Joseph Michael Lim sets new drag racing record with a 7.974-second run
The Automobile Association Philippines (AAP) announced the achievement of the fastest time recorded in the country’s drag racing history.
Veteran drag race driver Joseph Michael Lim, steering a Honda Civic AWD, achieved an official time of 7.974 at 186 mph during the 1st Round of the 2025 National Drag Racing Championship – Northern Series held at the Clark International Speedway.
This historic performance represents a remarkable milestone in the sport, making Lim’s Honda Civic AWD the fastest car in the Philippines. Lim’s prior run in the same round, held the day before he recorded his fastest time, was at 8.072 which he beat in less than 24 hours.
Ahead of Lim’s record-breaking runs of 8.072 and 7.974 seconds, the fastest time officially recorded in the National Drag Racing Championship Series was 8.46 seconds, set many years ago.
“The dream was to run 7s. I always talk to my suppliers and mentors abroad about this, and they said it’s going to be difficult but not impossible. We just have to know how to do it, know how to tune up the car properly,” said Lim. “We were able to prove it. We debunked the common belief that this is impossible to achieve in the Philippines.”
AAP Steward Fil Gulfin verified the record-breaking finish, certifying Lim and his team’s place in drag racing history.
Lim has been joining AAP-sanctioned racing activities in Bacolod and Cebu since the 2000s. He started drag racing in Manila in 2019 and since then has tirelessly pursued his dream of achieving a 7-second run, culminating in this momentous event.
Lim shared his hopes for the sport, saying, “I believe that this achievement will inspire more drivers to aim higher and push beyond their limits. Breaking the 7.9-second barrier is a historic first for the Philippines, and even Thailand has yet to achieve a 7-second record in drag racing. This proves that with determination and the right approach, anything is possible.”
“This is an excellent milestone as this achievement solidifies the country in the world map of drag racing,” said Rikki Dy-Liacco, Head of AAP Motorsports. “My huge congratulations to Joseph Michael Lim and his team who have put their heads together to focus on this goal. They should be proud and we join them in celebrating this remarkable feat.”
Philippine motor sport icon Mandy Eduque, AAP Trustee and Chairman for Motorsport, conveyed his congratulations: “On behalf of AAP and its Board of Trustees, I would like to congratulate Joseph Michael Lim for his record-breaking run of 7.974 seconds in last weekend’s first drag race of the year. His accomplishment is a tribute to his dedication and hard work which is worthy of emulation by all motor sport competitors. Congratulations again, Joseph Michael Lim!”
