Round 6 of the African Rally Championship was held from September 12^th to 14th around the Zambian capital of Lusaka. TEIN's own president, Hakaru Ichino participated in the championship this season, co-driving for Hideaki Miyoshi. The rally headed into the 6^th and final round after a trouble filled season, including round 3 in Rwanda being cancelled.

 

Expectations were high for the Miyoshi, Ichino pair to win the overall championship this season, as the pair won round 4 in Kenya, round 5 in Zimbabwe and stood at the top of the championship standings. Finally winning the series championship was within reach for them, but there was no room for any mistakes. If they ended up retiring from the rally, their rivals would be in a position to take the championship title away from them. They had to win this rally.

 

The pair started day 1 in good condition by setting the fastest time in the Super SS. By chance, this day happened to be Hakaru Ichino's birthday, and setting the fastest time was a great present for him. It also brought them a step closer to winning the championship.

 

Miyoshi and Ichino started day 2 well and were driving consistently until an accident occurred!! They damaged a tie rod when they hit the underside of the car. A dark cloud looked to form over their chances of winning the championship, as mechanics worked like mad to repair the damage. Fortunately the mechanics were able to repair the damage in time and Miyoshi and Ichino continued the rally. Just as the pair started their battle to take back the top position, the rally leader, Muna Singh retired due to car trouble!! Nobody can predict what can happen next in rally racing.

Miyoshi and Ichino retook their 1^st overall position, but that was not the end. Second running rival, James Whyte was driving ferociously to catch up.

 

From here on, there was no room for any errors. One slight error could lead to a devastating loss of time and could cost them everything. As the tension built, the full potential of the TEIN TYPE Gr.N was on exhibition. Miyoshi and Ichino were able to shake off their rivals in pursuit, and finish the rally in 1^st overall position!!

This win gave them the overall championship title, and the pair became the first Japanese to achieve this amazing feat!! Furthermore, this also meant, the TYPE Gr.N had conquered the African championship!!