Racing in Japan

The reason I’m in Japan is because of the race at Twin Ring Motegi, so I’d be in contempt if I didn’t at least mention it.

Growing up, some of my favorite drivers were Japanese. And when my parents owned a race team in the 1990’s, they had a couple of Japanese drivers race for them – Hideki Noda and Shigeaki Hattori – both of which won in Indy Lights. So let’s just say I’ve always had a soft spot for Japanese drivers.

Of course, it’s an honor to actually come here as a professional and experience this event first hand. My role for this race is part web support and part photographic support. And I’ve taken a good number of pics, including the one below. It’s quickly become a favorite of mine.

I consider it an honor to photograph any IndyCar or Indianapolis Motor Speedway event. I never take this privilege lightly or for granted. To have access and the freedom to shoot at these venues, is an incredible gift. It brings me a lot of happiness to explore these race tracks (some of which my father visited in his career) as a professional – documenting moments or providing my own interpretation. It’s hard to believe sometimes.

So this weekend, in a very hot Japan, I’ve explored the facility looking for shots I consider worthy for race fans, colleagues, sponsors, teams and drivers. I’m inexperienced as a photographer, but I can honestly say that a lot of thought goes into every photo I publish. Each one means a lot to me.

I’ve included a sampling of some shots so far. Please enjoy my jet lagged point of view. From Motegi, Japan.