Project AE86: Event Report

The drift course setup on Irwindale Speedway’s 1/2 mile outer oval and 1/3 inner mile is an intimidating one. Videos such as Stephan Papadakis, Tony Brakohiapa and Ken Nomura don’t do much to help confidence.

For the Final Western Region Formula D Pro-Am event it was time to let go of my concerns and drive. So unexpectedly, by the second practice session I was feeling comfortable and it seemed like I was carrying decent speed into the inner bank. During the first qualifying session I drove consistently but, with a bit of under steer and qualified 7th overall. After a long break it was time to get back on the track. I was able to lay down a decent practice lap and we lined up for our 3 judges runs. We would then have 3 laps to qualify and while waiting in line I watched excellent runs being put down by those who later took the Top 4 spots (Lance, John, Verena and Tino).

Entering Irwindale’s inner oval

The competition had really stepped up and knowing this I felt I had to go all out. I ended up spinning my last two laps and nicking the inner wall on my first lap. Unfortunately this meant I would not advance. Though I think I tried too hard, I believe this was the right decision because a “good” lap would not have been good enough for a spot on the podium. In the end, the event was a lot of fun and the car went home (almost) unscathed .

Drifting by the final clipping point

Update: Due to drivers who are unable to attend the Pro-Am Nationals I have been given an invitation to the event as an alternate. We’re going to make every effort to get the Project AE86 out to Laughlin, Nevada on the 10th-12th of November to compete.