Rockstar Scion Drift Team Sponsored by AEM Takes 1st Place at Monroe, Washington

Aug 13, 2010

Tanner Foust and team Rockstar Scion take 1st place at Throwdown in Monroe, Washington

Team Rockstar Scion definitely threw down at Throwdown in Monroe, Washington. Driver Tanner Foust had many "one more time" races and put everything on the line. On their last set of tires, Tanner was able to take an impressive victory for the weekend and put Team Rockstar Scion back on the top of the podium.

Foust and his AEM sponsored Rockstar Energy Scion

"I haven't seen that level of commitment - and carnage - in a competition in a long time," said Foust. "That was some of the hardest driving I've ever done." Recently, AEM Intakes was able to ask team owner Stephan Papadakis about their weekend of racing at Monroe and what they're looking forward to in Las Vegas for After Dark. Here is what Stephan had to say:

How did the rounds go for you over the weekend at Throwdown? Can you describe your races?

Tanner making time for the fans in Monroe, Washington

Each round was very hard fought. Tanner had 2 "one more times" during the event. There were so many rounds that by the finals we were on our last set of tires. The guys were looking for good used tires to mount in case there was a "one more time" in the finals.

Tanner throws up big smoke on his lead lap.

How did the final round go?
Tanner had an OK follow run, then during Tanner's lead run, Ryan crashed trying to keep up. That crash sealed the deal and gave Tanner the win.

Were you having any challenges with car setup? What contributed to your consistency? Shorter wheelbase?
I feel like we've had a competitive car all year, and it was really up to Tanner this weekend. He put it all together.

How did the hot weather affect your driving this weekend? How were the track conditions?
The hot weather sucks while you are sitting and waiting for the start, but once you are on the track it's all about the round. Track conditions were very good. Lots of grip.

How do you feel about your team's performance this weekend?
The whole team did an excellent job! Tanner driving, Shawn and Aldo with the car prep and changing the tires each 2 runs, while getting new tires mounted on rims as well. It was a great effort from everyone.

How do you feel about the other teams' performances this weekend?
There were several teams that had great cars and good drivers. Each year we see the level of perfomance increase. Drifting is such a good sport.

What changes (if any) are you looking to make for After Dark in Vegas?
We will be increasing the cooling capacity of the engine and ventilate the hood more for cooling since it's supposed to be over 100 degrees. Also, we will be testing a new tire size - a bit larger for more grip, which translates into more speed.

Tanner Foust and team Rockstar Scion are sitting in a great spot as Formula Drift makes a smoky appearance in Las Vegas. The season isn't getting any easier as the championships are quickly approaching and teams might have to break the bank to top the podium on August 20th and 21st. Drift fans won't want to miss this After Dark action in Las Vegas!

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