c First
 
c  Previous
|
|
|
4
|
|
|
Next c
Last c
Date: 3 March 2011   |   Comments: 70   |   Rating:
 
 
The New Ambassadors of Drift: Formula Drift Exhibition at Abu Dhabi's Yas Marina Circuit

IMG_4013

Although not as serious as some of the things that have been happening in the Middle East, something pretty epic happened last week at Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi last Friday. Formula Drift held its first exhibition event in the Middle East.  To be honest, I didn't know what to expect.  As soon as we landed we saw advertisements on the streets and in the malls but who knows until kick off?  We've all seen the crazy street drifters in the Youtube videos.   But were they even interested in competition drifting out there?

 IMG_3843

Photo Gallery

Jim Liaw, president of Formula Drift said, "I think we completely exceeded their expectations".  That was an understatement.  The crowd went nuts.  It was more like a grand slam homerun. 

Lets talk about expectations.   When we first arrived we were actually welcomed by a pretty strict set of rules of mostly what not to do, a lot of protocol and a big speech about who wears the pants on this track.  But don't blame the state of the art Formula 1 track to be a tad nervous about the hooligans that rolled off the plane with their flashy drift cars.  It was the first time they were to host a drifting event and they didn't want anyone messing up their immaculate track and beautiful green artificial turf.  Anyone would be nervous as the facilities there were in fact the best I've ever seen.  The garage floor was so clean you can almost eat on it.  They had staff standing by waiting to wipe up any oil or water you happened to drop.  They had everything you could imagine.  A tower overlooking the entire track only for VIP guests.  Loaded hospitality suites right behind the F1 garage with patios overlooking the Yas Marina.  High rollers can literally sail up in the their yachts, dock it right in the back and chill out in the hospitality suites.  Mind you these suites are like town homes. All of the spectator seats are covered to provide shading.  They have a school with production Aston Martin racing cars and a fleet of Radical formula cars in perfect condition for teaching.  A carting course and a full blown NHRA drag strip.  Prestine grass with a huge Abu Dhabi logo.  You name it they had it. 

IMG_3640

Hospitality suites overlooking the marina

IMG_3690

5 star Yas Hotel with a tunnel hovering over the track

Two nights before the main event 6 drift cars drifted underneath the tunnel of the 5 star Yas Hotel, roaring their engines and screeching their tires.  We heard the hotel manager complained about the noise.  But from the looks of the guests that rushed outside to see what was going on, it seemed as though they were more entertained than anything.  This was done as publicity to promote the event.  It probably worked. 

IMG_3753

GTChannel/GTI 350Z with driver Daijiro Yoshihara, crew chief Costa Gialamas and chassis engineer Mike Kojima from MotoIQ

Most of the drivers did not bring their competition vehicles as there would not be enough time to get the cars back for the Long Beach opener on the first week of April.  Daijiro Yoshihara converted his time attack vehicle to a drift car and entered the event.  Unfortunately engine trouble stopped him from competing in the main event but he will continue to use this car as his back up for foreign events in the future. 

 

IMG_3868

The CAST of the big show

No other foreign FD exhibition has gathered the caliber of this group.  Two time Formula Drift champion Tanner Foust who will be leaving competition drifting this year due to conflicting rallycross and TV obligations was present to drive the Scion tC for the last time.  Ken Gushi appeared with a RS-R Supra shipped from RS-R HQ in Japan.  2009 FD champion Chris Forsberg with his NOS 350Z champion car.  Michael Essa with his V10 powered BMW M3.  2010 overall 2nd place finisher Ryan Tuerck, Tony Brakohiapa, Mad Mike Whidet and 2010 rookie of the year Fredric Aasbo were all there to put on a great show.

 IMG_3988

The first "wave" the track has ever seen

Fredric Aasbo ended up taking his first win in front of the crowd, which from the beginning refused to sit down.  Even after several announcement attempts from the PA system to sit down to let the people in the back see, they continued to stand.  It was like asking people to sit down at a rock concert.  No one is sitting so just let them all stand!  Aasbo and Forsberg put up a great final fight and it was Aasbo that finally reigned.  He was on fire from practice and there was a buzz among the tour that this kid from Norway will do some serious damage this year.  Tanner Foust has left but Scion may have a new ace. 

Aasbo's runs were impressive but I was mostly impressed by the message this event sent.  The message that was communicated from Formula Drift to the fans was a very strong and clear.  Hey this is professional drifting and this is how it's done! It reminded me of when D1 first threw their event at Irwindale back in Aug '03.  The look in the fans eyes when seeing something spectacular for the first time.  Friends looking at each other and holding each other after an awesome tandem battle.  Children clapping after seeing a close call with the wall.  The track marshals whom at first were squinting with our every move was now taking photos of the spectacle.  This was drifting again at its best. My favorite part about drifting is that it's simple to understand and the excitement of motorsports compiled into one format.  Ok, the judging and tandem rules may take some time to get used to but who doesn't like smoking tires and cars going sideways at 70mph?  Do you realize what this means?  This means a fostering of a whole new generation of drift fans and drifters in this region. Heck they got the right track to do it now and God knows they have the money for it.  Two of the biggest challenges of grassroots drifting is solved already.  With Formula D series in Asia going on since a few years ago and some events in Latin America, I wouldn't rule out an international circuit included in the regular rounds in the future. 

Formula Drift has taken the Japanese sport of drifting and built it up as their own and has gotten pretty damn good at it.  I think we have a new ambassador of drifting and they aren't from Japan this time. 

IMG_3972

Bieber fever has got nothing on these drifters in Abu Dhabi

Thanks to FD, the drivers, crew, the great staff at Yas Marina Circuit and the people of Abu Dhabi.  Videos of our adventure will be up shortly on GTChannel!

Photo Gallery

IMG_3875

 

c First
 
c  Previous
|
|
|
4
|
|
|
Next c
Last c

comments & rating

0
Monster headphones  5 April 2012 by wjgq


Monster Beats Dr Dre Studio new Purple color Headphones series headset performance is good, very stylish appearance, the appearance of bias the shape of DJ headphones, closed-end structure of the noise, can out to the streets for noisy environments. And easy to drive, suitable for the direct promotion of the portable device is a good companion for people to go out or transport. The Monster Beats Dr Dre Studio new Red color Headphones headset is still characterized by the energy distribution of the low frequency is more obvious, you can feel the low frequency with a certain amount of sense to strengthen the rapid, low-frequency tough, thrilling, fast response, Monster Beats Dr Dre Studio new white color Headphones generally do not have clear-cut phenomenon, and if the front-end power is not great, the sound will be a little thin, the bass of the dive is not particularly deep, or within a certain range of feeling. http://www.monsterbeatsdretopsale.com/

0
I am very suprised by the  17 January 2012 by Property Manage...

I am very suprised by the size of the crowds here. Property Management Perth

0
Stress Relief Tips  6 January 2012 by Anonymous

Wow, I had no idea that there was so much involved. Thanks for a very informative post. Stress Relief Tips

0
You have captured the Images  5 January 2012 by Anonymous

You have captured the Images of Formula Drift Exhibition at Abu Dhabi
Men Underwears

0
Coach Outlet  4 January 2012 by pigxiang11

The IRS is giving taxpayers Coach Outlet two extra days to get their taxes turned in this year Coach Outlet Online.While Tax Day typically falls on April 15 Coach Factory Outlet, the IRS announced Wednesday that it is pushing Coach Factory Outlet Online back this year's filing deadline to Tuesday
Coach Factory, April 17 Coach Outlet Store.The extension was granted because April Coach Outlet Stores 15 falls on a Sunday this year Coach Factory Online, and Monday is Emancipation Day Outlet Coach, a holiday in Washington D.C Coach Factory Stores. that celebrates the freeing of slaves in the district Coach Classic Bags. Last year Coach Kristin Bags, Tax Day was extended until April 18 Coach Satchels Sale, also thanks to Emancipation Day Coach Madison Bags.The IRS will also begin accepting returns submitted Coach OP Art Bags online through the agency's e-filing system Coach Tote Handbags -- which the IRS says is the fastest Coach Crossbodys, most accurate filing option for taxpayers Coach Handbags-- on January 17.http://www.coachonlineoutletfactory.com/

0
My brother is a car racing  4 January 2012 by Anonymous

My brother is a car racing driver. last season, I had gone with my friend in this circuit.
Branding Agency Singapore

0
Property Management Adelaide  4 January 2012 by rentalsadelaide

Thanks for introducing the New Ambassadors of Drift with all.
Property Management Adelaide

0
Pest Inspections Gold Coast  4 January 2012 by goldpost

Oh My God! What a great drift it was . I also love to do drifting on my racing bike. Pest Inspections Gold Coast

0
Hampers  4 January 2012 by Anonymous

What is the specialty of Formula Drift Exhibition? Please tell us. Hampers

0
enakkl  3 January 2012 by Anonymous

Formula Drift held its first exhibition event in the Middle East. People of Middle East were very excited.
Traditional Malay food

0
cheap jordans  3 January 2012 by wjgq

ugg boots
In the brought back a handful of popular curiosity sensitive people, the Dexter company began a planned exposure to the paparazzi who were the most frequent Red Ugg Roxy Tall Boots stars are presented. America "talk show queen" Oprah Winfrey as their goal. In 2000, Oprah received UGG Fringe Cardy Wool Knit White was very like it, then bought 350 pairs to give all their employees, and the show "Oprah's Favorites" Introducing the unit to the audience of this double Beige Yellow ugg Print Flower boots.
http://www.toplinesaleuggboots.com

cheap jordan
The concept is not for all basketball guard dedicated, the most special protective film to protect the foot, each foot can be due to the different upper close to the foot that, if not to protect the other pieces, two rows of lace Nike Air Jordan Retro VII white Silvery holes can also be different for the players to choose the most suitable foot wear law! Nike Air Jordan Retro IX gray white shoebox using imitation metal box design, together with a CD, each of Nike Air Jordan Retro XII black red different colors, shoes, combined color and contents of the CD will be different.
http://www.cheapjordansaleshop.com/

cheap jordans
Top Grade Nike Air Shox TL3 Men's Running Shoes for sale uses a forefoot ZOOM AIR cushion! Hind paw through our transparent blue plastic block Nike Air Shox R5 Men's Running Shoes - Lastest Style to see AIR-SOLE clear the air! While Nike Air Max 2011 Men's Running Net Surface shoes also uses a concept that is in the tongue also has a zoom on a transparent plastic buckles with lace! Another Unique design Nike Air shox R4 Men's Shoes Magic clasp with a metal box, which is in the history of sports shoes has never been, instead of a shoe box with a metal box!http://www.wholesale-onlineshops.com

0
Artificial Turf   3 January 2012 by Anonymous

Cars in above pictures are dashing. I love to see these kinds of cars. Artificial Turf

5
Air Max 95  3 January 2012 by Anonymous
5

Throughout the night, Air Max 90 the assailant made his way through chest-deep snow, while Nike Air Max 95 360 his hunters were equipped with snow shoes, Bacher said. Barnes had survival training, but much of his gear was left in the car after he fled.Barnes had Air Max UK served in Iraq and was discharged from Ft. Lewis, according to Army spokesman Col. James Hutton. The mother of his child, in court child-custody Air Max documents filed in July, said she fears he suffered from PTSD and that he was angry, violent, suicidal and Air Max 2012 heavily armed.While at Fort Lewis, Barnes served with a Stryker brigade in Iraq. On Monday, Army officials were not able to identify which of two base Strykers brigades Barnes served with.Four people were shot, including two Cheap Air Max UK who Cheap Air Max were critically injured, and Barnes reportedly fled the home. Investigators speculate he either went home and got his outdoor gear, or had it in his car with Air Max Classic BW Sale him, and fled to Mount Rainier to hide out.Barnes' initial contact with rangers was at a checkpoint where those entering the park are asked if they have proper tires and tire chains for their vehicles, Bacher said.When Barnes saw Anderson's car, he stopped, got out and fired at her car. Meanwhile, the ranger pursuing Barne's car pulled up a distance behind and Barnes turned and fired, shooting out the windows Air Max 87 of that car, which Air Max 95 was driven by Ranger Dan Camiccia. He was not injured.

4
Air Max 95  3 January 2012 by Anonymous
4

Throughout the night, Air Max 90 the assailant made his way through chest-deep snow, while Nike Air Max 95 360 his hunters were equipped with snow shoes, Bacher said. Barnes had survival training, but much of his gear was left in the car after he fled.Barnes had Air Max UK served in Iraq and was discharged from Ft. Lewis, according to Army spokesman Col. James Hutton. The mother of his child, in court child-custody Air Max documents filed in July, said she fears he suffered from PTSD and that he was angry, violent, suicidal and Air Max 2012 heavily armed.While at Fort Lewis, Barnes served with a Stryker brigade in Iraq. On Monday, Army officials were not able to identify which of two base Strykers brigades Barnes served with.Four people were shot, including two Cheap Air Max UK who Cheap Air Max were critically injured, and Barnes reportedly fled the home. Investigators speculate he either went home and got his outdoor gear, or had it in his car with Air Max Classic BW Sale him, and fled to Mount Rainier to hide out.Barnes' initial contact with rangers was at a checkpoint where those entering the park are asked if they have proper tires and tire chains for their vehicles, Bacher said.When Barnes saw Anderson's car, he stopped, got out and fired at her car. Meanwhile, the ranger pursuing Barne's car pulled up a distance behind and Barnes turned and fired, shooting out the windows Air Max 87 of that car, which Air Max 95 was driven by Ranger Dan Camiccia. He was not injured.

0
Mortgage  3 January 2012 by Anonymous

I like exclusive car racing video.

0
Dog Breeders Brisbane  2 January 2012 by Anonymous

I have never visited Abu Dhabi. Can you explain more about this circuit?Dog Breeders Brisbane

0
property management Brisbane  2 January 2012 by Anonymous

I am fond of car racing. I often take part in this competition. This is very interesting blog for me. property management Brisbane

0
Sharelord Review  2 January 2012 by Anonymous

Thanks for sharing this useful information about the first exhibition event in Middle East. You have described main points of this event. Sharelord Review

0
Homes For Sale Rye  2 January 2012 by realestate

I always want to know about this event. Thanks for sharing this information about this event. Homes For Sale Rye

4
Property Management Brisbane  1 January 2012 by Property Manage...
4

I did not realise that Drifting was so huge in Abu Dhabi
Property Management Brisbane

0
digitalmarket  31 December 2011 by digitalmarket

Nice stuff! This was the great chance for Abu Dhabi people to meet their racing star.
SEO Company Singapore

0
"As far as how he is doing,  29 December 2011 by fuxiaosi0906

"As far as how he is doing, there is no emergency until Friday until we see really where he is at as far as our concerns for if he can play or not play," Munchak said Moffittunderwent surgery to repair the ligaments just beforeThanksgiving Not much problem, actually -- you'll see, AND2 11They'll Rob Gronkowski Jersey Authentic focus on two main questions: Suh's history of Brian Urlacher Authentic Jersey discipline issues and if there is any precedent for Authentic Jordy Nelson Jersey a stomping action 4 Rob Gronkowski Authentic Jersey ypg), and have Authentic Clay Matthews Jersey held each of their last six opponents below 20 points, in nearly two years"It felt OK," Gerhart said with a shrug and a grin They've also Clay Matthews Jersey visited with about 6,000 youngsters, mostly in the Boston area, but plan to conduct more in Chicago Josh McCown is starting Authentic Jordy Nelson Jersey at quarterback for Chicago"Asked for his reaction to Pujols' arrival in Anaheim, Cashman made a light-hearted attempt to steer the conversation back to the Yankees' brightest prospect Top 10 Super Bowl Clay Matthews Jersey Authentic XLVI Matchups with the Best Storylines Don't look now but Super Bowl XLVI is right around the corner Receiver Brandon Marshall (knee) was also limited If I had done Authentic Calvin Johnson Jersey that, we would have won more ”De Rossi, whose contract runs out at the end of this season, has yet to sign a new deal and the World Cup winner showed exactly why Roma’s fans are anxious for him to put pen to paper But so what? Ray Lewis Jersey Authentic The amazing thing about the list is that all of the players on it are still playing"Notes: Clay Matthews Jersey Authentic Titans receiver Nate Washington (ankle) and cornerback Jason McCourty (concussion) did not practice on Wednesday Planning is the key to a successful Matthew Stafford Jersey program We hadthem in those situations; we just didn't take advantage ofthem "We all have to play better," Bears cornerback Corey Graham said Met a few fans at the hospital He has thrown at least Calvin Johnson Jersey one interception in seven straight starts and his Jordy Nelson Jersey 5 Yeah, we have a tough schedule, but ourschedule also has to worry about us "That's part of the stress of those last innings, because Authentic Rob Gronkowski Jersey it's a real small margin of getting those last outs

0
Canada Goose Parka  29 December 2011 by himm

The Canada Goose Parka is amid many goods developed by Canada Goose for severe winter season period climate. It is really a well-liked choice amid authorities working with the chilly of Antarctic together with repeated citizens within the winter of northern worldwide places these as Norway, Sweden and Canada amongst other individuals. The Canada Goose down coat jacket is actually a coat that presents operation despite the fact that retaining design and comfort and ease.
Created to prevail over the harshest issues that you just enterprise into, the canada goose sale will stand about a shift on an oil rig within the dead of winter. Given that oil rig staff learn by themselves toiling while in the globe's most significant difficulties, where fierce winds blow and temperatures can plummet to sixty degrees underneath, they want to have the parka particularly constructed to get the Women Canada Goose in the entire world. The amazing attributes with the Canada Goose For Juniors have designed Canada Goose very well-acknowledged all around the setting ??C and with superior purpose.

0
Real Estate Sydney  29 December 2011 by realestateSydney

I have visited Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi last year. it is very beautiful place.
Real Estate Sydney

0
Air Cargo Services  29 December 2011 by aircargo24

Thanks for providing this detail about Formula Drift Exhibition. I will visit this exhibition. Air Cargo Services

0
Brisbane Airport Accommodation  28 December 2011 by airportascot

I was searching on Google about best sports car, and I found your blog. Thanks for the valuable information. Brisbane Airport Accommodation

0
International Parcel Delivery  28 December 2011 by parceldelivery

Can you provide me details about Formula Drift Exhibition? International Parcel Delivery

0
Brisbane Florist  28 December 2011 by floristbrisbane

Yas Marina Circuit is unique from other circuits because there is large space and sitting arrangement can be better for spectators. Brisbane Florist

0
Driving lessons chatswood  28 December 2011 by Drivinglessons

Your blog is outstanding. You have put great information about car racing. I am a big fan of this. You offer some interesting ideas here. Driving lessons chatswood

0
Multimedia Studio  28 December 2011 by mediaelements

I am a big fan of car racing. I have visited many websites for this information. But my search ends on your blog. Multimedia Studio

0
Garages and Sheds  28 December 2011 by garagebuilders

How many racing tracks in Yas Marina Circuit? Garages and Sheds

0
Pool Inspections Brisbane  27 December 2011 by building123

This post is mind blowing. Video is also very informative. Thanks Pool Inspections Brisbane

0
Drum Handling  27 December 2011 by cablelaying

I often take part in car racing competition. Your blog is one of my favorites. I like it so much. Drum Handling

0
Commercial Vacuum Cleaners  27 December 2011 by nle123

This topic is interesting, have you written any other topics? Commercial Vacuum Cleaners

0
Chiropractor Brisbane  27 December 2011 by naturalhealth12

WOW, what a beautiful video's and pictures these are! I like all the pictures, which have shown in above blog. I like it very much. Chiropractor Brisbane

0
Plastic Extrusion  27 December 2011 by pacificplastic

Last year, I had seen this race in Yas Marina Circuit. I had enjoyed while watching this race. Plastic Extrusion

0
DJ Philadelphia  27 December 2011 by philadelphiadjs

I have been researching about Formula Drift Exhibition, so I am very thankful to have found this article you posted. Thanks. DJ Philadelphia

0
Boom Lift  27 December 2011 by niftlift123

What a great post - I found that you raised a lot of pertinent points in your post through pictures & Videos. Have you currently written any other articles? Boom Lift

0
Maths Tutor Brisbane  27 December 2011 by tutorsydney

I like car racing. May you tell me that When the next race at Yas Marina Circuit? Maths Tutor Brisbane

0
Mold Inspection Brooklyn  27 December 2011 by moldinspector

I love car racing and you have provided informative information related to car racing. Mold Inspection Brooklyn

0
Florida Beach Vacation Rentals  26 December 2011 by FloridaBeach

Your blog is really mind blowing. I will bookmark your site.Florida Beach Vacation Rentals

0
Blinds Gold Coast  26 December 2011 by newport123

Your article is very insightful. Thank you! Blinds Gold Coast

0
Coach Outlet To make sure  26 December 2011 by Moncler Sale

Coach Outlet
To make sure your shopping knowledge is profitable and, indeed, enjoyable, the staffs is skilled to be courteous and valuable. Coach Factory Outlet

They will guide you choose out just the perfect item or accessory for you and they will gladly look at the storeroom to look for a Coach accessory you want but do not discover out on the shelf. Coach Outlet Online

You will virtually assuredly obtain a line to get in most outlet suppliers if you shop on a weekend. Coach Factory Stores

If you are searching for a bargain, the position to shop for something coach is the Coach Outlet Retail outlet. Coach Factory

Whilst shopping, if you see an merchandise you are not positive you want to acquire, get it anyways. Coach Crossbody

Keep on browsing and give the obtain some believed, specifically if the store is crowded. If you determine not to purchase it, you can constantly place the merchandise back again. Coach Kristin

If you go back to get it later, you might obtain it absent to one more fortunate shopper. You will dislike by yourself in the early morning if you let that take place. Coach Madison

If you are into chaotic browsing do not miss the problem of purchasing at a Coach Outlet store on the weekend or through prime time vacation browsing. Coach Poppy

Put on your cozy sneakers as you may possibly come across by yourself sprinting to your beloved merchandise, particularly if you are their early and the relaxation of the crowd has purchasing on their mind. Cheap Coach Purses
Coach Tote Bags

0
Pool Fencing Brisbane  26 December 2011 by fenceco

Wow! This post is mind blowing. I have no words to say. Keep it up. Pool Fencing Brisbane

0
You have provided very  26 December 2011 by andersencarpet

You have provided very informative video & pictures about car racing. This is so much valuable for me. I really appreciate your workings.Carpet Cleaners Bayside

0
Carpet Cleaners Bayside  26 December 2011 by andersencarpet

You have provided very informative video about car racing. This is so much valuable for me. I really appreciate your workings.

0
Christchurch property management  26 December 2011 by realestate16

Really like this website, this really helps and very useful. I love Car racing and I like all the pictures and videos. Christchurch property management

0
Nice post. I like the way you  26 December 2011 by kitchenrenovation1

Nice post. I like the way you start. Thanks for this information. I really appreciate your work.
Brisbane Kitchens

0
SEO Brisbane  26 December 2011 by seobrisbane1

Wow..This 5 star hotel looks very amazing. I will visit this place definitely.
SEO Brisbane

0
Tree removal Brisbane  25 December 2011 by treelopping

Your understanding on this topic is outstanding, is there any way I could ask you a few questions about it? Tree removal Brisbane

Newsletter