The practice day showed some of the rookies how evil the Sweeper at Pukekohe is. But on the big day, that didn’t phase anyone. 200+kph into the first corner was set to be the goal, with many getting very close to that.

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The trophies were lined up fro all to see. Polished and waiting for 6 lucky winners to hold them. Although the trophies are a prize, the main prize is the cash.

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As we got onto the Drivers briefing, many drivers seemed eager just to get out and drift. The judges told the drivers what they wanted to see today, with fast entry points and hitting of the clipping points.

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Gradually the cars started lining up. The Holden in front is ‘Fanga’ Dan’s. Under the hood is an LS2 V8. Good to see some V8’s put to use in drifting; everyone loves a good V8 rumble.

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Whilst others were still working on their cars after some of yesterdays destruction. Gaz Whiter’s S14 however seemed very prepared and ready to go.  I love the stance of his car, it has a very Japanese feel to it, helped by the livery.

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We also saw Australian Josh Coote out in his 180sx. The car has such a Japanese drift look to it, with its huge spoiler, deep dish wheels and wide body kit.

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Things started going wrong early for Gee Mutch. His front bumper seemed to hate sticking onto the body. I’m surprised it stayed on as long as it did without major damage to itself.

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Youngster Hugo Mclean was out in his AE86 doing some clean but subtle runs. 

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Curt Whittaker had his Skyline pulling some very serious runs. He kept it clean throughout and didn’t have any bumpers fall off. He was getting some sick angle throughout the corners and still managed to see through all of the decals on his windscreen.

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Our good friend Sky Zhao was out giving the S15 a whirl. Sadly he bent a camber arm the day before, and this meant the car wasn’t running it’s best.

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Andrew Redward was out in his LS6 RX7 giving some great runs. He proved to be a true competitor for the title on the day. I love the livery on his car mixed with the bright yellow wheels. Awesome looking car.

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Gary Teana had a few great runs but sadly also had a few off runs. He was giving it his all after the crash on practice day however.

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Bruce Tannock’s S13 Silvia was out going nuts. The car is such a sick looking car, with a huge D1GP influence going into the livery. The body kit is also a rare kit in NZ, and really makes the car stand out. Bruce was pulling some great runs with it.

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As lunch came around, the Pits were opened up for all the spectators to see. Gary’s Impreza had taken a beating yet still looked very sick either way. Being a South Aucklander myself, It’s cool to see the ‘South Syde Slyders’ out going hard.

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Lunch time entertainment was provided by some Rotor burnouts. Nice to see a very clean RX7 ripping tyres.

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After lunch, the big showdowns were on. Fanga drifted well and went onto the top 2.

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Sadly a battle between Aaron Bennett and Fanga Dan left Aarons car buggered. He walked out safely though and that’s the main thing.

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As the battles went on, Curt and Carl were out in force with Carl moving onto the top 2.

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But I didn’t forget about the rookies. Nico Reid took out the top place and will no doubt be going onto the Pro Round next season. Dave Steedman took second and Bradley Lauder in third.

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After a hard run by both competitors, Carl Ruiterman walked away as the champion, with Fanga Dan in second place and Curt Whittaker in 3rd.

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Congratulations to all of the winners!

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We will be out at the final round at Hampton Downs bringing full coverage of that also!

Here is the top 8 for the Rookies:

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1. Nico Reid

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2. Dave Steedman

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3. Bradley Lauder

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4. Brandon Rogerson

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5. Mark Burling

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6. Karl Sturmfels 

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7. Darren Benjamin

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8. Phil Otene

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 Here is the top 8 for the Pro’s:

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1. Carl Ruiterman

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2. Daniel ‘Fanga’ Woolhouse

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3. Curt Whittaker

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4. Andrew Redward

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5. Gee Mutch

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6. Josh Coote 

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7. Gaz Whiter

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8. Cole Armstrong

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–Chris