Drift 101

Fantastic experience: Highly recommend Drift 101. I bought a full day lesson for my husband as a birthday gift and he told me it was one of the best gifts he has ever received. The instructors were amazing and provided great insight on how to drift.

Fantastic experience: Had a great day with instructors Naoki and Ruben. These guys are experts and make it easy to understand and get confidence. The cars are not luxury but are set up to be raw and ready to drift. Never done this before except the odd donut in a parking lot Today I can say I learned the basics of driving drifting throttle and steering We did multiple track Layouts thru out the day. Soooo much fun and I now smell Like gas and rubber , luv it Thank you Drift 101

Fantastic experience: I learned a lot about drifting from both Naoki and Ruben, coming from a sim-only background. They pinpointed the areas in which my sim experience was incorrect compared to real life and focused on them. I got a very important life lesson from Naoki. Highly recommend Drift 101, and will definitely be back next time I'm in the area.

Fantastic experience: So I wanted to write this as soon as I got home today because it was an incredible day of driving. I’ve been a car enthusiast for over 20 years and have participated in autocross, some oval track stuff and the occasional invite on a track but I’ve never slid a car. Maybe a donut here and there but never grabbed an e brake or clutch kicked… until today. The guy were super cool, friendly and very knowledgeable. The cars they had are the standard issue 240s with upgraded e brakes and it was perfect for the course. Going from throttle work to 2nd gear slides all within the same day was incredible. Now it might seem a tad pricey BUT you get a massive amount of seat time and you will walk away with a huge smile. Bring water and lunch and if you are solo a camera and tripod or even a go pro to mount to your car. Well worth keeping the memories and seeing the progress throughout the day. My nose is still stuffy with tire smoke and I’m loving it. Can’t wait to go back!

Fantastic experience: I had an excellent day at Drift101. The exercises highlighted a wide range of skills required for drifting and the instruction was very detailed. There was one other person in my class and each of us received feedback tailored specifically to our strengths and weaknesses during each session. The teaching method is very straightforward/easy to understand and I saw instant results with each bit of feedback. I have moderate experience with road course track days but had never drifted before. It was challenging at first but by the end I saw significant improvement. The choice of exercises throughout the day flowed well. They progressively built upon each technique we were taught and our personal performance/progression. You get plenty of seat time, balanced with natural conversation to recap and prepare for each exercise. I arrived looking to improve my car control and have a good time but left a definite fan of drifting with a ton of things to think about that will improve my driving in both grip and drift.

Fantastic experience: Learning how to drift has been on my bucket list for years and Naoki definitely made the experience phenomenal for my boyfriend and I. We booked the full day package and trust me, don’t let the price tag scare you because it’s an investment in grasping a better understanding of car handling and mechanics. Naoki made sure to give us lots of track time and to cater the exercises to our needs and skill level. For sure would recommend to anyone, regardless of experience!

Fantastic experience: Went to Drift 101 to learn drifting had a blast of good time. The training team was patient and helpful at achieving the goals for the day. Looking forward to the next event. If you want to feel the slip of the wheel highly recommend attending

Fantastic experience: I cannot even describe how amazing of an experience this is. If you want to learn to drift, you need to come here. If you don’t want to learn to drift, you still need to come here. If you hate these young whipersnappers who are leaving tire marks in your street, you really need to come here. Every single person who gets behind the wheel of a car should be required to learn this level of car control.

Fantastic experience: Sweet hearts! Both instructors were so patient and helpful. Learning to drift was so fun and empowering. I even feel way more confident when driving manual!

Fantastic experience: I was there on Father's Day. Surprised by my wife. This is the first time there for me. Incredible class. Get there, few mins later, after a brief run down of what I should be doing, I was ripping around cones. Both instructors were awesome. Had breaks set up perfectly for the hot day. These guys were right out there with you, hand signals, and instruction between runs. I'm telling you, go do it. They instructors make sure you're have a blast. I'd go 1 a week if I was in the area. These guys are laid back and great instructors. Can't say enough about them.

Fantastic experience: OUTSTANDING experience with life long memories for a father and son trip. Exceeded expectations even after reading all the other positive reviews. Both instructors are skilled, patient, and made it fun. FYI: My son basically learned to drive stick in 10 min with them before we started. And they really tailor the lesson to your previous experience. Son had done sim drifting plus off-roading and I had done rally car class long ago, so we both were working on very different things, and it felt like 1:1 coaching with our own cars and 2 pros. And this was only a HALF DAY! We can't wait to come back and do a longer program.

Fantastic experience: Naoki and Ruben really have the gift for teaching. They balance giving technical adjustments as you go with learning to trust your intuition. Already planning my next session. Don't think twice about it!

Fantastic experience: I bought this for myself as a graduation gift and I am so glad I did. I took the 2-day class which made the exercises get more and more technical and the instructors really understood how we were driving and what to change. I also had very little manual driving experience and the instructors quickly brushed me up on the basics. I had such a great time learning how to drift and get personal attention. The instructors and the other students were a great time to be around.

Fantastic experience: Super fun.

Fantastic experience: Had the most amazing time learning how to drift! Most fun I've had in a car in a long time. Each exercise helped us learn something new to bring forward into the next. Honestly, it was a lot harder than I thought, but by the end of the day, it was all starting to click. The instructors are super patient and just want each student to have a good time. Both instructors were really chill about the whole thing, they will tell you what you did wrong and what to do better in an informing way.

Fantastic experience: Absolutely the best time you can have in a car. Naoki and Ruben are very patient and encouraging instructors. It felt like hanging out with good friends who are helping you learn to drift. Naoki is intent on teaching you the fundamentals by instructing you in whichever way you learn best and adapting to that. So much seat time. Don't worry about sitting hours on end in a classroom. I highly recommend the 2 day sessions to start out. Learning to drift is not only great for entering the sport, but it is a great way to learn car control under emergency situations on the road. If I lived local I am sure my son would go there multiple times a month for more sessions.

Fantastic experience: My buddy and I signed up for the 1day lesson and we had a blast. We learned a tremendous amount about driving in general and had a good time. After all, how can you not have fun learning how to properly do donuts?! It was a great experience and I highly recommend it for anyone thinking about giving it a try.

Fantastic experience: This was a ton of fun! Highly recommended for any car fan. I learned to drift in a full day class but I plan to come back and do at least 2 days to feel more comfortable drifting.

Fantastic experience: I think this is by far, HANDS DOWN, the best bang for $$ experience I have ever had when it comes to not only drifting as a whole but the ability to have an instructor constantly there to help you grow as a driver. I only did the half day and had TONS of seat time. I do suggest spending the extra money to do a full day or the 2 days. This seat time is HUGE when you pair it with an instructor. I have been to multiple track days with personal cars and I feel this blew that experience out of the water in terms of growth and progression. Don’t be silly. Invest the money in yourself and let this team teach you better fundamentals to becoming a better driver. I am 10/10 going back for more. Sincerely, a Florida man

Fantastic experience: The instructors at Drift 101 were great. They really focused on each of our skill sets and improving them. It was a small class of only 3 people with 2 instructors so you got lots of 1:1 time. We also had a lot of seat time. Definitely worth doing the full day experience because you learn a lot. Plus it’s lots of fun!

Fantastic experience: One hundred percent worth the money! Each person gets a dedicated car all day for maximum time behind the wheel, and the instruction made everything click really fast. I’ll definitely be back.

Fantastic experience: Amazing experience! I had such a blast learning to drift, and the instructors were really great.

Fantastic experience: What can I say about this experience other than it was the best time ever. Naoki and Ruben really take their time to teach you technique all while keeping you motivated. If you want to focus on specific technique theyre more than happy to help you out. They have definitely started my drift journey in the best possible way and feel like I have gained some amazing friends. Best dudes possible to get you started and even if you have experience its always good to come and hone your skills! Appreciate you team and see you soon!

Fantastic experience: I had a great time with Naoki. I've only ever drifted on dirt roads back in high school but wanted to explore it more. I bought myself a day lesson for my birthday and loved every minute of it. Naoki is a great instructor with a goo balance of specific instruction, patience, and fun. Definitely something I'd like to do again.

Fantastic experience: Had a blast all day. Built confidence in my abilities. Both instructors were very easy going and helpful and patient. So exciting that I didn't even want to stop for lunch.

Fantastic experience: Drift 101 was a dream come true! Initially, I thought the classes were going to be large but they weren't. Both instructors were very hands on and had the expertise correct every detail of my driving, as well as discuss the concepts of drifting. Thank you!

Fantastic experience: Excellent experience, very personal and they knew exactly how to correct issues. Would recommend and do again!

Fantastic experience: Very Friendly and knowledgeable crew. Fun experience. You’ll learn fundamentals of drifting in no time.

Fantastic experience: Drift 101 is the MOST fun I have EVER had in my ENTIRE Life !!! Naoki and his team are all amazing people, and their passion for drifting shows in their teaching styles. They tailor the drift lessons/drills to each individual. I bought lessons for my dad and myself. It was an amazing experience to learn to drift together. Im so excited to return for another lesson ASAP!!

Fantastic experience: Took the 2 day course in hopes of elevating my car control skills for road racing. I would definitely recommend Drift 101 to any racer looking to learn new levels of car control, we usually dont have a chance to work on saving a spin when bumped/losing control and creating oversteer when a car is pushing. Its also a LOT of fun!

Fantastic experience: Super fun! I bought Drift 101 as a Birthday gift for my fiancé, Tim. When I picked him up after each session, he was glowing. Makes a great gift for anyone passionate about cars and who is interested in drifting. Tim liked Naoki and his team's enthusiasm and friendly approach which made it easy to learn. He had a nice amount of practice time behind the wheel and he is walking away from the class with better car control. This experience has him enthused about getting into drifting! Thank you for the great memories!

Fantastic experience: Really nice, knowledgeable guys. A fun day for anyone who enjoys hooning or is interested in learning!

Fantastic experience: There aren't many things in life where the value and what you take away from the experience and time invested far exceeds your expectations and what you thought you were getting and learning. Drift 101 is literally a way of life, very philosophical, and makes you think deeply and introspectively about yourself and how you perceive things when you're trying to get really good at something because you deeply care about it; but it teaches you that patience, allowing it to come to you without over thinking, and enjoying the process and having a good time is more important than trying to be the next drift king after your first class. Having owned mostly front engine rear wheel drive cars most of my life once I turned 18, I've always wanted to learn to drift properly at a safe race track from a qualified and professional teacher so I can build a solid foundation to participate in drifting as a hobby or perhaps more. After twenty years, I finally got the opportunity last week and had the honor to learn from Naoki and his assistant Ruben. I enrolled in the full one day class and it was an absolute blast and information overload for me because I wanted to get good too fast when in reality, I should've relaxed more and took it in stride. We were learning in these stout battle ready, all motor, fully bolted on with drift inducing and friendly tuned suspension S14's which in itself was a great dancing partner. The entire class, we got to personally drive and drift in these drift machines where I was definitely learning by doing and receiving super informative and clear feedback after every practice run and we're talking about a lot of runs which is where it's at and I feel bad how many times the instructors had to pick up the cones because I kept on hitting them due to my lack of ability! We started with learning how to do a proper counter steering donuts and went as intense as doing figure eights while sliding into and out of the box. With only two other awesome student drivers there, we got to practice a whole lot where without you realizing, you're slowly but surely improving and getting more comfortable throughout the day. No amount of reading reviews or the website does this class justice. You got to go to Willow Springs Race Track in Rosamond, CA and physically experience how to drift properly, learn car control, controlled slides, counter steering into and out of corners while sliding, figure eights while sliding and all that good stuff from these caring, passionate instructors! Thank you Naoki and Ruben for an incredible time and all the lessons. I can't wait to go back up there again asap!

Fantastic experience: Had an awesome time with the course here. Ruben was a fantastic instructor and caused me to improve quickly with very specific feedback

Fantastic experience: My son and I had an amazing experience doing a two-day course. Naoki and Ruben are fantastic instructors and helped us develop a set of core fundamentals that will allow us to build on moving forward. We had a blast and I'm hoping we can swing it to come back again in the near future.

Fantastic experience: I was a complete novice at this, and Naoki and Ruben were extremely patient and encouraging. It's worth noting that there were others in my group that had more experience, and they designed exercises that would work for all of us at various skill levels. They really take it seriously while making it a lot of fun. I had an amazing time and will definitely be back!

Fantastic experience: We took the half day intro to drifting course, it was a great introduction.

Fantastic experience: Naoki and his team are amazing. Had an amazing experience, learned a lot and had so much fun. Every exercise showed you a different skill you need for drifting but was fun and engaging at the same time. 100% would recommend and I would definitely come back.

Fantastic experience: Naoki and his team were the best! I learned a ton and had a blast, definitely going back!

Fantastic experience: Friend and I flew out to the west coast just for the class. We did a two day, and the instructors we amazing, we had so much seat time. Every pass they were able to help you really hone in on your mistakes and keep you motivated as the drills became more intense. I'm already looking at dates for next year. Best driving experience I've ever had.

Fantastic experience: Drift 101 was an awesome experience! Naoki and his team helped me and my son (18) learn to drift. The individual instruction allowed us to learn as much as possible in 2 days! We learned 3 ways to initiate a drift and there different effects to your line. New skills were taught quickly while still allowing you to build confidence in your skills. I want to return again! Thank you for a fun filled 2 day session!

Fantastic experience: Great class! Very fun!

Fantastic experience: Naoki is the man, and this course is insanely fun. The feeling of skidding a car sideways, WITH control, and executing pretty complicated, incredibly cool stuff is beyond addicting! I want to drift all over LA now haha. HIGHLY recommend doing this, even if you don't want to drift much afterward...it is so much fun!

Fantastic experience: Naoki, Ian and Jesse provided a great day of instruction geared to the level of the student in question. We had two young kids, a stunt woman and me in our class and each of us was provided feedback based on our goals for the class. The format provides more than enough seat time, adequate breaks and time for lunch, (full day class). I did the one day class, and regret not opting for two. Even with just the one class, I gained a better understanding of car control and oversteer that I can use in future track days. Naoki even let one of the kids use his personal drifting car when one of the student cars had an issue. A day well spent for everyone. I am already thinking about my next lesson.

Fantastic experience: I could not be happier with my experience with Drift 101! Naoki & his team are knowledgeable, communicative, encouraging, and thoughtful. They truly take the time to get to know you as a driver & review your goals & expectations with you. We got plenty of seat time & on track instruction. I appreciated how patient Naoki was with me as I was learning and set up courses that progressed with my driving! Whether you’re looking to learn how to start drifting or looking to expand your driving skills, Drift 101 is the place for you!

Fantastic experience: Best two days we've had in a long time! My son and his friend just took the 2-day course, and they really loved it. The videos I captured tell the story. These guys, both 17 with little drifting experience, went from struggling to do power slides and donuts to performing well controlled drifts through S turns--without knocking over the cones. Naoki and Ian really brought these kids up to speed in a hurry. They got hours of personalized instruction and wheel time. I recommend Drift 101 to anyone who wants to improve their car control. My only regret is that I wasn't out there with them! Next year.

Fantastic experience: Awesome awesome awesome!! Great instructors and an amazing experience. Totally confident to drift my supermarket now!!! Thanks guys

Fantastic experience: This was a great experience, highly recommended to any automotive junkie. I only wish I had done a 2 day block to get more seat time.

Fantastic experience: Naoki is a fantastic teacher. He is thoughtful and communicative, and takes the time to really individualize the lessons with your current skill level and goals in mind. After taking the two day school, I feel like I have the fundamentals to start drifting on my own.

Fantastic experience: Great experience, plenty of seat time and breaks. Instructor gave plenty of feedback, and provided plenty of exercises to grow your skill. Only downside was the heat, my only recommendation is to come on a cool day to enjoy the experience better.

Fantastic experience: We have been twice for full day sessions. The team is very knowledgeable, professional and helpful. Cars are set well. It's a great experience.

Fantastic experience: Awesome class. We had so much fun and learned a lot. Plenty of seat time and practice in the vehicles. Naoki and Ian and the crew were all great and gave us a super enjoyable time!

Fantastic experience: Clear and simple instructions to develop techniques tailored to your desired performance! The most seat time I have ever had at a driving school. A variety of vehicles to experience the different performance on various platforms Been coming back for 6months now and don’t see myself stopping

Fantastic experience: I bought a full day lesson today for my birthday with Naoki and Ian instructing me and the rest of the session. Wonderful guys, absolutely competent and supportive. They tell you what you need to do to drift properly, and they’re super fun to be around. The full day option was 110% worth the money. This is one, if not THE funnest experiences of my life

Fantastic experience: My brother and I had such a great time at Drift 101. The instruction was excellent and very personalized. Naoki and his team were so patient and encouraging. The whole point was to learn AND have fun. They absolutely delivered in every way. Kali is such a character! We loved learning from you guys!

Fantastic experience: Had my first drifting experience with Drift 101and had a great time! I was worried it would be intimidating and stressful, but Naoki's chill and calm demeanor puts you at ease. Instruction is personalized, simply explained, and encouraging. And you lots of practice time in the car. Definitely want to take more lessons.

Fantastic experience: Naoki and Kali gave my son and I a full day of quality instruction on the track. We were beginners and had a great time driving their specialized cars. We left feeling pretty accomplished. It went too fast. Super Fun!

Fantastic experience: I admit I was quite nervous for my first lesson as I'm not usually a thrill seeker, but being as I drive a rear wheel drive Miata I wanted to learn to drift in a safe and instructive environment. Naoki is an exceptional teacher, he was calm and collected and incredibly helpful! I can say without a doubt that the seat time and skills I learned were the best mod I could ever buy for my car, and the best money spent. I am so hooked I bought a helmet and am actually planning on finding a dedicated drift car in the future because it was just an absolute joy! I cannot recommend Drift101 enough, and would encourage anyone to book a course with Naoki - you won't regret it! :) Thank you so much!

Fantastic experience: Great school! Great teachers! Amazing experience! Want to come back and keep learning!

Fantastic experience: I had an amazing time with Naoki and his team of instructors at Drift 101. Lots of personalized attention, lots of track time, it was an exceptional learning opportunity from someone who is the very best in his craft. You have to realize that stunt men and women around the country travel to Willow Springs to train with Drift101. There's a reason for that, Drift101 is the best. When selecting a drift school, I had to either choose between a big box school that offered a cookie cutter experience, or I had the option to choose Drift101which is the real, fully immersive experience. The vice was easy. Just make sure to do the two day school if you can, and choose a weekday!