Midwest Drift Union: RD 1 – Gateway Motorsports Park

A quiet, crisp spring morning suddenly became filled with the powerful rumble of v8 and rotary engine as drivers from across the midwest descended upon Gateway Motorsports Park. Midwest Drift Union presented by Enjuku Racing, a ProAm championship drift series had come to town for round 1 of its 2016 season.As 42 talented and dedicated drivers unloaded their beast of battle, it was obvious these machines were built for one reason, to make a statement. A statement of not only bragging rights, but one that proved they were ready to compete in the next step of the competitive drift ladder. Following the 4 rounds of competition, spread throughout Illinois, Indiana, Ohio and Michigan, the top 3 drivers will be awarded a 2017 Formula Drift Pro2 competition license.The setup was simple; following a 9:30am drivers meeting, the track would go HOT from 10am until 3pm for open practice, followed by a 2 run qualifying format and a Top16 bracket battle.As the track went hot, a range of competition vehicles took to the circuit. Formula Drift Pro2 competitor Andrew Lewis, in his 2JZ Nissan S13.
David Mesker in his 2Jz powered Nissan S13.Alec Robbins wowed everyone in attendance, in his V8 powered Nissan D21 pickup.As the Top16 began, the battles were intense. But in the end, Mike Feiock and his Mazda Rx7 took home the event win beating out Steven Fishel in his 1JZ powered Nissan S13.

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Josh Tons

The first time I can remember picking up a camera was at 8 years old on a family vacation. At that time photography was only a hobby while traveling. It wasn't until I purchased my first DSLR after high school that photography became a passion. In 2009, I was given my first credentials to a Rally America event and began to dream of making photography and Motorsports my life. After working with numerous clients in a variety of series from IMSA to Red Bull GRC, photography and Motorsports have provided me with a career and fulfilled a dream.