Forecasting the weather

Because of the rain that fell heavily on and on, it seemed hopeless to start at the fixed time. At the Race Headquarters officials examined today's race and studied the weather data which were collected from the Internet. As a result, the officials judged that the weather would clear up. Therefore, they decided to postpone the race instead of to cancel the race.

Taking measures against the rain for men and car

Because the Minnesota Team had built a waterproof solar car, it could easily run fast if it would rain. They covered the wheels with vinyl in such a way that the rain (spray) would not get into the car. The man's rain 'poncho' is made of the same material.

Last day's start

12:00. After the last day's start only 4 hours remained in the time schedule.Because the batteries were low and one could not expect to generate enough electric power from the solar panels, solar cars appeared one after another in the pit just after the start.

Goal

Because people could not start another lap after 3.00pm, it became one's goal to enter before 3.00pm. As expected, it became a sport to play with the remaining battery's energy. However, some batteries ran out and there were cars that could not reach the finish in time.

Airline tickets to Australia

A scene from the awards ceremony: The best Japanese teams in the Stock and Junior Class received free tickets to Australia for the World Solar Challenge.

Banzai!

Mr. Hans Tholstrup took the lead in giving three 'Banzai' cheers. In doing this, the 1998 W.S.R. in Akita has come to an end.

from left to right