Philippines produces first female Nissan GT Academy International finalist

Last night, the GT Academy Philippines just announced the six representatives to carry the Philippine flag in the GT Academy Asia finals to be held in Silverstone.

This year is a different story as one participant continues her journey in the hope of becoming the next professional racer. Elysse Menorca, who recently qualified as the fastest female driver in the country when she was selected as one of the final six drivers for Nissan GT Academy Philippines Season 2.

Last year, Menorca was the supportive girlfriend to her boyfriend, Francisco Adriano when he entered last year's competition. At the encouragement of Adriano, the couple participated during this year's elimination rounds and both posted competitive lap times, earning them a slot in the top 20. The two trained together and supported each other as they underwent more physical and driving challenges.

During the announcement of the Top 6, Elysse's name was second to be called while Francisco was the last name to be called. Now, she is continuing together with her boyfriend, Francisco, as part of the Top 6 who will be representing the country, making her the first female driver to qualify for the global race camp.

The Top 6 Filipino representatives are now to go against the top qualifiers of other countries at the Silverstone Circuit in the UK. Elysse and her boyfriend, Francisco, will be representing the Philippines along with Jan Millard Lacuna, Richard Dean D. Jose, Mervin John Mallen, and Kim Jiger A. Chong.

"This season saw a more diverse batch of contenders, with a female finalist joining the top six. Nissan is looking forward to celebrating another Filipino Nissan GT Academy Champion soon," said Ramesh Narasimhan, NPI president and Managing Director.

They will go against top qualifiers from Australia, North Africa, Indonesia, Mexico, and Thailand. The winner will be part of the Nissan's Driver Development Program for the opportunity to become a part of the GT Academy entry in the 2017 Dubai 24 Hour Race.