Thursday, July 9, 2009

Feature Story: ESPN Formula Drift Pro-Am, Singapore 2009

Words: Ler Hwee Tiong

Tyrepac was one of the proud sponsors of the ESPN Formula Drift Pro-Am Series held in Singapore from 4th to 5th of July at the Changi Exhibition Centre.


This year’s event saw a gathering of 37 amateur and professional drifters from Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Hong Kong, and Thailand compete in front of a sold out crowd of more than 4000.


Singapore was represented by the likes of Ivan Lim, and Jansen Tan, who claimed a top 8 spot. Eventually, the large contingent from our friendly neighbours, Malaysia took the top 3 spots. Tengku Djan, last year’s runner-up and a strong contender right from the start, won the championship with a string of consistent runs.

Johan Norman Azam and Ariff Johanis, both Team Goodyear drivers, took second and third spot respectively. Amidst the field of drifters was also notably Jane Cheah, the only female drifter. Jane is also from Team Goodyear.


Goodyear’s support for drifting events in Asia is evident, from the inaugural Formula Drift in 2008, to this year’s event. Formula Drift Thailand in November 2009, and Formula Drift Malaysia in December 2009 have also been announced. We may just be seeing the beginning of Formula Drift Asia.






Special guest judges were invited from Formula Drift USA, comprising of Andy Yen and Tony Angelo. The field of 37 drifters was scaled down to 16, and 8 before the final 4competed for the top 3 spots.


Mattie Griffin entertained the crowd with his excellent bike control on both days. There were plenty of crowd pullers around, with drummers, game booths, merchandising, and of course not forgetting some eye candy.




Throughout all the whirlwind entertainment, Tyrepac was trusted to diligently ensure that the drivers never had to worry about their tyre changing.



The ESPN Formula Drift Pro Am was a great success and I am sure when it comes around next year, it will be a bigger and better event. And Tyrepac too, will be there again to ensure that no tyre is left unchanged.