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‘Fast On Falken’ Offers New Take on Holiday Toy Drive

When the opportunity arrives to get outside, enjoy the Southern California sunshine and take your Falken-shod vehicle to Auto Club Speedway courtesy of Falken Tires, who wouldn’t jump on it? 

That’s exactly what roughly 60 enthusiasts did one week before the Christmas holiday, enjoying the hospitality offered by Falken and having the chance to try their tires and their respective car on the infield road course in Fontana. The price for admission? One unwrapped toy per round. Coupled with the generous donations provided by the entire Falken staff, overseen by its Human Resources Department, the San Bernardino County Fire Department / Fontana

Among those participating in what Falken personnel called a “test-and-tune” invitational were many sponsored individuals, marketing partners, media, as well as key Falken employees and engineering staff. Daily drivers, modified vehicles, track cars and legitimate racers all rounded out the field, which was divided into three groups – novice (though there were just two of those and they quickly moved up), Intermediate and Advanced. Clearly, most attendees qualified for the latter distinction and were confidently turning in strong lap times running primarily on Falken’s popular and newest track-ready tire, the Azenis RT660.

Inspired by enthusiasts and crafted for performance, the Azenis RT660 is the ultimate choice for drivers seeking quick laps, enhanced steering response and vehicle stability. The RT660 has become the tire many enthusiasts and pros take to the track because of its versatility; Falken’s DOT-approved 200-treadwear product saves drivers the hassle of swapping tires before track days. The new model also comes in a wider range of fitments than its predecessor, allowing more enthusiasts to experience the unmatched grip the exciting new tread compound provides.

Among the participants were Rob and Trish Byrd of the Racing Byrds, who brought along their modified Camaro. The Racing Byrds represent Falken in autocross challenges across the country, having just completed their first year with the brand. They were excited with their results and look forward to continuing their relationship with Falken in 2022.

Jonathon Bradford, Falken’s Senior Manager, Motorsports and Events, welcomed all guests and ran through the customary rules and regulations, relying on track personnel to reacquaint everyone with the traditional flag protocol before heading out onto the road course in staged rounds. Falken’s Supervisor of Product Training Bakari Howard ran his exceptional 2019 Audi R4 which he has significantly modified into a first-class track car, while Falken’s Nick Fousekis, Director, Advertising and Promotions, displayed his beautiful JDM-equipped and -upgraded Mazda RX7, which absolutely dazzled in its custom green paint.

Also present was Sumitomo Rubber North America (SRNA) CEO Darren Thomas, running his car and enjoying the tech talk and feedback on the Azenis RT660 tires. Thomas recently took the reins of SRNA, which comprises both Falken Tires and Dunlop Motorcycle Tires, from Richard Smallwood, who announced his retirement at the end of 2021.

Members of the Fontana Firehouse of San Bernardino County Fire were also on hand to spectate, collect toys and join in with the guests for lunch on Falken. All participants received a set of racing gloves and a Fast on Falken t-shirt commemorating the special day. Further Fast on Falken track days are in the planning, Bradford acknowledged, based on demand and opportunity. “It was a great day. We had a lot of fun. Got to test the incredible tires Falken makes and gave away a lot of toys. What’s not to like about that?” Nothing at all.