Do you enjoy the challenge of Formula DRIFT?
Yes, this year I'm the rookie. I was really excited to test my skills in Formula D
and I'm having a lot of fun this year so far.
What are your goals for Formula DRIFT 2008? Or the years to come?
I believe first impressions are very important and this is my first year to make
an impact in Formula D. Of course my main goal is and always will remain to become
series champion.
How do you enjoy the competition here in US as a Formula DRIFT driver vs
competing in Japan?
Winning is difficult, regardless of series. If I drive well, I feel I can be
successful no matter where I am.
Second place at Round 02 Atlanta, first time in Atlanta, how does it feel
to join the podium after just the 2nd round?
I was really happy to find success so quickly. After making it to the great 8,
I was already satisfied...I believed the next round would be nothing but
practice...but I took each of the next rounds one at a time and did my best.
I was really surprised to make it that far that fast!
What's your exercise regime over a race weekend? Does it vary according to the race
location, demands of the circuit etc?
Unfortunately I've got nothing impressive going on here. I smoke too much, drink
beer every night, and in a place like Vegas, the only exercise I'm getting is pushing
buttons on the slot machines.
Do you have a lucky charm?
I don't have a lucky charm but the larger and louder the crowd is, the more likely
you are to see some amazing runs from me.
What do you do to stay calm as you're sat on the grid awaiting the formation?
At this point in my Formula D career I'm not worried about small details as much as
I am about just driving. Because I can't speak English, usually the only thing going
through my head is, "I wish I knew what all these people were saying to me!"
On Round 03 (Englishtown Raceway) You went off track while tandem drifting behind
Grunewald, can you tell us what went wrong?
That V8 is fast!! Going into that run I was already down by 2 points so I knew I had
to be right on him to tie or push it to a one more time. Conrad was only going to be
caught on the corners and the straightway in front of the judges stand was what concerned
me. I basically decided to go 150% and not even brake coming out of the first
corner...unfortunately this was too much and the speed and angle took me for an off course rally.
Can you tell us about your ride? ER34 Skyline specs?
Approx. 600hp Tomei 2.8L RB Engine, OS Giken T88 Sequential Transmission, OS Giken
Super Lock Rear Differential, Koyo Radiator, Koyo Intercooler, Kakimoto Titanium Muffler,
Work S1 Meister Wheels, Toyo Proxy Tires
Is there any track that you are looking forward to? Why?
I've never driven any of the tracks other than Irwindale but I'm looking forward to
driving all of them. I like challenging my skills on new tracks.
Who do you think is your biggest competition in Formula D? (Drivers?)
I don't try to make any assumptions about any drivers. Sometimes the least expected
drivers come out an dominate. I think it's best to take the approach of one run at a time.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
I am going to do my best to show this series the extent of my talent and skills.
Team Manager: Roo Arebalo
Team Mechanic: Satoru Kawamura
