On Sunday, August 27th, the last Sunday of summer vacation, we held an RC Drift Summer School for elementary, middle, and high school students at Yatabe Arena. The instructors were four members of Team Yokomo: Tetsuhiro Kawakami (Takahiro), Hayato Yoshinami (Hayato), Shoichi Saotome (Tome), and Minoru Yamada (Bagi). The event proceeded by dividing the participants into three groups, with each instructor providing lectures to their respective groups.
The day started with a machine clinic for everyone. We checked the finer details, such as whether all parts were assembled correctly and if any screws were loose. Once these checks were completed, it was time to hit the track.
On the track, we utilized both the sub-course and the main course according to skill levels, with different lecture content provided for each.
On the main course, Hayato Yoshinami conducted a hands-on driving lecture. The participants were glued to the expert guidance of the world champion.
Once the driving lecture concluded, we checked the machines again. This repetitive cycle of receiving instruction on fine-tuning and maintenance followed by track time helped the participants improve their skills.
In the evening, we held a mini-drift meeting to review the day's progress. To provide a taste of the atmosphere of the Yokomo Drift Meeting, we adopted a 5-minute roulette-style judging format. Other track users joined as spectators, creating an exciting, authentic competitive environment.
To conclude, we presented all participants with these certificates of completion. Although this was our first time hosting an event limited to elementary, middle, and high school students, they participated with sincere dedication until the very end, and everyone succeeded in improving their skills. We look forward to planning and holding similar events again next year.