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Racing team ROOKIE experiences collision involving GR Yaris, fostering unity within the group.

After securing victory in its inaugural race, the GR Yaris and ROOKIE Racing team encountered difficulty following a crash during a practice session, leaving the vehicle damaged. This narrative explores their subsequent efforts to rebound.

Racing Team ROOKIE's Gathering at a Crash Site Featuring GR Yaris
Racing Team ROOKIE's Gathering at a Crash Site Featuring GR Yaris

Racing team ROOKIE experiences collision involving GR Yaris, fostering unity within the group.

In a remarkable display of teamwork and human talent, the ROOKIE Racing team successfully repaired their damaged GR Yaris at Sportsland SUGO in October 2020. The incident occurred during a practice run at the racing course, with driver Masahiro Sasaki remaining unharmed but the front of the car sustaining damage.

The repair process was a collaborative effort, involving the team's mechanics, engineers, drivers, and others working together closely. Toyota Gazoo Racing's team members and mechanics were also on hand to lend their expertise. This exemplified the importance of "genchi genbutsu" - the principle of going and seeing the site to understand what is happening - and cultivating human talents.

Chief Mechanic Takashi Mitsuzuka called a local friend, a master panel beater, to assist with the repairs. The master panel beater, without any parts, equipment, or drawings, skillfully repaired the framework of the car, demonstrating the value of practical knowledge and experience.

Shinya Yamamoto, an automotive analyst, provided a report on the repairs and their significance. Noriaki Mitsuhashi, an exclusive photographer for ROOKIE Racing, commented on the team's growth and unity during the repairs. Akio Toyoda, or Morizo, spoke to driver Masahiro Sasaki, offering words of encouragement after the crash.

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 track for the second round of free running at 1:30 p.m., as if nothing had happened.

Akio Toyoda also informed Sasaki that a new GR Yaris was being driven to support the team for the next day. The team was informed that new parts would be available for the repairs. This valuable team-building exercise not only showcased the team's resilience but also highlighted their close collaboration and dedication.

A fan even posted a video of the GR Yaris racing, congratulating the team on their quick recovery. As the dust settled, it was clear that the ROOKIE Racing team had faced adversity head-on, demonstrating their commitment to excellence both on and off the track.

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