Collision Reunites Rookie Racing Squad with GR Yaris

ROOKIE Racing Showcases Resilience After GR Yaris Crash at Super Taikyu SUGO 3 Hours Race

In a remarkable display of determination and teamwork, the ROOKIE Racing team successfully repaired their damaged GR Yaris and returned to the race track at the Super Taikyu SUGO 3 Hours Race held from October 9 to October 11.

During a practice run, driver Masahiro Sasaki crashed the GR Yaris, causing significant damage to the front of the car. Despite the setback, the team was determined to participate in the finals.

Akio Toyoda, also known as Morizo, offered words of reassurance to Sasaki, emphasising the support the team would receive. The incident served as an invaluable experience and team-building exercise for ROOKIE Racing.

The master panel beater, called by Chief Mechanic Takashi Mitsuzuka, began repairing the framework of the car without any parts, equipment, or drawings. Kazuya Oshima, who was driving a new GR Yaris to support the team for the next day, provided new parts as they became available.

Noriaki Mitsuhashi, an exclusive photographer for ROOKIE Racing, commented on the team's growth and unity, stating, "I've photographed various races around the world, including Formula 1 and Super Taikyu Series, but the spirit and determination of this team are truly inspiring."

Shinya Yamamoto, an automotive analyst, also witnessed the team-building exercise. Yamamoto, who has a career in automobile magazines and freelancing, with a focus on understanding both makers and users, highlighted the importance of "genchi genbutsu" (go and see the site to understand what is happening) and cultivating human talents.

The ROOKIE Racing team aimed to have the GR Yaris repaired and operable by the afternoon free practice. Their efforts paid off, as the GR Yaris returned to the race track at 1:30 p.m. After the repairs, a fan posted a video of the GR Yaris racing, stating, "Congratulations! GR Yaris is back!"

It is worth noting that unlike the "Fuji 24 Hours Race", there was no spare car prepared for the SUGO race. This further underscores the team's resilience and their commitment to racing the GR Yaris, despite the accident.

The Sportsland SUGO racing course, located in Miyagi Prefecture, is known for being narrow and causing dramatic incidents. The narrow track and the pressure to perform likely added to the challenge faced by the ROOKIE Racing team. However, their determination and teamwork shone through, resulting in a successful return to the race track.