Baypark Speedway is proud to announce that Lightning is coming to the fan zone on fireworks night Nov 4th to meet the kids. 
Luke McKinnon’s Drift Journey: From Mazda RX7 to Global Sensation 
Since 2021, his car has transformed from “American-made” to proudly “Rotorua-made,” trading Bud Light for L&P, and Chevrolet for Mazda.
After saving up $15,000 through 18 months of hard work sweeping floors after school, Luke’s White Mazda RX7 underwent a remarkable makeover, becoming a star on wheels. His motivation? Simply, he “just wanted to be different.”
In the world of Lightning McKinnon, the pit crew isn’t equipped with a forklift named Guido; it’s his family and friends who keep the wheels turning. Like the original red racer, Luke takes an unconventional approach by turning right to go left as he drifts across racetracks. But little did he know that his personal project would drift into the global spotlight. Today, Lightning McKinnon isn’t just a local sensation; his legacy extends to toys manufactured in China and even tattoo artistry.
“It’s turned into something a lot bigger than we thought it was going to be,” McKinnon reflected. “It’s pretty crazy.”These days, rather than igniting excitement on drifting circuits, Luke dedicates his car to charity events and thrilling rides for kids. While he contemplates a return to competitive drifting one day, for now, Lightning McKinnon is the epitome of high-speed sensation.”It’s cool; I enjoy it. I wouldn’t change it.” 
Luke and the car will be in the Fan Zone tonight from 4:00pm till 6pm on Saturday 4th November with merch and other goodies, plus kids will be able to jump in the car and get some pretty cool photos with the unique car.