Formula Drift has been pushing the envelope for American drifting since its beginnings ten years ago. I remember watching D1GP and Options videos before drifting became popular here in the states and saying to myself, "Man I wish I could watch some awesome drifting like that!" It was only a matter of time until my wish became true, and I could witness the action right before my eyes.
Fast forward to the present and Formula Drift is now the desired league of drifting in the United States and beyond. Many drivers throughout the world dream of coming to the US to participate in Formula Drift – wanting to compete against the highest level of drivers and getting a chance to work with some of the most desired companies in motorsports. You can’t quite get the mix we have in the US anywhere else!
Round 4 of Formula Drift was held at the infamous Wall Township Speedway in New Jersey aka "The Fishbowl." For years this has been a very controversial track for drivers and spectators alike. Fortunately, FD listened to both – changing up the track layout in drivers favor and adding more seating for the crowds. 2013 was the first time this venue was SOLD OUT!
The drifting community in the Tri-State area surrounding New Jersey has grown like a wildfire. With events up and down the coast, it's apparent that drifting is here to stay on the East Coast. Many drivers are willing to travel cross-country just to attend events such as East Coast Bash in Englishtown, NJ – or to compete in ProAM series like US Drift and SWD.
Matt Power's Motegi Tracklite wheels mounted up with a fresh set of NT05 tires.
The entire Formula Drift season has roweled up to be one year for the books. Nitto Tire driver Vaughn Gittin Jr. is always ready to rock every event possible! Contending for the championship, Vaughn has been showing no mercy to the competition this season. It's great to see an East Coast local progress from the grassroots scene into the big show and demonstrate amazing driving skills. Vaughn Gittin Jr. currently sits in second place for the Formula Drift championship.
Vaughn Gittin Jr applying the pressure to Round 3 winner Michael Essa.
Vaughn Gittin Jr. had a solid run placing him in 11th for the top 32 bracket.
Another East Coast local, Nitto Tire driver Chelsea DeNofa, is certainly no stranger to drifting! This Philadelphia native has been pushing the limits since day one. Competing in multiple series such as D1GP, and becoming a 2 time champion in XDC, Chelsea fits right at home in the Formula Drift series. With his aggressive driving style, and billowing Nitto Tire smokescreens, he is certainly a fan favorite. It's only a matter of time until he hits the Formula Drift podium!
Chelsea DeNofa displaying his skills on the new track layout.
Laying down a solid run qualifying in 9th position.
Formula Drift is a great series for any driver looking to progress their skills and vehicle program. One of Nitto's drivers, Matt Powers, is one of those stories come true. Starting at a grassroots level, Powers was unaware of just how far he would go in pro drifting. Since joining forces with Nitto Tire in 2010, Powers has worked his way up the ranks in a short time. Clinching multiple podium finishes, and ranking within the top 10 drivers - Powers has been the youngest driver to accomplish such amazing goals. Bringing his consistent driving and hard charging attitude, Matt has his sights set on the podium for every event.
Powers had some tough luck placing him in the 24th position.
Once qualifying is over on Friday, drivers and teams head back to the pits for vehicle maintenance. This is a great opportunity for the fans to meet their favorite drivers, get an autograph, and even a quick photo. If you've never been to a Formula Drift event, don't be shy - it's a great atmosphere for kids, adults, and families!
Pits are open to fans in order for them to see the race cars up close and personal, all while getting some free gear from supporting vendors.
Crew members mount up a fresh set of new tires (they go through a lot of these!)
Vaughn Gittin JR had his custom 1969 Mustang RTR-X on display at the Nitto Tire pits.
Sporting a massive set of custom Work Meisters wrapped in Nitto NT05 rubber!
Before the Top 32 battles begin, fans get the chance to meet and greet their favorite drivers - Also to get their autographs and awesome hero card!
Vaughn Gittin JR is always ready to meet his biggest fans!
After the half time break is over, it's time for drivers to warm up their vehicles and get ready for the Top 16 introductions.
Chelsea DeNofa Motorsports getting ready to head on grid for the Top 16 introductions.
Believe it or not, reaching Top 16 in Formula Drift is a very difficult task. With a large amount of drivers attending each event, you truly have to focus your skills and continue pushing to the top! Unfortunately for this round, Matt Powers fell short of the Top 16 bracket. We wish him better luck at Formula Drift Seattle!
During Saturday's competition, Chelsea DeNofa was first up in his trusty 700+hp BMW E36, going against Conrad Grunewald in his Chevrolet Camaro. Conrad was first to lead, while Chelsea gave chase due to the higher qualification order. Conrad laid down a solid lap with wall riding proximity and smokey drifts with tons of angle. Chelsea wasn't too far behind, aiming for each clip and riding along Conrad's door.
Next, it was Chelsea's turn to lead. Beginning straight through the slippery offset, Chelsea initiated high on the bank (scraping his rear bumper just as the judges like) and maintained the rear planted towards the outer clipping points through the turn. Coming off the bank, Chelsea carried the momentum with massive smoke, good speed, and huge angle throughout the course. Both drivers put down a spectacular run leaving the fans on their feet! Unfortunately, Conrad kept close proximity behind Chelsea and the judges gave the battle to Conrad.
Then it was time for Vaughn Gittin Jr. to face off against his championship rival, Daigo "The Ninja" Saito. These two drivers have had a fair share of battles throughout the season, and this was going to be nothing less than intense! Jr. has been known to defeat several Japanese drivers, but Saito proves to be a tough opponent - last year he took home not only the Championship title of Formula Drift, but 2 other's as well!
Vaughn was first to chase the points leader, Daigo Saito. Into the first turn, Saito carried huge momentum into the bank leaving a massive smokescreen throughout the track. It was quite difficult for Jr. to follow, with the smoke marring vision and Saito's 1200hp beast pushing ahead. Midway through the course, Saito pulled even further ahead, widening the gap between himself and Vaughn. In the end, the judges called it in Saito's favor.
Next, it was Vaughn's turn to lead. Knowing he had to make up for the previous run, Jr. was ready to go full force to get the win! Going into the bank, Vaughn initiated high and rode the bank all the way to the first clip. Keeping momentum, he transitioned aggressively throughout the course hoping to leave Saito in a cloud of smoke. Daigo stayed hot on the chase and Vaughn rode a bit too much over the edge. Right before the last turn, Gittin got a little too aggressive and caused his Mustang to go in a spin! Although exciting, this gave a clear victory to Saito who went on to take first.
Vaughn Gittin Jr. remains within good reach of the 2013 Formula Drift Championship as he is currently holds a second place standing - trailing Daigo by 61 points. With just 3 of 7 events left for the season, it could be anyone's game! We wish all our drivers the best of luck going into Round 5 of Formula Drift at Evergreen Speedway!
-Mark Manansala
