I'm Done

[GarysZ24]

Originally Posted by Gary Smith

I've met a couple racers from San Diego Roadster Club, and will be joining Land Speed Racers. I've done my homework and already know about the fees. Been to El Mirage which is only a 73 mile tow for me. The overall costs won't be much different than racing in stock...at least mine. It also puts me in the seat longer....more bang for my buck. I can still afford to run the stocker...but why continue a losing battle? I can't even get a class Wally now unless I travel now or have to out run other classed cars. Not worth it anymore. Stocker will be converted to D/PRO with only a cage and some minor suspension changes. The rest of the work is no different.....except no trips to the barn.

Gary, I'm sorry to read about this, and I respect your decision, but I sure hope that you'll store your car and give the IHRA a chance to reach out to your state...they're trying. The more people like you who post things like this that they (both NHRA, and IHRA) read, perhaps they'll (NHRA) realize what they're really doing to us class racers nationwide (whether they care or not is another thing, and I've offered my thoughts about that many times)...IHRA's noticing it, and they're offering us an option for our racing dollars...with opportunities for continued expansion comes the options! I can relate to your struggle, and that's why I'm so adament about supporting IHRA's efforts to expand out west. Next years Salt Lake City Nitro Jam race will be a regular national event (with the winner being able to race for the World Championship), and as for Tucson, they're planning on hosting our classes in nothing less than a Stock/Super Stock Combo race next year too. Please hang on to your car Gary, there's light at the end of the tunnel for us disgruntled western class racers!

However, if you choose to go forward as you are, then I'll wish you well in your efforts (I hope you'll stop by Rocky Mountain Raceway to visit next years Nitro Jam race, even if as a spectator), but I hope you'll check out this website, and IHRA.com for updates, because as more of us request them, IHRA's listening, and working to make our competiton dollar go farther, with pretty much the same rewards that NHRA is/was giving...GOOD LUCK EITHER WAY!!!

[Bret Kepner]

Originally Posted by Gary Smith

The rest of the work is no different.....except no trips to the barn.

Don't kid yourself, Gary; the "Impound Area" can be plenty tough. If you make it into "the pen" at Bonneville, I'll be there waiting.

[Gary Smith]

Originally Posted by Bret Kepner

Don't kid yourself, Gary; the "Impound Area" can be plenty tough. If you make it into "the pen" at Bonneville, I'll be there waiting.

Bret, is the "pen" for record breakers, or does everyone have to go through it before running? I'm just looking forward not worrying about all the cylinder head and piston BS going on in stock right now.

Earle....I'd love to talk to you again...been a long time!!!!