Nakazato, Takeshi

中里毅

Nakazato Takeshi (中里毅) leads the Myogi NightKids. He first appeared at the Akina race, where Keisuke Takahashi of the RedSuns was set to race against Takumi. Surprised that Takumi could defeat Keisuke, Takeshi decided he would be the one to challenge and defeat the "Akina downhill specialist," placing the RedSuns next on his list.
He is an intelligent and skilled driver, notably recognizing Takumi's gutter hook technique while observing the Eight-Six's first battle with Keisuke's FD. However, his downfall is his anger and emotions interfering with his mind, resulting in poor throttle control. He also races all-out and usually fails to consider tire wear, so in the end, he loses the race, sometimes crashing his car. He is very good at acceleration and is known for his grip driving philosophy. His previous car was a Nissan Silvia (S13), with which he used drifting techniques. He changed to the R32 after a devastating loss to a white (or rather silver) R32 on his home course of Myogi. Following the defeat by the Skyline, his philosophy changed, favoring grip driving techniques over "weak" and "showy" drifting techniques. He also believed that no matter what skill a driver has, a car will not run beyond its capabilities.