The Japanese have always had a love for the Pikes Peak Hill Climb. Ever since racers from the country of Japan started competing, they’ve achieved success in more ways than one. They have always shown a huge amount of respect to the mountain, and determination that the Japanese are known for. Out of all the different countries that have been involved with the hill climb, Japan has had the most competitors compete, and with the most success. Japan has always paid a lot of attention to the race from a media standpoint too. Every year in Japan, some type of television highlights are shown of the race. Here are a few examples of what the Japanese public got to see of the race in 2001.
Pikes Peak Hill Climb Super Stock Car – Japanese Highlights
Pikes Peak Hill Climb 2001 Monster Sport Highlights #1
Pikes Peak Hill Climb 2001 Monster Sport Highlights #2
Pikes Peak Hill Climb 2001 Monster Sport Highlights #3
The Monster Sport crew brought 2 Unlimited class cars to the race in 2001. One car was Tajima’s old one, and the other was a brand new car. Even though the language in these series of videos is Japanese, nothing is lost in translation….if you know what I mean.
Noburiho Tajima is the most well known of the Japanese drivers on the mountain, and in a way, has represented the resilient spirt that Japan has. Even though he has won the hill climb overall 5 times in a row, he still has the drive and determination to beat the 10 minute mark. This year, Tajima is showing that Japan is still strong even though they were rocked by the recent tsunami, and earthquakes. I’m sure that now, more than ever, Tajima wants to do his country proud.
And wasn’t it about time for Tajima to get a flat bill? -Colin Brandt
(If anyone knows who drove the 2nd Suzuki car in 2001 please let me know. Thanks)
