{"id":13956,"date":"2010-12-16T01:16:43","date_gmt":"2010-12-16T08:16:43","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/?p=13956"},"modified":"2010-12-16T01:16:43","modified_gmt":"2010-12-16T08:16:43","slug":"ken-blocks-gymkhana-grid-event-recap-and-rant","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/ken-blocks-gymkhana-grid-event-recap-and-rant\/","title":{"rendered":"Ken Block&#8217;s Gymkhana Grid Event Recap and Rant"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"mr_social_sharing_wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t<!-- Social Sharing Toolkit v2.2 --><span class=\"mr_social_sharing\"><a href=\"http:\/\/pinterest.com\/pin\/create\/button\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.myrideisme.com%2FBlog%2Fken-blocks-gymkhana-grid-event-recap-and-rant%2F&amp;media=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.myrideisme.com%2FBlog%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2010%2F12%2FBlock-Ford-Fiesta-closeup.jpg&amp;description=Ken+Block%E2%80%99s+Gymkhana+Grid+Event+Recap+and+Rant\" class=\"pin-it-button\" count-layout=\"none\" rel=\"lightbox[13956]\"><img border=\"0\" src=\"\/\/assets.pinterest.com\/images\/PinExt.png\" title=\"Pin It\" \/><\/a><\/span><span class=\"mr_social_sharing\"><fb:share-button type=\"button_count\" href=\"https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/ken-blocks-gymkhana-grid-event-recap-and-rant\/\"><\/fb:share-button><\/span><span class=\"mr_social_sharing\"><a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/share\" class=\"twitter-share-button\" data-count=\"horizontal\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/ken-blocks-gymkhana-grid-event-recap-and-rant\/\" data-via=\"myrideisme\" data-text=\"Ken Block\u2019s Gymkhana Grid Event Recap and Rant\"><\/a><\/span><span class=\"mr_social_sharing\"><div class=\"g-plusone\" data-size=\"medium\" data-annotation=\"none\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/ken-blocks-gymkhana-grid-event-recap-and-rant\/\"><\/div><\/span><span class=\"mr_social_sharing\"><a class=\"mr_social_share_email\" href=\"mailto:?subject=Ken Block\u2019s Gymkhana Grid Event Recap and Rant&amp;body=https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/ken-blocks-gymkhana-grid-event-recap-and-rant\/\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/plugins\/social-sharing-toolkit\/images\/icons_small\/email.png\" class=\"nopin\" alt=\"Email\" title=\"Email\"\/><span class=\"mr_small_icon\">Email<\/span><\/a><\/a><\/span><span class=\"mr_social_sharing\"><a rel=\"nofollow\" class=\"linksalpha_button linksalpha_link\" href=\"\/\/www.linksalpha.com\/social\/mobile\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/ken-blocks-gymkhana-grid-event-recap-and-rant\/\" data-text=\"Ken Block\u2019s Gymkhana Grid Event Recap and Rant\" data-desc=\"Gymkhana Racing in California Invitational only! This means that only professional race car drivers of various disciplines were invited for a no holds barred gymkhana match at Mr. Block's home field, Toyota Speedway in Irwindale CA. The tire smoke has finally settled after the first ever competition\" data-image=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Block-Ford-Fiesta-closeup.jpg\" data-button=\"\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<img src=\"\/\/www.linksalpha.com\/images\/social_share_button.png\" alt=\"Share\" class=\"linksalpha_image\" \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><script type=\"text\/javascript\" src=\"\/\/www.linksalpha.com\/scripts\/loader_iconbox.js?v=2.4\"><\/script><\/span><\/div><h3>Gymkhana Racing in California<br \/>\n<a class=\"highslide\" onclick=\"return vz.expand(this)\" href=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Block-Ford-Fiesta-closeup.jpg\" rel=\"lightbox[13956]\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-13961\" style=\"border: 2px solid black; margin: 4px;\" title=\"Block Ford Fiesta closeup\" src=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Block-Ford-Fiesta-closeup.jpg\" alt=\"Ken Block, ken block Ford Fiesta, DC shoes, Monster Energy fiesta, gymkhana\" width=\"575\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Block-Ford-Fiesta-closeup.jpg 1626w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Block-Ford-Fiesta-closeup-150x99.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Block-Ford-Fiesta-closeup-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Block-Ford-Fiesta-closeup-400x265.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1626px) 100vw, 1626px\" \/><\/a><\/h3>\n<p>Invitational only! This means that only professional race car drivers of various disciplines were invited for a no holds barred gymkhana match at Mr. Block&#8217;s home field, Toyota Speedway in Irwindale CA.<\/p>\n<p>The tire smoke has finally settled after the first ever competition style Gymkhana Grid event on December 4th 2010. The word around the digital informational highway is that the internationally hyped up event had definitely lived up to its expectations and best of all, it looks as though everyone, especially the drivers had waaay too much fun out there!<\/p>\n<p><a class=\"highslide\" onclick=\"return vz.expand(this)\" href=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Foust-Rockstar-Ford-Fiesta-Drift.jpg\" rel=\"lightbox[13956]\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-13962\" style=\"border: 2px solid black; margin: 4px;\" title=\"Foust Rockstar Ford Fiesta Drift\" src=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Foust-Rockstar-Ford-Fiesta-Drift.jpg\" alt=\"Tanner Foust, Rockstar Energy, Ford Fiesta, gymkhana \" width=\"575\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Foust-Rockstar-Ford-Fiesta-Drift.jpg 1638w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Foust-Rockstar-Ford-Fiesta-Drift-150x98.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Foust-Rockstar-Ford-Fiesta-Drift-300x197.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Foust-Rockstar-Ford-Fiesta-Drift-400x263.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1638px) 100vw, 1638px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Professional driver, Xgames champion, Top Gear USA host and renaissance man Tanner Foust was killing it out there with his Rockstar Energy Ford Fiesta. Congratulations to Foust, as he managed to score 1st place podium in the AWD class, above Ken Block at his own event! The final battle was a heated one&#8230; it was a test of pure skill and gracefulness to pilot their race cars around the track without any mistakes.<\/p>\n<p><a class=\"highslide\" onclick=\"return vz.expand(this)\" href=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Yoshihara-Discount-tire-S13.jpg\" rel=\"lightbox[13956]\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-13963\" style=\"border: 2px solid black; margin: 4px;\" title=\"Yoshihara Discount tire S13\" src=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Yoshihara-Discount-tire-S13.jpg\" alt=\"Daijiro Yoshihara, Discount tire, Nissan S13, gymkhana\" width=\"575\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Yoshihara-Discount-tire-S13.jpg 1090w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Yoshihara-Discount-tire-S13-150x99.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Yoshihara-Discount-tire-S13-300x198.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Yoshihara-Discount-tire-S13-400x264.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1090px) 100vw, 1090px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>The drifters seemed to rule the event, as Daijiro Yoshihara in the Discount Tire Nissan 240SX grabbed the RWD 1st place finish over John Russakoff in the JSP \/ Falken Toyota Corolla.<\/p>\n<p><a class=\"highslide\" onclick=\"return vz.expand(this)\" href=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Apexi-Hankook-Lexus-SC.JPG\" rel=\"lightbox[13956]\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-13964\" style=\"border: 2px solid black; margin: 4px;\" title=\"Apexi Hankook Lexus SC\" src=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Apexi-Hankook-Lexus-SC.JPG\" alt=\"Apexi, Hankook, Lexus SC430, gymkhana\" width=\"575\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Apexi-Hankook-Lexus-SC.JPG 1626w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Apexi-Hankook-Lexus-SC-150x99.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Apexi-Hankook-Lexus-SC-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Apexi-Hankook-Lexus-SC-400x265.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1626px) 100vw, 1626px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><a class=\"highslide\" onclick=\"return vz.expand(this)\" href=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Yoshihara-vs-Yoshioka.jpg\" rel=\"lightbox[13956]\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-13982\" style=\"border: 2px solid black; margin: 4px;\" title=\"Yoshihara vs Yoshioka\" src=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Yoshihara-vs-Yoshioka.jpg\" alt=\"Daijiro Yoshihara, Toshiki Yoshioka, mirrored course, gymkhana\" width=\"575\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Yoshihara-vs-Yoshioka.jpg 1638w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Yoshihara-vs-Yoshioka-150x98.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Yoshihara-vs-Yoshioka-300x197.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Yoshihara-vs-Yoshioka-400x263.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1638px) 100vw, 1638px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><a class=\"highslide\" onclick=\"return vz.expand(this)\" href=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/abbrings-biomcn-350z.jpg\" rel=\"lightbox[13956]\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-13989\" style=\"border: 2px solid black; margin: 4px;\" title=\"abbrings biomcn 350z\" src=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/abbrings-biomcn-350z.jpg\" alt=\"kevin abbrings, biomcn, mehanol, eco\" width=\"575\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/abbrings-biomcn-350z.jpg 1626w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/abbrings-biomcn-350z-150x99.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/abbrings-biomcn-350z-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/abbrings-biomcn-350z-400x265.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1626px) 100vw, 1626px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>The environment of the venue was much too similar to that of Formula D or D1 Grand Prix which are both popular drifting events in the US. It&#8217;s logical because most of the competitors were professional drifters and all they were doing was sliding their cars around the track like they&#8217;re used to. Since the official Gymkhana website stated the different classes available, (FWD, MRWD, RWD, AWD) to my suprise and disappointment, there were only the RWD and AWD class competing at this event. From my experience attending Japanese Gymkhana events, the fastest cars are of that of the FWD (front wheel drive) configuration, however this class was nowhere to be found. It was puzzling why the organizers had done this, since it would have been very easy to squeeze in another class during the 2 hour lapse when there were no other racers on the track. Without the aid of the Mass Appeal car show held by <a title=\"Everything fast\" href=\"http:\/\/www.MotorMavens.com\" target=\"_blank\">MotorMavens.com<\/a> and the loyal vendor booths present, the crowd would have went home early because of the rain.<\/p>\n<p><a class=\"highslide\" onclick=\"return vz.expand(this)\" href=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Motormavens-drifting.com-booth1.jpg\" rel=\"lightbox[13956]\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-13965\" style=\"border: 2px solid black; margin: 4px;\" title=\"Motormavens drifting.com booth\" src=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Motormavens-drifting.com-booth1.jpg\" alt=\"Motormavens, drifting.com, gymkhana environment\" width=\"575\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Motormavens-drifting.com-booth1.jpg 1626w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Motormavens-drifting.com-booth1-150x99.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Motormavens-drifting.com-booth1-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Motormavens-drifting.com-booth1-400x265.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1626px) 100vw, 1626px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><a class=\"highslide\" onclick=\"return vz.expand(this)\" href=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/motormavens-ratrod.jpg\" rel=\"lightbox[13956]\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-13977\" style=\"border: 2px solid black; margin: 4px;\" title=\"motormavens ratrod\" src=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/motormavens-ratrod.jpg\" alt=\"motormavens, ratrod, lily, whitewall tires, gymkhana\" width=\"575\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/motormavens-ratrod.jpg 1643w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/motormavens-ratrod-150x98.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/motormavens-ratrod-300x197.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/motormavens-ratrod-400x262.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1643px) 100vw, 1643px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><a class=\"highslide\" onclick=\"return vz.expand(this)\" href=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Honda-Ruckus-mass-appeal-carshow.jpg\" rel=\"lightbox[13956]\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-13981\" style=\"border: 2px solid black; margin: 4px;\" title=\"Honda Ruckus mass appeal carshow\" src=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Honda-Ruckus-mass-appeal-carshow.jpg\" alt=\"Honda Ruckus, motormavens, mass appeal, gymkhana\" width=\"575\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Honda-Ruckus-mass-appeal-carshow.jpg 1626w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Honda-Ruckus-mass-appeal-carshow-150x99.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Honda-Ruckus-mass-appeal-carshow-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Honda-Ruckus-mass-appeal-carshow-400x265.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1626px) 100vw, 1626px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Ok fine, its all good that Ken Block and the organizers are attempting to redefine the sport of Gymkhana, and it has been called the &#8220;American version of Gymkhana&#8221;, but their balance of competition and entertainment needs to be kept clear. Upon interviewing several high profile drivers, I learned that they were instructed to drift or slide their cars around certain turns or else points would be deducted. The absolute fastest way around a gymkhana track is mostly grip their way around the cones (depending on the type of turn) and FF cars are the quickest of the bunch.<\/p>\n<p>However, the general consensus is that a car gripping around the corner barely making a tire squeak is boring to watch, hence the mandatory flamboyant drifting &#8220;performance&#8217;. Bringing the variable of &#8220;drifting&#8221; into the judging criteria introduces the subjective factor into the sport, which means that the fastest lap time doesn&#8217;t necessarily score you a trophy. This is pure speculation on my part, but this is why the FF class was excluded from competition, since they are unable to drift.<\/p>\n<p><a class=\"highslide\" onclick=\"return vz.expand(this)\" href=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Wolfie-Mitsubishi-Evo8.jpg\" rel=\"lightbox[13956]\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-13968\" style=\"border: 2px solid black; margin: 4px;\" title=\"Wolfie Mitsubishi Evo8\" src=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Wolfie-Mitsubishi-Evo8.jpg\" alt=\"Wolfgang Hoeck, Wolfie, Mitsubishi Evo8, gymkhana\" width=\"575\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Wolfie-Mitsubishi-Evo8.jpg 3246w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Wolfie-Mitsubishi-Evo8-150x98.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Wolfie-Mitsubishi-Evo8-300x197.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Wolfie-Mitsubishi-Evo8-400x263.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 3246px) 100vw, 3246px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><a class=\"highslide\" onclick=\"return vz.expand(this)\" href=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Crawford-Subaru-STI.jpg\" rel=\"lightbox[13956]\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-13990\" style=\"border: 2px solid black; margin: 4px;\" title=\"Crawford Subaru STI\" src=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Crawford-Subaru-STI.jpg\" alt=\"Stephen Verdier,Crawford Performance, Subaru STI, gymkhana\" width=\"575\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Crawford-Subaru-STI.jpg 1084w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Crawford-Subaru-STI-150x99.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Crawford-Subaru-STI-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Crawford-Subaru-STI-400x265.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1084px) 100vw, 1084px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>To their credit, this event was just for exhibition and next year there will be an actual point series competition. From a drifting fan point of view, it would be a entertaining to see more AWD cars romp their throttles and more Rally drivers competing instead of just drifters for a change.<\/p>\n<p><a class=\"highslide\" onclick=\"return vz.expand(this)\" href=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Ken-Block-shades.JPG\" rel=\"lightbox[13956]\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-13967\" style=\"border: 2px solid black; margin: 4px;\" title=\"Ken Block shades\" src=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Ken-Block-shades.JPG\" alt=\"Ken Block, shades, Monster merchandise, gymkhana meeting\" width=\"575\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Ken-Block-shades.JPG 1219w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Ken-Block-shades-150x98.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Ken-Block-shades-300x196.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Ken-Block-shades-400x262.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1219px) 100vw, 1219px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><a class=\"highslide\" onclick=\"return vz.expand(this)\" href=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Gymkhana-Monster-Tajima.JPG\" rel=\"lightbox[13956]\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-13969\" style=\"border: 2px solid black; margin: 4px;\" title=\"Gymkhana Monster Tajima\" src=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Gymkhana-Monster-Tajima.JPG\" alt=\"Monster Tajima, Suzuki Sport, Escudo, gymkhana\" width=\"575\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Gymkhana-Monster-Tajima.JPG 1626w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Gymkhana-Monster-Tajima-150x99.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Gymkhana-Monster-Tajima-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Gymkhana-Monster-Tajima-400x265.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1626px) 100vw, 1626px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><a class=\"highslide\" onclick=\"return vz.expand(this)\" href=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Tanner-Foust-Bucky-Lasek.JPG\" rel=\"lightbox[13956]\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-13970\" style=\"border: 2px solid black; margin: 4px;\" title=\"Tanner Foust Bucky Lasek\" src=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Tanner-Foust-Bucky-Lasek.JPG\" alt=\"Tanner Foust, Bucky Lasek, meeting, gymkhana\" width=\"575\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Tanner-Foust-Bucky-Lasek.JPG 1219w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Tanner-Foust-Bucky-Lasek-150x98.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Tanner-Foust-Bucky-Lasek-300x196.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Tanner-Foust-Bucky-Lasek-400x262.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1219px) 100vw, 1219px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Overall, organizing a motorsport event is VERY difficult and I feel as though the team did a very good job. The Monster and Rockstar energy drinks were free and there were lots of pretty models to look at as well. The spectators were allowed pit access and had the opportunity to shake the hand of their favorite racer as well as check out the car up close. Such celebrities as the legendary Pikes Peak Hill Climb champion &#8220;Monster&#8221; Tajima was present, as well as professional skateboarders Bucky Lasek and Rob Dyrdrek.<\/p>\n<p><a class=\"highslide\" onclick=\"return vz.expand(this)\" href=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/4rotor-Mazda-RX-8.jpg\" rel=\"lightbox[13956]\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-13974\" style=\"border: 2px solid black; margin: 4px;\" title=\"4rotor Mazda RX-8\" src=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/4rotor-Mazda-RX-8.jpg\" alt=\"Jeff Jones, BMI, 4rotor, Mazda RX-8, gymkhana\" width=\"275\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/4rotor-Mazda-RX-8.jpg 1635w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/4rotor-Mazda-RX-8-150x99.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/4rotor-Mazda-RX-8-300x198.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/4rotor-Mazda-RX-8-400x264.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1635px) 100vw, 1635px\" \/><\/a><a class=\"highslide\" onclick=\"return vz.expand(this)\" href=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Essa-GSR-BMW.jpg\" rel=\"lightbox[13956]\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-13975\" style=\"border: 2px solid black; margin: 4px;\" title=\"Essa GSR BMW\" src=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Essa-GSR-BMW.jpg\" alt=\"Micheal Essa, GSR, BMW 350R, gymkhana\" width=\"275\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Essa-GSR-BMW.jpg 1635w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Essa-GSR-BMW-150x99.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Essa-GSR-BMW-300x198.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Essa-GSR-BMW-400x264.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1635px) 100vw, 1635px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><a class=\"highslide\" onclick=\"return vz.expand(this)\" href=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Brakohiapa-Mustang-GT.jpg\" rel=\"lightbox[13956]\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-13986\" style=\"border: 2px solid black; margin: 4px;\" title=\"Brakohiapa Mustang GT\" src=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Brakohiapa-Mustang-GT.jpg\" alt=\"Tony Brakohiapa, Hankook, Mustang GT, gymkhana\" width=\"575\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Brakohiapa-Mustang-GT.jpg 1091w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Brakohiapa-Mustang-GT-150x98.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Brakohiapa-Mustang-GT-300x197.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Brakohiapa-Mustang-GT-400x263.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1091px) 100vw, 1091px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><a class=\"highslide\" onclick=\"return vz.expand(this)\" href=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Vaughn-Gittin-waiting-Escort.JPG\" rel=\"lightbox[13956]\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-13976\" style=\"border: 2px solid black; margin: 4px;\" title=\"Vaughn Gittin waiting Escort\" src=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Vaughn-Gittin-waiting-Escort.JPG\" alt=\"JR Vaughn Gittin, 1978 Ford Escort, gymkhana\" width=\"575\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Vaughn-Gittin-waiting-Escort.JPG 1626w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Vaughn-Gittin-waiting-Escort-150x99.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Vaughn-Gittin-waiting-Escort-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Vaughn-Gittin-waiting-Escort-400x265.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1626px) 100vw, 1626px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>With all the praise and\u00a0 criticism, it will be exciting to see exactly how this event will be held next year and what new talents will be showcased from competition. Don&#8217;t be afraid to chime in on your thoughts, especially from people who have actually attended this event, or someone that is an avid Gymkhana enthusiast. Please make sure to check out <a href=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/gymkhana-racing-introduction\/\">Introduction to Gymkhana<\/a> if you dont know what this motorsport is!<\/p>\n<p><a class=\"highslide\" onclick=\"return vz.expand(this)\" href=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Yoshioka-Quoc-Driftspeed.JPG\" rel=\"lightbox[13956]\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-13966\" style=\"border: 2px solid black; margin: 4px;\" title=\"Yoshioka Quoc Driftspeed\" src=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Yoshioka-Quoc-Driftspeed.JPG\" alt=\"Toshiki Yoshioka, Quoc Ly, Driftspeed, gymkhana\" width=\"275\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Yoshioka-Quoc-Driftspeed.JPG 1626w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Yoshioka-Quoc-Driftspeed-150x99.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Yoshioka-Quoc-Driftspeed-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Yoshioka-Quoc-Driftspeed-400x265.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1626px) 100vw, 1626px\" \/><\/a><a class=\"highslide\" onclick=\"return vz.expand(this)\" href=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Rockstar-Ford-Fiesta-Stands.JPG\" rel=\"lightbox[13956]\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-13978\" style=\"border: 2px solid black; margin: 4px;\" title=\"Rockstar Ford Fiesta Stands\" src=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Rockstar-Ford-Fiesta-Stands.JPG\" alt=\"Rockstar Energy, Rally, Ford Fiesta, pit, gymkhana\" width=\"275\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Rockstar-Ford-Fiesta-Stands.JPG 1626w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Rockstar-Ford-Fiesta-Stands-150x99.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Rockstar-Ford-Fiesta-Stands-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Rockstar-Ford-Fiesta-Stands-400x265.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1626px) 100vw, 1626px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><a class=\"highslide\" onclick=\"return vz.expand(this)\" href=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Pfeiffer-Soarer-BV.jpg\" rel=\"lightbox[13956]\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-13987\" style=\"border: 2px solid black; margin: 4px;\" title=\"Pfeiffer Soarer BV\" src=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Pfeiffer-Soarer-BV.jpg\" alt=\"Alex Pfeiffer, Lexus Soarer, Battle Version, gymkhana\" width=\"575\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Pfeiffer-Soarer-BV.jpg 1626w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Pfeiffer-Soarer-BV-150x99.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Pfeiffer-Soarer-BV-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Pfeiffer-Soarer-BV-400x265.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1626px) 100vw, 1626px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><a class=\"highslide\" onclick=\"return vz.expand(this)\" href=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Rockstar-Ford-Fiesta-Stands.JPG\" rel=\"lightbox[13956]\"><\/a><a class=\"highslide\" onclick=\"return vz.expand(this)\" href=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Gittin-78-Ford-Escort.JPG\" rel=\"lightbox[13956]\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-13985\" style=\"border: 2px solid black; margin: 4px;\" title=\"Gittin 78 Ford Escort\" src=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Gittin-78-Ford-Escort.JPG\" alt=\"Vaughn Gittin, 1978 Ford Escort, Hoonigan, gymkhana\" width=\"575\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Gittin-78-Ford-Escort.JPG 1626w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Gittin-78-Ford-Escort-150x99.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Gittin-78-Ford-Escort-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/Gittin-78-Ford-Escort-400x265.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1626px) 100vw, 1626px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><a class=\"highslide\" onclick=\"return vz.expand(this)\" href=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/5zigen-GT500-Supra.JPG\" rel=\"lightbox[13956]\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-13979\" style=\"border: 2px solid black; margin: 4px;\" title=\"5zigen GT500 Supra\" src=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/5zigen-GT500-Supra.JPG\" alt=\"5zigen, GT500, Toyota Supra, display, gymkhana\" width=\"575\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/5zigen-GT500-Supra.JPG 1626w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/5zigen-GT500-Supra-150x99.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/5zigen-GT500-Supra-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/5zigen-GT500-Supra-400x265.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1626px) 100vw, 1626px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><a class=\"highslide\" onclick=\"return vz.expand(this)\" href=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/5zigen-model-Eri.jpg\" rel=\"lightbox[13956]\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-13980\" style=\"border: 2px solid black; margin: 4px;\" title=\"5zigen model Eri\" src=\"http:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/5zigen-model-Eri.jpg\" alt=\"5zigen, Eri, model, racing gloves, gymkhana\" width=\"575\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/5zigen-model-Eri.jpg 1630w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/5zigen-model-Eri-150x99.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/5zigen-model-Eri-300x198.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/5zigen-model-Eri-400x265.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1630px) 100vw, 1630px\" \/><\/a><\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"mr_social_sharing_wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t<!-- Social Sharing Toolkit v2.2 --><span class=\"mr_social_sharing\"><a href=\"http:\/\/pinterest.com\/pin\/create\/button\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.myrideisme.com%2FBlog%2Fken-blocks-gymkhana-grid-event-recap-and-rant%2F&amp;media=&amp;description=Ken+Block%E2%80%99s+Gymkhana+Grid+Event+Recap+and+Rant\" class=\"pin-it-button\" count-layout=\"none\"><img border=\"0\" src=\"\/\/assets.pinterest.com\/images\/PinExt.png\" title=\"Pin It\" \/><\/a><\/span><span class=\"mr_social_sharing\"><fb:share-button type=\"button_count\" href=\"https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/ken-blocks-gymkhana-grid-event-recap-and-rant\/\"><\/fb:share-button><\/span><span class=\"mr_social_sharing\"><a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/share\" class=\"twitter-share-button\" data-count=\"horizontal\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/ken-blocks-gymkhana-grid-event-recap-and-rant\/\" data-via=\"myrideisme\" data-text=\"Ken Block\u2019s Gymkhana Grid Event Recap and Rant\"><\/a><\/span><span class=\"mr_social_sharing\"><div class=\"g-plusone\" data-size=\"medium\" data-annotation=\"none\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/ken-blocks-gymkhana-grid-event-recap-and-rant\/\"><\/div><\/span><span class=\"mr_social_sharing\"><a class=\"mr_social_share_email\" href=\"mailto:?subject=Ken Block\u2019s Gymkhana Grid Event Recap and Rant&amp;body=https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/ken-blocks-gymkhana-grid-event-recap-and-rant\/\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-content\/plugins\/social-sharing-toolkit\/images\/icons_small\/email.png\" class=\"nopin\" alt=\"Email\" title=\"Email\"\/><span class=\"mr_small_icon\">Email<\/span><\/a><\/a><\/span><span class=\"mr_social_sharing\"><a rel=\"nofollow\" class=\"linksalpha_button linksalpha_link\" href=\"\/\/www.linksalpha.com\/social\/mobile\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/ken-blocks-gymkhana-grid-event-recap-and-rant\/\" data-text=\"Ken Block\u2019s Gymkhana Grid Event Recap and Rant\" data-desc=\"Gymkhana Racing in California Invitational only! This means that only professional race car drivers of various disciplines were invited for a no holds barred gymkhana match at Mr. Block's home field, Toyota Speedway in Irwindale CA. The tire smoke has finally settled after the first ever competition\" data-image=\"\" data-button=\"\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<img src=\"\/\/www.linksalpha.com\/images\/social_share_button.png\" alt=\"Share\" class=\"linksalpha_image\" \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/a><script type=\"text\/javascript\" src=\"\/\/www.linksalpha.com\/scripts\/loader_iconbox.js?v=2.4\"><\/script><\/span><\/div><p>Email Gymkhana Racing in California Invitational only! This means that only professional race car drivers of various disciplines were invited for a no holds barred gymkhana match at Mr. Block&#8217;s home field, Toyota Speedway in Irwindale CA. The tire smoke has finally settled after the first ever competition style Gymkhana Grid event on December 4th [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":30,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"ngg_post_thumbnail":0},"categories":[384,19],"tags":[669,1484,1485,1169,1505],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13956"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/30"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=13956"}],"version-history":[{"count":23,"href":"https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13956\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":14033,"href":"https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13956\/revisions\/14033"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=13956"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=13956"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.myrideisme.com\/Blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=13956"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}