Hokkaido Rally Successfully Completed by Ferrari Owners From South East Asia and Japan
The first Ferrari Hokkaido Rally took place over two separate weekends from June 2nd to 5th (for Japanese clients) and from June 9th to 12th (for Southeast Asian clients). These Ferrari GT cars, driven by clients from all across the Far East region, explored some of the most beautiful corners of Hokkaido – the largest and northernmost prefecture of Japan. There were a total of around 30 Prancing Horse GT Cars joining both tours to strengthen the relationship between Ferrari owners in Japan as well as in Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand.
The Ferrari Hokkaido Rally was created by Ferrari Far East as a driving platform for the region and also as part of the 50 Years of Ferrari in Japan Anniversary activities. While Ferrari was born on the race track due to Enzo Ferrari’s passion for racing, Ferrari has a tradition from the very beginning of producing GT cars ideal for enjoying on the open roads. This event was organized to provide not only a delightful journey to stunning areas which showcase the region’s beautiful nature, but also as an opportunity to enhance ownership experiences in a fun and relaxing atmosphere that Ferrari can offer.
The Ferrari Hokkaido Rally got underway with a welcome dinner on Day 1. During dinner, the Ferrari GTC4Lusso made a special appearance to the delight of all the clients. The Ferrari GTC4Lusso, the latest interpretation of the GT car, was just unveiled in Tokyo last month. The revolutionary vehicle with a new handling system combines 4-wheel-drive and 4-wheel steering that wowed the GT owners.
On Day 2, the fleet started out from the beautiful Windsor Hotel Toya Resort and Spa, taking in the Northern part of the region including Otaru and Yoichi. The Prancing Horse cars made a spectacular sight for the crowds of enthusiasts and other road users, especially during the stopover in Otaru for the shopping challenge, who wasted no time taking photos of the Prancing Horses. This was followed by lunch at a Sushi restaurant before the convoy continued their journey towards Yoichi where, at a vast take-off field, an exciting driving experience activity with time attack competition awaited the clients.
With pumped up adrenaline, the clients were able to put their techniques and driving skills to the test while experiencing their cars’ ultimate potential. The activity was supported by guest race drivers Masaki Nishihara and Kazuteru Kawawaki. The second day ended with a special cable car ride downhill for all the guests, against a spectacular backdrop of Lake Toya, before stopping at an exclusive location at the bottom of the hill. Participants looked very pleased as they shared stories and experiences of the day’s drive and the driving challenge.
On Day 3, the participants were excited to drive their cars through the mountainous roads to Muroran, giving them a chance to test their driving skills maneuvering their Ferraris through the uphill and winding roads. They were rewarded with a breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean from Chikyu Misaki Cape, a cliffside location that offers an unparalleled majestic view of the ocean. The clients then drove to a Michelin-starred Kaiseki
restaurant in town to enjoy their well-deserved lunch break. After lunch, the clients continued their drive to Kyogoku Yuusui to admire the beautiful natural springs of Northern Japan and each guest was given a canister to fill up with spring water. After quenching their thirst with the spring water, they stopped over at Lake Toyako on their way back to the hotel.
While their cars had their well-deserved rest, the participants enjoyed a special dinner party where winners from various categories were announced, including Best Shopping, Best of the Best Shot, Super Gentleman Driver, Best Driving Challenge Experience and Overall Standing. Congratulations to all the winners and participants!
Finally on Day 4, clients were given three tour options. Golf enthusiasts did not hesitate to sign up for a round of golf at Hokkaido Brooks, an 18-hole championship course. For the more active clients, they were offered a hillside trekking experience and visit to an active volcano at a Geo Park. Here, they can join in a volcanic tour conducted by the volcanic
meister. Lastly, for clients who are interested to know more about Japan’s most famous wine distillery, a tour of the Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery was organized. There, the clients had the opportunity to learn about the history of whisky, distillery and production methods, as well as taste and compare various whiskies.
It was a tour filled with passion and friendship, with each activity organized to intensify togetherness and savour the experience of driving through alluring roads in Hokkaido. The Ferrari owners from Japan as well as Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia have become closer friends. This experience of driving together is yet another milestone event to enhance the passion they all share for Ferrari, which certainly left an endearing memory for the participants of the first Ferrari Hokkaido Rally.
About the Author
Subhash Nair Written work on dsf.my. @subhashtag on instagram. Autophiles Malaysia on Youtube.
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