HyperFest was absolutely insane in the best way possible. From the moment I arrived, the energy was nonstop from early-morning drifting on the Patriot Course and chaos at the skid pad, to wheel-to-wheel track racing on the main circuit and off-road beasts tearing through the woods.

I clocked over 20,000 steps a day, trekking across the massive and scenic grounds of Virginia International Raceway all while hauling around a 35-pound backpack full of gear. I’ve never needed a scooter more in my life!

Friday brought some unexpected drama a huge storm rolled in out of nowhere, tearing through tents and canopies. But just as quickly as it arrived, it was gone. By nightfall, the wind was ripping through at 50mph. Despite the wild weather, the rest of the weekend was nothing but gorgeous sunshine, creating the perfect vibe for racers and fans alike.

One of my favorite parts of HyperFest is the soundscape the constant roar of engines, tires shredding rubber, and rev limiters echoing off the track walls and through the trees. It’s like a symphony for car lovers.

The nights were just as wild as the days. Friday was emo night, and Saturday turned into a full-on EDM party. HyperFest truly is a music and motorsports fusion like no other. Saturday’s events brought everyone together for drift games, burnout battles, and even an air-guitar competition that had the whole crowd in stitches. It all led up to the music fest send-of the perfect finale to an all-out motorsport party weekend.

Can’t wait to do it all over again but next time, I’m definitely bringing a scooter!

The 2025 Grassroots Edition Season Opener, held on May 10 in New Jersey, marked a vibrant start to the East Coast car culture calendar. Organized by Grassroots Edition in collaboration with PRIME NYC, the event showcased a diverse array of vehicles, from meticulously restored JDM classics to avant-garde custom builds, reflecting the community's passion and authenticity.

Attendees experienced a dynamic atmosphere filled with automotive artistry and camaraderie. The event emphasized inclusivity, welcoming enthusiasts from all backgrounds to share their love for cars. Highlights included standout vehicles, engaging displays, and a strong sense of community among participants.

For those interested in future events or seeking more information,

Swerv Car and Bike Show made its Savannah, GA debut on Saturday, May 24, at the newly renovated Savannah Convention Center. Known for their Florida-based automotive clothing brand, Swerv is branching out with enthusiast-driven events—bringing their unique style and energy to new cities. While Savannah’s local car scene is still growing, the city proved to be a solid destination, with the Riverwalk just steps from the venue and strong regional support from Atlanta, South Carolina, Virginia, and Florida.

The show field was diverse, with everything from supercars to classic and modern American muscle, JDM and VIP builds, trucks, mini-trucks, lowriders, and custom bikes. Activities throughout the day kept attendees engaged, including a push-up contest, a dance competition, and a raffle.

Local car crew Kaptur showed out, with member Brian displaying his NA1 NSX—complete with graded first-edition copies of classic tuner print magazines on display, drawing a lot of attention. Best of Show went to a track-prepped AWD Mini Cooper, with additional awards for Top 20 builds, Best Paint, Interior, Engine Bay, and Static Ride Setup.

It was a strong kickoff to Memorial Day weekend and a promising start for Swerv’s expansion into Georgia. Attendees left with good memories and high expectations for the next one—and we’re looking forward to it too.

Story and Photography by Lee Vermont

Nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania, the Carlisle Import & Performance Nationals once again roared to life on May 16-17, filling over 82 acres of the Carlisle PA Fairgrounds with the electric energy of more than 1,900 cars and thousands of enthusiastic spectators. This annual gathering is more than just a car show—it’s a living, breathing celebration of automotive passion that bridges generations, styles, and cultures.

The event was a sensory overload in the best possible way. With gleaming vintage classics parked beside the latest cutting-edge performance machines, the variety was staggering. Attendees were treated to a visual history of the automobile, from rare European imports to modified Japanese tuners, and everything in between. It was clear that whether you’re into old-school engineering or high-tech horsepower, Carlisle had something to offer.

More than a static display, the event pulsed with activity. The ever-popular flea market was a treasure trove of car culture, offering everything from hard-to-find parts and rare collectibles to full vehicles ready for new owners. It’s a place where enthusiasts come not only to browse but to connect, share stories, and keep the spirit of car culture alive.

One of the most delightful aspects of the weekend was its family-friendly atmosphere. Children weren’t just spectators—they were participants. The Oxford Power Wheels Racing brought smiles to everyone’s faces as kids got in on the action with their own mini drag races. It was a wholesome reminder that the next generation of gearheads is already getting their start.

The Manufacturers Midway added a layer of innovation, showcasing the newest automotive technologies and services. Whether you were there to admire the classics or explore what’s next in performance upgrades, there was inspiration at every turn.

With clear skies overhead and crowds flocking to the fairgrounds, the energy was palpable. The Carlisle Import & Performance Nationals didn’t just bring cars together—it brought people together. It reaffirmed that automotive enthusiasm isn’t just a hobby; it’s a lifestyle, a community, and an enduring tradition.

In every rev of an engine and every glint of polished chrome, this year’s show reminded us why Carlisle remains a cornerstone of the automotive calendar. Here’s to another unforgettable year—and to the roads that bring us back again.

Photography by  and write up by

Rain, rivalries, and redemption at Road Atlanta as Formula DRIFT delivers high-stakes action at Round 2

Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta has always delivered on drama, but 2025's Round 2 of Formula DRIFT was something else entirely. The venue’s mix of elevation, tight turns, and natural amphitheater layout combined with ever-changing weather and a fresh partnership with Gridlife to produce one of the most intense weekends in recent FD memory. As rain took hold on Saturday, the racing got even more unpredictable—with standout drives in both the PRO and PROSPEC Championships.

Deane Edges Aasbo After Double OMT Duel
After falling short in Long Beach, four-time FD Champion James Deane returned to the top step at Road Atlanta—but it wasn’t easy. Facing off against teammate Vaughn Gittin Jr. as early as the Top 32, the Irish driver had a tough road to the final. In wet, low-grip conditions, Deane's comfort in the rain was on full display. He picked off Jeff Jones and then battled Matt Field in a tight Top 8 contest where proximity and car control made the difference.

The semifinals against Jhonnattan Castro pushed Deane into a One More Time scenario. A spin by Castro on the re-run gave Deane the edge, setting up a repeat of the Round 1 Final: Deane vs. Fredric Aasbo.

The two veterans ran six times after a pair of One More Time calls from the judges, ultimately awarding the win to Deane thanks to a strong lead and a cleaner chase. With the victory, Deane pulls even with Aasbo atop the 2025 FD PRO standings.

“The Ford Mustang RTR was killing it all weekend,” said Deane. “We gave it everything through some crazy One More Time battles, and I’m super-happy heading into Round 3.”

Aurimas Bakchis rounded out the podium, showcasing signature car control in his Feal Suspension / GT Radial S14.9. The result ties him on points with Branden Sorensen, who took fifth.

Talaska Breaks Through in PROSPEC
On the PROSPEC side, Cory Talaska emerged with his first career win after a clean sweep of the bracket. Behind the wheel of his Talaska Creative 2JZ-powered E36, he defeated PROSPEC veterans and rookies alike, including a tight semifinal against Cody Buchanan and a hard-fought Final against two-time PROSPEC champ Dmitriy Brutskiy.

“We came into the event dialed after a lot of testing,” said Talaska. “We found a lot of pace and kept winning battles. If we can take this momentum to New Jersey, we’ll have a lot of fun!”

Brutskiy’s runner-up finish was a reminder of his continued pace, even as he balances dual efforts in both PRO and PROSPEC. Buchanan secured his first ever podium in third, while Josh Stuart claimed fourth in just his fifth career FD start.

New Names Making Noise
The new Seeding Bracket format brought 2025's rookie class into the spotlight early. Thirteen-year-old Camren Sorensen made history as the youngest driver to compete in FD, winning the Seeding Bracket and collecting 12 championship points before bowing out in the Top 16.

Collete Davis and Chellee Hansen both showed promise, with Davis fighting through mechanical issues and Hansen debuting her supercharged S13 in competition.

Collin Zielinski led the rookie charge in the main bracket, reaching the Top 8 in his Fitment Industries S14.5 before being sidelined by Talaska. His result pushed him to fifth overall in the PROSPEC standings and gave him a slim lead in the Rookie of the Year race.

Notable Moments in PRO Competition
Top Rookie: Connor O’Sullivan finished 22nd and now leads the Rookie of the Year standings in PRO.

Auto Cup: Toyota extended its lead in the Manufacturer’s standings.

Tire Cup: Kenda remains the leader after Atlanta.

Looking Ahead
With Deane and Aasbo now tied atop the standings and Talaska adding his name to the list of PROSPEC contenders, the 2025 FD Championship storylines are starting to take shape. Next stop: Orlando for Round 3—where momentum, rain setups, and point spreads are all in play.

Stay tuned to Â鶹ĐÔ°É.com for more coverage from the FD paddock.

Formula DRIFT PRO Round 2 at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta delivered high drama, as James Deane edged past Fredric Aasbo in a Final that needed six runs to decide a winner.

Heavy rain soaked the 2.54-mile course, pushing drivers to the limit. Deane, in the AutoZone Mustang RTR Spec 5-FD, used his wet-weather experience to lay down sharp, aggressive runs. Aasbo, driving the Rockstar Energy Toyota GR Supra, matched the pace and forced two One More Time calls before judges awarded Deane the win.

“This was one of the toughest battles of my career,” Deane said. He and Aasbo are now tied atop the standings.

Aurimas “Odi” Bakchis (Feal Suspension / GT Radial Nissan S14.9) claimed third, while Jhonnattan Castro took a career-best fourth and jumped to fifth overall. Connor O’Sullivan led rookies in 22nd, topping the 2025 ROTY race.

In PROSPEC Round 1, Cory Talaska scored his first career win over two-time champ Dmitriy Brutskiy. Talaska now leads PROSPEC, while 13-year-old Camren Sorensen impressed by winning the Seeding Bracket.

With the leaderboard tied and rivalries heating up, Road Atlanta once again proved it’s one of drifting’s most exciting stages.

Story and Photography by Merrick Harding (@merrick_media)

This past weekend, the "Garage Speed Drift" event delivered an electrifying blend of grassroots drifting and automotive artistry. Held under clear skies, the event showcased a dynamic mix of high-octane drift sessions and a meticulously curated show-and-shine exhibition. Drift enthusiasts were treated to a spectacle of skill and style as drivers maneuvered their vehicles with precision, leaving trails of smoke and the roar of engines in their wake. The atmosphere was charged with excitement, drawing in both seasoned fans and newcomers to the drifting scene. The show-and-shine segment highlighted an impressive array of vehicles, from classic restorations to modern custom builds, reflecting the diverse tastes and creativity within the car community. Attendees appreciated the opportunity to engage with owners, exchange ideas, and celebrate automotive craftsmanship. Overall, "Garage Speed Drift" successfully combined the thrill of motorsport with the appreciation of automotive aesthetics, leaving attendees eagerly anticipating the next installment of this vibrant event.

Videography supplied by

Slammedenuff Ohio brought out the kind of energy you only get when a city full of enthusiasts comes alive for one weekend, with out of state license plates being more commonplace than local ones. SE Ohio weekend had a curated gallery vibe, each car laid out like a statement piece. This wasn’t just another meet packed with “Intake downpipe and tune builds” with repetitive themes. People showed up with intention, and most importantly, insane fitment.

Included in the photoset are some gorgeous builds from the show. Modern sedans with fender to lip, or frame to ground static was the most “common” style of car there, with real wheels significantly outweighing reps. Another interesting build was the purple R32, with a built RB20 (yes, not a 25 or 26). 

You had everything from aggressive VIP builds sitting on the floor, to wild big aero cars that looked like they belonged in a wind tunnel, not on a show floor. Paint finishes were bold, fitment was dialed, and another common theme not seen too often in the Northeast was interior work was on another level. Some cars look better inside than most new luxury cars fresh off the lot, one may say a “rep s-class”. Overall SE Ohio was an amazing vibe with plenty of cars from all around the NorthEast, and will always be on my yearly roster of car shows to attend.