Cheech Yamauchi began his journey with Yokohama in 1982, conducting market research on the viability of the A001R tire for U.S. racing. The following year, as the sole employee of Orient Speed, Cheech introduced the tire to the U.S. market, where it quickly achieved victories in Showroom Stock and Solo II categories. This marked the beginning of Yokohama’s U.S. racing heritage.

In 1986, Cheech became an independent consultant for Yokohama, a role he continues to hold. His contributions have been instrumental in numerous IMSA Championships and victories at prestigious events such as the Daytona 24 Hours and Le Mans 24 Hours. Today, Cheech is the co-owner of Trackside Performance LLC and remains a vital figure in the racing community. Despite spending much of his life at the racetrack, Cheech wouldn’t have it any other way.


Vic Curl’s passion for off-road racing began in 1969 at the Mint 400. With an industrial arts degree and a background in teaching, Vic transitioned into the racing industry when he joined American Motors and Jeep Corporation in the early 1970s. He pioneered the use of a retrofitted semi-truck to support off-road efforts in Mexico, a first in the industry.

Vic has worked with icons such as Malcolm Smith and Rodger Mears and managed the West Coast branch of Renault Jeep Sport. Later, as manager of Precision Service Racing Group, Vic oversaw Yokohama’s participation in the Mickey Thompson Stadium Series and SCORE, supporting legendary drivers like Ivan Stewart and Rod Millen. Now co-owner of Trackside Performance LLC, Vic values the friendships and experiences he has gained throughout his career.


Gina Witter earned her Bachelor of Science in Business from California State University, Long Beach, and began her career with Yokohama Tire Corporation as an intern in 1989. Her passion for racing led her to work in various capacities at motorsports events. For the past 36 years, Gina has served as CFO of Trackside Performance LLC, where her dedication to the industry remains evident.


Bob Root brings over 15 years of experience in the aftermarket industry. Starting as an entry-level automotive technician at Saleen Performance Inc., Bob quickly advanced to lead technician, responsible for specialty car builds. He later moved into aftermarket sales and management roles, overseeing operations and customer service.

In 2008, Bob joined Trackside Performance LLC as an inventory control and accounting representative. He now serves as General Manager, where his expertise and leadership contribute significantly to the company’s success.