cub Prix. The championship battle was far from over and with the LYL circuit now etched into their memories, riders were already looking ahead to the next round fueled by the passion and the relentless pursuit of victory.
Outside the circuit, there were also promotional booths from the championship sponsors such as PETRONAS, Honda, Yamaha, Maxxis, Perkeso, energy drink Red Bull and Ranger, Cardinals, RCB, RKM and Samurai. They provides various side activities for visitors who came to watch the race.
There were also coloring contest for school children which was held on Saturday at the main stage. Cub Prix merchandise sales were among the attractions, especially the Happy Bag sales which offered attractive prizes through a lucky draw. The Happy Bag (available at every Cub Prix round), sold at RM65 offered a motorcycle as the grand prize.
Next, will be Round 4 to be held at Stadium Mini Teluk Intan, Perak from July 19-20.
About The Author
