Full Name: Rich Spohr

Nick name: Big Poppa

Age: 39

Residence: Scottsdale, AZ

Web Site: http://www.azdrift.com

# of Years in motor sports: 10

Automobile: 2003 Nissan 350Z

Modifications
Suspension: Nismo spring/shocks, Stillen Sways, Superior Racing extended Tie Rods

Engine: Injen Intake, Unorthodox crank pulley , Motordyne plenum spacer, HKS exhaust, Kinetix resonated Cat deletes, Custom N20 setup 75 shot.

Interior/Cosmetic: 6pt Roll Cage by Superior Racing

Exterior/Cosmetic: Veilside rear bumper, Greddy side skirts, G35 rear wing, Stillen roof wing

Any sponsors? Superior Racing, AZ350Z.com


When and how did you get into drifting and/or other motor sports?
I learned about Drifting when I attended my first NOPI car show in 2005. From there I found the local practice spot and fell in love. I now compete in as many events as possible.

What was the first car you used for drifting?
My 350Z is the first car I have entered drift events with. My old 98 Vette was the first car I actually drifted though.

How did it work out for you?
The Nissan is a far superior car.

What was your most practiced technique?
When I started drifting all I really knew how to do was kick the clutch and let her rip.

What is it now?
With the 350Z, there is really no need to e-brake to initiate and plenty of power to get the tires spinning, so I rarely do anything but a clutch kick to initiate and occasionally use the e-brake to stop from spinning out.

Where are you looking to improve?
I definitely need more seat time and need to work on my high speed drifting.

What types of events have you participated in?
I have done a handful of parking lot events and a few track events.

What type of events have you competed in?
I have competed in a couple events at Firebird Raceway and Phoenix Int'l. Raceway here in AZ.

What do you find challenging?
The biggest challenge for me t it to continue to improve at my own pace. I find it extremely tempting to try and keep up with some of the more experienced guys. Entry speeds over 65 mph or so are pretty uncommon for the events we run here in AZ, so when I get the opportunity to get on a bigger track I find it quite challenging.

Who are your influences?
The local legends here from a club called AZ240SX.org. There are quite a few guys who took the time to help me and answer questions and of course give me ride-alongs.

What modifications would you like to have in the future?
At some point I would like to do a V-8 motor swap. The VQ35DE engine doesn't respond too well to boost and I feel with the weight of the 350Z I will need upwards of 400hp to be competitive.

What are your future plans in drifting?
I plan to keep doing all the local events and start entering some of the bigger ones in the Southwest. From there, I will go as far as my talent will take me.

What are your thoughts on the future of drifting?
I believe Drifting is the fastest growing motor sport in the world and will continue to expand and gain attention. I have seen the reaction of the crowd when they see great drivers do their thing and there is nothing like it in any other sport.

No pics?

I guess those attachments don't work, sorry.

I don't know if anyone told you this before...... but you look like Mr. Clean.

Nice Zed, dude. Wish I was there to hump it.... err... cheer ya on.

Haha, yeah I have heard that a few times...hence the avatar.

Thanks, you can hump my ride anytime your in the South West.

I may very well take you up on that! If I ever get started/finish my AW build plans... I'll be thinking about hitting a future American Touge--and I'm sure they'd have no issues adding it to the roster *rawr*.