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Tamiya Cars Make a Comeback: The Brickyard and Ferdie Kahn’s Passion for Racing and Collectibles
In the bustling city of Manila, Tamiya cars have made an exciting return, sparking nostalgia for a hobby that first gained popularity in the Philippines during the 1990s. On Saturday, The Brickyard, owned by longtime Tamiya enthusiast Ferdie Kahn, hosted a special “build-and-race-your-car” event at its Ayala Malls Manila Bay location. Collectors and racers gathered to showcase their remote-controlled and mini-four-wheel drive cars, demonstrating their passion for the hobby and highlighting Tamiya’s enduring appeal.
A Personal Passion Turned Business: Ferdie Kahn’s Journey
For Ferdie Kahn, the owner of The Brickyard and the official distributor of Tamiya cars in the Philippines, this isn’t just a business—it’s a lifelong passion. Kahn’s love for car collectibles began as a child, when his father introduced him to the world of model cars. Since then, Kahn has turned that childhood hobby into a thriving business. In 2018, he opened his flagship store at Glorietta 2, where he was joined by Shunsaku Tamiya, son of the founder of Tamiya Corporation, to celebrate the opening.
Reflecting on the resurgence of Tamiya’s popularity, Kahn shared, “Tamiya’s following started in the early ’90s, then tapered off in the 2000s. But now, we’re seeing a revival, and I wanted to create a space where builders and racers could come together. The Brickyard is about introducing the hobby to new generations—both kids and those who are kids-at-heart.”
Tamiya’s Popularity: From Jeepneys to International Competitions
A highlight of Kahn’s collection is the Pinoy version of Tamiya’s famous models—the Jeepney. “The red Jeepney became one of Tamiya’s best-selling models,” Kahn explained. In fact, the model is now prominently displayed in Tamiya’s official store in Japan, demonstrating the international appeal of the Filipino-inspired creation.
Kahn teased future plans for another special Philippine car, saying, “We are working on designing another version that will represent the Philippines, incorporating our culture, whether it’s through the colors, the flag, or even the Philippine eagle.”
Tamiya Racing: A Community and a Competition
Beyond collecting, Tamiya enthusiasts are heavily involved in racing events. Kahn organizes annual competitions where local racers can qualify to represent the Philippines in international tournaments. “The passion for Tamiya racing in the Philippines is incredible,” Kahn noted. “We often have 500 to 700 racers at our events, and it’s amazing to see how focused they are on their cars.”
In 2026, the Philippines will host the international Tamiya World Challenge, marking another milestone for the country’s racing community. Filipino racers have also made their mark on the global stage, competing in prestigious events in the United States, Japan, and Thailand.
Starter Kits and Trends in Tamiya Collectibles
For those new to the hobby, Kahn recommends starting small and gradually progressing. “A starter kit for a Tamiya mini-four-wheel drive costs around P650 to P1,100, while RC cars for competitions can go up to P15,000,” Kahn explained. He also highlighted recent trends in the Tamiya world, such as the introduction of partially upgraded cars. “There’s now a middle ground between basic and top-tier models, allowing beginners to gradually upgrade their vehicles without full customization.”
Kahn is also excited about events like box-tub races, where participants build their cars straight out of the box and race them without modifications. “This is a great way for both children and adults to enjoy the hobby without feeling overwhelmed by advanced customizations,” he added.
More Than Just a Hobby: Building Community and Living the Dream
For Kahn, The Brickyard is more than just a place to buy cars or compete in races. It’s about creating a community where people can bond over a shared passion. “It’s not just about selling toys. It’s about bringing people together,” Kahn said. He takes pride in seeing people fulfill lifelong dreams of owning a Tamiya car they couldn’t afford as children.
“I’m living the dream of a million people,” he concluded with a smile.
How Hansen Helps You Stay Connected to Your Passion
At Hansen, we are committed to supporting businesses and individuals who are passionate about their craft. Whether it’s a niche hobby like Tamiya racing or large-scale community events, Hansen provides a platform for sharing stories, connecting enthusiasts, and helping businesses like The Brickyard thrive. Our expert team delivers in-depth articles, interviews, and insights to help you stay informed and inspired in your pursuit of hobbies, collectibles, or business endeavors.
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