Few quick questions with Alexander Yazov

Hi Alex, tell us about last season, which events did you participate in and what were your impressions?

“Season 2019 surprised us pleasantly. Besides the events which we wanted to cover, we managed to participate in totally new events related to drift. We had the opportunity to be part of drift competitions in Bulgaria and abroad. In the mountain climb championship we managed to participate in an outstanding event in Bucharest, alongside some great pilots. It turned out to be a great event.’’

"This season I had the responsibility to be part of the organization and judges in a very well organized event in Romania “RPG Drift Challenge”. It was a big responsibility, because being a judge in drift competition is extremely hard. You navigate the whole competition and it’s up to you, what kind of impression you’ll leave in the audience and pilots. We took part in Aniventure Comic Con 2019, and Monster Energy organized a Virtual Racing tournament. We had more than 100 participants. Those type of tournaments make me proud, because we give people the chance to experience real racing situations and a whole new environment. I’m glad to see that more and more people are coming well prepared for those tournaments. "

"This could be the first step for someone that wants to develop as a drift pilot. Throughout the years we saw many pilots that began their professional journey with Virtual Racing. We should not forget that I was part of the biggest auto-event in Bulgaria – Bmw Fest 2019. We met many new faces and also some seasoned veterans. I’m glad that we made a great show for the audience.’’

Do you see the progression in the Bulgarian drift scene?

"The progress in the Bulgarian drift scene is constant. The best thing is the new people that are coming. We also see that the organizers are trying their best to make the competitions more and more challenging and interesting, despite having limited budget. I think we’re not far from the European level of competitions. I have my fingers crossed that they will keep the same ambition, because we have proved that Bulgarian pilots can be competitive in Europe, despite having less opportunities to develop.

How do you train when the conditions do not allow you to?

"The training process in drifting or any other motor sport is expensive. We see a lot of sports that tend to switch to simulator training. The technology and software has developed so much in the recent years, so it’s not as expensive to have a good simulator as it was years ago. This could be something to help in your development as a racer, or it could just be something to entertain yourself. "

"I’m using Virtual Racing as training method from 2012. Until this day I’m constantly upgrading my machine, according to my training needs. We cannot exclude training on track, but the simulator can cover 60-70% of your preparation. In this virtual environment, you'll be able to train, but also meet new people, try different tactics and be part of a great community. I believe that this is the best way to grow, because you’re part of a really focused community and environment."

We know that you’re working on the car and you have some big changes for 2020.

We’re on the final stretch. For 2020 I’ll have a totally new engine. The old one had to be removed and we’ll use it as a spare, because we had 6 seasons with it. Also there are some long awaited upgrades that are going to happen. The other big change is related to the events that I take part in, because the mountain challenges and drift shows put a lot of pressure on the cooling system. We are constantly trying to improve this aspect. Now I’m switching to rear mounted cooling system, and new aerodynamics. This is going to reflect the balance of the car. The balance of drift cars is super important, and that was one of the reasons to avoid rear mounted cooling system. The old car had great balance.

"After we're done with the upgrades we’ll go on track for some training and testing . I am sure we’ll find the best settings. I know It sounds hard, but I actually have a lot of experience with this."  

"We’re also working on new design for the car, but I’ll keep silent for now, let it be a surprise."

Are there any other projects that you're focusing on?

"One of my main focuses is helping young people. I would like to catch their attention and make them more serious with Motorsports, technology and mechanics. As a person that faced a lot of challenges in my professional career, I would like to share my experience and help people that want to develop. I have a plan to do a lot more Virtual Racing and make personal training sessions where I’ll share my experience with young people. Also I work on a couple of social campaigns for safe and responsible driving."

What’s the future of Gymkhana GRiD according to you?

"This is one of my all time favorite events! The best thing is to witness it live. The emotion and action during the direct eliminations is something that you have to experience, because the TV or phone screens don’t give it enough justice. I think the best part of these events, is the fact that it gives the chance for drivers with smaller budgets to compete against some of the best world. Sometimes the rookies win, because they want it so much. I hope that these type of events will develop and get more popular, because I think that the races against the clock are getting a bit boring. The Motorsport world could be so much more. Drifting, Rally-cross and Gymkhana are proving that there is another way for drivers and audience to enjoy something new and unforgettable."