Smoke Clears, Champions Crowned!

MECLON × CATAMOUNT Drift Challenge (Shangyou Stop) Wraps Up Successfully

From August 22 to 23, 2026, engine roars and billowing tire smoke filled Yangming International Raceway in Shangyou, Jiangxi. 

The Guangdong‑Jiangxi Auto Series Championship — co‑titled by MECLON and CATAMOUNT, the MECLON × CATAMOUNT Drift Challenge (Shangyou Stop) — came to a triumphant close. Over two days of high‑stakes competition, dozens of top drift drivers took to the track one after another, serving spectators a visual feast of speed and precision.

As title sponsors, MECLON and CATAMOUNT witnessed every driver's all‑out effort first‑hand and felt the roaring energy of the crowd. Now let's look back at the standout moments of this spectacular drift event.

A Gathering of Elite Drivers: Fierce Competition Across Two Classes

The contest featured two categories: the Open Class and the Stock Class, with a two‑heat format for each group. Drivers raced both forward and reverse track layouts, a true test of all‑round skill.

The Open Class stole the show. Its rules set up the ultimate tug‑of‑war between horsepower and grip: wheel horsepower is capped at 500 hp in principle, and semi‑slick tires are banned across the board. For builds under 500 hp, maximum tire width is 265 mm; for those hitting 500 hp or above, tire width is forced down to 245 mm. 

The more power you have, the narrower your tires — exponentially raising the bar for car control. Whoever masters this "bittersweet challenge" earns the title of true drift king. On track, multiple drivers pulled off breathtaking wall‑tapping drifts right at the limits with razor‑sharp throttle input and delicate steering work, drawing thunderous cheers from the stands.

The Stock Class celebrates racing in its purest form. No wild power upgrades — drivers compete using factory‑spec vehicles, relying solely on their own polished craft. The track passes impartial judgement on who drives with finer lines and stays calm under pressure. Several Stock Class competitors delivered smooth, consistent drift runs, proving technique and composure lie at the heart of motorsport.

Awards Ceremony: Well‑Deserved Champions Crowned

The trophy presentation unfolded grandly on the main stage of the raceway on the afternoon of August 23. First, second and third place winners from each class were announced. As drivers lifted their trophies and sprayed champagne, excitement hit its peak. 

Representatives from MECLON and CATAMOUNT presented the awards and paid tribute to every competitor. Whether they made the podium or not, every driver brave enough to hit the gas and yank the handbrake deserves applause.

More Than Spectating: A Full‑Blown Drift Festival for All

Off the main track, the mini drift kart experience zone was another huge hit. Many families turned up, with adults and kids alike climbing behind the wheel. Guided by professional instructors, they got a taste of sliding close to the ground. Drifting is no longer a sport only to be watched from afar — it's fun anyone can experience.

Racing Boosts Local Tourism: Shangyou Ignited by Motorsport

The event's success validates Shangyou County's development strategy: grow tourism and energize local industries through motor racing. 

Yangming International Raceway boasts Jiangxi's first F3‑compliant professional circuit. Its 2.8‑kilometre main track plus a 1.2‑kilometre international karting circuit draw motorsport fans from across neighbouring provinces.

During the race weekend, nearby attractions including Yangming Lake Scenic Area, Bishuiwan Fantasy Adventure Town and Yuancun Village in Meishui Township saw surging visitor numbers. 

Local homestays and hotels were nearly fully booked. Speed and thrills brought new life to this small southern Jiangxi town.

Final Tribute to Everyone Involved

To all drivers, thank you for showcasing drift's breathtaking beauty with masterful skill. To judges and event staff, thank you for your professionalism and dedication keeping the race fair and safe. To every spectator on site, thank you for your cheers that electrified every corner of the venue. 

To the Shangyou County People's Government and Yangming International Raceway, thank you for your generous support. And to everyone following the event online, thank you for tuning in.

MECLON and CATAMOUNT are honoured to be part of this incredible drift story. The race may be over, but the journey of speed and dreams goes on.

See you on the track next time.