Merdeka Race 2003 Press Release
FORD LYNX TURBO TO MAKE MERDEKA RACE DEBUT
~ Ford Racing Heritage Continues ~
Shah Alam, Thursday, 17 July 2003 – – Ford Malaysia today announced the participation of the Ford Lynx Turbo in the Merdeka Millennium Endurance Race 2003. Built from the original Lynx LS Auto ABS version, the Ford Lynx Turbo was featured at the Silverstone Tarmac Rally Series held on 11-12 May 2003, emerging third overall in Round 1 and second overall in Round 2 (class 5 -2001 litre and above). The Ford Lynx Turbo will be competing in the Open Class Category at the Merdeka Millennium Endurance Race 2003.
The Ford Racing Team for the Merdeka Millennium Endurance Race 2003 will comprise the well-known Khong brothers, Ian and Ivan, and T.K. Tan. Between them, the trio have more than 40 years of racing experience and numerous accolades. All three are rally drivers who are also highly experienced on the racing circuit. Ian and Ivan are sons of famous five time Malaysian Rally Champion, Y.S. Khong.
“Racing is an important part of what Ford is all about. We are thrilled about the Ford Lynx Turbo’s participation in the Merdeka Millennium Endurance Race, and delighted that our three drivers, Ian, Ivan and T.K., are a true reflection of Ford’s racing heritage – racing is in their blood,” said Deborah Aronson, Managing Director of Ford Malaysia Sdn. Bhd.
All three Ford Lynx drivers have competed in local rallies and have won numerous awards and championships in their years of involvement in motorsports. Ian Khong started racing competitively in 1992, and his credentials include: 2nd Overall 2003 Tarmac Rally Round 2, 1st Class B 2001 Tarmac Rally Round 2, 1st Overall 1997 Sprint Rally Round 7, 2nd Overall F150 Kart 1997, and Group N Champion 1996 Malaysia Rally. This will be Ian’s fourth endurance race.
Elder brother, Ivan, became actively involved in racing in 1986, and his achievements include : 3rd Overall 2003 Tarmac Rally Round 1, 1st Overall F150 Kart 1997, and Group N Champion 1996 Malaysia Rally. This will be Ivan’s second endurance outing.
T.K. Tan began racing in 1987 and emerged as the Petronas Rally Novice Champion 1993 and Petronas Rally Graded Champion 1995. This year marks the third time that T.K. will be competing in the Merdeka Millennium Endurance Race. He previously participated in 2000 and 2001.
The Ford Lynx Racing Team is currently ranked second in the Tarmac Rally Series, and this assault into the Merdeka Millenium Endurance Race will prove most exciting as the Ford Lynx is a purpose built rally car. With a configuration that is most suited to tarmac, the Ford Lynx is definitely something worth watching out for at the Merdeka Millennium Endurance Race 2003.
Commenting on the competition, Ian Khong said, “Being 1800cc, the Ford Lynx will be competing in the Open Category of the Merdeka Millennium Endurance Race, and will be up against more powerful cars, some well over 300 bhp. But we are confident of the Ford Lynx’s handling capabilities around the twisty Sepang International Circuit.”
“The long front and back straights will prove to be a challenge for us, but we are geared up for the task. This race will be a true test of the car and endurance of the drivers,” added Ian.
The Ford Lynx needs no introduction to the Malaysian market. Owners will attest to the distinction and superior driving characteristics of the Lynx. With its superior handling and road dynamics, the Ford Lynx performs admirably in a variety of situations.
It has been 12 years since the local racing circuit has seen a Ford on the tracks. The last time was in the celebrated Ford TX3 1800cc. While Ford has been a faithful sponsor, this is the first time Ford will be entering its own car in the Merdeka Millennium Endurance Race.
Ford Motor Company recently celebrated its centenary, marking 100 years of leadership and progress in the motor industry. Ford has been in Malaysia for over 40 years.
Ford Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. is a joint venture between Ford Motor Company and Tractors Malaysia Berhad. Its product range includes the Escape, Ranger 4×4, Lynx, Econovan and Trader.
