Promoting Motorsports and Revitalizing the Community in Shizuoka
In an exciting new development, Shizuoka Prefecture has established a "Community Partnership" with Japan Race Promotion (JRP) aimed at promoting motorsports and revitalizing the region. This partnership coincides with upcoming events at the iconic Fuji Speedway, where the highly competitive SUPER FORMULA races will be held.
Background on the Partnership
The SUPER FORMULA series is Japan's premier open-wheel racing championship, and JRP has scheduled several events at Fuji Speedway throughout the year, including races in July and October. The partnership with Shizuoka, led by Governor Yoshitomo Suzuki, marks a significant step in enhancing local motorsports activities and boosting tourism in the region.
JRP has been expanding its local partnerships across various circuits that host the SUPER FORMULA races, previously establishing collaborations with municipalities including Suzuka City in Mie Prefecture, Oita's Ota, and several others in Shizuoka. The agreement with Shizuoka serves as a follow-up to JRP's earlier partnership with Tochigi Prefecture, emphasizing the initiative to build community ties in the world of motorsports.
Activities Planned in Shizuoka
The agreement allows Shizuoka to leverage JRP's media coverage and promotional activities surrounding the SUPER FORMULA events. Local officials will have access to promotional materials such as video footage and images from the race series, which they can use for year-round promotional campaigns aimed at both locals and visitors.
To further engage fans and encourage tourism, JRP plans to set up a PR booth for Shizuoka during the upcoming Fuji Speedway events. With around 50,000 attendees expected, the booth will provide valuable local tourist information, promoting various attractions throughout the prefecture.
GPS Checkpoint Campaign
Additionally, a GPS checkpoint initiative is planned to create an interactive experience that ties motorsports to the region's attractions. Participants can visit specific checkpoints across Shizuoka to earn special rewards and gain deeper insights into the area's cultural offerings.
The campaign will run alongside the SUPER FORMULA events, allowing visitors to explore the scenic locales while enjoying the thrill of the races. Participants will utilize the official SUPER FORMULA app, SFgo, to check in at designated locations and gain exclusive benefits.
The initiative is set to enhance the experience of both racing enthusiasts and local residents, forging a more connected community centered around the excitement of motorsports.
Looking Ahead
JRP intends to continue fostering relationships with local governments as SUPER FORMULA races are held across the nation, ensuring that motorsports tourism can contribute meaningfully to regional economies. The goal is to not only attract visitors but also position motorsports as an integral part of the cultural and social landscape of Japan.
With the upcoming Fuji Grand Prix slated for July 2025, excitement is building around this collaboration and the potential it holds for both Shizuoka Prefecture and the broader motorsports community. The event is expected to capture the attention of racing fans and families alike, creating a vibrant atmosphere fueled by speed and community spirit.
Conclusion
This new partnership represents a significant move towards integrating motorsports with regional promotion, which could serve as a template for other areas looking to leverage their unique attractions while embracing the global excitement surrounding motorsports. Through continued collaboration and innovative initiatives, Shizuoka hopes to become a leading destination for motorsports tourism in Japan.