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Englishtown, NJ - You could feel the excitement building as fans gathered at Old Bridge Township Raceway Park for Round 4 of Formula Drift, famously known as "The Gauntlet." This event marked the midpoint of the 2024 season, and the RTR Drift Team delivered an electrifying performance, highlighted by James Deane's stunning first-place finish.
James Deane's victory at Formula Drift New Jersey is his second first-place podium finish of the 2024 season. This remarkable achievement also represents the RTR Drift Team's 10th podium in the last 11 rounds, dating back to Round 2 at Road Atlanta in 2023. Deane's triumph in New Jersey has propelled him 74 points ahead in the overall championship standings, solidifying his dominance in the series.
James Deane, coming off a second-place finish in the previous round, faced Kyle Mohan in the Top 32. Demonstrating exceptional skill and control, Deane's performance earned a unanimous decision from the judges, advancing him to the Top 16.
Deane went up against Rome Charpentier in the next round. His solid lead run and strategic chase secured his place in the Great 8, setting the stage for more intense battles.
Deane faced Chris Forsberg in the Top 8, where a flawless chase run and a sticking clutch pedal tested his resilience. The RTR team made crucial adjustments, ensuring the Mustang RTR Spec 5-FD was in peak condition for the Final 4 battle.
The competition intensified as Deane took on Dylan Hughes. A critical error by Hughes in outside zone 3 paved the way for Deane's advancement to the final showdown.
The ultimate test awaited Deane as he faced Odi Bakchis, who was third in the overall points at the time. Both drivers delivered intense lead and chase runs, thrilling the audience. The judges' final decision – two votes for Deane and one for a "one more time" – crowned James Deane the victor, securing his first-place finish at Formula Drift New Jersey.
While Ben Hobson did not make it out of his seeding bracket, his performance showcased growing confidence and comfort behind the wheel of his 2024 Mustang RTR Spec 5-FD. Hobson's progress is a testament to the team's dedication to nurturing talent and pushing the limits of performance.
With the triumph in New Jersey behind them, James Deane, Ben Hobson, and the entire RTR Drift Team are gearing up for Round 5 in St. Louis, scheduled for July 19th. The team's focus remains unwavering as we continue to chase excellence and aim for more podium finishes.
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1 comment
Holly
I believe this year is RTR and James Deanes year. Awesome to watch him tearing up the tracks.
I believe this year is RTR and James Deanes year. Awesome to watch him tearing up the tracks.