Driving Dreams: Haruka Sakamoto Inspires the Next Generation at Susono City Elementary School
On September 30, 2025, professional racing driver Haruka Sakamoto, representing SANKI VERTEX PARTNERS CERUMO・INGING in car number 38, will embark on an exciting journey to Susono City Elementary School as part of the SUPER FORMULA Regional Partnership Program. This initiative aims to cultivate a new generation of motorsport enthusiasts while emphasizing the importance of safety and perseverance.
During the visit, Sakamoto will engage with a group of 28 eager elementary students, presenting the fascinating world of motorsports through an interactive talk show format. The session will provide insight into the thrilling aspects of racing, while encouraging kids to dream big and work hard towards their goals. Notably, Sakamoto will also touch on vital safety topics, both in racing and everyday life, underscoring the responsibilities that come with speed and excitement.
Event Details
The visit is divided into two segments:
1.
Educational Talk (09:25 AM - 10:10 AM)
-
Motorsports' Appeal and Excitement: Sakamoto will discuss what makes motorsports captivating to engage the children’s imaginations.
-
The Importance of Striving for Dreams: Encouraging students to pursue their aspirations.
-
Race and Everyday Safety: Teaching safety practices in racing and at home.
-
Q&A: An interactive session where students can ask questions, followed by the presentation of special invitation tickets and a group photo.
2.
Experience Session (10:30 AM - 11:15 AM)
- Students will have the unique opportunity to witness and even experience a real race car, the SF13 from KYGNUS SUNOCO Team LeMans. The hands-on experience will allow children to sit in the car and take memorable photos, creating a deeper connection to the sport.
Community Involvement
This visit is a result of a partnership established in June 2024 between Susono City and Japan Race Promotion (JRP), the organization behind SUPER FORMULA. This collaboration aims not only to invigorate local motorsport interests but also to enhance community engagement and tourism through motorsports development. Similar partnerships have been formed with various municipalities like Suzuka City, Oita City, and Miyagi Town, showcasing a commitment to nurturing motorsport culture across the region.
About SUPER FORMULA
SUPER FORMULA is renowned for being one of the fastest forms of racing, boasting an 'equal conditions' policy where all cars use identical performance specifications for tires and engines. This focus allows the skills of drivers, alongside strategic teamwork, to truly shine—making it a pinnacle of racing competition recognized as the 'World's Highest Level Human Motorsports.' In 2024, attendance figures reached an all-time high, illustrating the growing popularity of this thrilling entertainment. The 2025 season features twelve races across five domestic circuits, with 22 drivers representing 13 teams.
Conclusion
Haruka Sakamoto’s visit to Susono City Elementary School is not just an event; it's a beacon of inspiration for young minds, proving that with hard work and commitment, they too can accelerate towards their dreams, just like the drivers on the race track. Through this unique collaboration, motorsports are not only promoted but also made relatable to the youth, ensuring that the future of motorsports is bright and promising.
For those wishing to cover this event, please fill out the pre-interview application at this
link.