2008

(By the Newsletter Editor)

In my opinion, the recent event at GM Petroleum was very successful, especially since I FINALLY BEAT MY BROTHER!!! (Sorry, James) There were only 15 drivers, so everyone got twelve runs. I lived up to my reputation of "The Cone Killer," but it seemed as if many others were having the same problem. It was a tight, fast course that seemed to put some people in a "spin," but overall it was a blast! I finally had the pleasure of riding with Jerod in the famous teal "Stang." Jerod hit a few cones, but that's to be expected from a crazy driver like him! Robert Godby from Laramie took a break from vacationing in Red Lodge to set some very fast times in his Miata. Curiously, with the advantage of PAX scoring (and a set of sticky KUMHO slicks), Robert stole the fast-time-of-day honors from Dwight. All drivers and spectators left the event will smiles on their faces. However, Lucas Hungerford took his Fiat home on the end of a tow rope. Mark "Pylon" Pilon reportedly lowered the suspension on his Forester. Although his times may have been faster, he ended up hitting cones that he would have cleared previously. Sheree was putting the new suspension configuration to good use and came close to beating Mark. You go, girl!

Break out your hankies, everyone...the final 2008 Yellowstone SCCA event has come and gone. On the plus side, it couldn't have come on a better day. Sunday the 21st dawned cool and fair, and was predicted to warm as the day wore on. It's the perfect kind of day if you have to spend it the way we club members do--either belted in tight inside a car, wearing a thick-padded helmet, or manning a courseworker position out on the asphalt. The last race went down at the newest SCCA venue: GM Petroleum. Despite some speculation about whether or not the grease spots and patchy sand would affect driver safety (the place caters almost exclusively to big rigs, after all), the lot is an excellent venue and everyone should keep their fingers crossed that it'll be available for next year.

I arrived, as Scott Cranston would say, "like a team owner--long after the setup is over and just in time to race." He was right; I showed a few minutes before the drivers' meeting. There was a decent, if a little small, turnout for this event; all told, there were 17 drivers between 13 cars. This allowed for the Magic 12: 12 runs for everyone over the course of the day. It was a "lemonade from lemons" situation. I know, higher turnout is better for the club, but I can't complain about lining up 12 times, either. I chap-stickked roll-on sunscreen onto my arms as I sized up the contestants and thought, "Today's gonna be a good day."

And a good day it was. 12 runs allowed all the drivers to hone their technique beyond what they could on a regular six-run day. The excitement escalated as the lap times fell. Everybody was out to cut the low time, and that's what makes for a great event.

The course favored small, tight-handling cars. There were plenty of those, each with a veteran driver behind the wheel, and the lap times reflected it. It was also a day for the more old-school vehicles; the average SCCAer (read: me) dreams of dropping some serious coin on some super-sporty track car, like a brand-new Elise or a Porsche, but this group served to contradict that theory. Watching Nels Jensen destroy the track (and a few cones) in his '86 Toyota Corolla for the Fast Time of Day, or Randy Roberts and Krissy Martin work the corners in their near-bone-stock Honda CRX makes the prospect of owning/maintaining a twenty-plus-year-old car that much more attractive. Not to be left out, Tim Starns' Alfa GT1300 Junior proved beyond a doubt that Alfa Romeo, Inc., designed it as a track car, and that Tim knows how to capitalize on that. Dean Johnson's first-gen Mazda RX-7 shocked the crowd with a few well-timed backfires, but despite engine maladies, had no problem getting around the track. As ever, Jackie Bell's stately Ford Grand Torino showed that classic Detroit iron still poses a threat to newer cars--Jackie attacked the small, turn-heavy course with the skill and good humor that has made her a staple at these events. There was also the Reussracing team, taking the bright blue, body-kitted Honda Civic hatchback out for a few laps. Yes, Kaitlin beat me, but for my sake, please don't congratulate her for it. Wrapping up the old-school lineup, Eldon Johnson's traffic-cone-orange dune buggy ripped through the course with surprising grace, proving that all you need to make for a great lap is an engine, four wheels, and a skilled driver.

Newer cars represented at GM, as well. New school, thy name is Mini Cooper. No less than three of these boxy BMWs made their way around the course, driven by club officer Chris Brewer, the out-of-nowhere speed demon Nick Johnson, and the relatively-green-but-very-promising father/daughter duo of Riley and Jenny Cooke. The new car roundup was a veritable Oktoberfest: besides the BMW minis, there was Chris and Susan Doll's turbo VW Jetta and Reese Newman's big beast of an Audi. Countering all that German engineering was Chris Lee's Mustang GT, noteworthy not only for its performance on the track, but for being the only real convertible I've ever seen out there. These drivers held their own against the glut of older cars, showing everyone that it all comes down to driver talent, and when it comes to race cars, age ain't nothin but a number.

As ever, big thanks to the people who made these events possible. You know who you are, even if I don't. Thanks to Jerod and Scott for helping out with timing duties...I kinda missed seeing you guys run--it just isn't an SCCA event without that teal Mustang parked nearby. Other than that, thanks to all the drivers, the spectators, and another big thanks going out to my family, who let me act like a team owner. I truly appreciate it.

It was a full day of tense, friendly competition, everyone wanting to knock out a fantastic lap or two before mothballing their racing helmets for another eight-ish months. Despite having to stop the action to allow the odd semi truck to refuel, it was a fast-paced, exciting day. It reflected what SCCA is known for: great people having a great time doing what they love. And that's why I know I won't be the only one lamenting its winter hibernation. But, like migrating birds, fireflies, and Will Smith movies, SCCA will be back next summer. Here's hoping we see you all. (9/23)

Long-time member and Secretary/Treasurer for the Region, Mark Richlen, resigned his post on Thursday, May 15, 2008.

We would like to thank Mark for his tireless and often thankless work for the Region over many years and hope we will see him at future events. Although Mark will never be replaced, nominations for his office are being accepted and will be considered at the next monthly meeting.

The MKA is hosting a series of 5 kart races at the EMS facility in Helena this summer. The MKA has used karts that are available for use by anyone interested in giving it a try. Check their website for dates and further information.

Competition Chairman Chris Brewer and his "soul mate," Sarah, were married in Chicago on February 14th. By pure coincidence, the Chicago Auto Show was in full swing during their stay in the Windy City. Read the full report of the happy couple's nuptials (and of the auto show) by clicking on this link. (3/08)

Four cars representing the Region participated in the annual Rimrock Auto Group Car Show on Father's Day weekend. Also joining us was the beautiful Cobra that Scott Cranston assembled for a client over the winter. The Cobra attracted many attendees to the Region's information table and we answered many questions and passed out quite a few event schedules. In addition to checking out all the hot cars, another entertaining aspect of the event was "people watching." There was a wide array of people with an even wider array of clothing choices. The winner for worst dressed was the the man with the capri pants and the fanny pack. (Nice job, dude!) Chris Brewer's car also attracted many people--maybe it's because it's just so cute! (Sorry, Chris!) Dwight Gilliland's Avenger was also very popular. Dwight won 2nd place in the "Best Competition Car" category. Congratulations Dwight! Overall, it was a very successful car show, and it was a good way to get our name out. (A number of people we met at the show came out to watch the event at GM Petroleum.) I can't wait until next year, and maybe we'll have a bigger SCCA section and give the Mopar guys a run for their money. (7/08)

Do you dread that part of tech inspection when the safety steward looks inside your helmet for the Snell sticker? (What is a Snell sticker anyway?) A recent issue of SportsCar has an excellent article entitled "Brain Protection" which tells you everything you need to know about helmets and how to determine the proper helmet fit.

You may also want to check out page 32 of the 2008 SCCA National Solo Rules (Rule 4.3.1) which mandates that helmets must meet the current or two immediately preceding Snell Foundation standards. Snell updates their standard every 5 years, so the current standard is 2005. It would appear that your helmet is legal if you have a 2005 sticker (current), 2000 or 1995. In 2010, the 1995 stickered helmet will no longer be legal.

However, check out the Solo Helmet Bulletin on the SCCA site. (If someone can reconcile these two edicts, please send me an e-mail.)

I received an e-mail from Larry Stephenson with the Hyalite Corvette Club indicating that the 37th annual Big Sky (Corvette) Meet will be held in Bozeman over the Memorial Day weekend. The event usually draws over 200 cars and features a show 'n shine on Saturday morning (usually at the Bozeman Mall), a rally on Saturday afternoon and an autocross on Sunday. If you are in the area, check it out. If you are interested, send me an e-mail and I will forward the flyer for the event. The Hyalite club does not appear to have a website, but Larry's e-mail address is larrystephenson@wispnet.net.(3/08)

The editor of the Club's Fast Times newsletter, Kaitlin, is graduating from Laurel High School on May 25, 2008. A member of the National Honor Society, Kaitlin will be attending Montana State University in the fall. Kaitlin currently intends to major in microbiology. (5/08)

Opening day—the crack of the bats and the smell of the hot dogs. There were no bats at the Region’s first event of the season, but there were plenty of hot dogs—drivers, that is!

The weather couldn’t have been more perfect. Very little wind, few clouds, and temperatures in the 60s. The Food Services of America site appears to have a lot of potential. The warehouse provides a nice windbreak for the spectators and the paved area offers much more flexibility than Vo-Tech. Chris Brewer set up a nice course that allowed for some tire smoke, but kept the times close.

The Region welcomed brand-new members Jim, Alex and Kara Verploegen. They received the "WE HAD A GREAT DAY AWARD,” with two very competitive cars entered. Unfortunately, all times were recorded for their BMW. Accordingly, it was not known if their fast times were from the BMW or the Toyota Supra. We’ll sort out that problem next time!

Sheree Summer and Mark Pilon drove all the way from Fallon, Montana, for the "LONG DISTANCE" award. Mark’s beautiful blue Subaru Forester is certainly not lacking in the power department!

The stunning dark blue Saturn Sky driven by Ray Burns from Cody, Wyoming got the "Best Looking (almost unknown) Car Award.” We don’t see many cars like that in Billings. (Very few spectators believed that this was Ray’s first autocross.) We hope to see Ray and his charming wife at future events.

It was good to see Dave Marble back “on track.” Dave’s ultra-fast, twin charged Mini scored the fast time of the day. Jim Coon’s stealthy Subaru WRX STI was second fastest, and rounding out the top three was your Webmaster driving his kids’ $300 Civic FOR THE FIRST TIME!

Chris and Susan Doll’s turbo Jetta showed a lot of potential and Reese Newman’s black Audi 90 made its final appearance. Luckily, Reese didn’t break anything and its sale to a new owner can proceed. Solid performances were also put in by regulars Randy Roberts (4th overall), Scott Cranston, (5th overall), and Chris Brewer (6th overall).

Course designer Chris Brewer won the “CONE CRUSHER AWARD.” Katie Cranston was only 0.7 seconds slower than her dad, so it won’t be long before she starts leaving him in her dust. Joe Bonini and Clint Ruff were fast. Last, but not least, Adam Chamberlain’s “new” Mustang showed promise.

The editor of the Club's Fast Times newsletter (and expert seamstress), Kaitlin, sports two custom-made pillowcases she made for her bed that feature orange cones and a checkered flag design. She claims the pillowcases are the perfect complement to her Kasey Kahne sheets. Sweet dreams, indeed. (3/08)

It is with profound sadness that the Yellowstone Region notes the passing of one of its founding members--and good friend--Char Schulz. Char passed away on March 2, 2008, at the Billings Clinic.

Those in attendance at the year-end party were fortunate to have had a chance to visit with Char one last time. Because of health problems, Char was not able to attend many events in 2007. However, anyone who has ever been involved with the Club is well aware of Char's contributions over many, many years. She will truly be missed.

Char's obituary was published in the Billings Gazette. Kurt and his family would be comforted by any kind words or remembrances that are placed in the online guestbook. A memorial funeral service was held on March 8, 2008, at the Billings Elks Lodge, 934 Lewis Avenue.

The pain in the hearts of all who knew Char is lessened by the knowledge that she is no longer suffering. (3/08)

Help the webmaster solve a mystery that will test your knowledge of vintage cars and provide some history about Road America and Elkhart Lake,Wisconsin. (2/08) Click HERE

As most members of the Region should be aware, there is no road-racing track in Montana. Although SCCA club (or pro) racing may be beyond the reach of many members, the prospect of participating in “track days” or a driver’s school on a “real” track is quite appealing.

I received a solicitation recently for a new track being planned by the Colorado Amateur Motorsports Association (CAMA) called “High Plains Raceway.” The facility would be located on 460 acres near Byers, Colorado, approximately 60 mile east of Denver. The planned 2.5 mile track would replace the closed Second Creek Raceway (which was located just west of Denver International Airport). Contributions are being accepted in an attempt to raise approximately $2.8M for Phase 1. The CAMA is an entity created by 13 car clubs in the Denver area including the Colorado Region of the SCCA. If you are interested, visit www.highplainsraceway.com for more information and updates on the track’s progress.

For those of you who can’t wait, it appears that Miller Motorsports Park in Tooele, UT (www.millermotorsports-park.com) might be just the ticket. MMP is just west of Salt Lake City and offers a full complement of motorsports activities from “open track days” to ALMS, AMA Superbikes, karting, driver’s schools, and the Grand-Am Rolex Sports Car series.

Plugging the two track locations into www.Mapquest.com, it appears that Miller Motorsports Park is 584 miles from Billings and High Plains Raceway would be 604 miles. Both tracks are close to major cities that offer a myriad of other entertainment opportunities. (1/08)

(Secretary/Treasurer) Mark Richlen is performing a restoration of his Gemini sports racer. Mark provided the following photographs and narrative:

I purchased the Gemini in 1969 while living in Missoula. It was running, but in very rough shape. It had a title so I licensed it and drove it on the streets for a couple of years. It then languished for number of years until the early 80’s when I replaced the early Alfa Romeo 1300 (750 series) engine with a later 1600 Alfa engine. I autocrossed the Gemini for several years, I won FTD at Top Gun in Helena in 1988 (nobody fast showed up that year). After a few more years of competition, the engine was getting tired and the chassis and body were in need of a rebuild.

The Gemini has an aluminum body mounted on a chassis of two large diameter tubes. The chassis is most likely a Cooper, it was probably built in the early 50’s. The suspension is independent consisting of transverse leaf springs with lower A arms front and rear. The brakes are drums. The wheels are unique; the drum is pressed into a magnesium wheel.

The December issue of SCCA SportsCar (Divisional Reports section) noted Dwight Gilliland and Jim Arnett's participation in a recent divisional event in Helena. The article also noted that Jim bested Dwight's time, taking the class trophy. (12/07)

Jim's two fast-time-of-day awards at the Norpac divisional in Helena last fall earned him the Grant Cameron Memorial Driver of the Year Award for 2008. Jim (and his wife Marcie) are long-time members of the club and also drive an A Modified car known as "Bilscar" and a 1972 Ford Pinto. The Arnetts prove that it's more often the driver than the vehicle! (1/08)

Competition Chairman Chris Brewer was awarded the Dick Hager Memorial Spirit of Sport Award for 2008. Chris' willingness to help and show up early for every event he was able to attend were cited as reasons for receiving the award. Chris' willingness to step up and take the position of Competition Chairman was also noted. (1/08)

Mark and Delia Richlen graciously allowed the club to use their home as the location for the year-end party. As usual, there were plenty of good eats, drink and camaraderie to share. Among the highlights of the party was the awarding of the Region's two traveling trophies, the "Grant Cameron Memorial Driver of the Year" and the "Dick Hager Memorial Spirit of the Sport," and RE Scott Cranston's news that he had secured a new autocross site to replace the loss of the College of Technology site. Mark also offered tours of his "man cave" and proudly showed progress on his Gemini project. (1/08)