Finger Lakes Region SCCA News & Announcements

Finger Lakes Region SCCA to hold autocross school at RIT

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Sat, 12 Apr 2014 04:34:00 +0000

Novices work with an experienced "coach" at the FLR
Solo Novice School at RIT (Jane Quinn, 2011).

Finger Lakes Region SCCA will hold its annual Solo Novice School at Rochester Institute of Technology on Saturday, June 7. "Solo" is the Sports Car Club of America's brand of autocrossing.

It's defined as a driving skill competition, where you and your car negotiate a course laid out in a parking lot and marked with traffic cones. The lowest time wins, and penalty seconds are added to your score for each cone you knock down. It's just one car at a time, so there's little risk of trading paint with other cars.

Solo speeds are relatively low, typically second gear for most cars. The turns come up quickly, though, so don't be fooled into thinking Solo is boring. To get a good low time you must be smooth and precise, and quick. The skills you learn in the parking lot will greatly improve your car control, and help make you a safer driver on the street. You'll get personal training with experienced competitors

Attending our Novice School is for those who are just starting out in autocross, yet want to learn valuable skills, or who want strategy tips for the quickest way to navigate through a slalom--all this from experienced competitors and in just one day's time.

Do you want more hands on time learning about car control? The FLR SCCA Solo Novice school can get you there. We setup a course and everyone gets a baseline run. Throughout the day the drivers will practice various elements with an in-car instructor at different stations like slalom, braking, skid pad/figure eight and mini course.

At the end of the day, drivers get another try at the course.

It's a fun learning experience, plus you get a ton of seat time for much less than most driving schools. The cost for the day is only $75.

Pre-register through motorsportsreg.com.

SCCA names Lisa Noble as President and CEO

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Tue, 01 Apr 2014 03:21:00 +0000

Lisa Noble was selected as the new President
and CEO of the Sports Car Club of America.

Sports Car Club of America’s board of directors has selected Lisa Noble as president and chief executive officer. Noble has served as interim president and CEO since October 2013.

“We had a number of outstanding candidates for the position, and in the end, we unequivocally concluded that Lisa was the ideal selection,” said John Walsh, chairman of the SCCA board of directors. “She has the right mix of vision, leadership, understanding and passion to drive our organization forward.”

Noble has years of experience with SCCA across many areas of interest in both competition and volunteering.

“As I look back on my decades of membership and service to the SCCA, and the joy this has brought me, I’m humbled at the opportunity to lead the best amateur motorsports organization in the country,” Noble said. “I’m proud to have had the opportunity over the last few months to work with a great staff and base of volunteers to develop dynamic programs that will grow our organization.”

Noble’s SCCA career started as a teenager, spanning several decades as a volunteer and driver. Voted to serve SCCA’s board of directors in 2008, she held a variety of positions, including chairman of the board in 2013. As a road racing driver, Noble has been a fixture in the Formula Vee community for years. She received the prestigious Kimberly Cup award for the most improved SCCA Club Racing driver in 1999 and was voted into the Road Racing Drivers Club in 2013. Noble has achieved professional success as owner and CEO in a variety of entrepreneurial ventures including retail jewelry, commercial real estate and motorsports.

Under Noble’s leadership stint as chairman and interim president, the club has launched new initiatives including the SCCA U.S. Majors Tour and MSX – North American MotorSports Expo. Additionally, SCCA experienced a level of membership growth not seen in more than 10 years.

“I see three primary keys to building on our current momentum: member engagement, participation and leadership,” Noble said. “First, we must continue to work on providing the right mix of programs to engage our membership. Second is redefining how we invite enthusiasts into our sport. This includes being more welcoming, with easier entry points for participation that embrace technology. Finally, we need to continue to find the right support for our members. They make the SCCA the great club that it is and we need to leverage that spirit and passion to improve SCCA.”

She begins her post with the Topeka, Kan.- based, national organization immediately.

Ads from the April 2014 issue of Top End

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Sun, 23 Mar 2014 17:14:00 +0000

For Sale: 1997 Subaru Outback, 70K miles (Yes, NOT 170K), No Rust (Brought up from NC in '08), No Accidents, Same family since new, Two sets of wheels and tires, Timing belt has been replaced, $4200. Call Mark Seelbinder 585-352-1202 (4/14)

For Sale: 1991 Mazda Miata Track Car - 1991 1.6L Miata fully prepared for track days or time trials. $6900/obo. Hard Dog roll bar, stripped interior, Ultra Shield race seats, harnesses, hard top. Street legal. Car has run 10-12 track days for 3 seasons trouble free. No rust. Spare wheels. See ScottGrinnellRacing.com for details and pics. Scott Grinnell - sgrinnell@rochester.rr.com, 585-506-7366 (11/13)

For Sale: Subaru Impreza WRX, white with 136k miles. It has a Sti body kit, with 3” JDM hood scoop, upgraded turbo, Sti injectors, new rotors. Both clutch and transmission have been replaced within the past year. There are two sets of rims, one with Artic snow tires, and a set of gold JDM rims with Federal 595 tires. It can be seen in Honeoye, or in Scottsville, whichever is nearer to you. Asking $5,500, and will give an SCCA discount. Great rally, or rallycross car. Phone 1 585 889 1289, or e-mail, lynnscca@rochester.rr.com. (11/13)

For Sale: Four (4) Corvette Wagon Wheels 18" x 9.5". OEM with factory markings, light weight construction. Mounted with 255/40/18 BFGoodrich G-Force Comp II tires. Everything is brand new. $500 OBO. Enkei Spiderwebs - 17x7, 5x114.3, Kumho V710s with some life in them staggered 225/245. $400 OBO. Call 202-352-2627 or email marcus.kroll@gmail.com (11/13)

For Sale: R Comp tires. All are size 205/50/15 and only used on my Spec Miata. Always stored indoors or on enclosed trailer. - Set of 4 Toyo R888 originally shaved to 4/32" and heat cycled. These tires only have 8 heat cycles on them and would be great for Solo, track days, or even race. Plenty of life left in these. Still have 3/32" tread. Asking $150/set. - Set of 5 Toyo RA-1's. 3 of the 5 were shaved to 3/32" and only have 4 heat cycles on them. Between 1.5-2/32" tread. 2 of the 5 have 4 heat cycles and are at 4/32" (still original shave). These would be great for Solo, time trial, track day, or race. Cheap way to try R-Comps for the first time. Asking $80 for all 5. Contact Tom Kearney at Tjkearney3@hotmail.com (10/13)

Smith/Hobron win 'Ithaca Rally' by one point over Batman/Rhoads

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Tue, 25 Feb 2014 20:38:00 +0000

John Kastenhuber, co-Rallymaster

Click to see larger version.

Since Gary and I work together, we often have discussion of rallying at work, not a punishable offense by any means, or the “government” work done after hours engraving mugs and using the printers.

Prior to the event, I think Gary had the Cornell Doppler weather service posted at all times on the computer. We were hoping it wasn’t going to be a complete mud-fest. Friday night, Paul Batman and Matt Rhoads stayed the weekend in preparation for the event. “Boy, it would be real nice if we got some snow” was the topic of discussion, while I learned, among other things, how to make an ALFA to TIMEWISE VSS adapter.

And so, the wish came true, about four inches fell overnight. Driving into Watkins Glen, Gary called and I told him “You got what you wished for”.

At the event, I still had a problem, I was working as course opening, and I still didn’t have a navigator. Gary introduced me to some guy named Charlie. Charlie and I left Burger King to make our way to the OMP and Checkpoint one. Along the way, I found out that Charlie is none other than Charlie Tanck, the new Regional Executive (R.E.). He was an excellent navigator, and has great things in store for our region.

On our way to checkpoint five, I notice a certain “Forester” coming up on me hard, can you believe car one had caught up to me? So Charlie and I stopped and figured out how to cut him off at checkpoint six,
with success.

At the halfway point, I found out that Karl Haltiner had hit a deer with his Subaru. Now this actually makes the second or third time he has hit a deer at our event.

I asked people how they liked the first half, everyone enjoyed the snow on the roads and the challenge it presented.

During the second half, I managed to get ahead, and stay ahead of car one for the remainder of the night.

Once back at Manos, I started scoring entries as they came in. I heard that one of the novice teams navigator had gotten carsick, and just went back to Manos, and another team got completely lost, and then found themselves while completing the rally, and that Kurt Thiel found out the Jedi mind trick doesn’t work in a VW golf.

We received excellent reviews of the event, with Alan Smith telling me “This is the hardest I’ve had to work driving in a long time”. This made me feel good as he is my sworn enemy in Equipped class.

I would like to thank all of the gracious volunteers, who came well out of their way to work checkpoints and sweep the event. Tom and Deb Langdon, Barbara Abrams, Bob Van Sice (who drove the entire rally, that’s impressive) and his son, Carl Dresie and Barb Lissow, Dave Avery and Sue Bossert, Mike and Marsha Toombs, and the RPI grad duo of Larry Wells and Johanna Primmer, and Rick Barnes and Jason Kostyshak, who enjoyed their leisurely drive along the Southern Tier and didn’t have to get out of the Mountaineer.

Scoring, took its usual hour or so to
complete, along with a couple of minor
adjustments in the end.

We had seven Novice teams start the night, and six finished. In seventh place with a 2533 was the team of Ron and Mackenzie Stevens, in sixth place with 1489, were Tom Carpenter and Duane Balandis, in fifth place with 1484 were Andrew Byrne and Ashley Vinihig, in fourth place with 1355 were Paul and Andrew Urbanski, in third place with 1313 were Dan and Jennifer Scales, in second place with 1193 were Ryan and Tamara Kolupa. Winning the class with a 1035 were Max Hartanieml and James Parascandola.

Stock saw two entries. In second with 650.1, were Chris Camadelia and Emma Briggs, Winning the division (as usual) the husband and wife superduo of Jamie Hayslip and Gretchen Kriesen with a 144.1.

Limited saw four entries. In fourth with 2800, (very unusual) was Karl Haltiner and Greg Peck, (Hopefully his car gets fixed soon as he is the next rallymaster). In third with 1609.3, were John Frame and Doug Weglicki, in second, with 506 were Jim Perrin and Lee McElhinney.

And finishing first, running with the Equipped group, were Jeff and Steve Coppola with an 82. Equipped was the most competitive class, with the top three teams five points from one another. In fifth place with a 391, were Kurt Thiel and Russ Norton, in fourth place and 113 points Dan and Anna Thiel, in third with 81, were Eric Salminen and Dennis Blevins, in second place with a 77, Paul Batman and Matt Rhoads. Winning the class and the overall event was the team of Alan Smith and Eric Hobron, with a 76.

I would also like to thank Gary Thomas, who truly makes the entire Ithaca Winter Rally series happen. I hope that next year’s event can live up to the excellence that this years possessed. I hope to see everybody at next year’s event as well.

Digital edition: February 2014 issue of TOP END

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Tue, 18 Feb 2014 17:54:00 +0000

February 2014 TOP END

Readers may opt to view in an interactive reader (via Issuu.com) or download a PDF to store on one's own computer.

Select your choice:

Archives of older issues are available from the Top End section of the main FLR website.

Plans for 2014 Finger Lakes Region SCCA's Solo program to be discussed

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Sun, 02 Feb 2014 05:52:00 +0000

Finger Lakes Region SCCA members and guests are invited to the next Solo meeting and General Membership meeting, Tuesday, Feb. 4, at Fireside Grill & Sports Bar, 3939 E Henrietta Rd, Henrietta, NY 14467 (map). The Solo meeting begins at 7 p.m., followed by the General meeting at 8 p.m.

Solo Board co-chair Shaun Hallam advised agenda topics for the 7 p.m. meeting:

Marketing Update
Website Update
Scheduling
2014 Supplemental Regulations

Per an email sent by Shaun:

Starting this year SCCA rules now call for two versions of the Stock category, the existing one with R-Compound tires and new Street category that require street tires like the Street Touring category (UTQC rating >140).

As a region we generally run an indexed class for each category (Stock and Street, Street Touring, Street Prepared, Street Modified, Prepared, Modified) except karts (JA, JB, JC), which are each their own classes and we have two elective indexed classes: Pro and Novice.

I say generally because we have combined the Stock and Street categories into a single index class. The list below calls out these indexed classes we will run in FLR this year.

Preliminary version of the rules spells out the new classes and rules as well as re-classing of some cars is available on the SCCA website.

Classes for this year will be:

Pro (including SP and SM w/ R-Comps)
Novice
Street & Street-R (both using PAX)
Street Touring
Street Prepared
Street Modified
Prepared
Modified
JA
JB
JC

Classified ads from the February 2014 issue of Top End

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Wed, 22 Jan 2014 18:25:00 +0000

For Sale: 1991 Mazda Miata Track Car - 1991 1.6L Miata fully prepared for track days or time trials. $6900/obo. Hard Dog roll bar, stripped interior, Ultra Shield race seats, harnesses, hard top. Street legal. Car has run 10-12 track days for 3 seasons trouble free. No rust. Spare wheels. See ScottGrinnellRacing.com for details and pics. Scott Grinnell - sgrinnell@rochester.rr.com, 585-506-7366

For Sale: Rallycross Tires For sale: Hakkapelitta 185-70-14 NR-09 snow tires. two new mounted on new 5 bolt 144mm steel wheels. $75 each? Have numerous used ones. Gary Thomas, Ithaca, NY gary.george.thomas@gmail.com (2/14)

For Sale: Subaru Impreza WRX, white with 136k miles. It has a Sti body kit, with 3” JDM hood scoop, upgraded turbo, Sti injectors, new rotors. Both clutch and transmission have been replaced within the past year. There are two sets of rims, one with Artic snow tires, and a set of gold JDM rims with Federal 595 tires. It can be seen in Honeoye, or in Scottsville, whichever is nearer to you. Asking $5,500, and will give an SCCA discount. Great rally, or rallycross car. Phone 1 585 889 1289, or e-mail, lynnscca@rochester.rr.com. (11/13)

For Sale: R Comp tires. All are size 205/50/15 and only used on my Spec Miata. Always stored indoors or on enclosed trailer. - Set of 4 Toyo R888 originally shaved to 4/32" and heat cycled. These tires only have 8 heat cycles on them and would be great for Solo, track days, or even race. Plenty of life left in these. Still have 3/32" tread. Asking $150/set. - Set of 5 Toyo RA-1's. 3 of the 5 were shaved to 3/32" and only have 4 heat cycles on them. Between 1.5-2/32" tread. 2 of the 5 have 4 heat cycles and are at 4/32" (still original shave). These would be great for Solo, time trial, track day, or race. Cheap way to try R-Comps for the first time. Asking $80 for all 5. Contact Tom Kearney at Tjkearney3@hotmail.com (10/13)

For Sale: Four (4) Corvette Wagon Wheels 18" x 9.5". OEM with factory markings, light weight construction. Mounted with 255/40/18 BFGoodrich G-Force Comp II tires. Everything is brand new. $500 OBO. Enkei Spiderwebs - 17x7, 5x114.3, Kumho V710s with some life in them staggered 225/245. $400 OBO. Call 202-352-2627 or email marcus.kroll@gmail.com (11/13)

For Sale: 2011 Stehl Tow 2 wheel car dolly with electric brakes & certificate of origin. Asking $650. Contact Ernie Strong at 315 289-1625, Sodus Point NY (8/13)

Saturday's RallyCross rescheduled to January 25

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Thu, 09 Jan 2014 20:07:00 +0000

After frigid temperatures, the weather is predicted to quickly warm up this weekend, with the addition of rain.

Due to this, RallyCross chairman Tony Zanni has postponed Sunday's event until Saturday, Jan. 25.

"Please stay tuned here for updates regarding this event. Temps are supposed to rise to the mid 40s by Saturday which would turn our field into a swamp," he wrote on the event's Facebook page. "Since this is our only RallyX location I don't want to destroy it by running in a big sloppy mud fest. In that event we will probably postpone the event until better frozen weather freezes the ground again. Please stay tuned..."

Information on this event, as posted on Facebook, is noted below.

###

Registration is 9:00am First car off 10:00am.

THE USUALS::
This is the 8th event of the 2013/14 season. January could mean rain, snow, cold, mud or whatever. Come even if you don't drive, get a ride a long with one of the competitors, hang out for lunch and be a part of RallyX Life. If Charli Tameris comes we might even have some firewood for a keep warm spot by the barn.

Registration/Tech Inspection 9am
First car off 10am

Perry's Park
4538 Caledonia Rd, Leicester NY

Helmets required Loaners available.

Paid registration gets you lunch... We will be supplying hots and hamburgs on the grill. If you are spectating and would like lunch we ask if you can chip in $5 bucks.

SCCA members $35
Non Members $45
Call with questions, 585-281-2510

The Long Way Home impressions

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Wed, 08 Jan 2014 19:26:00 +0000

by Gretchen Kriesen

We all like Alan. He's a superb driver. He's a dedicated and productive club member. He’s an all-around nice guy. And so it surprised me when it became clear how diabolical he can be as Rallymaster.

On our way to the start of The Long Way Home rally, Jamie said, "Alan is famous for early-rally check points." Prophetic, that.

4:47:00 Our rally begins.
4:50:64 Check Point #1

Not ONLY does our Rallymaster put a check point at mile 1.058, but it's the ONE instruction before a short Free Zone. WHO DOES THAT? Alan. Alan does that. And that's when the first string of expletives were spat out in our car and the blaming began. We run in stock class, so each check point means, as navigator, I have to redo all of the calculations I've done thus far (about a page). So now Page 2 of my rally book is messy and I really don't like that.

4:56:00 Our rally continues.
5:01:20 Check Point #2

Alan is cursed. I have to redo all of the calculations on Page 2 for a SECOND TIME. Blue ink starts to take over the page and I have blue ink on my hands. I blame Jamie. Jamie, seeing that I'm flustered, starts to "help" by asking me if I've checked this and that and the other thing. I remind him that I am a competent navigator. He reminds me how often I tell him to turn left when it's really right.

"THERE IS NO TRUST IN THIS CAR!,” Jamie says.

"It's Alan's fault," I mutter, scribbling and re-calculating.

5:05:00 Our rally continues.
5:22:94 Check Point #3

COME ON! Now, this is actually a reasonable amount of time between check points, but three check points in 16.4 miles is mean. Just mean. Alan is cursed again as Page 2 become a blur of blue.

"I'm going to give that man a piece of my mind when I see him. How can someone so nice be so.... so cruel?? It's the first rally of the season for Pete's sake! Can't we have at least one page to get our bearings?? Why is he doing this to us? Do we have an extra pen? I'm going to run out of ink."

I can't speak for the other cars, but I'm betting we weren't the only ones sent into a tail spin and that the other cars running stock had an equally upsetting, messy Page 2. A few days after the rally, I was calm enough to be more objective about things. The mature side of me (and the competitive side) had to concede that those first three check points had a bit of Rallymaster Genius to them.

I did not admit this to Alan when I saw him last week. I continued my rant, sharing it with Adrienne, who hadn't been at the rally. She'd understand, I thought. She'd understand the messy rally book, smeared with blue pen, and how annoying that could be. She'd be on my side. I railed against the injustice of those three checkpoints. She listened, smiling. "My book was a hot mess!" I waited for her to be on my side.

"Have you considered using a pencil instead of a pen?" she asked.

Pencil. Well, yeah. Pencil really would have made everything much neater.

Snow and cold provide 20 teams another excellent 'Long Way Home'

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Tue, 07 Jan 2014 19:35:00 +0000

Alan Smith, Rallymaster

The fifteenth version of “The Long Way Home” was held January 4. It is hard to believe that I have done this event that many times, but time flies when you are having fun, right?

Rally routes that challenge but don't intimidate,
promising snow-covered roads and crisp, cold dark
nights are what draw competitors to 'The Long Way Home.'

Twenty teams competed, three in Equipped, four in Limited, four in Stock, and nine in Novice class! We started at a new location this year, the Wadsworth Grill just a few miles from the previous start location, The Yard of Ale in Piffard. Karen at the Wadsworth Grill was very accommodating and I think it worked out as a good start/ finish location.

The evening wasn’t a perfect rally night, that would have included falling snow to make it extra challenging, but it was a fun, cold evening with plenty of snow on the ground and roads.

I am proud to report that all competing teams made it through to the finish. I wish I could report the same for my worker crews. The crew of Alan Blood and Craig McMaster were running late to a checkpoint location and had a minor slide off the road which they claimed was due to misinformation in the checkpoint directions, but we all know that “rallymasters don’t make mistakes.” The other checkpoint crew incident was Dave Avery and Sally Bossert, who broke a half shaft; I don’t think this was due to the event, but a random occurrence that happened during my event.

Anyway, thanks have to go to the many people that helped put on this event: Carl Dresie and Eric Hobron for checking the route, Ben and Pam Gilmore for registration and scoring, Marnie Soom for helping with registration and working checkpoints, Cory Kuhns for doing Tech and working checkpoints, Tom Langdon for the Novice school and working checkpoint 1, Deb Langdon for helping with registration and working checkpoint 1, Alan Blood and Craig McMaster for working checkpoints 2 & 8, Barb Lissow for working checkpoints 4 & 10 and keeping Carl on task, Larry Wells and Paul Walker for working checkpoints 5 & 11, Dave Avery and Sally Bossert for working checkpoints 6 & 12, Bob Van Sice & son for working checkpoints 7 & 13 and Rick Barnes and Jason Kostyshak for doing sweep.

Of the nine Novice teams, John Frame and Andrew Colaruotislo came out on top with 447 points; they even had incredible scores of 1, 4, 5, and 8. Second in class was Jeremy and Allison Charette with 543 points; their scores included a -5, -1, and -4. Third was taken by Frederick and Victoria Folsom close behind with 905 points. It has to be noted that upon after event review, the team of Lex Sleeman and David Coon had an entry error in their scoring for checkpoint 1 and their score was actually 884 instead of the 1084 posted at the event, moving them up into a trophy position.

Jaime Hayslip and Gretchen Kriesen were first in Stock class with 70.4 factored points, with Andy Walker and Sarah Wiacer in second with 417 points. Rounding out the top three was Mike McGinnis and Ryan Hallock with 552 points. Of the four Limited teams, Karl Haltiner and Mac McCann took their not unexpected first place and first overall with 31 points followed by Jeff and Steve Coppola at 303 points. Tony Zanni and Mark Froelich took third with 715 points after recovering from missing the reroute instructions posted at the door at the break.

Equipped had three teams. Gary Thomas and John Kastenhuber took first in class with 269 points. Their score requires more explanation due to the fact there was an extra Begin Free Zone (BFZ) in the first instruction, with another BFZ at the instruction after the OMP. This caused them to come into Checkpoint 1 before even I got there. Without this situation, and that 200 max, their score would have been much improved and they still would have taken first in Equipped. Second was the team of Kurt Thiel and Russ Norton with 682 points with Dan and Anna Thiel close behind with 696 points.

The final thank you must go to my lovely wife Amy and son Andy. Amy is the one that makes it possible for me to put these events on. She and Andy were my backup checkpoint crew and Andy gathered cell phone numbers during registration. I love you both!

January Solo meeting agenda/topics of discussion

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Sat, 04 Jan 2014 20:19:00 +0000

The January Solo meeting will be Tuesday, Jan. 7, at 7 p.m. at the Fireside Grill and Sports Bar, located at 3939 East Henrietta Rd, Henrietta, NY 14467 [map].

If you feel strongly about any of the topics but can’t make it to the meeting you may email me and I will bring your email to the discussion.

Items for the agenda are:

Marketing Update
New Site suggestions
Classing discussion
Website update

The classing discussion will likely include the new rules and classing from SCCA as well as the PAX alternative DAX. PAX and DAX provide an index that is applied to raw times to compare times between different cars.

A few years ago we used to run the standard SCCA classes but as our participation numbers dwindled we moved to indexed classes based upon PAX. This was done to have fewer classes with larger numbers rather than have many classes often with just a few cars per class. The idea is that with fewer classes there is better competition.

PAX has been used regionally and in some national events (ProSolo/Match Tour) and created/maintained by Rick Ruth. It is based on past results and is adjusted by Rick. Some people believe that PAX doesn’t appropriately index street tire classes and take into account the differences between concrete and asphalt. DAX is a new system based only on data and provides another index.

PAX:

http://home.comcast.net/~paxrtp/

DAX:

http://www.sccaforums.com/forums/aft/444834

Discussions on classing and DAX vs. PAX vs. ?

-Shaun Hallam
FLR Solo Co-Chair

2014 FLR Solo Board

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Thu, 19 Dec 2013 19:53:00 +0000

2014 FLR Solo Board Co-chairs Marcus Kroll and Shaun Hallam announced the members of the Solo Board today.

Jim Hoelscher, Colin Kingsley, George Modlin, Aretta Stillman and Mike Stutzman, and Mike Toombs, with the chairs, will administer the region's autocross program this coming season.

Digital edition: December issue of TOP END

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Sun, 24 Nov 2013 18:15:00 +0000

December 2013 TOP END

Readers may opt to view in an interactive reader (via Issuu.com) or download a PDF to store on one's own computer.

Select your choice:

Archives of older issues are available from the Top End section of the main FLR website.

November board meeting moved to Henrietta

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Wed, 20 Nov 2013 04:01:00 +0000

The November meeting of the board of directors (Tuesday, Nov. 26) has been moved to a new location:

Fireside Grill & Sports Bar
3939 E Henrietta Rd
Henrietta, NY 14467 (585) 486-4611

The board is taking a 'test run' to see if this might be a good location to move both the board meetings as well as the general membership meetings.

It is conveniently located just east of I-390 at I-90/Exit 46, on Rte. 15A (E. Henrietta Road), north of Erie Station Road and south of the Thruway at the intersection with Garden Parkway. It is across the street from Roth High School.

It was formerly FDRs and, according to reviews on Yelp, was quite run-down and dilapidated. However, reviews rave that the new owners have done a great job renovating and the majority of people who wrote reviews enjoyed the food selection.

[Directions / Bing Maps]

Classified ads from the December issue of Top End

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Tue, 19 Nov 2013 19:52:00 +0000

For Sale: 2011 Volvo C30 R-Design. 2.5l turbo engine (eligible for Polestar upgrade), 6 speed manual transmission, Dynamic Sport suspension. One owner, little old lady's car. 100% dealer maintained with all updates. Passion red exterior, charcoal leather/Flextech interior with nearly new Continental DWS all-season tires. Good all-weather car. Preferred (moonroof, keyless drive, dual power seats) and Climate (heated front seats, headlamp washers, rain sensor wipers, electronic climate control, interior air quality system) optional packages. Full R-Design package with body kit, front and rear spoilers, R-Design interior touches, sport pedals, etc. 55,200 mostly highway miles with remainder of 5 year/60,000 mile factory bumper-to-bumper (includes wipers and brake pads) transferable warranty. HD radio, Bluetooth hands-free, USB and AUX ports, keyless entry. Comes with Volvo roof rack system by Thule. Also has powered trailer lighting adapter, ready for trailer hitch plus Volvo rubber winter floor mats. Gets 21-24 mpg around town, 29-32 mpg on highway (EPA 21/29). All receipts and original window sticker available.
http://www.edmunds.com/volvo/c30/2011/
$17,900. Email jguerdat@gmail.com or call 330-5956 for contact info and more details.(12/13)

For Sale: Really good, mounted MICHELIN SNOW TIRES ! Just now, when you need them most but at an end of season price! Yes, these are theauthentic, made in the USA Michelins, used but four winters. Tread like you wouldn't believe. The wheels are steel, 16x16.5, 5-114, cb64. Will fit most popular cars with a 16 or 17 inch wheel. Snow tire is 215/55R16. This package was 656 bucks new - now only 350 American or sweetest offer. Call now - Bob Swinehart, 585 223 5159 or 585 615 6435. (11/13)

For Sale: Subaru Impreza WRX,white with 136k miles. It has a Sti body kit, with 3” JDM hood scoop, upgraded turbo, Sti injectors, new rotors. Both clutch and transmission have been replaced within the past year. There are two sets of rims, one with Artic snow tires, and a set of gold JDM rims with Federal 595 tires. It can be seen in Honeoye, or in Scottsville, whichever is nearer to you. Asking $5,500, and will give an SCCA discount. Great rally, or rallycross car. Phone 1 585 889 1289, or e-mail, lynnscca@rochester.rr.com. (11/13)

For Sale: Log booked 1994 KBS MK8 494 non rave. This car has been autocrossed and road raced with 2 full log books. Comes with a set of rains on wheels, Hoosiers with one season on them, 2 extra complete set of Hoosiers on wheels. Spare clutch parts, suspension pieces, gearing etc. Custom paint 2012. Asking $5,200 for everything. Call Jake at 315-576-7847. (11/13)

For Sale: 1) 1991 Miata - fully prepped for track days/time trails. Hard top, hard dog roll bar, Ultra shield seats, Koni sport shocks, Spx2 Induction, Borla exhaust, Kosei K-1 wheels. Many other upgrade and maintenance parts. 2) 1997 Miata - 59k miles, Touring Package, 'real' oil pressure gauge, shock tower and subframe braces. A great low mileage car in nearly stock (bolt-on mods only) condition. Contact Scott at 585-506-7366 or sgrinnell@rochester.rr.com for a full list of upgrades and details for either car. (11/13)

For Sale: R Comp tires. All are size 205/50/15 and only used on my Spec Miata. Always stored indoors or on enclosed trailer. - Set of 4 Toyo R888 originally shaved to 4/32" and heat cycled. These tires only have 8 heat cycles on them and would be great for Solo, track days, or even race. Plenty of life left in these. Still have 3/32" tread. Asking $150/set. - Set of 5 Toyo RA-1's. 3 of the 5 were shaved to 3/32" and only have 4 heat cycles on them. Between 1.5-2/32" tread. 2 of the 5 have 4 heat cycles and are at 4/32" (still original shave). These would be great for Solo, time trial, track day, or race. Cheap way to try R-Comps for the first time. Asking $80 for all 5. Contact Tom Kearney at Tjkearney3@hotmail.com (10/13)

For Sale: Four (4) Corvette Wagon Wheels 18" x 9.5". OEM with factory markings, light weight construction. Mounted with 255/40/18 BFGoodrich G-Force Comp II tires. Everything is brand new. $700 firm. Call 202-352-2627 or email marcus.kroll@gmail.com (11/13)

For Sale: Top of the line 2000 Winnebago Chieftain 37' diesel pusher with a slide for living / kitchen areas. On our 2012 trip, towing about 4600 pounds (car on trailer), we traveled 6600 miles and averaged 10.4 miles per gallon!
Well maintained with plenty of upgrades. NEW in 2012: Banks PowerPack for improved power & fuel mileage; 26" LCD TV w/ 3 year protection plan; TruControl Proportional Trailer Brake Controller; Dish Solo HD Receiver' Winegard Road Trip Automatic Satellite Antenna w/ 2 year protection plan; both side mirrors replaced; new toilet. Includes Queen Expanded Sleep Comfort Bed; Safe-T-Plus Steering Control; SmartTire RV 6+4 Tire pressure and temperature monitor, custom computer work station; and more. Sold “As Is” but it's in great condition. Carpets & upholstery cleaned June 2013. Mileage 47,900
See extensive photo gallery for all amenities and upgrades: http://www.retiredaz.4t.com/winnie.htm
17' Featherlite car trailer also available with first refusal to purchaser of RV. New $5778. Four new tires and 2 new axles 2012 (~$1400). Price $3900
Contact Bill at 585-214-9174 or blaitenberger@gmail.com (9/13)

For Sale: 1991 Miata. It’s time for BB the ‘91 Miata to have a new home. He has been a super winter car for the past 11 years and Pub the MINI has appreciated him. If you are interested, here are the bare bones: (as posted on Rochester CraigsList): 215,000 miles. RUNS GREAT! NYS Inspected, 30+MPG, Power steering, AC, Radio & Door locks have not worked for years, body is rusty BUT is still fun to drive. 900/ BO Call Brian 585.317.8733 (8/13)

For Sale: 2011 Stehl Tow 2 wheel car dolly with electric brakes & certificate of origin. Asking $650. Contact Ernie Strong at 315 289-1625, Sodus Point NY (8/13)

For Sale: 1) 1989 Mazda 323 GTX. Former open class ClubRally car, (found log book). Great RallyCross or ice race car. Asking $1500. 2) 1984 Ford EXP Turbo Coupe. Rare car, a few modifications, needs some finishing. $1500. 3) 1988 Mazda 323 SE. Fairly basic, no rust, needs clutch. $500. 4) Two (2) racing karts, both ethanol Raptor powered. $650 each, or $1000 for both. Call 585-967-3762 for more info. (3/13)

SCCA releases 2014 Tire Rack SCCA National Solo schedule

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Thu, 14 Nov 2013 18:31:00 +0000

The 2014 Tire Rack SCCA National Solo® schedule, including Championship Tour, Match Tour, and ProSolo events, was announced today to participants. The schedule features 27 events, spread out over the three formats.

The Tire Rack SCCA Championship Tour season begins March 15-16 in Cecil, Ga., at the South Georgia Motorsports Park. A traditional location on the Solo calendar, the event falls just one week after the SCCA National Convention in Charlotte, N.C. – close enough for those across the country to participate in both events.

The Tire Rack ProSolo Series season begins one week later at another traditional site, March 22-23 in Blytheville, Ark. Blytheville also appears at the end of the Championship Tour schedule, Sept. 27-28 following the Tire Rack Solo National Championships. The end of the season event will feature a permanent course beginning in 2014, to remain consistent moving forward, with the local community working with SCCA to develop incentives and rewards for track record holders – by nature, a rarity in the Solo community.

The second season of the Tire Rack Match Tour format begins April 12-13 in Wilmington, Ohio. The former hub of DHL Shipping’s US operations, the airport site is wide, smooth and provides options for a variety of courses.

The options available at Wilmington make the area a prime site for Solo competition, and the schedule reflects that. Wilmington is the only location on the schedule to host all three formats, as the ProSolo and Championship Tours will visit on back to back weekends, July 26-27 and August 2-3.

Packwood, Wash., hosts back to back events in early July. The Championship Tour visits July 5-6, followed immediately by the ProSolo July 12-13. The Packwood site is legendary for its scenery, beauty, and all around good fun, providing an excellent vacation destination for out-of-towners.

Crows Landing, near Patterson, Calif., returns to the schedule in a big way after a 20 year absence. The large concrete pad, used in the past by both the military and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) for training exercises, hosts a Pro Solo, June 7-8, and a Championship Tour, June 14-15. The last SCCA National event held at the site was a ProSolo in 1994.

While an event “in Atlanta” has been on the schedule several times over the years, for the first time in recent history the event will occur in the city proper. The Turner Field parking lots have been secured for the May 17-18 Match Tour event.

Also returning are the traditional Spring Nationals at the Lincoln Airpark on Memorial Day weekend, featuring the ProSolo on Friday and Saturday, May 23-24, and the Championship Tour, May 25-26.

Collectively, the events make up the “Road to Lincoln” and the 42nd Tire Rack Solo National Championship. The week-long event begins with the ProSolo Finale, Aug. 30-31, and the crowning of National Solo Champions September 2-5 at the Lincoln Airpark.

The National Solo schedules are:

Tire Rack ProSolo Series

March 22-23: Akansas Aeroplex (formerly Eaker AFB) in Blytheville, AR
April 5-6: El Toro ex-Marine base in Irvine, CA
April 26-27: Fed Ex Field in Largo, MD, near Washington, D.C.
May 3-4: Mineral Wells Airport in Mineral Wells, TX
May 23-24: Lincoln Airpark in Lincoln, NE
June 7-8: NASA Crows Landing Airport, near Patterson, CA
June 28-29: Toledo Express Airport in Toledo, OH
July 12-13: Former Hamilton Lumber Plant in Packwood, WA
July 26-27: Wilmington Airpark in Wilmington, OH
August 30-31: ProSolo Finale at Lincoln Airpark in Lincoln, NE

Tire Rack Championship Tour

March 15-16: South Georgia Motorsports Park in Cecil, GA
March 29-30: Texas A&M Annex near College Station, TX
April 12-13: Qualcomm Stadium in San Diego, CA
May 3-4: MetLife Stadium, E. Rutherford, NJ
May 25-26: Lincoln Airpark in Lincoln, NE
June 14-15: NASA Crows Landing Airport, near Patterson, CA
July 5-6: Former Hamilton Lumber Plant in Packwood, WA
August 2-3: Wilmington Airpark in Wilmington, OH
September 2-5: 42nd Tire Rack Solo National Championships at Lincoln Airpark in Lincoln, NE
September 27-28: Arkansas Aeroplex (formerly Eaker AFB) in Blytheville, AR

Tire Rack Match Tour

April 12-13: Wilmington Airpark in Wilmington, OH
May 17-18: Turner Field in Atlanta, GA
June 7-8: Devens Airfield Police Training Facility in Ayer, MA
June 14-15: Pikes Peak International Raceway in Fountain, CO
July 5-6: Grissom Airpark near Peru, IN
August 16-17: Milwaukee, WI
October TBA: western location tbd

More information on the Tire Rack SCCA Solo program can be found at SCCA.com/Solo.

The Petty Experience, Vegas Style

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Thu, 14 Nov 2013 00:31:00 +0000

Finger Lakes Region member Mary Hartman will share her adrenaline-generating experiences on both a Ride-Along and Drive in a 600-HP NASCAR race car at Las Vegas Motor Speedway at the December general meeting.

Mary Hartman with her NASCAR
race car at LVMS for her "experience."

The Richard Petty Driving Experience claims to be "the worldwide leader in NASCAR stock car ride and drive entertainment," and is offered at more than 20 major speedways and race tracks in the U.S. The RPDE provides several ride-along packages, all with a professional driving instructor, reaching speeds over 160mph.

Las Vegas Motor Speedway is located about 15 miles northeast of the Strip. Its 1,200-acre complex includes several different track formats for a variety of racing. These include three road courses (2.4 miles and 1.1 miles and an "exotics" course), two paved ovals (Superspeedway and The Bullring), a clay oval, a drag strip and an off-road course.

Las Vegas Motor Speedway has
multiple tracks and configurations.

"Since they had a 'buy-one-get-one' three-lap ride around, my vacation buddy and I split the cost and each got a ride around at 165 mph," she said. "I then did two 10-lap sessions."

This isn't her first time with the Richard Petty Driving Experience as she did it once before in Orlando in March 2012. That earned her a $200 coupon for another "experience," so on a recent trip to Las Vegas, she took advantage of trying it again.

"While last year I had to follow an 'instructor car' and topped out at 126 mph, this year the instructor rode with me," she explained. "We followed pylons for turning and apex points, and line markers in between."

Part of the "experience" for Mary was getting comfortable in the car as well as learning the track itself.

"The car set up was different at Las Vegas due to the banking. It took some practice to learn to accommodate for the steering wanting to turn left," she said. "I was just getting used to the feel of the car when the first session was over!"

With her $200-off coupon, she purchased another 10-lap Drive.

"For the price of what I saved with my coupon, I got a second session of 10 laps, with my times getting faster almost each lap," she said. "My last lap, I was pleased to find out I made 140 mph!"

FLR members and guests are invited to the general membership meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 3, at Murph's Irondequoit Pub, located at 705 Titus Ave. in Rochester. The meeting begins at 8 p.m. Her presentation, complemented with videos, will begin after the meeting.

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Thu, 07 Nov 2013 04:40:00 +0000

Champions in the 2013 Kryderacing Regional Championship Series will be crowned at the awards banquet on Saturday, Nov. 23, at A La Carte Catering in Canfield, Ohio.

The banquet begins with a cocktail hour, with appetizers, at 6 p.m., followed by dinner at 7 p.m. The cost is $35.00 per person and includes appetizers, drinks and buffet dinner.

Reservations are required and must be made prior to Monday, Nov. 18, by calling 330-854-4889 or emailing kryderacing@aol.com. Payment should be mailed to:

Kryderacing
8930 Indian Hill Cir NW
Canal Fulton, OH 44614

Directions to A La Carte Catering (429 Lisbon St., Canfield OH)

Area Map:

View Larger Map

November issue of online Top End available

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Mon, 04 Nov 2013 07:45:00 +0000

November 2013 TOP END

Readers may opt to view in an interactive reader (via Issuu.com) or download a PDF to store on one's own computer.

Select your choice:

You may also read the interactive version at Issuu.com.

Archives of older issues are available from the Top End section of the main FLR website.

November, December SCCA SportsCar Magazines Available Online

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Fri, 01 Nov 2013 21:08:00 +0000

November highlights the 2013 Tire Rack SCCA Solo National Championships, held in Lincoln, Neb. the first week of September. More than 1,000 competitors took to the tarmac to settle the arguments of who the top Soloists in the country are. That's not the only Solo content though, as the Tire Rack ProSolo finale is covered along with an article on moving from R compound tires back to "street" tires. Other featured content in the November issue includes a piece on what to consider when upgrading the clutch in your competition car.

December shifts the Championship coverage to Club Racing and RallyCross. A near-record field converged on Road America for the final time in the near future for the 50th National Championship Runoffs, held Sept. 16-22. Two weeks later, the RallyCross National Championship headed to Tulsa, where more than 100 of the country's best got dirty in their quest for an elusive title. In addition to Championship coverage, December has an informative article on wheels, and how they too are a wear item, with a usable lifespan.

Each issue also includes the departmental columns and local reports you've come to expect every month.

To access any SportsCar issue online, click here: ams.scca.com and log in to your member profile. Once in your online profile, you can access SportsCar issues in the upper-right corner.

You can find all past issues from this year in the menu once you have accessed this month's magazine. Magazines can also be downloaded and saved as PDF files from the link in the upper right.

This is the digital component of this month’s issue. Your paper copy of the publication will arrive in your mailbox soon, unless you have opted out of receiving it.

Classified ads from the November 2013 issue of Top End

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Thu, 31 Oct 2013 17:00:00 +0000

For Sale: Really good, mounted MICHELIN SNOW TIRES ! Just now, when you need them most but at an end of season price! Yes, these are theauthentic, made in the USA Michelins, used but four winters. Tread like you wouldn't believe. The wheels are steel, 16x16.5, 5-114, cb64. Will fit most popular cars with a 16 or 17 inch wheel. Snow tire is 215/55R16. This package was 656 bucks new - now only 350 American or sweetest offer. Call now - Bob Swinehart, 585 223 5159 or 585 615 6435. (11/13)

For Sale: Subaru Impreza WRX,whitewith 136k miles. It has a Sti body kit, with 3” JDM hood scoop, upgraded turbo, Sti injectors, new rotors. Both clutch and transmission have been replaced within the past year. There are two sets of rims, one with Artic snow tires, and a set of gold JDM rims with Federal 595 tires. It can be seen in Honeoye, or in Scottsville, whichever is nearer to you. Asking $5,500, and will give an SCCA discount. Great rally, or rallycross car. Phone 1 585 889 1289, or e-mail, lynnscca@rochester.rr.com. (11/13)

For Sale: Log booked 1994 KBS MK8 494 non rave. This car has been autocrossed and road raced with 2 full log books. Comes with a set of rains on wheels, Hoosiers with one season on them, 2 extra complete set of Hoosiers on wheels. Spare clutch parts, suspension pieces, gearing etc. Custom paint 2012. Asking $5,200 for everything. Call Jake at 315-576-7847. (11/13)

For Sale: 1) 1991 Miata - fully prepped for track days/time trails. Hard top, hard dog roll bar, Ultra shield seats, Koni sport shocks, Spx2 Induction, Borla exhaust, Kosei K-1 wheels. Many other upgrade and maintenance parts. 2) 1997 Miata - 59k miles, Touring Package, 'real' oil pressure gauge, shock tower and subframe braces. A great low mileage car in nearly stock (bolt-on mods only) condition. Contact Scott at 585-506-7366 or sgrinnell@rochester.rr.com for a full list of upgrades and details for either car. (11/13)

For Sale: R Comp tires. All are size 205/50/15 and only used on my Spec Miata. Always stored indoors or on enclosed trailer. - Set of 4 Toyo R888 originally shaved to 4/32" and heat cycled. These tires only have 8 heat cycles on them and would be great for Solo, track days, or even race. Plenty of life left in these. Still have 3/32" tread. Asking $150/set. - Set of 5 Toyo RA-1's. 3 of the 5 were shaved to 3/32" and only have 4 heat cycles on them. Between 1.5-2/32" tread. 2 of the 5 have 4 heat cycles and are at 4/32" (still original shave). These would be great for Solo, time trial, track day, or race. Cheap way to try R-Comps for the first time. Asking $80 for all 5. Contact Tom Kearney at Tjkearney3@hotmail.com (10/13)

For Sale: Four (4) Corvette Wagon Wheels 18" x 9.5". OEM with factory markings, light weight construction. Mounted with 255/40/18 BFGoodrich G-Force Comp II tires. Everything is brand new. $700 firm. Call 202-352-2627 or email marcus.kroll@gmail.com (11/13)
For Sale: Top of the line 2000 Winnebago Chieftain 37' diesel pusher with a slide for living / kitchen areas. On our 2012 trip, towing about 4600 pounds (car on trailer), we traveled 6600 miles and averaged 10.4 miles per gallon!
Well maintained with plenty of upgrades. NEW in 2012: Banks PowerPack for improved power & fuel mileage; 26" LCD TV w/ 3 year protection plan; TruControl Proportional Trailer Brake Controller; Dish Solo HD Receiver' Winegard Road Trip Automatic Satellite Antenna w/ 2 year protection plan; both side mirrors replaced; new toilet. Includes Queen Expanded Sleep Comfort Bed; Safe-T-Plus Steering Control; SmartTire RV 6+4 Tire pressure and temperature monitor, custom computer work station; and more. Sold “As Is” but it's in great condition. Carpets & upholstery cleaned June 2013. Mileage 47,900
See extensive photo gallery for all amenities and upgrades: http://www.retiredaz.4t.com/winnie.htm
17' Featherlite car trailer also available with first refusal to purchaser of RV. New $5778. Four new tires and 2 new axles 2012 (~$1400). Price $3900
Contact Bill at 585-214-9174 or blaitenberger@gmail.com (9/13)

For Sale: 1991 Miata. It’s time for BB the ‘91 Miata to have a new home. He has been a super winter car for the past 11 years and Pub the MINI has appreciated him. If you are interested, here are the bare bones: (as posted on Rochester CraigsList): 215,000 miles. RUNS GREAT! NYS Inspected, 30+MPG, Power steering, AC, Radio & Door locks have not worked for years, body is rusty BUT is still fun to drive. 900/ BO Call Brian 585.317.8733 (8/13)

For Sale: 2011 Stehl Tow 2 wheel car dolly with electric brakes & certificate of origin. Asking $650. Contact Ernie Strong at 315 289-1625, Sodus Point NY (8/13)

For Sale: 1) 1989 Mazda 323 GTX. Former open class ClubRally car, (found log book). Great RallyCross or ice race car. Asking $1500. 2) 1984 Ford EXP Turbo Coupe. Rare car, a few modifications, needs some finishing. $1500. 3) 1988 Mazda 323 SE. Fairly basic, no rust, needs clutch. $500. 4) Two (2) racing karts, both ethanol Raptor powered. $650 each, or $1000 for both. Call 585-967-3762 for more info. (3/13)

Sports Car Club of America Announces Departure of President and CEO Jeff Dahnert

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Mon, 14 Oct 2013 23:36:00 +0000

The Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) Board of Directors announced today that, effective October 14, Jeff Dahnert has resigned as its president and CEO. Dahnert joined the staff of SCCA in 2004 and has served as president since 2009.

"I appreciate the great opportunities that SCCA has given me and I will truly miss the wonderful people I have worked with, both at the national office and in the Regions," Dahnert said. "My goal was always to have the Club in a stronger position upon my departure than when I started, and I believe that is the case."

"As Jeff moves on to new endeavors, he will be missed and we wish him well," Lisa Noble, chairman of the SCCA Board of Directors, said.

Dahnert will continue to serve as a consultant to SCCA through the end of the year.

The Board of Directors also announced the appointment of Lisa Noble, who will resign as current board chairman to serve as interim president and CEO. She has been active in the SCCA since 1971 and a member of the board since 2008.

To fill out Noble's term, John Walsh, director from the Northeast Division of the SCCA, was appointed as new chairman of the Board. Walsh, from New York, has been a member of the Board since 2011.

Additionally, a search committee has been appointed and a national search for a new president and CEO will soon be underway.

For more information, please visit www.scca.com, like SCCA on Facebook, and follow the club on Twitter.

Steel Cities Region to host NeDiv MiniCon in November

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Thu, 26 Sep 2013 02:42:00 +0000

Steel Cities Region hosts the 2013 MiniCon, the weekend of November 8-10, at the Comfort Inn Conference Center – Pittsburgh East.

Weekend Schedule:

Friday, November 8, 2013
Registration	6 – 9:30 PM	Grand Ballroom Lobby
Welcome Party	7:30 - 11 PM	Grand Ballroom
Scheduling (CLOSED)	9 - 10 PM	TBD
Saturday, November 9, 2013
Registration	7 - 10 AM	Grand Ballroom Lobby
Opening Remarks	8:20 AM	Grand Ballroom West
Breakout Sessions	8:30 AM - 4:30 PM	See schedule
Cash bar	6:30 PM	Grand Ballroom
Dinner	7 PM	Grand Ballroom
Sunday, November 10, 2013
Continental Breakfast	8:15 AM	Grand Ballroom
Council Meeting	8:30 AM - Noon	Grand Ballroom

Download the MiniCon packet for a detailed schedule of Saturday's events and breakout sessions, registration form and hotel information, sponsorship form, and letter from the organizers.

Watch for updates and further information on the NeDiv website and/or the Steel Cities Region website.

SCCA Workers of the Year revealed tonight at the Runoffs

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Thu, 19 Sep 2013 05:00:00 +0000

Arizona Region's Gene Peterson (middle), with
SCCA President Jeff Dahnert (left) and Pete
Calhoun from BFGoodrich Tires. Credit: SCCA Photos

Sports Car Club of America honored their top Club Racing volunteers on Wednesday evening at the SCCA National Championship Runoffs® at Road America, selecting nine BFGoodrich Tires Workers of the Year.

One BFGoodrich Tires Worker of the Year award was given to a member in each of the nine SCCA divisions, regardless of specialty. Each of those nine Divisional winners are given a set of BFGoodrich Tires and a patch, plaque and jacket to commemorate the achievement.

To award a grand prize winner, the nine finalist’s names were put into a hat. Gene Peterson, a Scrutineer from the Arizona Region, was selected for the top bill.

The grand prize, a trip to the Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring at Sebring International Raceway, will include airfare, lodging, tickets, track hospitality, golf cart for use during the weekend and pit and paddock tours, all courtesy of BFGoodrich Tires.

Mark Bingheim, Race Administrator from the Chicago Region, was selected in a second drawing to win a lifetime SCCA membership.

“We’re here tonight to celebrate what makes our Club unique in the motorsports world: our dedicated bunch of volunteers,” Terry Ozmet, SCCA VP of Club Racing, said. “Thank you for all of your hard work, time and dedication.”

Previously in the evening, Dayle Frame, representing the Production drivers, awarded 53 workers envelopes with cash totaling $2,685 that was donated by racers at the group’s party on Tuesday night.

This year’s winners BFGoodrich Tires Worker of the Year are:

Central Division: Mark Bingheim, Race Administration, Chicago Region
Great Lakes Division: Dr. Karen Crider, Flag & Communication, Detroit Region
Midwest Division: Steven Burkett, Race Administration, Southern Illinois Region
Northeast Division: Jessica Honigs, Flag & Communication, New England Region
Northern Pacific Division: Ali Montgomery, Flag & Communication, Oregon Region
Rocky Mountain Division: Christy Hopkins, Flag & Communication, Colorado Region
Southeast Division: Lori Vitagliano, Registration, Florida Region
Southern Pacific Division: Gene Petersen, Scrutineer, Arizona Region
Southwest Division: Brent McNaul, Flag & Communication, Lone Star Region

A list of all previous Worker of the Year winners is available at www.scca.com. Follow all the live timing and scoring at www.scca.com/runoffs. Live Twitter stream is available @SCCALive. Follow this week’s activities on Facebook at www.facebook.com/SCCAOfficial.

The 50th SCCA National Championship Runoffs®, The Pinnacle of American Motorsports, will crown Sports Car Club of America’s Club Racing National Champions at Road America, Friday, September 20 through Sunday, September 22.

Each race will be broadcast live on www.speedcastTV.com.

Dates confirmed for 2014 SCCA Runoffs at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Wed, 11 Sep 2013 18:42:00 +0000

The Runoffs will move from Road America in 2014.
Photo: royal_broil/Flickr

Officials from Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca and Sports Car Club of America confirmed today the dates of the 2014 SCCA National Championship Runoffs®, October 6-12, 2014. The event’s historic return to the west coast was announced in July.

Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca will become the seventh track to host the National Championship event in the Runoffs’ 50-year history, and marks the return of the Runoffs to the west coast for the first time since the now-closed Riverside International Raceway in 1968.

“We are pleased to be able to host the SCCA Runoffs next year,” said Gill Campbell, Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca CEO/general manager. “Sports car racing is why this facility was developed way back in 1957. It is our passion. It is in our DNA.”

The visit to Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca in 2014 is the first stop in a new era of Runoffs competition. The Runoffs will rotate each year beginning in 2014, moving to Daytona International Raceway in 2015 and Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in 2016.

“When we announced the Runoffs would move to Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca in 2014, the next question we were asked was about the dates,” said Jeff Dahnert, SCCA President/CEO. “We’ve been working diligently to fit it into both schedules, and now we can begin to make plans for next year. We’re looking forward to being in Monterey in early October for such a historic occasion.”

The 50th SCCA National Championship Runoffs will be held September 16-22, 2013, at Road America.

The SCCA National Championship Runoffs has crowned Club Racing National Champions in a winner-take-all, single race format since 1964. Through 24 separate races over three days, the 2013 edition will crown champions in 28 Runoffs-eligible classes.