Tucson Christmas Drift 2007

I attended the first Tucson Drift Day years ago at Southwestern International Raceway, there was
about 3 or 4 drivers that signed up for the event, and a handful of spectators cheering them on.
The drift scene has grown to a whole other level now, and Tucson Christmas Drift is proof of that.
There were hundreds of people and vendors from both Tucson and Phoenix. The event was set up to allow drivers to get some inexpensive track time; however, it was also a benefit charity event.
The drivers entry fee was reduced if they arrived with a new, unwrapped present in hand, and spectators were guaranteed a free
ride-along if they presented a toy. The toys will be donated to local charities. The event featured a car show, a competition with
cash prizes, and of course, plenty of smoke, burning rubber, and good ole’ drifting. The smell of tires roasting on the pavement filled the
air as the drivers demonstrated their skill on the track, and smoke bellowed from behind the cars. The event catered to anyone from first timers to
advanced drivers. I had the opportunity to go on a ride-along with a friend who was driving, and was able to experience the adrenaline rush that
these drivers get to feel every time they hit the track. It is amazing to watch the precision and skill that they demonstrate to initiate a drift without
losing control of the car.

Practice started at about 9:00am, and the drivers got a good amount of track time in before the competition, which was held at 3:00pm. Congratulations to the top three drivers on the advanced
course: Joe Haven (Silver and Grey S13 Silvia), Yvon Iszuka (white S13 180sx) and Mike Brinkin (green S13 180sx).

It drizzled on and off throughout the event. However, almost as if on cue, as soon as last car finished the competition, it started to come down hard, and everyone took for cover. Overall,
it was one of the best-organized events that I have been to. I would like to thank Aubre for taking care of us while we were there and letting us cover the event, as well as Ksport USA, Densetsu
Motorsports, Intense Motorsports, AZ Drift and Toy Box Auto for sponsoring the event. It was alot of fun and the toy drive was a great way to give back to the community.

WORDS AND PHOTOGRAPHY
NATHANIEL JANUSZ