The Link ECU D1NZ National Drifting Championship has announced an unprecedented international prize for its 2018 series champion — an opportunity to compete at one of the biggest drift events in Europe.
This year’s ‘Drift King’ will win a $10,000 trip to Europe to compete at Prize Fight — the jewel in the world renowned Irish Drift Championship crown.
The prize includes flights, accommodation, and the cost of shipping the winner’s drift machine across the world.
“Despite their obvious geographical distance, the Irish Drift Championship and D1NZ have shared a mirrored road to success,” says IDC CEO David Egan.
“Limited national resources and populations have forced each to create extremely innovative and entertaining events year after year. Couple this ingenuity with incredibly talented drivers and you have two unmissable motorsport series dedicated to a passionate fan base.
“With Link Engine Management now proudly supporting both series, the time has come to offer New Zealand’s best professional drifter the opportunity of a lifetime.”
Contested at the iconic Mondello Park, Prize Fight will incorporate numerous international challengers — as well as a €20,000 (NZ$33,800) prize fund. The IDC has helped foster the careers of several world-class drifters including Formula Drift champion James Deane, and the Shanahan brothers — defending IDC champion Jack and 14-year-old Conor.
Former D1NZ champions Darren Kelly (left) and Cole Armstrong (right). Photo / Matthew Hansen
“It’s great to be teaming up with one of the most recognised drifting championships in the world,” says D1NZ category manager Brendon White.
“We’re seeing patterns emerge from well-established series that have a long standing presence and history in global drifting, so it’s great to naturally align with them.
“IDC and D1NZ have been around for just as long as each other and we’re seeing similar progressions in terms of track builds and fan engagement. Whoever wins this year’s D1NZ Drift King crown will no doubt slide into their atmosphere with ease.”
Three rounds remain in the D1NZ series, with round three in Timaru taking place next weekend — a much anticipated return to the South. The series will then travel to Manfeild Circuit Chris Amon in April, before being decided at Pukekohe Raceway in May.
After two rounds, Australian Matty Hill leads the D1NZ standings having won round one in Wellington. Former champions Cole Armstrong and ‘Fanga Dan’ Woolhouse are second and third, ahead of Daynom Templeman, Dave Steedman, and round-two winner Drew Donovan.
Prize Fight meanwhile — doubling as round three of the Irish Drift Championship — will take place across June 30-July 1, with further announcements of international talent still to come.