Formula Drift Streets of Long Beach 2011

I'm willing to bet that on March 26th 1977, Chris Pook had no idea what his dream would eventually turn into.  Granted he did it for a Formula 5000 race but I am sure he is very proud to see the progression   of racing, driving and cars that has happened because of idea of racing in the streets of Long Beach.  This track has quite a history that continues to grow.  Highlighted by Formula 1, IndyCar, American Le Mans Series, The Toyota Pro/Celebrity race, and now Formula DRIFT.  The list of great wins by great drivers multiplies with every event.   Now lets fast forward to this last weekend!  Justin Muir of Pure Street Photo and Kyle Pope of KP Photography came out to shoot Formula Drift's season opener on the Streets of Long Beach.  The weekend was full of beautiful California sunshine, models, cars and LOTS of tire smoke.  I was denied a media pass so I did the best I could and focused on things I normally wouldn't at an event like this.  CLICK TO SEE FULL SIZED! you won't be disappointed!

 Joon Maeng getting deep during qualifying

 hmmmmm....    spare bumper anyone?

Dai Yoshihara's Discount/America's Tire car has some sticky rubber

 Jeff Abbot's Miata was sitting pretty 

 The Hankook models were all smiles

 Joon Maeng pauses autographs to give me an epic thumbs up

 Taka signing autographs for fans.

Lisa Lee looking pretty

 You know, they say nothing is free....  Unless you want used drift tires with the sidewalls punched

Matt Field's car blinded the audience...   Purp and yellow, purp and yellow!  lol

Lindsey H signing away.  

Elysha and Tailyr were super friendly and fun to talk to.

 Erika from Florida was a complete sweetheart.  Come back soon!

Can we say "Boss"?  This Skyline was full of sexy and so was the whole Slammed Society car show

 put on by Fatlace.  I was very impressed with the cars!  Gotta love proper fitment!

 My next new toy for drift photos?

Vivian and and FD?  Yes, please!

Dai Yoshihara

 Dai chasing down Chris Forsburg for 3rd.  

 Something tells me that Justin P is "Winning"!   Congrats on 1st!  What a way to start the season.  Where is Charlie Sheen when you need him damn it?!?

To see additional photos and to buy prints, go to http://shuttermeshort.zenfolio.com/p870577597