This article is from page 4 of the 2012-08-28 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 4 JPG
THE engine sounds that echoed through Ennis at the weekend and were met with curiosity, speculation and, in some cases, annoyance, were the result of one of Ireland’s most popular motorsports among the under-25s.
The drifting competition took place on the grounds of the mart, with the sounds vibrating around the area.
Drifting, which originated in Japan and then grew in popularity in America and Europe, is a regulated motorsport that is judged on the driver’s control of the car rather than speed.
The sporting event in Ennis was organised by Driftfest, with 38 participants coming from all over the country, including Clare.
Owner of Driftfest, Robert Roshu, said the sport is not just popular among young people, but has also received the approval of the gardaí as it has encouraged young men to take their fast cars off the road and onto an organised track.
“A lot of these lads are building their own cars, some on a very small budget.
“They are taking their fast cars off the road and using them for drifting and getting small diesel vans to use every day,” he explained.
Mr Roshu said the sport is governed by strict health and safety rules, with cars checked before the event begins, and ambulances and the fire service are on stand by during the event.
The recession has impacted on this motor sport in the last year, however.
“I was disappointed that the crowd was way down yesterday (Sunday), but no one got hurt so that is the most important thing,” said Driftfast owner.
The economic downturn has also meant there are fewer drivers as many have emigrated, with more opting to double drive – buy one car between two and enter it in two separate competitions.
He also said he “was disappointed that some people found it loud”.
“It was my first time in Ennis and I hope the next time to have more to offer,” he said.