Gone Racin'  Newsletter by Richard Parks #70 5/12/05
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*Vince Conze passed away on May 6th at the age of 91.  A private family service will be held. 
  Vince was the brother of Andy Conze, and the brother-in-law of Elaine Conze.  Together
  these three pioneers in automotive innovation formed the famous Conze Brothers speed shop
  and garage.  Many racers received support from the Conze's and used their products, including
  the Conze rear ends and the knock off bolts for quick tire changes.  Vince and his brothers
  raced at the dry lakes of Southern California in the 1930's, then became known for their oval
  track cars, and their attempts to win at the Indy 500 and Pikes Peak Hill climbs.  Vince
  preferred to build and maintain the cars, while Andy managed the teams and Elaine handled the
  day to day business of the shop.  Al Unser drove Vince's Down Tube car to victory at the
  Pikes Peak Hill climb and Jimmy Davies also drove for the Conze's.
*Leland F. Kolb, 75, passed away Sunday, May 1, 2005, in Lake Havasu City, Arizona. He
  was born Oct 15, 1929, in Los Angeles to Charles and Olivia Kolb.  A memorial service is
  set for 4 p.m., Friday, May 6, at Lietz-Fraze Chapel, in Lake Havasu City.  He became a full-
  time resident of Lake Havasu City three years ago.  He owned C and C Auto Parts in Long
  Beach, California, for 30 years. His family said that he was a professional top fuel dragracer
  and a pilot and was very passionate about flying.  Condolences may be submitted to
*Jack Early died on April 17; he is survived by his wife, Marilyn. Ed Leslie died on March 31.
  Ted Roberts died on March 4.  (Art Evans of the Fabulous 50's ungroup)
*Jack Mendenhall is back home from the hospital and is recuperating.  He would love a call or
  a note from his friends.  Ralph Foster is still recuperating from his broken hip, but is home from
  the hospital and would also enjoy a call or letter.

-

*Doug Stokes, our special PR/Media guy at Irwindale Speedway in Irwindale, California, would
  like to invite the public to the Literature Faire at the track on Sunday, June 26, from 6 A.M-12
  Noon.  The Literature Faire does not sell auto or auto parts, but just about everything related
  to the history of cars will be available for the serious fan and collector of auto and motor sports
  memorabilia.  Famous celebrities have been known to show up.  Book authors will be on hand
  to autograph their works.  Posters, diecast, art work, books, magazines and every conceivable
  type of memorabilia and collectible objects will be up for sale.  Put on by the local Southern
  California Chapter of the Society of Automotive Historians.  For info call 562-693-3580.
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*July 15-17, Syracuse Nationals, State Fairgrounds, Syracuse, NY.  Organized by the Right
  Coast Association. 6000 cars on display.  See www.hotrodhotline.com (Jack Lawford)
*Editor's Notes: the following SCTA report comes from George Callaway. Un-Official report,
  No real rain, just light sprinkles.  Its still overcast/cloudy & windy.  Cold in the mornings.
  The present moisture has not effected the lake conditions, it's  kind of on the "green" side
  & fragile.  Still feel that the track will GO AWAY FAST & we'll be lucky to get one run per
  day.  With our race 1 week away, conditions could change.  Mike Cook will be up on
  Wednesday to make an official call.  At this point I feel that the meet is still a GO.  Bring
  plenty of firewood & warm clothing.  Its The Friends of El Mirage Weekend out here,
  would like to see as many SCTA people out to help with the lake clean-up as possible. GC
*SpeedFreaks interview Max Papis, Andy Pilgrim, Max Biaggi, Boris Said from the Long
  Beach Grand Prix Pits at www.SportsByline.com, or Sirius Satellite Radio 125.
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*2005 Stacker 2® World of Outlaws Late Model Series Schedule (Doc Lehman)  
  5/13 Limaland Motor Sports Park, Lima, OH                                
  5/14 LaSalle Speedway, LaSalle, IL                               
  5/20 Brushcreek Motorsports Complex, Peebles, OH                            
  5/21 Tri-State Speedway, Haubstadt, IN                         
  5/27-28  “The Show-Me”/West Plains Speedway, West Plains, MO  
*SCTA/BNI 57th Annual Speed Week, August 13-19 (Vehicle Inspections begin on Aug 12) 
*SCTA/BNI World Finals October 12-15 (Vehicle Inspections begin on Oct 11)
*SCTA El Mirage Dry Lakes (Southern California) Timing Trials schedule:  May 15, June
  12, July 17, September 11, October 23, November 12-13.
*NHRA Street Legal sanctioned drag racing every Thursday night at Irwindale Speedway,
  January to November.  See www.Irwindalespeedway.com for Summit schedule and Junior
  Dragster program.  (Doug Stokes) 
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*2005 Perris Auto Speedway, Perris, CA schedule of upcoming races.  For more information
  on the 2005 Perris Auto Speedway schedule, please call (951) 940-0134.  (Scott Daloisio)
  May 14, USAC/CRA Sprint Cars
  May 21, PASSCAR Super Stocks, Street Stocks, Extreme Trucks & SUV/Hornets/Cruisers
  May 28, USAC/CRA Sprint Cars – Salute to Indy 50 Laps
*2005 California Dragway schedule at the dragstrip, California Speedway, Fontana, CA. 
  Contact Dave Danish at 909-429-5060 or go online at www.Californiaspeedway.com.  All
  dates and times are subject to change:
  May 14, Noon, Street legals
  May 15, 7am, Show & Go, Old Farts Car Club Drags
  May 20-22, 8am, California Street Car Nationals-Pacific Street Car Assn (10am on the 20th)
  May 28-29, 8am, Super Categories
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*Irwindale Speedway programs, see www.Irwindalespeedway.com for schedules and updates.
  2005 Irwindale oval track racing schedule:  Gates open 4:30, races start at 6pm.
  May 14  Super Late Models, Super Stocks, Late Models, Mini Stocks, West Coast Pro Trucks.
  May 21  Demolition Derby, Monster Trucks, Late Models, Legend Cars.
  May 28  Super Late Models Twin 50’s, Super Late Models, Grand American Modifieds, Mini
           Stocks, West Coast Pro Trucks, Dodge Super Trucks, Ford Focus Midgets.
*May 29, Irwindale Dragstrip NHRA Summit Series; Gates open 9AM, time trials 10AM (3
  timed runs - time permitting - run cards will be used), eliminations 1PM, track closes 6PM. Entry
  fee is $45 for each division entered and the purse structure will be prorated based on the number
  of entries in each class.  Those racing for TIME ONLY will be available at these events for $20
  and all spectators are $10 each.  Each divisional champion will receive a track champion's trophy
  and a champion's gold card (good for a free entry at any 2006 season Dragstrip event) at the
  Irwindale Speedway annual awards banquet.  Each champion will also be invited to represent
  Irwindale at the Summit Finals drag racing event in the fall. SUPER PRO (electronics allowed 6 -
  7.99 et), PRO (8 and slower), SPORTSMAN (8.59 and slower), and MOTORCYCLES (6
  and slower).    (Bob Klein and Doug Stokes)
*Irwindale Speedway offers Thursday night drag racing.  Pro's and street legal racing welcome. 
  1/8 mile track.  Entrance fee $20. Spectators are $10.   See Dragstrip track manager Bob Klein
  626-358-1100 x 211.  (Doug Stokes)
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*May 22, Irwindale Speedway NHRA JUNIOR DRAGSTERS.   Three events are scheduled.  
  NHRA Junior Drag Racing classes will be offered with the track gates opening at 9AM, time
  trials 10AM, and eliminations beginning at 1PM.  The races will be held on three Sundays:
  drivers will get three practice runs and trophies will be awarded as per the guidelines in the
  NHRA rulebook.  Entries will be $50 per car.  Spectators and Crew members are $20 each
  and kids under 12 admitted free.  Run under NHRA rulebook.  (Doug Stokes)
*2005 ASA Speed Truck Challenge Schedule 
  May 28, Mesa Marin Raceway, Bakersfield, CA            Broadcast Aug 20, 8PM PST  
*2005 Southern California Top Comp Schedule:   (From Gregg Suyenaga)
  Race 3 June 4 Fontana Mike's Transmission
  Race 4 June 5 Fontana Mike's Transmission
*2005 Goodguys Schedule of Events.  See www.goodguys.com or call 925-838-9876:
  May 20-22, 1st Annual Great American Rod & Custom Nationals, Hershey, PA
  May 27-29, 7th Annual Spring Nationals, Jacksonville, FLA
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*Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum Reunions.  Call 909-622-8562
  June 17-1, Holley National Hot Rod Reunion, Beech Bend Park, Bowling Green, KY
  Sept 30-Oct 2, Automobile Club of Southern California, California Hot Rod Reunion, Famoso
        Raceway, Bakersfield, CA
*2005 NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series schedule.
  May 12-15, 25th Annual Summit Southern Nationals, Atlanta, GA
  May 19-22, 41st Annual Pontiac Excitement Nationals, Columbus, OH
  May 26-29, 17th Annual O'Reilly Summer Nationals, Topeka, KS
*2005 King of Indiana Sprint Series (KISS) Schedule: For info call Mike O’Leary 812-825-
  Bloomington Speedway, Friday, May 20,
  Lincoln Park Speedway, Saturday, May 21,
  Lawrenceburg Speedway, Saturday, May 28,
  Kokomo Speedway, Sunday, June 19,
  Paragon Speedway, Saturday, June 25,
  Terre Haute Action Track, Saturday, July 2
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*SEMA Car Club activities:
  May 12-14, Bowling Green, KY, Nat'l Corvette Museum ZR-1/C4, www.corvettemuseum.com
  May 12-15, Laughlin, NV, Hotrods/Harley’s 2005 Spring Run,  hotrdds_Harleys@hotmail.com
  May 13-15, Lima, OH, Advance Auto Parts 4-Wheel Jamboree, www.familyevents.com
  May 14, Greensboro, NC, Oakland & GMC Car Show, 336/243-1336
  May 14, Scott Township Park, PA, Cops and Rodders Rod Run, 412/833-7050
  May 14, Middletown, PA, Middletown Rotary Club Auto and Truck Show,  717/944-7740
  May 14-15, Williamsburg, VA, Colonial Williamsburg Rod Run,  www.tsra-va.com
  May 15, Brookline, MA, Cadillac Day at Lars Anderson Auto Museum, 617/288-6626
*Mid-Atlantic Championship Series (MACS) 2005 racing schedule:       
  May 21, McKean County Raceway, 50 laps    
  May 28, Bill Sawyer’s Virginia Motor Speedway, 50 laps      
*2005 Crown Royal IROC Series schedule:
  Sept 9, Richmond International Raceway
  Oct 29, Atlanta Motor Speedway
*2005 Grand Am Rolex Sports Car Series schedule (Linda K. Mansfield)
  May 19-21, Le Circuit Mont-Tremblant, 6 hours
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*2005 Nextel Cup Series schedule (NASCAR):
  May 14, Richmond International Raceway
  May 21, NASCAR Nextel All-Star Challenge Lowe's Motor Speedway
  May 29, Lowe's Motor Speedway
*The John Force Cruise Night is held on the last Wednesday of each month from 5-8 P.M. at
  the shop in Yorba Linda, CA 92887.  Contact Craig Hoelzel for details about vendor space, how
  to show your car, or for directions.  Craig is at craig@johnforceracing.com  While you are there,
  check out the Force Racestation gift shop next door.  It is a fascinating store filled with all sorts
  of collectibles, including broken parts from John's Funny Cars, autographed by the 13 time NHRA
  Funny Car Champion himself.  You'll find artwork, paintings, photographs, hats, jackets, apparel,
  pins, die cast cars, souvenirs and just about anything that you could want.  If Force is in town and
  not on the race car circuit, he will be glad to sign your collectible.  See hundreds of hot rods and
  vintage cars, rock to the music of the '50's, purchase some delicious food, and meet your fellow
  hot rodders.  Celebrity racers and hot rodders are known to show up for this one of a kind hot
  rod cruise night at the legendary John Force Racestation.
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*The Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum's schedule of events:
  June 1, Twilight Cruise Night 4:30-8pm.  Ladies night, special prizes for women street rodders.
  June 17-19, Holley National Hot Rod Reunion, Beech Bend Park, Bowling Green, Kentucky.
  June 18-20, L.A. Roadster Show.
*AutoStar Productions, 1226 Pike Street SW, PO Box 310, Etna, Ohio 43018, 740-964-2350
  Roger Gustin, President/Owner,  roger@superchevyshow.com,
  G. Susan Gustin, Exec VP,  susan@superchevyshow.com,
  Rose Guagliardo, Event Dir, rose@superchevyshow.com,
  Greg Baumer, Sales/Ad Mgr, greg@superchevyshow.com,
  Hank Schmitt, Ad/Media Relations, hank@superchevyshow.com,
  Paul Meikle, Controller, paul@superchevyshow.com,
  Sandra Hanna, Executive Assistant,  sandy@superchevyshow.com,
*AutoZone Super Chevy Show Tour XXV (AutoStar Productions) 2005 SCHEDULE
  May 13-14-15  Norwalk Raceway Park FBR & LCR Norwalk, OH
  May 20-21-22  SBR Texas Motorplex T Dallas-Ennis, TX
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*Showcase Photo, 20 Browning Ct., Dublin, Oh 43017, 614 766-2720, Official photographer
  for Super Chevy Shows and AutoStar Productions orders@showcase-photo.com
*May 13, Skyline Speedway, Stewart, Ohio, 740-989-0567, www.skylinespeedway.com,  Late
   Model Special "MILKY WAY 50."    (Dustin Jarrett)
*May 20, Skyline Speedway, Stewart, Ohio, 740-989-0567, www.skylinespeedway.com,
   Regular Show, Kids Ride With Drivers, All Classes.      (Dustin Jarrett)
*May 27, Skyline Speedway, Stewart, Ohio, 740-989-0567, www.skylinespeedway.com,
   Regular Show, SCAVENGER HUNT  PRIZE NIGHT All Classes.      (Dustin Jarrett)
*For the Grand National Roadster Show see www.hotrodshows.com
*For Huntington Beach Hot Rodding see www.donutderelicts.com
*For Flathead Engines and Parts see www.flatheads-forever.com
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*"A Race To Remember," Billy Seebold vs Scott Gillman.  (Written by well known motor
  sports artist, Kenny Youngblood) It was the last race of the 1990 IOGP season; the F1 outboard
  championship would be determined at Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.  We had come a long way, not
  only in distance, but from rookies in 1985 to this deciding moment.  We were in a dead tie for the
  points lead ..all we had to do was finish better than the "winningest" driver in the history of power
  boat racing, Billy Seebold!  In those days, you got only a one-shot, sudden death qualifying lap. 
  If you did good you went to the head of the line (for the dock start); if not so good, you went to
  the end.  Racer Chuck McKay was on a streak and qualified his Chris Bush-prepped entry on
  the pole, second were the hometown favorites, the Miller brothers; Kevin Miller driving his and
  brother Mark's homebuilt hull.  Billy Seebold qualified third.  Scott knew he had to haul ass and
  aired the boat out on the approach lap.  He was probably pushing 125 mph down the back
  straightaway when the main steering pulley bolt let go on the non-torque side of the motor (in a
  video replay you could see the cable flapping in the breeze).  When he set the boat for the turn, it
  set ..but didn't turn!  With no steering, Gillman miraculously missed the row of spectator yachts
  anchored just off the course and came to a safe stop, but we would be starting dead last!  Past
  experience had taught me however, that starting last wasn't as bad as it sounded.  The boats
  usually bunched up a bit going into the first turn, and you could sweep them on the outside.  And
  besides, a good-natured Kevin Miller told Scott that he'd "hold a spot open for him!"  Back at
  our trailer the stress level, however, was getting dangerous.  I had to do something quick so I took
  a piece of cardboard and a sharpie, and created the first ever "Stress-O-Meter"; an adjustable
  gauge that went from "having a nice day" to "call 911."  We were already at the "buy Depends"
  level, but the Stress-O-Meter worked; calming the crew down.  At the green flag, as planned,
  Gillman went to the outside and flew past the slower boats before they even got to the first pin. 
  In the corner the spray obscured our view from the spotter's area, but when he emerged, Gillman,
  amazingly, was in second position, behind McKay and already ahead of Miller and Seebold! 
  The race was on and so was the pressure!  McKay stretched his lead a bit while Gillman,
  Miller and Seebold battled it out.  At about half way through the 30 laps, there was a crash and
  they red flagged the boats; returning them to the dock.  We did a quick check of our boat and
  everything looked good, but it wasn't so for Seebold!  Billy's crew had the cowl off and the word
  was that they had lost one of their trim solenoids!  In spite of feverishly thrashing to fix it, they ran
  out of time and were forced to go back out, seriously impaired!  With just a few laps to go,
  McKay's motor let go putting us in the lead.  But Kevin Miller was on a mission; pressing
  Gillman for the win.  On the radio we anxiously kept Scott appraised of Miller's movements
  and reassured him that he could hold him off, when Gillman came back with a message seldom
  heard.  "I'm going to let him by!"  There was radio silence as myself and spotter Dale Cole held
  back our natural instincts to try to win every race.  Afterwards, we realized that Gillman had
  made the right decision as he might have crashed trying to fend Miller off, which would have
  allowed a limping Bill Seebold to get the championship.  Kevin Miller's generosity was
  rewarded; the man who "left a spot open" for Gillman went by us to win the event in front of his
  family and friends, while Scott and his crew became the 1990 IOGP F1 National Champions!  
  (Kenny Youngblood, Crew Chief, Gillman Racing)
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*Max Balchowsky did a lot of Buick Boat Motors.  Ernie Nagamatsu, owner of the
  Balchowsky Old Yeller II.
*Dirt Nation Radio show, Monday nights 8-10 P.M. at  www.racetalklive.com.  May 9, guests
  are Jim Nier, Danny Lasoski, Chris Stepan, John Kaanta, Bill Nelson, Dennis Erb, Pat Ward,
  and John Wright.  (Doc Lehman)
*Dirt Nation Radio show, Monday nights 8-10 P.M. at  www.racetalklive.com. May 16, guests
  are Steve Francis, Ricky Elliott, Tim Fuller, Jeff Geesey, Carl Short and Dean Nardi. (D. Lehman)
*Dirt Nation Radio show, Monday nights 8-10 P.M. at  www.racetalklive.com. May 23, guests
  are Bill Sawyer, Ralph Capitani, Mike Swims, Todd Fisher, Roger Slack, Allan Kreitzer and
  Ernie Saxton.  (Doc Lehman)
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*Whitney McQueary won the O'Reilly NARA Battle of the Bluegrass DirtCar Series event at
  201 Speedway, in Sitka, KY.  (Dustin Jarrett)
*O'Reilly NARA Battle of the Bluegrass DirtCar Series Point Standings (after 5/7/05);
  Whitney McQueary 890, Mike Jewell 870, Michael England 860, Chris Combs 830, Tim
  Tungate 750, Aaron Hatton 705, Rick Combs 690, Chuckie May 685, Scott James 655,
  Wayne Chinn 615.  (Dustin Jarrett)
*Eric ‘Spud’ Myers won the 40th season opening race at Wayne County Speedway, in Orrville,
  Ohio.  110 cars ran on the 3/8 mile clay track. www.waynecountyspeedway.com (Ryan Pearson)
*North American Eagle made its 2nd test run at a test facility in Western Washington. A thirty
  second, 1.3MB, AVI video clip was captured and placed on today's update page to download
  and view.  See http://www.landspeed.com  (Jon Higley)
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We get mail:
*I covered motorsports for 30 years, including 30 Indy 500s, one of which as a speedway
  employee, plus several Brickyards, Michigans and even four Daytonas.  Many of my friends
  in auto racing are included in a blind carbon of this...present and former nascar types,
  writers, et all...I am approaching you as a voice of reason.  This is a warning.  Someday
  soon, at Daytona or Talledega, the rabbit's foot is going to stop working...and NASCAR
  will kill 4-10 drivers in a day...all because of utter nonsense on the part of Mike Helton and
  the France families...NASCAR thinks it's immune to catastrophe...it can happen anytime
  when people are put in acute danger.  I was in Washington, DC., on the Potomac when
  half of the Unlimited Hydroplane drivers in the world were killed in one day.  I wasn't at
  Le Mans when all (those) spectators were killed, but I watched an entire formula one lineup
  get killed over a nine-year period.  many of my friends died at Indianapolis; Swede Savage,
  Jim Malloy, Art Pollard, Scott Brayton.  four days after winning his second indy pole in two
  years, Brayton was obliterated.  Dale Earnhardt died because of Sterling Marlin's
  impatience.  nobody ever tells the truth about that.  my friend Jim Sauter's youngest almost
  died at Talledega two years ago.  what we saw yesterday (Talladega last Sunday) was
  mayhem.  non-orchestrated death manuevers taking a horrible chance for NO REASON at
  all.  $5 million worth of destroyed equipment in a weekend all so that old man France can
  sit in his living room and ENJOY the spectacle.  who lets this happen?  Marty Smith, yes you,
  the Charlotte Observer, the papers in Dallas, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Detroit, and Atlanta. 
  you cowards who pretend to be writers now days.  how would JIM MURRAY react?  RED
  SMITH?  SHIRLEY POVICH?  they pointed out a spade when a spade was a spade.  you
  guys are bought and sold by NASCAR.  afraid to speak.  you claim to be friends with Jeff
  Gordon, Ryan Newman, Rusty Wallace and the other drivers addicted to money.  yet, you
  will watch a lot of them die in one accident very soon.  when you could have stopped it...I
  lost a bunch of friends in drag racing when the rules became insane.  do you want to attend
  mass funerals?  where is the courage of this generation's racing writers.  Bloys Britt would
  have been embarrassed.  Mike Harris should be...25 cars one day, 27 the next...no auto-
  mative product is bulletproof.  ask Donald Campbell, Jerry Titus, Eddie Sachs, Neil Bonnett,
  Jimmy Clark, Mark Donahue, Bruce McLaren and a bunch of others like Bob Jusola that I
  knew that you wouldn't.  but he won 400 times in imsa and stock car races throughout the
  midwest.  Get your buddies together and declare war on restrictor plate racing before the
  disaster happens for real...Charles Hallman (Knight-Ridder Newspapers-Retired and former
  AutoWeek Trans-Am and Can-Am correspondent)  Editor's notes: Right you are.  All racing
  sanctioning bodies started out as a way of putting together a race, seeing that the cars and track
  met the safest possible standards and to provide purses and awards for the drivers.  Of course
  there was a profit motive, but I can tell you for a fact that profits were never very much in the
  "good old days."  There will always be a contest of wills between those who want to keep racing
  from self destructing and those whose views are that "you can't stop progress (speed)."  But the
  obvious effort to "bump" someone out of the way is as bad as "running interference" so that slow
  cars stop faster cars from going ahead.  There are some mighty BIG egos out there on the track. 
  If they didn't have big egos I doubt they would do what they do.  Yes, drag racing has had a few
  fatalities, but if they even think of bumping some other car they would be disqualified in an instant.
  NASCAR simply won't take the step in banning popular idols when they get out of control on the
  track.  As for Earnhardt, why he has no complaints from his seat in whatever place he resides in. 
  He kicked the crap out of drivers in NASCAR for decades and if you saw him in your rear view
  mirror, if you were smart, you got the hell out of his way or he would plant you into the wall.  May
  be that's the reason the crowds are so huge in NASCAR.  They come for the blood lust the same
  way that Romans came to watch those Christians run from the lions.  Danny Oakes used to say
  that there was no use in winning the purse if you brought the car back all smashed up. Purses were
  smaller and the driver had to keep the car running, sometimes 7 nights a week.  Danny would say
  that you took care of your ride, and your ride took care of you.  You raced your car as the
  circumstances arose, and when you saw your chance you went for it.  The intelligent driver did all
  right.  The hot headed lead foot was the one that got the other drivers and himself killed on the
  track.  For a racing league to leave such a driver on the track is tantamount to abetting murder.
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We get mail:
*Frankly, all those boys and girls ought come to Bonneville and taste real racing, the kind
  that doesn’t insist you have permanent pucker on your face in case there is a sponsor’s
  behind waiting to be kissed.  Too much money, too much influence, it changes the challenge
  from best driver, mechanic, crew chief etc. to best fund raiser.  If I never attend another
  “moneyed” motorsport event I won’t miss a thing. I don’t even care about stick and ball
  pros anymore – that’s where professional money sluts shuck and jive.  Land speed racers
  practice random acts of kindness so often that the gesture is common, not extraordinary,
  big money weirds people out.    (LandSpeed Louise)
*I find it interesting that you include Jim Murray in the bunch who would tell it like it is. 
  How about Murray writing the column every year: "Gentlemen! Start your coffins."  That
  is one I particularly remember.  He wrote the same stuff every year except one.  That ONE
  was the year Chandler's kid was in the race.  So much for "telling it like it is."  Life is full
  of risks...be careful you don't drop your beer stein on your foot getting up from the Lazy
  Boy.  (Don Prieto)
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*Gear Grinders Club news: Jack Mendenhall was in the hospital, but is home now. Send him a
  postcard at P.O. Box 95, Buellton, CA 93427.  Ralph Foster fell and broke his hip and now is
  home recovering. His wife Betty returned from Kansas City and gave us this update.  Bobby
  Sights Jr took a wrong step and had to have knee surgery, he is now home recovering.  Leland
  Kolb passed away this week.  Hillary Smith, Gear Grinder Treasurer was in a car accident but
  is home now.  When entering the El Mirage lakebed on the new blacktop road, watch for speed
  bumps.  Speed limit is 25 mph. The BLM enforces this limit.  Dee & Wink Eller will be stepping
  down from their board positions with the Gear Grinders due to their travel distance and other
  commitments. Becca Livington and Susan Robertson will share the position of secretary. Russ 
  O'Daly is our new Sergeant of Arms. El Mirage Lakebed repair is Saturday, July 9, 2005. Meet
  at George Calloway's at 8 am. Bring plenty of water and something to eat. All club members
  need a CB to communicate with Lonnie Martin. There will be a roll call held and we need to
  furnish 3+ members to the work party.  Gear Grinders have position 11 to fill at El Mirage.  May
  14, 2005 meet workduties will be Larry Lindsley, Paul Livingston, Rick MacLean and
  James Manning. Sunday, May 15, 2005, work duties will be Jeff Cheechov, Scott Mattern,
  Kent Lentz and Jay Cotting.  June 12, 2005, work duties will be David Cox, Steve Davis, 
  John Drake and Jim Duff.  July 17, 2005, work duties will be Dan Edmunds, Derrick
  McLeish, Geoffrey Gaites and Doug McLeish.  September 11, 2005, work duties will be 
  Dan Hart, Bob Griffen, Steve Hensley and Martin Hansen.  October 23, 2005, work duties
  will be Kim Harding, Dr. Kathy Hickey, Mike Meierle and Howard Hoffman.  Saturday,
  November 12, 2005, work duties will be Robert McLeish, Len Jones, Bill Kennedy and 
  Max Kranz. Sunday, November 13, 2005, work duties will be Larry Larson, Ron Lau, Brian
  Law and Ralph Leclercq.  Call George Vose at 760-868-9101 if you have a question or can't
  pull your assigned duties.  Susan Robertson received the Hank Negley award for 2004. It is
  an award that has a season pass attached for the receivers use. The award was presented by
  Paula Negley, Hank's daughter, and has been a special award to the club member the board and
  membership feels most deserving. Burke Le Sage was elected to the SEMA Hall of Fame.
  Russ O'Daly showed the new leathers inspection button.  There is a new motorcycle Tech
  Inspection sheet which is now available.  Dan Chilson reports Bonneville Trophies will increase
  to $175 each; Class changes for Speedweek will go to $200. Save the Salt; Intrepid
  Chemicals has agreed to continue the pumping at Bonneville and will start in April 2006 full time.
  New Gear Grinders are: Brian Gillespie, Royce Branch, and Nick Van Nugteren.  Jack
  Underwood and Neil Thompson made a motion to make a donation to Save the Salt in the
  memory of Jim Lindsey's lifetime of SCTA participation, motion passed. The El Mirage Ladies
  Auxiliary was noted for their service to the SCTA. John Bjorkman made a motion to donate
  $100 to the EMLA.  May 15th is the last day to pre register for Speed Week.  Condition of the
  lakebed at El Mirage is dry on the surface, but damp beneath.  The gate on our property and
  George Calloway's gate should both be open.  Special thanks to Mark Brazeau for donations of
  his videos to our raffles.  (Becca Livingston and Susan Robertson)
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*May 7, Perris Auto Speedway results: M.C. Builders Super Stocks-Terry Hershberger, Brian
  Pannone, Ed Perry, Scott Plunkett, Chris Ades.  Ramona Tire Street Stocks-Dickie Morton,
  Chris Tolley, Cody Fleckenstein, Joe Falduto, Don Zoll Sr.  Hornets-Tony Thompson, Bobby
  Hogerhuis, Linda Denver, Dave Yungen, Stan Youngblood.  IMCA Modifieds-Mark Allison,
  Alan Updyke, Kathy Pierson, Buck Cox, Travis Gorsuch.  California Lightning Sprint Cars-
  Brent Sexton, Wink Schweitzer, David Bezio, Johnny Bates, Gary Sexton.   (Kim Donner)
*May 7, Irwindale Speedway, Irwindale (CA) race results by Tim Kennedy: Jeff Elder set a
  new track record of 17.922 during Pure Stock time trials. Hard charger awards went to drivers
  with qualifying times for gaining the most positions from start to finish. Recipients were Brian
  Wong (Legends), Brian Dryer (SLM) and Matt Saied (Super Trucks).  Pick Your Part
  Figure 8's-Steve Stewart, Tony Curtis, Earl Cox, Harry Kuenniger, Jerry Toporek.  High
  Point Distributing Justice Brothers Pure Stocks-Jimmy Rouse, John Mattie, Bill Bartleson,
  Nick Nuccitelli, Bob Bartleson.  King Taco Legend Cars-Tom Landreth, Matt Hicks, J.
  D. Hendley, Steve Twilligear, Chad Schug.  Grand American Modifieds-John Watkinson,
  Shawn Buckley, Tim Morse, Greg Tucker, Doug Carpenter.  Dodge Super Trucks-Dave
  Blankenship, Greg Adler, Cory Fancy, Ron Peterson.  Lucas Oil Super Late Models-
  Andrew Phipps, Doug McComb, Mike Price, Nathan Wulff, Todd Southwell.  (D. Stokes)
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*All Boy Scouts admitted FREE to this weekend's Perris Auto Speedway races.  Valvoline
  USAC/CRA Sprint Car Points-Rip Williams 571, Mike Kirby 541, Charles Davis Jr 537,
  Damion Gardner 521, Cory Kruseman 503, Rickie Gaunt 395, Tony Jones 321, Josh Ford 310,
  Seth Wilson 299, Mike Spencer 297.  Snap-On Tools Trophy Dash point standings-Damion
  Gardner 36, Charles Davis Jr 20, Mike Kirby 16, Josh Ford 14, Alan Ballard 10, Danny
  Sheridan 8, Tracy Hines 8, Rip Williams 6, Rickie Gaunt 6, Bobby Cody 6, Bobby Graham 6,
  Seth Wilson 4.  (Scott Daloisio and Kim Donner) 
*Sept 18, Irwindale Speedway, Irwindale, California, old fashioned car show, autocross. Falken
  presents DUBFEST 2005 will be a gala gathering of Volkswagens and Audis in an autocross
  race.  Dubfests have been staged for many years but this is our first time at Irwindale Speedway.  
  Falken Tire, Euromotive Tuning Inc, Fortitude, Meguiar's, VWvortex.com,  ACT, Pick Your
  Part, SupremePower, GraphicWorks, and nextlevel are some of the sponsors. See the website
  www.dubfestusa.com.  Adults are $15 and kids under 13 will be FREE.  (Doug Stokes)
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*We get mail:
  1) I think we've all read or heard about Jim Murray's "start your coffins" quote. So good to
  read his thoughts sometime later and realize it was a small part of a much richer picture.
  Thanks for sharing them.  (Rocky Entriken)
  2) Deke - The following is an excerpt from Jim's 1993 autobiography.  It was reprinted as
  "In His Own Words" in our 2004 Jim Murray Memorial Golf Classic program honoring
  Bobby Rahal and the Wonderful World of Auto Racing. There's a column around here...
  somewhere...that Jim wrote on NASCAR.  If I can find it, I'll send it. (Linda McCoy/Murray)
  3) "Gentlemen, Start Your What? Gentlemen, start your coffins!"  Most people seem to
  think that quotation from one of my columns sums up my attitude and relationship with
  the auto racing industry.  Not quite. I had a love-hate relationship with auto racing.  I
  loved it.  It hated me. Well, not exactly.  Our problems arose quite early in the game. When
  I first began to write about auto racing, it was a closed fraternity.  It wasn't covered by
  journalists, it was covered by a claque. Automotive writers were just an extension of the
  pit crew. When I came on the scene, the first thing that struck me was the danger. I soon
  found out it was a taboo subject.  You never ­ever ­mention the fact that you had a good
  chance to die driving between concrete walls at speeds up to 240 miles an hour.  You didnąt
  point out that cars burned.  So did people.  I got off on the wrong foot.  I arrived at
  Indianapolis for the 500 in May of 1963.  I was syndicated in the local Indianapolis Times,
  a Scripps Howard paper, now defunct.  The editor, Irv Liebowitz, tracked me down when I
  arrived in town and asked if I would pen a Hello-to-Indy note for his paper. It would help
  my recognition, he suggested. It sure did.  Unwary, I cheerfully complied.  Some way,
  somehow, I alluded to the Indy 500 as "Americaąs Earache."  It made the paper, all right. 
  On page one.  Not page one of the sports page.  Page one of the newspaper.  I was a
  marked man before I ever set foot on Pit Row or Gasoline Alley.  I didnąt see how you
  could separate the sport from its danger quotient and call yourself a reporter. The drivers
  were, usually, reckless young cowboys with a lust for speed and a restless, hyperactive
  nature that made it impossible for them to stand still.  They were either in a car or on a
  motorcycle or on a plane.  They wanted to go through life at Mach One. I didnąt know
  much about the technical aspects of the motor sport when I first came upon it ­ and I know
  little more today ­ but, as usual, my tack was to write about people, not machines.  I didnąt
  know the mechanics of the sport, but I knew danger when I saw it.  I wrote about that.  I
  loved the guys.  They were everything I wasnąt.  I donąt think I ever drove a car fast in my
  life.  I had to much imagination to come up on a blind curve at eighty miles an hour and
  the one time I drove around the Indy 500 oval I think I got lapped by the track sweeper. It
  takes a special kind of human to jump into a car, drive five hundred miles at breakneck
  speed and wind up in the same spot where he started.  Of the many lines I wrote about the
  Indianapolis 500, the deathless one seems to be "Gentlemen, start your coffins."  I am not
  entirely happy with that.  Indy-o-philes took it as a cheap shot.  It could be construed as
  such but you have to remember at the time it was written this line pretty much summed up
  Indyąs role in the scheme of things. The absence of fatalities (May 25, 1992) probably
  muted the cry that would otherwise have gone up from the reformers for the abolition of
  the sport. But the notion persists that race drivers would, so to speak, drive on barges or
  find secret venues far from the raiding police if their sport were outlawed. It isnąt as if
  these guys are ripping through traffic on I-91.  They are in their own little closed circuit. 
  They know the risks.  There isnąt a one of them who hasnąt been in a violent, near-fatal
  crash. Telling them they canąt race is like telling Hemingway he canąt write, Kelly he canąt
  dance or Sinatra he canąt sing. Itąs somebody elseąs job, not mine.  Indy is one of Americaąs
  tribal rites.  -An excerpt from "Jim Murray: The Autobiography of the Pulitzer Prize
  Winning Sports Columnist" (Macmillan, 1993)  Linda McCoy-Murray Pres/Founder Jim
  Murray Memorial Foundation P.O. Box 491304 Los Angeles, CA  90049 Ph/Fx:
  310-476-8948 Cell: 310-770-4547  http://www.jimmurrayfoundation.org
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 *Dodge Racing Division IV Points standings: TODD SOUTHWELL-IRWINDALE SPEED
  WAY 270, WADE BUTTREY-MUSIC CITY MOTORPLEX 258, DONNIE BAZEMORE
  SR-OGLETHORPE SPEEDWAY PARK 230, JOE PALADENIC-TUCSON RACEWAY
  PARK 196, MARK SMITH-JENNERSTOWN SPEEDWAY 156, RICK MILLER-MOTOR
  DROME SPEEDWAY 154, JAMES CIVALI-THOMPSON SPEEDWAY 140, JON
  LEMKE-ELKO SPEEDWAY 140, DONNY REUVERS-RACEWAY PARK 140, AARON
  FELLOWS-TWIN STATE SPEEDWAY 130.    
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