D1 Grand Prix U.S.A
Information
By D1 Productions (Updated May
20th 2004)
NOTE: This information is UPDATED FREQUENTLY.
Please check back regularly.
How do I get started in Drifting?
There is no simple way to learn drifting. Drifting is a form of
driving that incorporates many aspects of driving such as autocross, Rally
and Road racing. Typically a good drifter will have a solid background
various types of motor sports. The concept behind drifting is to
understand what the vehicle is doing and making it do exactly what you
intended to do.
Where can I start?
Attending Drift Day by Drift Association or attending similar
drift events is a good way to start. Do not attend any other forms of
driving events to learn how to drift such as Autocross and Road racing
events. You may potentially upset the organizer and the property manager
by doing something you were not permitted to do. It is not smart to try
and drift in canyon roads or at unsupervised areas like parking lots or
empty roads.
When will I be ready for competition?
There is no sign or certificate that will let you know if you are ready.
This is a personal decision everyone must make on their own terms. Every
driver should know that there are risks involved with competition. At one
point or another, there is a possibility of an accident, but this is part
of competition.
How do I become a U.S D1 driver?
First, a driver must meet requirements for the vehicle and
qualification rounds. Then they must register to compete in the D1 Grand
Prix USA Drivers Search Point Series. Drivers who successfully place in
the top ten of the driver search events will be eligible to compete in D1
Grand Prix USA Drivers Search Point Series Championship Round. Drivers who
have placed in the top 10 at previous events will be allowed to qualify
for the championship round. Depending on qualification and driver turn out
to championship round the best 30-32 drivers who qualify will be invited
to compete. The D1 Grand Prix USA Drivers Search Point Series Championship
Round is a standard tournament round beginning with a solo run for each
driver to demonstrate skills. From that pool ? will be cut and 16 will
continue on to the next phases of the tournament. The rest of the
tournament will be standard D1 "Tsuiso" style (Twin Drift.) The
Tsuiso style randomly pits one driver against another in a 2-stage run. In
each stage the drivers will switch off for the lead position while the
other follows. The drivers will be awarded up to 100 points by each judge
after each stage. The driver who has the highest number of points after
the two stages will advance to the next round. This continues on until the
champion has been crowned. The Best 16 Drivers from the D1 Grand Prix USA
Drivers Search Point Series Championship Round will be issued D1 licenses
and invited to compete in the D1 Grand Prix USA Points Series. These
drivers have made it to the "Major League" they are invited to
the Professional drift league.
How long is a D1 license valid?
All D1 Licenses are issued for 12 months. After 12 months
drivers who did not place in the best 16 spot in any D1 Grand Prix Points
Series round must go through the driver search again. Driver who did place
in the top 16 will automatically be reissued another license for the next
year.
How do I qualify to be in US vs Japan Event in
December 2004?
First, a driver must compete in the D1 Grand Prix USA Drivers
Search Point Series. Four official driver search events are scheduled in
2004 and one championship. Points are not accrued at this level. A driver
will only hold the points they where awarded at their best finish event.
The First place driver at any DS event will be issued 10 points the 2nd
place driver will be issued 9 points the 3rd place driver will be issued 8
points, and so on and so on until the 10th place driver receives 1 point.
All competitors that do not place within the ten cannot go on to the
drivers search championship rounds. Drivers with points are invited to
Qualify for the championship rounds. Depending on drivers turn out to the
event not all drivers who gained points will be able to compete in the
championship. Driver who finish in the top 10 at a DS event but lack the
necessary skills for competitive drift will not necessarily be awarded
points or invited to the Championship round. This measure is to protect
the integrity of D1 championship level competition. Driver will still be
awarded place prizes and they will still be considered to have achieved
their position at a DS event.
Judging
What are the judges looking for?
Drifting is a sport that is judged similar to ice skating or
Snowboarding. Just like any sport, there are criteria to look for. There
are minimum requirements to a good drift that everyone must understand
such as:
Entry speed-This is part of the
criteria that will be met very easily with the use of a radar gun with
speed display. Entry speed is one of the most visible aspects that judges
will look for because it will determine the other parts of a driver?s
drift.
Line clipping-This is another part of
drift that the judges will be looking into. The "Clipping" line
is often judged by how well the driver take a drive line. The line itself
should always involve the vehicle hitting the right apex of a corner.
Judges prefer to see a driver take a tight line around a corner, putting
the nose of the car as close as possible to the apex of the turn. Getting
the back end of the car close to the outside of a turn also demonstrates
car control and can score the driver additional points.
Angle and counter steer-Driving angle
of the vehicle is the angle of rotation of the vehicle relative to the
direction of its travel. Basically this means that the farther the back
end of the car comes around (without losing control), the more points a
driver would score in this category. Angle also refers to the length of
time a drift is maintained as well as the average angle of the vehicle
during the turn. This means that getting the back end to come around for a
short period of time won?t score the driver many points, even if the angle
of rotation was significant. A vehicle that exhibits extreme angles
without spinning out will be awarded high points.
Presentation-How a driver puts speed,
line and angle the best will score very well with the judges. There is
also another factor and that is how the driver presents his or her drift
technique. Just like any other form of competition, there will be an
individual with a certain spark or energy that makes them stand out during
competition. When a competitor puts that extra flare or energy into their
run, the judges may pay more attention to the individual. The most
universal component of this category is smoke. The more tire smoke
generated by a vehicle while drifting the more points a driver will score.
This category previously included the driver sticking hands/legs out the
window or opening the door in a turn, but D1 now requires windows to be
rolled up and prohibits door opening, demonstrating a shift in emphasis to
more technical aspects of driving.
How is "Tsuiso" Battle Judged?
"Tsuiso" is the Japanese term for "Twin Battle Drift".
This head to head style of drifting is judged by the same principles as a
solo round. However, there is a high level of strategy behind it that
provides for a competitive level and an awesome show for the spectators.
The exact judging of this event is difficult to explain because the judges
rely on their many years of track experience and knowledge of the vehicle
dynamics when issuing the exact points.
Offensive: Generally the chasing
driver has the offensive when in the Twin Battle. An easy analogy is
Cowboys at a rodeo competing in the round up or two jet pilots engaged in
a dog fight. They chase their prey and do what ever they can to get their
target into a dead zone where the prey cannot maneuver from. This same
principle is used in the Tsuiso style. Driver use their vehicle and its
drift to position into a space that minimizes the running drivers ability
to keep a good line while staying in a high speed drift. The chasing
driver MUST at all times demonstrate a superior drift in order to A) Keep
the pressure on the lead driver B) Steal and block a line that may allow
the lead driver a good opportunity for a drift. C) Be awarded a superior
number of points If a chasing driver is unable to keep up and maintain
pressure on the lead driver this will not be good when the time comes for
points to be awarded.
Defensive: When a drive takes the lead
in the Tsuiso battle the ideal strategy is to perform a drift a a much
higher speed, good line, and a greater angle than the chasing driver. If a
lead driver can shake off or intimidate a chasing driver many times the
chasing driver will make a mistake when trying to compensate for what
seems like erratic actions of the lead car. When a lead driver can pull
away with a good angle, following the ideal line while maintaining a
controlled drift, the chasing driver has all the pressure to increase
performance. The lead driver at this point is winning. Lead drivers many
times demonstrate superior skill by suddenly entering a drift at a great
angle and going directly to the inside of the corner. TO the following
driver it appears as though they will T-bone the lead car so they back
down and take measures to avoid the lead car. Many times that will cause
the chasing car to loose a great amount of speed and not be able to
properly execute the corner in a full drift… or even worst they may spin
out or hit the barriers. This is a ideal outcome for the lead driver in
Tsuiso battles.
Can anyone be a judge?
No, D1 productions takes pride when it comes to judging an
event for two reasons.
1. The judge must have a solid driving
background in many forms of motor sports. This is because the judge needs
to understand various techniques and skills a driver might bring to the
competition. Credibility is everything in sport of drifting especially
when the judging can be so subjective.
2. The judge must also keep the energy
alive during a competition. Remember, this is a high energy sport and the
judges must know how to entertain the spectators as well.
Individuals who are allowed to Judge any D1 event must be approved by D1
Productions. Judges must have a extended background in professional
motorsports both on the track and in the garage. As to say their
mechanical knowledge must be as sharp as their ability to understand
driving techniques and theory. Our judges must be able to listen to a car
competing as well as look at it and understand the condition, the
performance as well as a multitude of other dynamics involved.
[May 20th, 2004
BEGINNING]
D1 Grand Prix USA Series – Automobile Regulations
Event sanctioned by D1 Grand Prix USA Safety Modifications and Guidelines:
Updated May 20th, 2004
For all D1 Grand Prix USA and Driver Search Events:
1. The removal of any safety equipment that may compromise the safety of the vehicle in a collision will not be permitted. The only
exceptions are:
| a. |
collision reinforcement bars |
| b. |
air bags |
| c. |
anti lock brakes |
| d. |
traction control |
| e. |
active stability management systems |
2. Drivers seat must be equipped with three mounting point or better racing type safety harness of nylon web, at least 3 inches in diameter, with a metal buckle. Shoulder harness must be an H type not Y type harness. Safety Harness must be securely bolted to the frame.
3. Drivers must be fitted with Snell Foundation (SA) approved safety helmets with 1995 Snell Foundation (95SA) or later safety sticker of approval displayed inside; head and neck restraints systems are optional and must also be Snell Foundation (SA) approved. Face shields are strongly recommended.
4. Catch tanks must be installed and securely fastened. Radiator catch tanks must have a minimum capacity of 1 qt. each. Oil catch tanks may also be installed on engine oil breathers where practical.
NO FLUID LEAKS OF ANY KIND WILL BE TOLERATED.
5. It is highly recommended that all cars be equipped with at least a 2 lb. 10 BC fire extinguisher securely mounted in the cockpit.
6. Master electrical cut-off switches are highly recommended and should clearly be marked if fitted outside the vehicle.
7. Competition use approved fuel cells are strongly recommended. (Not required)
8. Fuel filler caps must be securely fastened so as not to open on impact.
9. All hoods and deck lids must be adequately and securely fastened.
10. All drain plugs must be securely fastened.
11. Batteries must be securely fastened down, positive terminals well insulated and if located in the cockpit must be covered or have leak proof caps.
12. All cars must have working rear brake light and turn signals.
13. Brake systems including brakes, lines, fluid and pedals must be in good shape and working condition.
Authorized Modifications:
1. Each car must maintain the OEM uni-body structure, pipe frame extensions and replacements are not allowed.
2. Must maintain DOT glass front windshield.
3. Every car must maintain a complete exhaust system with a factory or aftermarket catalytic converter. High flow catalytic converters are acceptable. Some venues may require maximum allowable sound level restrictions. In such case, all cars must meet the venue specific noise regulations.
4. ALL Tires must be DOT approved with a minimum tread wear rating of 120. No DOT-R Allowed
5. Aftermarket body panels, bumper covers and wings are permitted
6. Seam welding the uni-body is permitted.
7. Suspension upgrades are allowed.
8. Factory wheels may be replaced with aftermarket wheels.
9. Any grade of automotive gasoline may be used for fuel.
10. Brake bias modifications and controllers.
11. Engines are open for modification or replacement.
12. Other than what is listed above cars are open for modification.
For all D1 Grand Prix USA - Points Round and Exhibition Match Events
The following additional requirements must be met.
1. Each car must be equipped with a six-point or better roll cage. Full front A pillar beams are required as well as door impact protection beams.
2. Functional tow hooks must be installed on both front and rear of vehicle
3. Roll cage must be welded or securely bolted and anchored. If roll cage is bolted then its must be securely reinforced with an anchor plate and backing plate sandwich on each side of the floor pan.
4. Roll cage may be placed in front or through the dashboard.
5. Roll cage tubing must be at a minimum of 1.5 inches OD tubing and no thinner than 0.098 wall mild steel or 1 .25x .083 Chromoly tubing.
6. Drivers must wear driving suits made of approved fire resistance material
(Nomex, Kynol, etc.) in single or double layers.
7. Socks and full length underwear must also be fire resistance.
8. Drivers must wear fire resistance gloves with no holes composed of Nomex or leather. Shoes must be of fire resistant materials or leather on top. Racing shoes are strongly recommended.
[May 20th, 2004 END]
D1 Rules and Regulations
Event sanctioned by D1 Grand Prix USA Safety Modifications and
Guidelines:
Updated May 4th 2004
 |
Anything
that compromises the safety of the vehicle in a collision may not
be removed with the exception of air bags and or factory collision
reinforcement bars. Exept for anti lock brakes, traction control,
and active stability managment systems. |
|
Each car
must be equipped with a six-point or better roll cage. |
|
Functional
tow hooks must be installed on both front and rear of vehicle |
|
Roll
cage must be welded or securely bolted and anchored. If roll cage
is bolted then its must be securely reinforced with an anchor
plate and backing plate sandwich on each side of the floor pan. |
|
Roll
cage may be placed in front or through the dashboard. |
|
Roll
cage tubing must be at a minimum of 1.75 inches OD tubing and no
thinner than 0.118 wall mild steel or 1 .75x .083 Chrom moly
tubing. |
|
Drivers
seat must be equipped with three mounting point or better racing
type safety harness of nylon web, at least 3 inches in diameter,
with a metal buckle. Shoulder harness must be an H type not Y type
harness. Safety Harness must be securely bolted to the frame. |
|
Drivers
must be fitted with Snell Foundation (SA) approved safety helmets
with 1995 Snell Foundation (95SA) or later safety sticker of
approval displayed inside; head and neck restraints systems are
optional and must also be Snell Foundation (SA) approved. Face
shields are strongly recommended. |
|
Drivers
must wear driving suits made of approved fire resistance material
(Nomex, Kynol, etc.) in single or double layers. Socks and full
length underwear must also be fire resistance. (Does not apply to
driver search events but highly recommended for the safety of all
D1 participants) |
|
Drivers
must wear fire resistance gloves with no holes composed of Nomex
or leather. Shoes must be of fire resistant materials or leather
on top. Racing shoes are strongly recommended. |
|
Catch
tanks must be securely fastened. Radiator catch tanks must have a
minimum capacity of 1 qt. each. Oil catch tanks may also be
installed on engine oil breathers where practical. NO FLUID LEAKS
OF ANY KIND WILL BE TOLERATED. |
|
It is
highly recommended that all cars be equipped with at least a 2 lb.
10 BC fire extinguisher securely mounted in the cockpit. An
onboard halon type fire system is strongly recommended. |
|
Master
electrical cut-off switches are highly recommended and should
clearly be marked if fitted outside the vehicle. |
|
Fuel
cells are strongly recommended. (Not required) |
|
Fuel
filler caps must be securely fastened so as not to open on impact. |
|
All
hoods and deck lids must be adequately and securely fastened. |
|
All
drain plugs must be securely fastened. |
|
Batteries
must be securely fastened down, positive terminals well insulated
and if located in the cockpit must be covered or have leak proof
caps. |
|
All cars
must have working rear brake light. |
|
Brake
systems including brakes, lines, fluid and pedals must be in good
shape and working condition. Dual master cylinders are
recommended. |
Authorized Modifications:
|
Each car
must maintain the OEM unibody. |
|
Must
maintain tempered front windshield. |
|
Every
car must maintain a complete exhaust system with a factory or
aftermarket catalytic converter. High flow catalytic converters
are acceptable. |
|
ALL
Tires must be DOT approved with a minimum tread wear rating of
160. No DOT-R Allowed |
|
Aftermarket
body panels, bumper covers and wings are permitted |
|
Seam
welding the unibody is permitted. |
|
Suspension
upgrades are open. |
|
Factory
wheels may be replaced with aftermarket wheels. |
|
Any
grade of automotive gasoline may be used for fuel. |
|
Engines
are open for modification. |
|
Other
than what is listed above cars are open for modification. |
D1GP North America
Schedule (May 2004
- March 2005)
May 29th 2004
Homestead-Miami Speedway, Miami Florida
D1GP USA Driver Search Points Series Round 1
Official judge: Keiichi Tsuchiya, Nomuken
Technical Announcer: Toshi Hayama
For booth & ticket sales, please contact Mainstream Productions at
310-782-0500
August 1st , 2004
Mosport International Raceway, Toronto Canada,
D1GP USA Driver Search Points Series Round 2 The First D1 Event in
Canada!!
Official judge: Keiichi Tsuchiya, Nomuken
Technical Announcer: Toshi Hayama
For booth & ticket sales, please contact Driftnation Inc. at
416-450-9705
Sponsorship inquiries call D1 productions at 949-753-0202 or Driftnation
Inc. at 416-450-9705
August 14th, 2004
California Speedway, Fontana California,
D1GP USA Driver Search Points Series Round 3
With Special D1 Professional Driving School, and Exhibitions
Confirmed Demo-run teams: HKS, APEX, Blitz, Team Orange, Team Green, Top
Secret
Official judge: Keiichi Tsuchiya, Nomuken
Technical Announcer: Toshi Hayama
Confirmed drivers: Rhys Millen (Pontiac GTO) and Samuel Hubinette (Viper)
Special guests: UEO (AE86) and Tarzan Yamada (Viper)
November 6th 2004
Las Vegas Speedway, Las Vegas Nevada,
D1GP USA Driver Search Points Series Round 4 With Special D1 Professional Driving School, and Exhibitions
Confirmed Demo-run teams: HKS, APEX, Blitz, Team Orange, Team Green, Top
Secret
Official judge: Keiichi Tsuchiya, Nomuken
Technical Announcer: Toshi Hayama
Confirmed drivers: Rhys Millen (Pontiac GTO) and Samuel Hubinette (Viper)
Special guests: UEO (AE86) and Tarzan Yamada (Viper)
December 11th 2004.
Irwindale Speedway, Irwindale California,
D1GP USA Driver Search Championship
Plus 1St Ever U.S vs Japan Drift Tournament
First Ever US Vs Japan Drift Tournament
The 10 best drivers from D1 Japan will compete against the top U.S.
drivers.
The top U.S. drivers from
the U.S. D1 will consist of: U.S. drivers with
previous D1GP experience within 12 months and U.S. drivers invited from
Drivers Search Championship 2004.
The qualifying drivers eligible to pre qualify to compete head to head
with D1 drivers from Japan.
How do US Drivers qualify to be in US vs Japan Event in December 2004?
Drivers who have competed at the February event will automatically be
eligible. Other drivers must compete in any the D1 Grand Prix USA Drivers
Search Point Series 2004 in order to qualify for the US vs Japan Event.
Points will not accrued during this series. A driver will only hold the
points they where awarded at their best finish in the driver search
series. The First place driver at any DS event will be issued 10 points
the 2nd place driver will be issued 9 points the 3rd place driver will be
issued 8 points, and so on and so on until the 10th place driver receives
1 point.
All competitors that do not place within the ten cannot go on to the
drivers search championship rounds. Drivers with points are invited to
qualify for the championship rounds. The top 10 drivers from the DS
championship will participate in the US vs Japan Event. Driver who finish
in the top 10 at a DS event but lack the necessary skills for competitive
drift will not necessarily be awarded points or invited to the
Championship round. This measure is to protect the integrity of D1
championship level competition. Driver will still be awarded place prizes
and they will still be considered to have achieved their position at a DS
event.
March 4th, 5th and 6th 2005
Irwindale Speedway, Irwindale California,
D1 Grand Prix Japan Round 1 Season Opener:
Just like the Event in February this is the beginning of the Japan Pro
Series. We will see the hottest drivers directly injecting you with all
the D1 excitement you can handle.
Sponsorship opportunity Contact: D1 Productions Marketing Director, Jeff
Sausman 949-753-0202
(2003)
D1 Grand Prix Information
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