Barber is go, go, go for 2010 European Drift Championship

Pete Barber, one of the UK’s most exciting young motorsport talents, has confirmed his place in the 2010 European Drift Championship (EDC).

And, just as he was last season, the 24-year-old will be supported by performance, modified and imported car insurance broker Swinton Specialist.

This year will be Pete’s third in the EDC. Last season he finished third in the championship, recording his first event win and securing four podium finishes in six starts.

Rob Asher, Head of Swinton Specialist, commented: “After all the highs of last season, we are delighted to renew our commitment to supporting Pete. He surpassed all our expectations and deserves our backing 100 per cent. Everyone at Swinton Specialist wishes him well.”

The EDC is the premier series representing the sport of drifting in the UK. Now in its fifth year, 2010 will be the best season yet as the sport grows beyond the enthusiast market and heads for the mainstream.

To reflect that there’s been a shake-up in the format. It’s now an ‘invitation only’ series, to ensure only the most talented and dedicated drivers are taking part – and Pete Barber has got his invite!

“I’m very much looking forward to the 2010 season, and trying to improve on my third place finish last year. I’ll be aiming for the top spot,” he commented.

Pete competes in a modified 1995 Mazda RX-7 and for this season the car will be more powerful than ever. “The engine output will be around 540bhp – that’s up from 480 last year – to give more mid-range torque. It means it’s easier to control the car on the throttle when I’m drifting,” he explained.

The season doesn’t officially kick off until April, but there’s a chance to see Pete in action at the Autosport International Show at the NEC, Birmingham, on 16/17 January. Find out more at autosport-international.com.

Drifting is high octane motorsport at its most pure. With rear-wheel drive machines heading sideways at up to 80mph, it’s a judged test of speed, skill, elegance, determination and car set-up.

In addition to the main knock-out drifting competition at each round, this year there will a host of new features including on-track demos, eight-car drift trains, the fastest first corner entry speed competition and the thrilling rodeo-drift with each driver half in, half out of their cars.