Ueo: (Laughing) Well if that's the case Tarzan, then I want to drive for the U.S. side since all the U.S. fans will cheer me on as the good guy!
Yamada: Wow, that is true huh? That is why I want to be the leader of the U.S. team so I don't get in trouble.
Ueo: I see a lot of potential with the U.S. drivers. The only difference I see with the U.S. driver and Japan is the experience. Currently the skill level is too low in the U.S. to be competitive with Japan's top drivers but within a few years I see it being more competitive. If the U.S. drivers take the time to go back to the basics and have a better understanding of line control and fundamental drifting techniques I think they will catch up to the Japanese drivers in no time.
Yamada: I want to open up a driving school and offer more technical seminars to give drivers in the U.S. a chance to improve on their skills but that requires a lot of time and effort as well as financial backing. Hopefully I can accomplish that within few years to give something back to the community.
2NR: Import enthusiasts are envious of both of you being able to drift and race as a career. What kinds of cars do you drive when you're not racing?
Ueo: Well you know I have a love for the Hachiroku cars and I think most will tell you there's a loyalty to a certain brand and model car. I own three Hachiroku's as well as an S13.
Yamada: My car? It's an American vehicle that I think is pretty cool. I sport a PT Cruiser as my daily driver
2NR: Do any of you have any hobbies or like to go out when not working?
Ueo: I'm not much of the outgoing type. I like to stay home and relax and watch videos.
Yamada: I like to go out to karaoke bars and drink a lot with friends. Of course picking up on the women and bringing them to the bars with me.
2NR: What do you look forward to in the next year of drifting competition when you come to the U.S. for D1?
Ueo: I look for that energy and motivation that I experienced in the past D1 to hopefully take me to the final round of competition. I think some of the U.S. drivers have the ability to make it to the final round as well if they really put the effort forward. All I know is the sport of drifting is not all about competition but having fun is the main focus that should not be forgotten.
Yamada: Hopefully I can drift among the competitors in the next event but for me I like the crowd's reactions and if they cheer me on or boo me, I like to feed off their energy. All I know is I am really excited about the event and look forward to the next D1 in the U.S.