Moses Reyes, 14, is one of a growing number of Philippine riders to step into the international road racing arena. Coming from a sporting family in Manila, his older sister Gracie actually got into racing motorcycles before he did, though she would later return to basketball. Moses was
11 at the time, and more into video games than physical exertion. His father Gerald felt his son’s lifestyle could benefit from a better balance, so coaxed him outdoors and onto an 85cc motocrosser.
“At first I was reluctant,” says Moses, “But Dad pushed me, and from my first race, I enjoyed it. After a few months, my coach let me try a 250. It seemed like a huge step. It was too big, and I couldn’t even reach the ground! It was during the pandemic, so I practiced a lot and then started racing and having fun on the 250.”
In 2022, he took to tarmac to contest the Pirelli Lightweight Cup on a Yamaha R3.
“I crossed the line third in my first race, but got disqualified for being six grams underweight. After that I got a few second places and, as my coach kept pushing me, became a regular winner.”
Acknowledging his talent, Yamaha Philippines recommended Moses for the 2024 Yamaha R3 bLU cRU Asia Pacific Championship.
“R3 bLU cRU is another level,” he explains, “It’s pushing me beyond my previous limits and I can feel myself improving. The culture is competitive and fun at the same time. I’m learning more about riding techniques from the coaches, as well as about set up and how to understand data readouts. I’m also improving my physical conditioning by doing a lot of cardio and playing basketball after school. Now, over a 30-minute race, I have no issues with endurance.”
When asked about riders he admires, he singles out Mexican Moto3 superstar David Alonso.
“I love his style. He is so fast and smooth and his race craft is amazing.”
Looking ahead to the rest of the 2024 season, “I want to get onto the podium,” he smiles, “And come into 2025 as a true title contender.”
Moses Reyes has come a long way in the three years since he was hauled off the sofa by his Dad. Now,he has taken control of his own racing destiny and aiming much, much higher.
Komentarze