Master the Art of Drifting with Ken Gushi’s Expert Advice
Few driving techniques are as thrilling as a perfectly executed drift. To help aspiring drifters refine their skills, Ken Gushi, a seasoned professional and one of the youngest competitors in U.S. and Japanese drift championships, shares his top tips, personal experiences, and favorite drift cars.
Ken started drifting at just 13 years old, inspired by his rally-driving father. His early training took place on California’s El Mirage dry lakebed—an open space perfect for beginners to make mistakes and learn corrections without pressure. Gushi emphasizes the importance of practicing in a safe, open area or attending grassroots events at tracks like Apple Valley Speedway, which offer affordable, drift-friendly sessions.
For beginners, Gushi highlights a common mistake: looking in the wrong direction. “Your car follows your eyes,” he explains. Fixating on a point like a cone or obstacle naturally guides your steering and throttle input. Focus and visual awareness are key to maintaining control and improving technique.
Consistency is crucial. Gushi recommends starting with basic moves like donuts and figure eights, gradually layering in handbrake and clutch techniques. He warns against pulling the handbrake without using the clutch, as it can stall the car or damage components.
Favorite drift cars? His iconic picks include the Toyota AE86, Lexus IS300, and his current beast, a 1,000+ hp Toyota GR86. And yes, he’s also a Pokémon fan—though he’d rather fly a Charizard than drift it.