Last month, Holley celebrated yet another successful annual extravaganza as the LS Fest rolled into Bowling Green, Kentucky. With popular sideshows to attract markets and enthusiasts of several stripes, Holley had its hands full managing all the attractions throughout the Beech Bend Raceway.

One of these attractions, the Drift Challenge, grabbed the attention of the famous Midwest Drift Union (MDU), and saw its members wow crowds with epic displays of turbocharged madness throughout the weekend. They, along with several other competitors, were eager to prove their mettle on the asphalt.

The event was a tandem competition around a predetermined course to decide the top three performers. A panel of three judges graded drivers on four criteria: speed, line, angle, and overall style.

Holley kept things interesting by virtue of the sweet prizes handed out to those top three drifters. Per the official announcement page, third and second place received plaques and Holley product gift certificates worth $375 and $750, respectively. First place, however, brought home the bacon with a $1,500 purse, LS Fest jacket, and plaque.

1st place winner Nate Hamilton and his Nissan S13, seen here getting sideways.

That honor went to Dallas native (and erstwhile rookie) Nate Hamilton and his Nissan S13, which blew past Steve Topping and Dirk Stratton for ultimate victory on Sunday. It was a hard-fought battle, and Hamilton gave his all to secure a righteous win.

More than all that, however, the event served to show to enthusiasts and newcomers alike that drifting was nothing like they might have gleaned from movies or video games. The real thing requires the utmost in concentration, finesse, physical strength, and control, but the experience of seeing the world from a sideways perspective at 50mph is a reward unto itself.