Mod Report Volume 8

mod mod mod

SUPER HERO

Dai

Editor-in-Chief: Nick Nazzaro

Graphic Designer & Layout: Lightcapturers Creative

Marketing Manager: Ryan Stanson

Managing Editor/ Online Editor: Bryon Turcotte

Contributing Writers & Photographers: Bryon Turcotte

Ryan Stanson

Larry Chen

Rob Wilkinson

advertising

Phone Number: 860-291-0015

Email Address: marketing @subimods.com

Postal Information: 9 Old Windsor Road, Unit 9B Bloomfield, CT 06002

Website: subimods.com

ONE STEP COLDER.

w BOXERFEST

We go to every event, year after year, expecting to experience new things, meet new people, see the latest and greatest, and possibly be astounded by something we've never witnessed during the previous gathering. It would be silly not to admit that these are reasons we even invest the time to travel and spend a day or more amongst our peers and like-minded friends. The great team at Subie Events are well versed in setting the stage for excitement and surprise.

So far this year they have served up a full docket of enthusiast fun for the Subaru community from their season launch of Connecticut's Wicked Big Meet in June, to their West coast festival romp at Santa Anita Park in Arcadia for Subiefest California in August, right up to the midway point with Boxerfest 2025 happening in York, PA on September 14th. Again, a full array of entertainment, vendors, and performance was on display, but the color and brightness on this one seemed to be amped up beyond that of years before.

On September 11th, Subaru officially announced that special editions of two of their iconic performance platforms would be unveiled in public for the first time at this year's Boxerfest event. The car maker pulled no punches with their latest collectible siblings as their 2026 Subaru WRX and BRZ clothed in stunning Sunrise Yellow paint were on full display to bring the community into the first stages of infatuation then obsession. The color choice is quite familiar to many of the Subaru faithful as this shade has been exclusively offered on other Subaru models both in Japan and the United States. This Boxerfest introduction will guarantee that the most serious enthusiasts and collectors will seek and desire with force since Subaru has established a production cap keeping the manufacturing of both to only 350 units. Attendees at this event truly saw an exhibit of possibly two of Subaru's rarest new offerings in the North American market. According to Subaru's PR, pricing for the special yellow models "will be revealed closer to their respective release dates." Subaru added, "demand is expected to be high among collectors and enthusiasts alike."

The Sunrise Rolls Into Town

The wide-eyed spectators were overjoyed learning that the glowing WRX is powered by a 271-horsepower 2.4-liter turbocharged BOXER® engine and sure-footed with the much envied Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, and a set of Bridgestone Potenza S007 tires on 19-inch matte black wheels. To further ensure this car's handling capabilities, the revered team at Subaru Tecnica International (STI) has tuned the vehicle's suspension and smartly engineered the system with electronically controlled adjustable dampers, along with the maker's inclusion of Brembo® brakes to make this rarity another instant performance classic.

Not overshadowed by pure performance offerings, the WRX will have both technology and style in the mix with yellow stitched Recaro® front seats, an approximately 12 inch digital instrument cluster, and infotainment system. Subaru will also deliver some difference with the BRZ by equipping the platform with a 228-horsepower naturally aspirated 2.4-liter BOXER® engine and a 6-speed manual transmission. The STI team has also tuned the vehicle’s front and rear Hitachi® dampers while Subaru shoes the BRZ with Michelin Pilot® Sport tires, 18-inch matte black rims, and keeps the yellowaccenting style throughout the car's interior.

Demonstrations, Classics, and Fan Favorites

Alongside some exciting announcements and lifting of veils, the event brought its familiar energy and spirit through some inspiring displays of community creativity, dedicated enthusiast nostalgia, and driving from both admired pilots and industry pioneers. One buzz-worthy part of Boxerfest 2025 was the appearance of Yoichi Hori, Chairman and CEO of Subaru of America and the individual who is tasked with overseeing all of the company's U.S. based business operations. Obviously one of the top executive staff at Subaru, Hori is an experienced engineer, and also a passionate, lifelong automotive enthusiast who grew up following his desires as a mechanic and driver on both the track and in rally competition. He thrilled Boxerfest spectators by getting behind the wheel of the VT21x, a 2021 Subaru WRX STI Rallycross Supercar and providing the faithful with an impressive demonstration of power and ability. The Vermont SportsCar built VT21x was designed and engineered for the Nitro Rallycross competition and equipped with a 2.0L turbo BOXER® engine with over 600 horsepower. The advanced, aerodynamic vehicle was obviously not pushed to its extreme limits during his demo, but Hori showed his true metal as the U.S. brand leader, chief representative and supporter.

Of course, the rally superstar with its reinforced chassis, lightweight carbon fiber and Kevlar body, and tank like personality was not enough to feed this diverse crowd, but there was plenty more on the agenda to satisfy. The event brought a number of new models to the stage including Subaru's 2026 Trailseeker, an all-electric, 375 horsepower, dual-motor, all-wheel-drive SUV Concept Vehicle with a reported 8.3 inches of ground clearance which opens the door to the car maker's journey into the EV adventure market.

The crowd also saw the 2026 Crosstrek Hybrid which can also be an attractive solution for the environmentally minded Subaru driver who might not be dedicated to track days or the performance lifestyle, but may just want an alternative to a mix of gas-powered adventuring, roomy family hauling, and their daily drive to the city. According to Subaru's specs, the new hybrid's powertrain combines a 2.0-liter boxer engine with two electric motors equalling approximately 194 horsepower for the chosen driver. Also, unless the majority of those in attendance had not heard the news over the past year, Subaru has made huge strides in the popularity race in the SUV market which brought a few 2025 models into the festival spotlight by showcasing this year's Crosstrek Wilderness, Outback Wilderness, and Forester Hybrid.

As always, no Subie event would be complete without a full schedule of activities to bring excitement and inspiration to the Subaru-loving masses. Whether you are on site to drool over some of the regions most inspired modifications, check out what is new and improved from some of the industry's premiere vendors, watch a few iconic drivers show their talents in full view, or personally get involved in the festival yourself by competing individually or with members of your club, this past Boxer fest laid a perfect stage for your desires.

Scanning the event grounds brought a nice view of cars, tents, and dusty air while the sound of roaring power broke through the audio vibration of conversation and laughter. Busy lines formed at a constant pace in front of the booths and tents hosted by a number of vendors including Subimods, Killer B Motorsport, Overtake, COBB Tuning, Billetworkz, XForce, IAG Performance, and too many more to mention here.

boxerfest 2025

Hoofing along the pathways past the collection of tents would soon bring any anxious spectator to the action packed section of the event which is always a spark to the senses and inspiration. Boxerfest brought a nice treat to this year's audience as a couple of motorsports legends in the world of Subaru gave a familiar taste of what performance and talent look like in person. Travis Pastrana, co-founder of the Nitro Circus, a fan favorite, and admired motorsports star who has continuously pushed the envelope of performance and stunts through his career in freestyle motocross, rally racing, and NASCAR, was in attendance to thrill and bring smiles to all. Pastrana took to the event's open stage in the "Family Huckster", a custom 1983 Subaru GL, and performed an demo, prompting a sea of applause and cheers. Another enthusiast skateboarder, legendary Subaru rally driver, and familiar smiling face in Lasek, appeared with the VT11x Subaru WRX STI Rallycross supercar demonstrate some of his skills and experience to the crowd of excited spanning over 28 years has solidified his position as both a dedicated and inspiring energy source for the Subaru brand, and a welcoming conversationalist to all who attend these events.

event is always the community participation and availability for a experience, talent, and creativity to push forward and continue to build a intention of stopping its acceleration. This year also brought a options hosting Tech Seminars and educational segments including a from Subaru co-driver Rhianon Gelsomino, "A Deep Dive into Speed "Aftermarket Tuning in a Regulated World" from the team at COBB Motorsports segment called "Wheel and Tire Fitment", and "Benefits of Oils folks at LIQUI MOLY. In addition to education came the pure creative event with the Subimods.com sponsored "All-Subaru Car Show" which selection of classic platforms spanning time and style over Subaru's array of entries from an army of faithful enthusiasts covered the "Best Old School Pre-1995", "Best Impreza 93-01", "Best WRX/STI 15Off-Road" just to mention a few of the 15 categories judged for the event. sections went on to grab the final best awards, including "Best Simmons who climbed to clinch the event's top prize, "Best of Show". Showdown" allowed some Boxerfest participants to show their skills time on the Autocross course which was carefully plotted and designed drivers test the limits of their car and abilities while having fun and with other members of the Subaru community. Beyond the speed, conversations, and burning track, Boxerfest marked 2025 as another spectacular point in enthusiast history.

Subaru

I have always dreamed of owning a Subaru as a kid and to make it my very own. The story starts out finally buying my dream car back in July of 2017 when I was able to purchase it brand new off the lot...

I knew this was going to be a fun and adventurous journey.

GRIDLIFE CIRCUIT LEGENDS

iIt is not rare for a serious enthusiast to enjoy the simplicity of an early morning drive. Even better, it is a thrill for anyone who is a dedicated fan of motorsports to get behind the wheel, spend a beautiful Saturday during those early hours driving through the curving, scenic roads of Western Connecticut, and head towards Lime Rock Park, the annual home of GridLife Circuit Legends.

As you approach the hilly region, hit the bends, inclines, and challenging curves, it is easy to imagine the addiction of speed and the need. The want for performance and adrenaline for all those who pack up these vehicles and gamble with life and limb while burning their passions across a flat black expanse. As you approach the park, pulling into the thickly wooded areas and country lanes heavily stacked with cabins and somewhat quiet spirited residential housing, the non-car enthusiast, who is not expecting to roll up to this type of event, might think they are being led to an exclusive camping community filled with fishing cottages and boats. Seeing the first warning sign at the side of the road which says, "This is a Quiet Area" and the second and third that clarify, "No revving, no popping...", will prompt the average person to think, "I'm not in Kansas anymore." Swinging into the entrance, you are quickly transitioned into the land of power and speed and immediately feel the obsessive spirit that truly fuels motorsports. The inspiration that keeps our community and beloved culture moving forward.

The GridLife event is a multi-faceted “happening” that brings all walks of life together for three full days of camping, track racing, drifting, collaborating, and empowering conversations between like-minded people. Driving down the long roadway entering the park, you will immediately notice a wide open field filled with people just like you. People who try their best to put all their worries aside and let their car, their tool of stress relief and bringer of joy dictate their level of freedom. Basically, what has been created over these days is a community - a small town containing a wide array of cars, trucks, campers, and tents showing first that the enthusiast lifestyle is here to stay and enjoy no matter what the climate is in the outside world, no matter what troubles exist at home. These comrades will not miss a second of the action over the next few days whether they are driving or spectating. As you ignore the distance, wave off the insects, and dart your gaze over the expanse, making your way by foot is an experience of discovery and excitement. This small journey during the first several minutes will bring even the most inexperienced, novice onlooker into a world of family, inspiration, performance, color, and history, which, whether you agree or not, will prove both educational and thrilling, since the collection of vehicles, range of people, and level of enthusiasm is nothing short of impressive.

ALittleSomethingFor Everyone

As the morning progresses, each section of this enthusiast world becomes more populated and active with streams of both adult and child alike weaving in and out of the collection of vendor booths, cars, and attractions peppered along the maze-like pathway. After winding past the camping and main parking areas, a collection of vendor booths makes the vibrance and color of the scene begin to amplify. First to mention, no matter what the overwhelmed enthusiasts poison may be, like a carnival midway, GridLife's map creative laid down a magnet that effortlessly pulled in each and every attendee, like children in a toy store, to their excitement and promise. At first notice, the Subimods booth stood at the corner of the vendor gateway with an impressive collection of merchandise and welcomed conversation that entertained a constant stream of visitors. After viewing a line of modified Subarus in front of their booth, following the path around the bend leads visitors to multiple opportunities to visit the Motoring Meet Showfield, which highlighted corrals for both Subimods, and Hyundai, along with organizations like Drift New England, Toyo Tires, and GTechniq, just to name a few, in addition to food trucks and sponsored eatery tents raised by contributors like Vara's Racing. Also, in this sector of the park, a confirmation that the event is truly family friendly, GridLife provided a fully vintage gaming arcade area open for the entire weekend throughout each night giving attendees and family guests a wide band of entertainment.

THE FACE AND VOICE OF PERFORMANCE

Obviously, the event was not founded on the idea of merchandise, food, camping, and family entertainment. Turning back, and casting your eyes back and forth across the perimeter will quickly cause the most obsessive car lover to take a deep breath and think of all those vehicles they have dreamed about owning since they were kids. If there were a place where your Hot Wheels collection came to life, it was at Lime Rock that weekend. The Gridlife x Prime Concourse allowed those in attendance to see some of the industry's premiere collector performance platforms that were ever produced by an automotive manufacturer. Truly, as GridLife promoted, these "vehicular heroes" from the 1980s, 1990s and the 2000s were proudly on display in full glory. This section of field, populated with a series of JDM, DTM, BTCC, JTCC, and D1 platforms who have been inspiring the creativity of modifiers for years exhibited a victory for the car culture and gave a real detailed look into the history of car tuning and motorsports. Beyond the dedicated spaces were rows of additional vehicles that ranged in years, specification, and vintage both under tents and in the open. For the excited onlooker, these cars could both raise eyebrows and awareness while tempting the heart to explore the possibilities of bringing personal dreams to reality. Repeatedly, you could hear voices in the crowd saying, "This car makes me want to build something of my own." The ultimate empowerment which brings inspiration forward.

Once you catch your breath and look over the last beautiful vehicle, your eyes and ears are naturally pulled past the lush green glen, through the smoke, dust, and distant roar, and over Spectator Hill where the event paddock and track pattern is in full view from above. Clusters of people of all ages stood, kneeled and sat observing the drivers and cars taxing out, speeding past, and growling through, all with the purpose of gathering their best time and performance for later runs. Many, who could not help to want to take a closer look and engage with the event's energy, prompted their feet down the steep hill to explore the Paddock and main sections of Lime Rock Park that contain the majority of magic, mechanics, and tech that fuel the momentum behind the muscle of the Grid Life event. Walking amongst this collection of the dedicated, experienced, and somewhat rabid motorsports gangland is a simple reminder to anyone who has ever chased a passion that anything is possible. Every vehicle brand and performance model seemed to be represented as you scan the rows. Eibach, Falken, and FCP Pro tents and representatives from other brands were clearly in view. No matter what the category or class, there was a car for every fan, and a driver for every event. Subaru, Honda, Nissan, BMW, Porsche, and even a Lotus among many more stood proudly with their owners just waiting for their time, waiting for their moment to shine and prove that all this work, sweat, and effort can be paid in victory. This year's event brought a plethora of options for drivers, teams and fans who crave a taste of speed that is only feet away to touch and decibels close to painful.

In the Seat and Behind the Wheel

In this fourth season of Grid Life Circuit Legends, the organization brought several categories of competition to the event. This year, on Friday and Saturday, Lime Rock saw both the Grand Touring Racing (GLGT) and GridLife Touring Cup (GLTC) which have developed into the fastest growing racing series in the nation bringing on a number of impressive competitors and performances.

Also, throughout the weekend, the event was able to host full course Drifting, allowing drivers in this genre to experience their modified high speed drift cars on the big track. Of course, Grid Life would be incomplete without including the Track Battle Time Attack, which gave a collection of competitors an opportunity to challenge the clock and bring their best racing abilities to the track.

Drivers of some of the countries fastest automobiles in this class were able to compete throughout the weekend, race against the clock, and meet the challenges of seven classes of Time Attack which is always a crowd pleaser. Finally, on Friday and Saturday, what proved to be one of the fastest, unique, and exciting categories at Lime Rock this year, was the Grid Life Rush series.

This category involved drivers operating a special class called Rush SR (sports racer), an open cockpit high performance vehicle which are small and lightweight and the truly defined by Grid Life as a "driver's car from the ground up". Walking through the Paddock was an amazing exhibit of all types of motorsports competition whose passions and personalities were fully on display to share.

A ROAR COMES TO CONNECTICUT

Within only a single day of exposure, any spectator would have clearly felt the amazing sense of camaraderie and kinship between enthusiasts, drivers, and even the novice onlooker during this event. The openness and engagement that existed between spectator and practitioner during Grid Life Circuit Legends was palatable, noticeable, and uniquely clear compared to most other motorsports or performance-centric happenings under this category. Exploring the show fields, the campgrounds, the vendor areas, the upper concourse, and even both paddock sectors, was an obvious joy for everyone in attendance.

Known drivers in several classes were walking freely amongst those fans and peers openly discussing their projects, goals, challenges, and hopes truly defining the spirit of community within these acres of expanse, but also serving as a reminder for inspiration and effort to accomplish those goals which seem so unattainable to the layman spectator. At the beginning of the Saturday morning session, you could see several familiar faces relaxing and preparing their mental and physical conditions as they felt the day of competition moving in closer. Driver and influencer Eric “Dewey” DeWitt, known performance pilot who is often seen behind the wheel of his 1995 Subaru Impreza L called "Boogeyman", was taking a rare moment of reflection seated under his tent, but as always thinking of the next race. "We'll just have to get out there and do it," he said. "And if we don't get it done, we'll work it out and smoke em the next time." In true Boogeyman fashion, DeWitt and Team Boogeyman beat their own 2023 record in the AWD Street Mod Class by clocking a 54.413second lap to see victory.

The Paddock was filled with other familiar drivers who shared their experience and inspirations with peers and fans alike, never hesitating to reach out with a hand, give an autograph, selfie, or shout a friendly “hello" as the event and the day's temperature heated up. Fan favorite Bucky Lasek was both on his feet and in the seat during the weekend residing alongside some of the Team Subimods drivers and support crew. Driver and Engineer Devin Hofmann was also in full force with her team "Divine Force Racing" doing her best to also conquer some challenges laid at her feet, but always pressing forward with a positive note of resolve and encouragement for those who may be inspired to follow her footsteps.

"Honestly, Lime Rock is such a fun track.", Hofmann said with excitement. "It's one of those, if you mess up, at least you get to fix it again in a minute. I appreciate that. Sometimes, other tracks, I love them, but man you pay for it over the next minute and then you have only four laps. Here, the good thing is you have plenty of time to fix it cuz it goes so fast. It's like a roller coaster and fun." As one female driver in a sea of individuals in a male dominated sport, Hofmann is always encouraging to those who may not feel they have a chance to compete. "If you want to do it, just do it." she said. "Go to a track day. I just showed up not knowing anybody. You're always going to have some people who are funny about it, but there are so many people that aren't. Just go hang out with the people who aren't. The good people just want to help you go fast and have fun. It is attainable if you try."

Taking Away What is Important

Coming across other drivers who compete in classes categories from Track to Drift, clearly showed the diversity, intensity, and the limitlessness of the playing field which proved that victory is for anyone who chooses to work hard and take it. This event saw a lot of success, challenge, and record breaking moments that will go down in the books as a banner year and season for Grid Life and the Lime Rock venue. In an August 17th press release submitted by Lime Rock Park to report on the success and competition victories at the weekend event, it was stated that "more than 70 competitors chased lap records across seven classes and multiple drivetrain divisions, with the 1.5-mile circuit" in the TrackBattle Time Attack alone. Drivers including Jackie Ding broke the Track Mod benchmark in his No. 687 BMW M2 clocking a 51.168-second lap, while Falken Club TR's Peter Granberg set a 56.855-second record in his No. 511 Subaru BRZ. Right along these winners, drivers like Jim Rauck, Eddy Segal, Evan McLaren, Jake Ertel, Jeremy Lowder, Chris Boersma, Igor Kesilyov, and many others saw victory before the weekend was over. Within the same press announcement on their website, Lime Rock's CEO and President Dicky Riegel was quoted to say, "GridLife Circuit Legends Festival is an amazing event, it represents the future of Lime Rock Park,” he said. “We’ve been here for 68 years and we’ve got a lot of people who have been coming that whole time. We owe it to the future of this place to build a new customer base, a new enthusiast. In the first few years of GridLife, 80 percent of the people who came had never been here before." This is a testament to the organization, staff, and participants who placed the event's success on their highest level of priority.

I’ve had a passion for cars for as long as I can remember. I began learning the Subaru platform from other members and by doing my own research. The modifying took off from there. I started with cosmetic modifications and then ultimately performance mods. I began going to local car meets and networking with other car enthusiasts. As my build progressed I began entering in car shows, meeting more people, and applying for sponsorships with companies that aligned with my values and vision. This is all what drove me to build my vision into what my Subaru is today.

DAI YOSHIHARA

Success Fueled Super Powers

sSometimes we look at athletes and celebrities as immortal beings that were born because of some divine intervention between the gods, universal order, and some type of special chemistry.

Maybe this is true for those looking to people, places, and things outside themselves for inspiration, confidence, or empowerment. Yes, acts of extreme bravery, endurance, athleticism, and focus can be considered some of the basic characteristics of a super hero or extraordinary human being, but as of this moment in time, it can be confirmed that these individuals we place on such high pedestals were born and took their first breath just like you and I. Truthfully, in most cases, the majority of these heroes have fallen and failed during their climbs to greatness more than some of us mere mortals.

This is the basis of where true inspiration is born. To see another human succeed at a craft or skill that we hold dear. To know that there may be a chance for us to experience the same level of victory, satisfaction, and passion that we have been dreaming of since a young age. What is the secret ingredient that separates the true champion from the average, every day person?

Well, these “super humans” put their pants on one leg at a time, eat, drink, laugh, and cry, but also conquer extreme challenges in the face of adversity and then try again even when they fail. Focusing in, these individuals are no different than most people in our lives. When it comes to motorsports, as enthusiasts, we must admit, it is hard to look at our heroes within this community as less than super human considering the incredible odds they are against each and every day.

We watch, place ourselves in the driver's seat, and dream about the adrenaline, the experience, and the victories that affect their being. Again, these people were not born with oil in their veins, grease under their nails, wearing a helmet and a fire suit with hands gripping a steering wheel. We will find that they are just like us but, with a specific voice in their head motivating them to push, pursue, and succeed by any means necessary. When we learn the stories about iconic drivers who, like us, started their journeys from unexpected places, it is that much more inspiring and empowering to keep trying and pushing, no matter what we choose to achieve.

“WhenIfirststarteddrifting,therewasnosuchthingas

The Origin of Dai

It's hard not to wonder about the individuals behind the wheel of these cars and what led them to pursue such a thrilling but dangerous hobby or, in some cases, profession. Looking around the paddock or even looking within our small circle friends, we may know a story first hand from a personal acquaintance. Born in Hachiōji, Tokyo Prefecture of Japan in December of 1978 was someone not very different from you or I or the person sharing your passion for motorsports, the car culture, and community. Daijiro "Dai" Yoshihara grew up on that small East Asian island in the Pacific Ocean approximately 6,000 miles away from the U.S. living a life most of us cannot relate to but with feelings and dreams very familiar to the average kid and young man. “Watching Best Motoring videos and Super GT on TV hooked me as a kid.”, Yoshihara explained. “When I first started drifting, there was no such thing as professional drifting. It was just part of street racing. I wasn’t aiming to become a professional driver at that time. There wasn’t a single “ignite” moment, but things evolved naturally” His hard-workingfamily upbringing and his love for cars blossomed and further fueled his passions. At 18, Yoshihara began to grow into driving drift cars as a hobby and started street racing with his friends. “My passion for cars started early,” Yoshihara remembered. “My dad worked for a car dealership, which definitely had an influence on me. But things really took off after I got my driver’s license and started drifting an AE86 back in the late ’90s.”

Yoshihara took jobs at the phone company and even took a position at a trucking service. Ironically, Dai also worked in a gas station earning money that would eventually help him start and support the beginnings of a serious racing career. Again, he worked at jobs no different than those many of us have taken make ends meet. At 25 years old, driving, having fun, and really only pursuing his passions as a hobby, people took notice of his skill and decided to approach him about accelerating into another lane and level in life. “The turning point was when I qualified at my first drift competition at Irwindale Speedway for the very first D1GP in the U.S., which led to me becoming a Formula Drift driver," Dai said with pride. This young street racer who had never officially competed in a drift competition was offered a position to compete in the United States as a driver in the 2003 inaugural season of the D1 Grand Prix. Thrilled, excited, full of nervous energy, and lacking professional motorsports experience, Yoshihara accepted the offer from Import Showoff/Pacific Rim Motorsport and entered the D1 driving competition behind the wheel of a Nissan Silvia (S13). As a true super hero origin story would play out for many onlookers of his promising career, Dai saddled up as an unseasoned rookie and took both practitioners and followers the blossoming motorsport by surprise by qualifying and finishing amongst the top half of the event's 32 competitors, then moving on to capture a podium spot finishing 2nd overall at the Drift Showoff in Irwindale, California.

25, Yoshihara had seen more success in one year as an inexperienced rookie than most veteran drivers had experienced after years of grinding out and taking lumps. He closed up his first professional season in 2003 with several victories under his belt and leaving quite an impression in the hearts and minds of both competitors and new fans. Dai would soon meet the following year with entrance into the 2004 Formula Drift Championship Series resulting in more victories. This accelerated rookie finished in the top 8 at two rounds during this event and eventually placed 2nd at two of the rounds. These victories placed Yoshihara 2nd overall during the championship competition earning him the provenance of obtaining the fastest entry speed each time he competed during Formula Drift's 2004 season. Over the next three years, Dai would see even more success in his short but advancing career by grabbing multiple podium finishes, specifically capturing 3rd overall by 2007. Joining the RMR Racing Team in 2008, along with teammate Rhys Millen, Dai would pilot a factory-sponsored Pontiac GTO which would again deliver a podium finish during the Red Bull Drifting World Championship placing him 2nd overall. Proving 2008 to be a very successful season and historic performance effort, Yoshihara would take two podium positions in the Formula D series and finish 4th overall, yet again showing what a competitive and spirited force was born from those younger days of hobbyist drifting in Japan.

Victory, Defeat, and Back Again

After 6 solid years of victorious competition, Yoshihara began a relationship with the iconic Falken Tire Company and switched to the Lexus IS350, a V8 rocket ship which, unfortunately, stalled his course of victory during the 2009 season. Although entering the season with a momentum of promise and positivity fueled by previous successes of previous years, the Yoshihara team were confronted with problems regarding the Lexus' development, leading to the vehicle's crashing and retirement during the year. Dai completed the competitive season by moving forward with an alternative vehicle, a team built Nissan 240SX, which resulted in his overall championship points finishing in 11th place. In the following season, still working with Falken Tire, Yoshihara decided to continue piloting the additionally modified and upgraded Nissan 240SX with hopes of improved performance overall and a closer shot at the victory position. The team built Nissan was boosted with a major suspension tuning and motor transplant which eventually led Dai and his team to 4th place in overall championship points by the conclusion of the 2010 drift season. “My dream was always to become a champion,” Yoshihara exclaimed. “ I was fortunate enough to achieve that by winning a championship in 2011.” Since his uphill battle seemed to be leveling out because of his decision to continue with the continually updated, modified, and improved Nissan platform, Dai remained with Falken for the next three years, which resulted in him finishing the 2011 season as Formula DRIFT champion and eventual winner of the Triple Crown award that year. By the end of 2013, Yoshihara finished 7th and 11th respectively with the 240SX before making some course changes before the end of the next year.

Drifting, Shifting, and Climbing High

Moving into another year proved to be the beginning of a pinnacle timeframe for Yoshihara, marking another important shift in platform. Entering the 2014 Formula DRIFT season, Dai would switch vehicle choices and adopt a new sleek and sporty Subaru for his new chariot. Yoshihara's new weapon of choice, a heavily modified 2014 Subaru BRZ, quickly became known in competitive circles for its high horsepower and extremely competitive performance personality within the world of Formula DRIFT. The vehicle was originally brought to Yoshihara's orbit as a 2013 BRZ, but since its adoption, the car has been constantly modified and upgraded to create a true drifting beast. Modifications included a new tube chassis, a wide-body kit, a conversion to right-hand drive, along with a custom suspension, a dual brake system, and upgraded drivetrain components. To add the ultimate cherry on the top, this BRZ has been further outfitted with a Chevrolet LS-based engine which has been equipped with a large turbo that delivers 1000 horsepower of pure muscle and 800 foot-pounds of torque. As mentioned, the tubular chassis modification which includes a tube front end improves the vehicle's weight distribution, while the added double A-arm front suspension gives the BRZ much better control and stability. Yoshihara has also upgraded to a four-speed GeForce dog shift gearbox along with a Winters quick-change differential. Dai's BRZ also is equipped with a custom cage, Takata harnesses, Momo race seats and steering wheel to bring grip, position, and navigation comfortable during extreme scenarios that Formula DRIFT always delivers. “The BRZ received front tube frame modifications after I retired from Formula Drift”, Yoshihara clarified. “In fact, such modifications are not allowed in FD.”

Fast forwarding to 2019, Evasive Motorsports introduced their Toyota 86 to Yoshihara's team then joined forces to compete at Global Time Attack's Super Lap Battle, the final event of the season. Yoshihara clocked the fastest lap capturing an event and Unlimited RWD class victory. By the 2020 season, Dai moved his focus to the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb in Colorado Springs, CO where he joined with Evasive Motorsports again to drive their Toyota 86 in the event's Unlimited class competition. “Another milestone I’m proud of is winning the Unlimited Class at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb in 2020.”, he says with pride. After first experiencing some mechanical issues, the Toyota was unable to qualify which resulted in Yoshihara's last position start at the time of the competition. To align with his historic spirit of resilience, determination, and dedication to victory, Dai and the crew of Evasive Motorsports were able to conquer this temporary setback and reset on race day. Yoshihara and the Toyota 86 clocked a time of 10:05.006 and finished 1st in the Unlimited Class and overall in 9th place. As always, and according to the cosmic and almost universal script that has guided his way since the beginning, Yoshihara kept moving forward, continually switching gears, and almost reinventing himself each time he decided to pursue another genre, feed another inspiration, and work on another goal. Nothing has stood in his way to reach those heights he has always looked to in his life. “I retired from competitive drifting in 2021 and have been focusing on road racing.” he said with focus. “My current goal is to win the IMSA MPC championship. Unfortunately, I couldn’t secure a full-season IMSA seat this year, but I’m hoping to be back on the grid next year.”

Seasoned, Multifaceted and Never At Rest

Now, a 46 year old veteran with over two solid decades of professional motorsports experience and extreme drifting competition under his belt, Yoshihara is as active and generous as always with his time, energy and experience. Reflecting on some of the most important factors his followers and fellow car enthusiasts should know about him as a driver and professional, Yoshihara outlines his accomplishments simply and clearly. “I’ve been fortunate to compete in many different disciplines—drifting, time attack, hill climbs, and road racing.”, he said. “ I might not be the very best at all of them, but I’m pretty good at each one.”, he said jokingly. “It all started simply from being a car enthusiast. The path hasn’t always been glamorous, but it’s been real. I’ve always tried to stay grounded because, at the end of the day, I’m a fan of cars first just like everyone else.” We know that many that pursue this life or attempt to spark a victorious career in motorsports will hit some discouraging walls or even walk away after their dreams are flattened with repeated failure or discouragement. “I just feel so fortunate to still be relevant in different corners of car culture.”, Dai exclaims with gratitude. ”I just want to thank everyone who has supported and continues to support me.” Of course, this type of journey is not for everyone, and most importantly not suited for everyone who thinks they have the gifts or talent to make a success of something they love, but Yoshihara will never stop from being an example, source of encouragement, or inspirational influencer given his experience and evident success. “Stay hungry, stay humble.”, he said with encouragement. “It’s not just about driving good or fast. You’ve got to network, hustle, market yourself, and most importantly, be humble and easy to work with. Also, surround yourself with good people. You can’t do this alone. Be the one people want to support!”

Who is Extreme Turbo Systems (ETS)?

Serious enthusiasts are naturally attracted to companies and brands that are keenly focused on precision, quality and performance. One manufacturer based out of America's Northwest in Vancouver, Washington has been making waves as an important innovator in this area. Extreme Turbo Systems (ETS) has become known for their premiere, high quality design and manufacturing processes while producing a popular line of high-performance turbo kits, intakes, exhausts, and other related automotive products for the Subaru and other automotive brands. This company was founded as developers and designers with a history of refining turbo systems for both the Chevrolet Corvette C8 and the Mitsubishi Evo. ETS offerings span an array of products which include turbochargers and kits delivering between 1500whp to 2000whp over a number of platforms to provide the performance driver with any purpose the power they crave. The ETS team strives to propel both honesty and integrity through every product they produce, two qualities that have continued to successfully prove their brand stability in the minds of the daily driving consumer and motorsports professional alike.

Making critical choices during the modification journey should be the most important step for an enthusiast, so considering both the reputation and history of a brand needs to be top of mind during this process. First, Extreme Turbo Systems has a proven history of premiere performance through the usage of their turbo kits, aftermarket components and other products by known performers and drivers throughout the automotive industry. As a leader in performance turbocharging, intercooling, and exhaust solutions for drivers on street, the track, and also in drag racing, ETS has grown to be an impactful contributor in multiple genres of motorsports and for the serious enthusiast who wants to keep their vehicle competitive within a constantly changing landscape. For example, those individuals navigating through the performance world of Subaru, ETS offers their Rotated Turbo Kit for the 2004-2007 WRX STi. This product is one of the most complete systems available to the enthusiast. For drivers of this vehicle this system utilizes optimal intercooler pipe routing and a larger ported s-cover in conjunction with a number of turbocharger options to deliver the appropriate performance to match the vehicle's purpose. ETS turbo kits products for this platform can provide between 300-1000hp+, showing that their engineering and designs bring a plethora of rewards to those who choose this premiere solution.

Why should you purchase Extreme Turbo Systems (ETS) products?

Anyone who has been exposed to their products and the rewards their designs have provided will agree that this company is keenly and truly focused on performance, quality, and integrity regarding all facets of their business and manufacturing methodology. The top priority at ETS is performance, no matter what platform you choose to drive or what genre you pursue for victory. Their products are engineered to provide exceptional results on the track or street without cutting corners off the vehicle's performance personality to save manufacturing dollars or push aside the true strength of the product and how it delivers victory. ETS concentrates on a clear view of consistency, precision of creation, and the ingenuity that makes innovation a necessity throughout their design and manufacturing process. Their focus and understanding of how the performance consumer thinks and dreams is why this company keeps superior craftsmanship and their pure interest in the customer's satisfaction as their primary target each day with every product that is installed and proven. Most importantly, their integrity filled creed fuels the quality behind every product they produce. Their commitment to honesty, ethical practices, standing by their products and promises, along with being a trustworthy organization ensures that their goal to build lasting relationships does not fall flat to complacency and lower quality. Choosing the ETS brand is selecting the highest standards in the industry.

Who is Titan 7?

Born in 2017 from a set of non-compromising ideals and a "think differently motivation", Californiabased Titan 7 set forth to set a new standard for both aftermarket wheel manufacturing and design. The west coast company brought in over 40 years of combined automotive aftermarket experience to the table to launch a brand of fully forged wheels that reflect their performance-minded methodology and purpose. Titan 7 made it their ultimate goal to keep quality high and their designs innovative, while providing all sides of the interested market with a safe, robust, and vehicle specific product that steps out of the familiar mold and engages with the true performance desires of all types of vehicles and drivers. After observing and working with many of the industry's wheel brands and manufacturers, the Titan 7 team made a commitment to dial into a performance-minded focus combining their experiences with professional racing, aftermarket, and OEM factory supply processes to both streamline and amplify the efficiency of the wheel supply business. Through their innovative business processes, pioneering manufacturing and distribution methods, and attractive price points, Titan 7 has become a company that truly creates a product that anyone can purchase and show off with pride.

Why are Titan 7 products important?

Today's introduce and factor segment inexpensive and appear well-engineered produced, but most often confirm the old adage, "You get what you pay for." Titan 7's product line is an important injection into the automotive marketplace due to their basic retooling of how quality, affordable wheels should be engineered, designed, produced, packaged, and directly sold to the distributor. Their ultimate goal is to create a process and product that will not only better themselves as a provider to the enthusiast, but also better an entire industry by setting a standard. Titan 7 has developed a line of quality products that are stronger, safer, sleeker, and more attainable for a much wider range of consumers from the daily driver to the motorsports professional. The Titan 7 commitment to keeping their product creation process from concept to completion entirely in-house establishes their position as the preferred choice for those seeking a solution to deliver the best performance and results.

wheels can be inexpensive and acceptable for street use, but can prove to crack and become dangerous under the stresses of high performance. Unlike some other manufacturers, Titan 7 products are produced using the forged process making them stronger, lighter, and much safer in performance scenarios. Their fully forged wheels are crafted in-house from a solid cylinder of aircraft grade 6061 Aluminum. During the process, the cylinder is pressurized under 10,000 tons of pressure to improve the grain structure and overall properties of the high grade aluminum while creating its basic shape. This allows the Titan 7 team to create innovative designs, while keeping the weight low, and strength high. Since Titan 7 has been completely engaged with the demands, needs, and science behind motorsports performance, they continually improve product designs and capabilities through extreme testing under stressful conditions.

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