Luke Fink takes out the '09 Drift Nationals

By Melinda Hall

"We are bringing Drift Australia back to the top,"

DA co-owner Adam Toffolon announced to the 4000 strong crowd at Oran Park Raceway, Sydney at the 2009 Drift Nationals. The first event ran by Drift Australia's new owners 'Ninety Degree Entertainment' proved to be nothing short of successful as the on-and-off track extravaganza took place.

From the get-go each driver brought to the table their indescribable talent and flair that makes them the best in the country. The atmosphere building constantly as clouds of smoke and ear-piercing engine rumbles took to the raceway.

Taking out the Super Drift Challenge for the rising stars of Drift was Andrew Roney. Keeping off second-placed Jim Turner and third David Browne, Roney was in control from start to finish calling the shots and hammering his way about the track. Describing his crew and car as "...nothing but smooth" the young gun flaunted his ability that has the capacity to reach the phenomenal DA level.

Reiterating why he is at the top of his game Luke "Cool-Hand" Fink took out the 2009 Drift National Title in his Holford Motors S14 Silvia. His confidence and natural capability seen from his smooth entry into the DA Qualifying Round, refusing warm-up and sliding straight into poll position. "The car has been faultless all weekend with the guys just giving 110% every time," Fink proclaimed during his acceptance speech.

His admiration coming from all directions including rival and in at a close second, Simon Podlewski, "I don't mind being beaten by Luke." Podlewski pleased track-goers when referring to his driving background announcing, "Drifting makes drag racing look weak." Rounding off the winners circle was fresh-faced Jake Jones keeping Dan Mackie at bay to take out third spot.

Track-side saw the same momentum building with an array of eye-pleasing displays, merchandise stands, activities and competitions. The 'Pioneer Sound-Off' showcased some of the best automotive audio systems around as well as pumping out tunes from up and coming local Dj's.

The impossible was made possible at the 'Car Wars-Customs and Modifiers Challenge' with a 'had-to-be-seen-to-be-believed' line-up of enhanced and superior vehicles. Close by was 'RC Drift' proving that size is no obstacle and impressing onlookers with Australia's finest remote-control brilliance.

Thanks to major partner SABER and Drift Australia driver Fernando Wiehrl, Ben Madden took home a track-ready Drift car at the day's end. The privileged winner was also granted drift lessons from Wiehrl in the give-away.

At the weekend's close Drift Australia proudly declared they will be rolling out a five event program in 2010. Judging by the crowd-pleasing reaction Drift Australia is only going to get bigger and better in the New Year. Be prepared for an uncoming season of boundary-pushing and reaching new heights. Expect the unexpected.