As a trailblazer in international motorcycle racing, Mr. Kunimitsu Takahashi was the first Japanese rider to win a round of the world championship. His career as a top-class rider and later racing driver continued over many years, and brought forth many victories on two and four wheels. This success not only formed a valuable contribution to the development of vehicle technology, it also gave hope and inspiration to a lot of young people. In recognition of these great achievements, the Japan Automotive Hall of Fame is honored to induct Mr. Kunimitsu Takahashi into the Hall of Fame.
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Takahashi (No.100) on his way to victory in the 1961 West German GP at Hockenheim.
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Takahashi on the podium after winning the 250cc race at Hockenheim. It was the first time the Japanese flag had been raised at a world championship event.
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Takahashi with the Nissan R380 racing car in 1968.
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Old Prince drivers mixing with Nissan drivers in 1967. Kunimitsu Takahashi can be seen leaning on the car in the middle of the picture.
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The first generation Nissan Skyline GT-R was extremely successful in domestic racing. Takahashi can be seen in the No.6 car in this 1971 event.
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Takahashi made his F1 debut in the 1977 Japanese Grand Prix, finishing ninth in an old-style Tyrrell.
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Kunimitsu Takahashi amongst fellow legendary drivers in 2003. He is seen second from the right in the front row.