CYPRESS, Calif. (Jan. 24, 2013) — Formula Drift Champion Vaughn Gittin Jr. is switching to Nitto tires this year, agreeing to drive his familiar Monster Energy Ford Mustang RTR in Formula Drift and China's World Drift Series, according to Nitto Tire U.S.A. Inc.
Mr. Gittin, who's been affiliated with Falken Tire Corp. in Formula Drift the past eight years, also will make appearances on Nitto's behalf at various exhibitions worldwide.
"I am pumped to be working with Nitto Tire," Mr. Gittin said. "As I enter this new chapter of my career, it feels great to be aligned with a brand as committed to winning and progression as I am.
"I have always been focused on working just as hard off the track as I do on it, and Nitto's innovative marketing efforts and awesome tires will complement that well."
Nitto called Mr. Gittin one of Monster Energy's premier athletes and a Ford factory driver who has competed every year since the start of Formula DRIFT in 2004. Mr. Gittin's Monster Energy Nitto Tire Ford Mustang RTR will be running the NT05 max-performance tire, Nitto said.
"Through testing, we found the Nitto NT05 offers a high level of consistent grip through all temperature ranges and the high-quality construction of the tire allows it to handle excessive abuse. These are both qualities that are crucial for drifting," Mr. Gittin added.
The first opportunity to see Mr. Gittin drifting on Nitto NT05 tires will take place at the St. Louis Auto Show Jan. 24-27, where he will be doing an exhibition and offering his fans ride-alongs.
"Vaughn has proven himself to be an incredible driver and champion," noted Harry Kong, marketing and social media strategist at Nitto Tire. "We look forward to partnering with him for the upcoming 2013 drifting season. The Monster Energy Ford Mustang RTR running NT05 tires will be an exciting combination to watch."
Mr. Gittin was the 2010 Formula Drift champion and was runner-up last year.