HRC Employees in Saitama Unhurt After Earthquake, Tsunami

The catastrophic earthquake and tsunami that has struck Japan earlier this week did not injure any of the employees of Honda Racing Corporation, as confirmed by a statement released yesterday by the Japanese company.

Based in Saitama, less than 250 miles from the region in which the tsunami struck the Fukushima and Miyagi prefectures, the HRC headquarters provided good shelter for its employees.

Soon after announcing that its personnel have escaped unhurt from the tragic events, the Japanese motorcycle maker, which supports Repsol Honda in the MotoGP championship, sent its sympathies to those affected by the tragedy.

“The HRC headquarters in Asaka (Saitama Prefecture in Tokyo area) suffered no structural damage and no injuries were reported,” wrote the press release from HRC.

“HRC and the Repsol Honda Team's heartfelt wishes and condolences now lay with those that have been affected by this terrible tragedy.”

As for the team’s preparation for the 2011 MotoGP championship, a new group test is to kick off in Qatar early next week, prior to the season opening Qatar GP, at Losail International Circuit. So far, Honda is yet to be challenged in the timing reports this winter, where it clinched all 7 testing session at Sepang.

The Qatar GP is scheduled next weekend, under artificial lights, and marks the first round of the new season.