Published: 26/04/2010
With a new format, the 2010 European Drift Championship is one that is currently being watched by many observers. The championship is now invitational only, and Mark, as defending champion, was always going to be there to fight for the crown once again.

As two drivers had issues with their cars, Mark was automatically guaranteed a place in the top 4. His first opponent was Pete Barber in his new RX-7.

Barber put the pressure on Mark from early on the first run, showing a massive commitment into the first corner in his chasing run which gave him the advantage 6-4. However, in the second run, Buff chased and pulled out all the stops, with some amazing speeds and angles which not only impressed the crowd, but more importantly the judges, and as a result scored 7-3 and was through to the final.

The final saw Mark against experienced driver, and good friend, Declan Hicks in his "old-skool" Toyota Cresta. Hicks was down on power, which was evident in the first run as Buff pulled a massive gap and was awarded 7-3.

In the second run, Hicks had to pull out all the stops, including putting his back wheels into the dirt to try and help initiate big slides. This did work to some degree; the run was awarded a draw, but with Marks advantage from the first run, he went on to win the pairing, and the round.

One round in and Mark is where he belongs, at the top of the table. The EDC continues at Knockhill, where Mark hopes to prove once again that he is the one to beat.