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MEDIA RELEASE ACCREDITATION and MEDIA CENTRE Logo Data Photo Data (2002) / Photo Data (2003) |
MEDIA
RELEASE(for immediate release: 03 November 2003)
Rally Japan: Dreams Comes True
| The celebration following the World Motor Sport Council's confirmation last month of Rally Japan's inclusion as the newest round of the World Rally Championship was, as expected, a very emotional one. The formal announcement by telephone from the Japan Auto Federation's WMSC delegate, TAMURA Katsutoshi in Paris, when relayed to them by a beaming Mayor SUNAGAWA Toshifumi, produced wild cheering and applause from the gathered media, rally supporters and officials in the host city of Obihiro. |
It was however, a simple phrase spoken by Sporting Committee Chairman, TABATA Kunihiro at the announcement ceremony that had the most profound effect on those in attendance. A teary-eyed and almost speechless Tabata proudly exclaimed in English, "Dreams come true!". A thunderous ovation acknowledged the fact that this 'dream' belonged to one man and had begun over ten years ago when the former race and rally driver had marvelled at the extent of excellent forestry roads in Tokachi and thought, "Why can't Japan host a WRC round?".
From lobbying for the relaxation of Japan's stringent vehicle regulations which had not assisted the development of rallying, to actively supporting the growth of a strong national championship and to promoting the adoption of international regulations, Tabata has worked tirelessly towards realising his dream. By 2001 the car club he founded, AGMSC was hosting three rounds of the Japan Rally Championship annually and, in that year, held Japan's first international rally on gravel in Tokachi. Then, in 2002 AGMSC organised Japan's first FIA championship rally, Rally Hokkaido, a round of the Asia-Pacific Championship. It was successfully conducted again this year and drew praise from the two FIA Observers for its high standard of facilities, documentation and safety services.
Despite these accomplishments AGMSC and their Co-organisers, The Mainichi Newspapers are keenly aware that the greatest challenges still lie ahead. They remain thoroughly committed to ensuring the debut Rally Japan continues the tradition of safe, exciting and well-organised rallies so far produced in Japan's northernmost island of Hokkaido.
As he boarded a plane for Wales Rally GB on what will be his 12th WRC fact-finding mission, and where he hopes to have open discussions with Team Managers and members of the international media, Mr Tabata was asked to clarify his 'dreams' statement. He replied, "Bringing the World Rally Championship to Japan was my first dream. My second is to make Rally Japan the best round of the Championship!".
Rally Japan will be held from 3 to 5 September.
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