The people of Japan have had a rough year. The march earthquake, and consequential tsunami, destroyed much of the country, killed thousands of people, and left more than a half million people homeless. A motorcycle race isn't going to change any of that, but wildcard rider Shinichi Ito is hoping to give his countrymen a little encouragement, a little hope, and a little happiness this weekend.
Ito, who witnessed the horror first hand, came out of retirement this year after the Japan earthquake. The championship, and he hopes that he can inspire some of his countrymen to keep their heads up.
"This year I started the role as HRC test rider, but I never thought that I would participate in the World Motorcycle Championship again considering that I'm 44 years old," Ito said. "I'm very proud of this as a rider and I am very grateful to all the people who worked to make this possible.
After the East Japan disaster, TwinRing Motegi has recovered to be able to hold Grand Prix, but in Miyagi prefecture, where I live, there are still many people who cannot return to work. Many people still live in temporary container housing without knowing about the possibility to return back to normal life. I am aware that what I am able to do for the victims is very limited but as one of the victims myself, I will do my best to cheer up and to encourage those who suffered the most in the East Japan region and I sincerely hope you can all continue to give your valuable support."
Ito is one of three Japanese riders that will be riding at Motegi this weekend. Series regular Hiroshi Aoyoma will be joined by Shinichi Ito and Kousuke Akiyoshi.
