‘Drift AllStars’ GP Series thrills spectators for the first time in the Middle East
Motor sport fans from across the GCC descended on Yas Marina Circuit this weekend to watch the world’s biggest Drift AllStars in action.
For the first time, a star studded line-up of 10 international drifters as well as the best drifters from across the Middle East battled it out on the North Circuit of the world-famous F1® track in the hopes of taking the coveted top spot in what proved to be a spectacular first round of the 2016 Drift AllStars GP Series – Abu Dhabi Drift GP
In the main event it was Steve Baggsy Biagioni from the UK dominated qualification, unbelievably this was the first outing for his newly revised Nissan S13, built specifically for his international competition campaign in 2016 and equipped with a freshly American built LSV8.
Embracing the power and laying down the right lines, he was joined in P2 by Andrius Vasilkiaus(Lithuania), with Ali Makhseed (Kuwait)in his Toyota Supra leading the middle east representation in P3.
Seasoned championship contender Nigel Colfer(Ireland) locked in P4 in the Tri-Ace tyres S13 with a run that looked like he'd been here a hundred times before.
Our Top 16 throw up some great battles and some drama at the same time. Reigning UAE champion Ahmed Alamri would battle Abdulhadi Alqatani, but a mechanical problem caused an engine fire and that put the Toyota GT86 pilot out of the running.
Home town hero Sheikh Sultan Al Qassimi was looking strong as he marched through the Top 16, fighting his way to fifth place where his night was stopped by Fredrik 'Fredox' Oksnevad. A very close battle would put the Norwegian Spy Optic Tri Ace tyres driver on top and he progressed.
With air temperatures still up in the mid twenties past ten o clock at night, the drivers were still feeling the heat. Baggsy would need to go one more time against Fredox in the final four and a consistent on the line performance meant he was in the final.
In the other semi final, two titans would meet. Drift Allstars stalwart Nigel Colfer, who relishes competing against new opponents would meet one of the best drivers in the middle east, Ahmed Daham. After numerous calls of one more time, the judges separated them and Daham moved in to the coveted spot next to Baggsy for the final.
Incredibly, by now Daham's Nissan was only running on five of the six cylinders and ultimately Steve Baggioni took control of the battles by a small margin and with it, the win. Round one was his and the best view from the podium to go with it!
As ever, Drift Allstars brought together some incredible drivers to create a fresh line up with an unpredictable night of driving and skill keeping the crowds cheering all the way to the end at Yas Marina
Steve Baggsy Biagioni later adder after his win 'It was a very technical track , but for me it was all about the stadium section and athmosphere -It was absolutely amazing and the most incredible place to come drifting here at Yas Marina Circuit.'
Steve Baggsy Biagioni later adder after his win 'It was a very technical track , but for me it was all about the stadium section and athmosphere -It was absolutely amazing and the most incredible place to come drifting here at Yas Marina Circuit.'
Faisal Al Sahlawi, Head of Yas Marina Circuit Retail Development added “The first round of the 2016 Drift AllStars GP Series here at Yas Marina Circuit has truly been a success. We have witnessed an exhilarating evening of drifting with great talent on show from both the international and GCC competitors.”
Drift AllStars Founder-CEO Niall Gunn, added: “What an incredible season opener at Yas Marina Circuit. Our mix of international stars and homegrown drift heroes put on a first-class show and we are extremely pleased with the response. This event has been a great way to kick off our international series, which goes across three continents this season.”
Drift Allstars Round 1 -Abu Dhabi Drift GP
- Steve Biagoni -UK – Monster Energy
- Ahmad Daham -Jordan - Tensai Tuning
- Nigel Colfer -Ireland – Triace Tyres
Thank you to his HH Sheikh Khalid Bin Sultan Al Nahyan & Mr Al Tareq Al Almeri CEO of Yas Marina for the presentation of Trophies and hosting the very first Abu Dhabi Drift GP.
Next up we're back to England and the British GP on May 1st and 2nd at Lydden Hill. There we'll be joined by more European drivers who have been building fresh weapons over the winter break, so can Baggsy continue his momentum and dethrone reigning champion James Deane?
Day 2 Highlights Video Main Event
Next up we're back to England and the British GP on May 1st and 2nd at Lydden Hill. There we'll be joined by more European drivers who have been building fresh weapons over the winter break, so can Baggsy continue his momentum and dethrone reigning champion James Deane?
Day 2 Highlights Video Main Event
About Drift Allstars
Entering its ninth season, EXTREME Drift Allstars is recognised as the fastest growing professional drifting championship in Europe. Established on the streets of Japan, drifting has evolved into a worldwide competitive sport that challenges each driver's ability and vehicle control. Drift Allstars provides a forum for professional drifters to compete in a minimum of six events/demonstrations across Europe, battling for the legendary EXTREME Drift Allstars title. Drift Allstars has added a gritty edge to motorsports, followed by car enthusiasts from all walks of life & establishing itself as a focal point for the sport. For 2016 it has expanded its schedule to a global tour crossing 3 continents and enforcing its path as the premier drift series.
For race schedule and ticket information, visit www.drift-allstars.com
For race schedule and ticket information, visit www.drift-allstars.com
About Yas Marina Circuit:
Yas Marina Circuit is the United Arab Emirates’ most exciting sporting and entertainment multi-purpose venue. Located on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, the circuit is home to the annual FORMULA 1 ETIHAD AIRWAYS ABU DHABI GRAND PRIX and much more.
In addition to the extensive year-round program of professional and grassroots motorsport events and experiences including Drag and Yas Track Nights, the circuit has emerged as a thriving hub for entertainment and community events in the UAE. As the region’s most technologically advanced facility, the circuit is also a leading MICE venue, regularly hosting a diverse range of corporate meetings, conferences and events.
Whether you want to experience the thrill of karting at our Kartzone, driving an Aston Martin GT4 at over 200km/hour on an F1 circuit, work towards your racing licenc
e at the Yas Racing School, get fit at StartYAS, TrainYas or GoYas, participate in one of our many sporting events, or simply catch up with friends at Yas Central, Yas Marina Circuit truly is The Meeting Place of Champions.
In addition to the extensive year-round program of professional and grassroots motorsport events and experiences including Drag and Yas Track Nights, the circuit has emerged as a thriving hub for entertainment and community events in the UAE. As the region’s most technologically advanced facility, the circuit is also a leading MICE venue, regularly hosting a diverse range of corporate meetings, conferences and events.
Whether you want to experience the thrill of karting at our Kartzone, driving an Aston Martin GT4 at over 200km/hour on an F1 circuit, work towards your racing licenc
e at the Yas Racing School, get fit at StartYAS, TrainYas or GoYas, participate in one of our many sporting events, or simply catch up with friends at Yas Central, Yas Marina Circuit truly is The Meeting Place of Champions.
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