New racing circuit being built at Tarlac Recreational Park

A new racing circuit is currently being constructed at the Tarlac Recreational Park in San Jose, Tarlac. The 1.5-kilometer asphalt track designed by five-time Philippine Karter of the Year Jose Luis ‘Pepon’ Marave will feature a very technical 10-meter-wide layout with 15 corners and a 12-meter wide 150-meter straight.

 “The track is technical and very satisfying to drive. It is a track designed for racers and will bring out the true talented drivers,” says Marave.

Currently under the working name of ‘Tarlac Racing Circuit’, the track will be opened for automobile events, karting, motorcycle races and open track days as well. Go karts will be available for rent for those who feel the sudden need for speed or simply want to experience the thrill of racing.

Marave also shared that the track will be fully lit to offer the unique characteristic of night racing, which brings a totally different experience. The track is scheduled to be completed by May of 2014.

The project was spearheaded by Tarlac Governor Victor Yap, an accomplished karting and formula car driver himself before his political stint. Yap wanted to promote his province as a premiere destination for various outdoor sports and recreational activities, as it was the dream of his father, the late Governor and Congressman Jose Yap.

The 78-hectare recreational park houses the Jose V. Yap Sports and Recreational Complex, named in honor of the statesman. The sports complex features an international track and field oval, biking track, two football fields, two baseball fields, two softball fields, two basketball courts, a volleyball court, a sepak takraw court, and an Olympic-size swimming pool. The park also features a lagoon offering light watercraft activities like kayaking.

A new 1.5-kilometer dirt trail which caters to ATV, motorcross and mountain bike activities and Asia’s Longest Zip Line at 1,350 meters long will soon be a fixture at the park as some of its thrill-seeking activities.