Lanier Raceway buzzed with excitement on Friday night as Caffeine and Octane hosted its Friday Night Drift event. The raceway came alive with the sights and sounds of roaring engines and sliding tires as drivers took on the track in front of an energetic crowd.
Under the lights, drivers navigated a challenging course, pushing their cars to drift through tight corners with smoke billowing behind them. The crowd watched in awe as drivers, from seasoned pros to rising talent, controlled high-speed slides with impressive precision and style.
Ryan Wilkes is a student at the University of Georgia and has been drifting ever since he could drive. Wilkes began going to these events as a spectator then gradually dove into the hobby as he started participating more and more. He bought a 2001 Mazda MX-5 to start his journey and customized it to his liking. From coilovers to street slick tires, the number of modifications done to it are quite lengthy, but it all adds up to his performance on the track.
“The energy out here is unreal. There’s something about night drifting that just feels more intense; the lights, the crowd, it’s all amped up.” – Ryan Wilkes, amateur drifter
Fans got more than just drift action. With an impressive lineup of modified cars on display, attendees enjoyed checking out everything from Japanese tuners to classic American muscle cars. Food trucks, live music and vendors kept the atmosphere lively, while spectators had the chance to get up close to the drivers and cars in the paddock.
Friday Night Drift events have become a staple for Caffeine and Octane, known for its monthly car shows around Atlanta. These nights bring an exciting twist to the local car scene, combining the adrenaline of live motorsport with the community spirit of car culture. For newcomers and longtime fans alike, the event provided a welcoming space to learn more about drifting, meet local drivers and see some top-notch action on the track.
Friday Night Drift seeks to offer fans of car culture or anyone interested a memorable night out. The event is held from 6:30 – 10:30 p.m. every Friday.
