Round 2 of SUPER GT, the OKAYAMA GT300km RACE took place at Okayama International Circuit on April 4th. The RE Amemiya RX-7, driven by Nobuteru Taniguchi and Ryo Orime took the lead of the race at one point, after starting 11th on the grid. It was expected the car would take its second straight victory from the opening round of the season. Unfortunately, the car was forced to retire from the race due to mechanical problems.

The SUPER GT Round 2 weekend was one of beautiful spring weather, with wild cherry blossom trees in full bloom on the hillsides and mountains surrounding Okayama International Circuit. There was no fear of rain on either Saturday or Sunday, and a huge number of spectators came from not only the local areas, but surrounding regions as well.

Okayama is a tight and twisty track, known for its lack of places to pass and its many tight turns; it is considered very technical. Moreover, thanks to its opening round victory, the RX-7 was saddled with winners' handicap weight, making expectations for victory pretty slim. Had they won, it would have proved invaluable for the championship.

Though many thought the pole-sitting Lamborghini would manage to hold its qualifying position and win, the RX-7's first driver Taniguchi passed one after another of his rivals in a high-speed charge. While the Lamborghini spent more time on its fuel pit stop, the RX-7 took a No-Tyre-Change strategy and rose to 1st place. Second-stint driver Orime also maintained the push, leading the race with his unrelenting pace. Suddenly however, the RX-7 went off track and hit the sponge barriers. Fortunately Orime had no injuries and damage to the car wasn't extensive. But because of steering problems, the car was unable to rejoin the race.

Seeing the RX-7 passing so many cars is impressive indeed, and not only for rotary fans. We're hoping the car will take a podium finish in the next round at Fuji Speedway.