The top drifting exponents in the country wowed the big crowd over both days as the new H Blackbee Drift Park in Dunstan Rd was christened in fine style. Photo / Angus Bodle
The top drifting exponents in the country wowed the big crowd over both days as the new H Blackbee Drift Park in Dunstan Rd was christened in fine style. Photo / Angus Bodle
The new H Blackbee Drift Park produced a spectacle on Saturday and Sunday.
Round 4 of the D1NZ National Drifting Championship in Gisborne was described as an “absolute thrill”.
It was the historic first time an official drifting event was held on the East Coast and D1NZ organisers said thepurpose-built Dunstan Rd circuit at Matawhero produced an awesome couple of days.
“Another huge thank you to all those who were there to help bring this event to life. We couldn’t have done it without you all,” D1NZ said on social media.
D1NZ gave "a huge thank you to all those who were there to help bring this event to life. We couldn’t have done it without you all". Photo / Angus Bodle
The championships drew big crowds over both days.
Qualifying was held for the individual drivers and their cars on Saturday, and the battles (two cars drifting together) were held on Sunday.
Such is the popularity of drifting, the Pro Series featured live on Sky Sport.
Taupō’s Connor Halligan took first place in the D1NZ Pro Series while Waikato’s Blake Myles was the winner of the D1NZ Pro Sport section.
Boss Blackbee, one of the key drivers behind the creation of the Drift Park, said the size of the crowd was as they had hoped.
Drivers revelled on the purpose-built track including Pro Series division Round 4 winner Connor Halligan (left), who also claimed pole position in qualifying. Photo / Angus Bodle
“It was awesome, so many good vibes,” he told The Gisborne Herald.
“Everybody was just enjoying the whole atmosphere. It was so cool.”
Blackbee said they had received fantastic feedback from the drivers and D1NZ.
“They have been telling us ... that this is the best track they have driven on in New Zealand. It’s the track layout and the challenges it presents for them.
“They’ve called it an ‘unexpected’ track, but once they all got used to it they loved it.”
The track, created by Blackbee and his team, follows the American style.
“Our [local] boys racing at the weekend had their technical difficulties. Corbyn Wilson did his engine and Werata Kake’s car was playing up.”
Fellow Gisborne drifter Shaun Potroz bowed out after a tough battle.
The visiting drivers found the new circuit a challenge, but once they got used to it, they loved it. Photo / Angus Bodle
“For us, the success of our event was not to win, it was for everyone to be happy and for the crowd who came along to enjoy the entertainment. Everyone is banging on the wall asking for a repeat.”
Blackbee said it was hoped to stage another event like it soon.
“Within the next couple of months is what we hope for.”
He had a final word of thanks for Aratu Forests, who he said had supported them right through.
“To Aratu, I say a massive thank you. Without them this would not have happened. We’re just over the moon with the level of their support.”
Gisborne Mayor Rehette Stoltz not only attended the event, she got a first-hand experience in the passenger seat beside Potroz.
“Absolutely fantastic,” she told commentator Steve McIvor.
“So much fun. I didn’t think I would enjoy it as much because I’m quite a scaredy cat. It was spectacular. I had a lot of fun.
“We have been through tough economic times. Our state highways have been closed. We’ve seen weather events.
“People coming here, staying in our motels, visiting our restaurants. Coming to support us. Ten out of 10. Thank you for that.”
