Team TOTAL: Girl power in a race for excellence

Superbikes Cup 2018 doubles up on girl power as champion racer Jacquelyn Buncio is now joined by sister Maria Lourdes.
All in the family
The interest in motorbikes and racing definitely runs in the Buncio family as the Buncio patriarch, Gregorio “Yoyong” Buncio has always been into the sport. The girls’ late brother, Maico Buncio, was also a champion racer before his career was cut short. In spite of this, the Buncio sisters have chosen to make use of Maico’s legacy as a source of strength to continue on what he started—but on their own terms.
Jacq, the youngest—who has always been known for her vivacious spirit—admits that she had to plead with her parents to let her race. Older sister Des—who eventually followed Jacq’s lead—has always been into racing but it’s only recently that she started competing professionally.
The decision to race and follow in their brother’s footsteps was tough on their parents, especially their mother. But after much prodding, their parents eventually gave in but not without much supervision from their father, Yoyong, to ensure their safety in practice and in races.

Defying gender norms
While racing has always been seen as a male-dominated sport, the Buncio sisters do not consider gender norms as a hindering factor to pursuing their passion. Lots of practice and a determination to succeed have put them at par with other celebrated racers. As such, TOTAL has also given them their support by welcoming them in Team TOTAL.
Through its top-of-the-line motorcycle engine oil HI-PERF, TOTAL has been Jacq’s partner and sponsor in the 2017 overall Superbikes Cup champion in the Heavyweight A category. 
After a stellar year with Jacq, TOTAL has also decided to partner with Des, who was was the 2017 overall Superbikes Cup champion for the Lightweight A Category. The talented sisters have been paving the way for the sport, delivering the message that there’s no limit to what people can do, regardless of gender—as long as they’re determined.

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TOTAL said it is proud to have these exceptional young women in their roster of athletes for fearlessly securing their place in a male-dominated sport. They also bring in new energy into the races and inspire other female motorsports athletes in the country.