Visitors at the Transhow event in Doha. Right: The sound system maximises the car’s appeal. PICTURES: Alvin Bongon
By Joey Aguilar/Staff Reporter
Cars, bikes and remote-controlled cars enthralled thousands of Filipinos and other expatriate workers at the Transhow held recently in Doha.
The event showcased Filipino ingenuity with the way they set up their cars, spending thousands of riyals on sound system and design: from the interiors, the wheels, rims and the exterior.
UPMMG advisers Melvin Yadao and Aries Celestial said the 6th Pinoy Transhow 2013 is considered the most successful and “high-level” compared with the past car exhibitions. It has gathered the best, most impressive and well-designed vehicles owned by members of the group in Qatar.
“We know how creative Filipinos are when it comes to vehicles and their passion for cars is really remarkable. They always want their cars to be unique,” they said. The event was part of the 115th Philippine Independence Day celebration held on June 14.
While UPMMG members amazed the crowd with their vehicles, Kenny Belacy from Belgium wowed them with his bike exhibition performance. Filipino BMX bikers from Padyak-Qatar also showed their exceptional skills with their acrobats.
Besides bikes, the Transhow also featured the “Toys for the Big Boys”: remote-controlled cars which also enthralled many of the spectators.
Jay Patigas, president of the Qatar Radio-Controlled Car Racing Group (QRCCRG), said that RC car owners have been increasing in the past months and many racers have joined their group. They regularly hold practice sessions at the Aspire grounds on their new race track.
The Transhow also highlighted the awarding rites for the winners. For the car and SUV categories, Melvin Magueriano won the “Show Car of the Year” while Jaypee Guzman bagged the “Street Car of the Year” under the 4 Cylinder Class. “SUV of the Year” went to Loreilene Parcia and the “Race Car / Themed of the Year” went to Kennent Dimalanta.
For the “Bike categories”, Rodel Lallana won the “SuperSports of the Year (600cc)” while the “SuperBike of the Year (1000cc)” went to Elmer Ilano who also bagged the “Best in Show.”