**** GUEST BLOG – BY JOSH MCGUIRE ****
Day 1 at Formula Drift Orlando was the Practice day, we were trying to build our confidence back up from the electrical issues we ran into while driving in FD Atlanta. Not having a solid test a prior, we were unsure that are repairs had fixed the car.
Being rushed during Orlando’s practice everything basically fell apart because of stress and I couldn’t seem to throw together a qualifying line. The heat was taking a toll on my body, making it difficult to think straight during practice time. We did our best to dial in the car even though the runs were not consistent, or our best.
Qualifying quickly approached, and the pressure was on to make a solid run. Still not 100 percent confident that the car would maintain running while we’re throwing it in at the wall as we left the start line only thing I remember saying was “don’t lift!”
Our first qualifying run was a 68. It wasn’t our best run throughout the day, but we were pleased to be able to put a score on the board. Once we were confident that the car was running solid to complete the course, we lined up for our second qualifying run. Leaving the start line on our second run, I made myself mentally motivated to drive 100 percent or crash trying. We threw it in at the wall, immediately we made contact with the wall, dragging the rear bumper throughout the entire wall. We were aggressive throughout the remainder of the course, and on close proximity with all the clipping points, which scored us a 74. Putting us in 10th for qualifying.
Day 2 My mind was clear, my body was hydrated, and the team was focused. After a few repairs to the car. We were waiting for our time to practice. Practice session went well, we got about 4 laps in, feeling comfortable in the car, and having fun.
In top 16, we were paired up with Jeff Jones. Inside I didn’t feel there wasn’t any reason I couldn’t win this battle. So we lined up, Jones lead first, as we left the line, we charged towards the wall, I clicked 3rd gear, and quickly had to lift dramatically. Jeff Jones’ car was significantly slower then I anticipated. Jeff Jones jumped in a small gap, which we were able to close immediately. Being conservative on the follow run, but keeping close in proximity we both finished the course with no faults or errors on either driver.
My lead run against Jeff, I charged at the wall 100 percent, had a high line and made slight contact as I left the wall. Which upset the car a little. I quickly adjusted but it put me off the first inside clip farther then I wanted to be. However it did not interfere with the rest of our line finishing out the rest of the course aggressively and solid.
Unfortunately the initial bobble in my run gave Jeff Jones the win. Knocked out early in the competition, we spent the rest of the day speaking with fan and supporters at the event about the car and amazing products we use.
Looking forward, we have a few months of off time, we are going to test and play with some more car setups for FD Texas. We have a positive outlook, and excitement for Texas being my home track. Stay Tuned and thanks for following along.
– Josh
*** Josh McGuire runs Konig Hypergram Wheels in 17×9 et25mm offset front and 18×9.5 et25mm rear. Josh races on behalf of Enjuku Racing. ***
