Touge racing is mountain racing in Japan. Touge is a Japanese phrase that means pass. Growing up I learned about it through Initial D but what brought my real understanding of it was through Best Motoring’s show Hot Version. The rules are simple and it involves a three-round battle in a small mountain course. The lead car can only win if it creates a gap at the end of the run. If the car behind stays behind the lead car throughout the whole race, it wins.

Modified machines had an event Touge Battle FYea Track Edition. It allowed for the venue to take place in the smaller section of Lime Rock Park. The event was great because there was not only touge racing but runs where you can practice grip, drift, or just enjoy the track for your leisure.

I love variety and this event had a tuning style for everyone. Some personal favorites of mine were the cars with hints of JDM influence in their tuning philosophy. Shout out to that crew with the Honda Fit, GT86 on TE37s, and the Golf with Regamasters. As I got down to the paddock I was enchanted with McClarens, 911s, and track NCs. The icing on the cake for me would have to be the 1992 Porsche 911 Carrera RS in the rare ruby stone red color dubbed “Sternrubin.”

The day ended abruptly since my exhaust hanger failed during my drive to a showing of Fast and the Furious after this event en route to New Jersey. It made me decide to just do all the major maintenance and overhaul some components that need an upgrade since the car is old under my care.