CRANGLE NAMED GIR RACER OF THE WEEK
August 3, 2007
Brent Hutson
MADISON, Ill. - Drifter Kyle Crangle explained his enthusiasm for the sport.
“There’s no trying to deny it. I mean who doesn’t like doing smoky donuts in the parking lot!” said Crangle with a smile when asked about why he got into the sport. It is that enthusiasm and love for the sport that earned him Gateway International Raceway’s Racer of the Week.
Since its humble beginning in America in 2003, drifting has been a part of Crangle’s life. His car, a 1996 Nissan 240sx SE, has also gone under some modifications since that time. “Its definitely not stock,” Crangle said jokingly as he tells about the improvements done to his car.
“In drifting, the car’s chassis is really the key component. Chassis first, power second,” Crangle said. The Nissan's chassis sports new coil-overs, bushings and tie rods. Crangle also put on new 17-inch wheels wrapped with BFG G-Force radials. Slotted brake rotors bring the 240sx to a quick halt. There has also been work done to the transmission; including a custom built clutch and stronger tranny mounts. The engine possesses a few bolt on items such as a full 3” exhaust, intake and larger flow fuel pump. But it’s more than just the thrill of big power and burning rubber that keeps Crangle drifting.
“Drifting also brings with it a sense of teamwork and companionship. On any given night you’ll see complete strangers helping each other out with their cars and cheering each other on at the track,” Crangle said. It’s also not unusual for members of DriftSTL.com (a local online drifting club) to spend weekends at each others residences attending events or just hanging out.
“Sometimes sponsorships and money get in the way of just having fun. I love the way this sports brings people together, regardless of competition,” Crangle said.
So whether he’s sliding sideways at the track or swapping stories with friends, it’s a safe bet Kyle Crangle is doing what he enjoys-burning some smoky donuts in the parking lot. You can catch Kyle and other members of DriftSTL.com on August the 3rd at Gateway International Raceway’s Midnight Madness.
http://www.gatewayraceway.com/track/news/article.php?dir=200708&id=1249
