Tarmac Takeover: Dark Mode puts local talent in the Spotlight

By Forrest Nichols

On Sunday, June 8, 2025, Tarmac Takeover: Dark Mode, the second edition of the Tarmac Takeover series organized by 784Streetz and Hyperspeed, roared to life on the tarmac of the decommissioned E.T Joshua Airport.

This edition made history as the first ever night-time dexterity racing event in St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG), offering an electrifying twist on the now-anticipated showdown.

Setting itself apart from its predecessor, Dark Mode featured a fully home-grown roster, 100% local racers, proving that SVG’s motor sport scene is thriving with talent and passion.

In the lead-up to the event, drivers took part in The Rollout, a sponsor-focused series that saw them engaging with businesses such as One St Vincent Group, The Trend, and KFC. Feedback praised The Rollout for spotlighting sponsors’ products and services, even beyond the motor sport niche.

Drivers assembled for a short breifing before the event began.

As the sun dipped below the horizon on event day, engines fired up for practice laps, with the rumbles drawing in fans as darkness fell. Then the lights came on and so did the show.

Back-to-back racing left no room for dull moments. According to attendees, the pace was relentless, the energy electric, and the competition fierce.

Some finishes had drivers and fans alike on their toes as milliseconds separated winners from their closest challengers; each spectator backing their pick with passionate cheers.

With such an action-packed event, podium finishes were hard-earned, and standout performances across the two major categories, All Wheel Drive (AWD) and Two Wheel Drive (2WD), delivered unforgettable moments.

All Wheel Drive (AWD) Results:

First place: Keith Francis – Mitsubishi Evo 3.

Second place: Zachareaus Williams – Subaru Impreza WRX.

Third place: Diondre Woodly – Mitsubishi Evo 5.

Fastest AWD Time: Chad Francis – Mitsubishi Eclipse – 0:58.49.

Two Wheel Drive (2WD) Results:

First place: Daniel Anderson – BMW E36.

Second place: TJ Deane – Toyota Altezza.

Third place: Elroy Samuel – Suzuki Swift ZC33S.

Fastest 2WD Time: TJ Deane – 1:05.06.

In a release, the Tarmac Takeover team said it was “appreciative of the energy and collaboration each of you contributed. We look forward to future opportunities to build together. Thank you for making this event a true success.”

Keith Francis’ Mitsubishi Evo 3 going around the track during the practice session

Tarmac Takeover: Night Stage, is set to return in October as part of the Independence celebrations. This next edition will also see the return of the much-loved school tours, which aim to educate young people on motor sport careers, encourage safe driving, and grow the sport’s grass-roots support.

Tarmac Takeover continues to prove that motor sport in SVG is more than just racing; it’s culture, community, and a growing force for connection and local pride.