This weekend’s season-opening Formula Drift event in Long Beach, Calif. will mark an expansion of Hankook’s stable of sponsored competitors with the debut of Conrad Grunewald Racing.
Grunewald will be driving one of the few American muscle cars on the circuit – a 2010 Camaro SS outfitted with Ventus R-S3s.
“Conrad has a reputation as an intense competitor, and (he) brings a different element to our racing lineup with his R-S3-equipped Camaro,” notes motorsports marketing manager Jason Kim. “After our success in Formula Drift last year, we are confident Conrad’s addition to the team will take Hankook racing even further in all fronts, complementing our already strong list of pro drivers.”
The company is again sponsoring Team Papadakis and Dynamic Autosports.
Papadakis members include 2007 and 2008 Formula Drift champion Tanner Foust. Returning for Dynamic Autosports will be Robbie Nishida, Eric O’Sullivan and Ryuji Miki.
“Our 2010 team is our best yet,” says Kim. “Our participation in the premier drifting competition in North America is a way of demonstrating our technology and also our most significant investment in professional motorsports here in the U.S.”
In 2009, Hankook’s Formula Drift drivers climbed onto the podium in six out of seven races; they all rode on R-S3 high performance tires during the model’s inaugural presence in competition.
“As our performance tires continue to gain popularity and make their mark on the track, Hankook is looking to give consumers an extra incentive to purchase these products,” says Bill Bainbridge, director of brand communication. “That’s one of the reasons why Hankook is offering consumer rebates on three of its top performance products with the ‘Great Catch’ rebate. The rebate provides a great investment opportunity for our consumers by delivering a high-quality, high-value street tire with an industry-leading warranty.”
For more information, visit www.hankooktireusa.com.
