BSCC's WLSR Has A Challenge On The Horizon With The USLSR

The USLSR Car: As designed by Chuk Williams, this streamlined vehicle is being built to far surpass the existing Land Steam Record. With a projected speed of over 200 MPH, we expect this vehicle will be induced into the history books as the new Land Speed record holder for Steam Vehicles. The marriage between the Cyclone Engine and the Williams body design will be hard to beat. Length--21 feet / Weight-approx 1600 lbs / Height-30 inches-not including fin / Width--30 inches / Drag Coefficient-less than .2. Caption & Image Credit: USLSR

BSCC's WLSR Has A Challenge On The Horizon With The USLSR

World land speed records are a cherished and fragile thing. Take the world land speed record (WLSR) for a steam-powered vehicle as an example.

Fred Marriott in the seat of the steam powered vehicle built by the Stanley Brothers to an amazing speed of 127.659 mph (1906). The sanctioning body for international land speed records at the time was the FIA. Land speed records were measured across a marked mile in a single direction and a single pass. The time was recorded and the record determination was made from the calculations of that time. Image Credit: birthplaceofspeed2006

The official record was originally set by the folks that created the Stanley Steamer (127.659 mph), with a specialized racer in 1906, where it sat on a shelf, only to be challenged once, unofficially in the mid-eighties at Bonneville with an adapted public transportation Lear steam engine (145.607 mph), until last summer (August 26th, 2009). The British Steam Car Challenge (BSCC) broke the WLSR for a steam-powered vehicle with a custom multiple (12) boiler engine settled into a British Racing Green Bonneville style racer, and after over five years of testing and development, attained a two pass speed over a measured kilometer of 148.308 mph (set by the chief test driver, Don Wales) on Rogers Dry Lake bed on Edwards Air Force Base.

BSCC vehicle - Inspiration: 12 boilers heat the water to 400C - Two mile network of tubing - Water tank holding 140 litres which, when converted to steam, applies full power enough for three minutes - Two stage turbine on single spool - Output: 300bhp at 12,000rpm (turbine speed) (225kw) - Output shaft gear ratio: 4:1 or 4.45:1 to twin output shafts - Differential: Epicyclic type with viscous couplings. Caption & Image Credit: BSCC

This is a little like waving a red flag in front of a fighting bull ... having a well financed aristocratic effort from across the pond snatch an American WLSR out from under the nose of Americans on American soil. Fact is, the BSCC wanted to attempt to set the record at Bonneville but believed the more secluded, controlled, and custom made surroundings of Edwards AFB helped the effort attain their speed without the distractions of Speed Week on the famed salt flats in Utah.

Well, the bull has responded in the form of an American challenge, formed under the name - United States Land Steam Record (USLSR), featuring two unique cornerstones that just may make this thing happen. An engine that had its first successful test at the end of last year (that's right, just a couple, three months ago), and a lifelong, seriously trained steam-power enthusiast. The challenge is set for Bonneville Speed Week 2011.

Cyclone Power Technologies, the owner of this technology, is developing a 6 cylinder, 336lbs, 95HP engine capable of producing up to 860 ft.lbs. of torque at starting, sufficient for powering a full sized passenger automobile. The specially designed USLSR Engine is a non-condensing variation of the Mark V automotive engine offering 180 HP by utilizing a double combustion chamber system. The Cyclone Engine is a Rankine Cycle heat regenerative external combustion, otherwise known as a “Schoell Cycle” engine. In short, the Cyclone is a 21st century, high efficiency, compact and powerful steam engine. The Cyclone Engine is capable of running on virtually any fuel (or combination of fuels) including today’s promising new bio fuels, while emitting far fewer pollutants than traditional gas or diesel powered internal combustion engines. Image Credit: Cyclone Power Technologies

This excerpted and edited from WIRED - 

U.S. Team Hopes to Bring Steam Car Record Home
By Keith Barry, Email Author - February 23, 2010

Six months after the British Steam Car Team shattered the record for steam powered vehicles, an American team has emerged with the goal of beating 148.308 mph and bringing the title back home. Using an engine from Cyclone Power Technologies, steam car enthusiast Chuk — that’s not a typo — Williams is creating a lightweight vehicle he plans to pilot across Bonneville Salt Flats in an attempt to top Team Steam.

The U.S. Land Speed Record vehicle, known as Streamliner, will be 21 feet long and weigh about 1,600 pounds. That’s about one-quarter what the British car weighed, which Williams says makes the Streamliner easier to deal with.

Williams is building the vehicle in his home workshop, but has just a rough mockup and so he sent a picture of his current steam car (above) instead.

He’s been playing with the technology for about five years. “Things are designed and I have quite a few of the parts that I’ve purchased, and I’m working on the frame right now,” he said of the new car.

He’s getting some help from fellow steam car aficionados, many of whom are also engineers. But it’s a small operation, a far cry from the big team behind Britain’s car. “We’re coming from a totally different point of view,” he said. “I just want to go out there and go fast, and I like building these vehicles and the development.” The engine, specially built for the job, is a heat-regenerative external combustion engine that weighs less than 200 lbs, puts out 180 horsepower and has a maximum starting torque of 850 foot pounds and 262 foot pounds at 3,600 RPM.

Williams says the engine is extremely efficient, and with some development he hopes steam engines will become a viable alternative to petroleum-powered internal combustion. “They’ll burn almost any fuel – not even just liquid, but waste products,” he said.
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“In addition to being able to build it, the payoff is driving it and setting a record,” he [Chuk Williams] said. “The only thing that causes me hesitation is the heat, because it’s very hot in Bonneville and the vehicle is very small, and you have to wear a fire suit and a helmet.

The speed is just exhilarating, but having to wear all those protective clothing in 110 degree weather is what concerns me.”

LATEST UPDATE
[Reference Here]

See you all in Utah at the salt flats in August ... during Bonneville Speed Week 2011!

... notes from The EDJE




TAGS: BSCC, Charles Burnett III, Chuk Williams, Cyclone Power Technologies, Don Wales, Mark V, Rankine Cycle, Steam-Powered, The EDJE, USLSR, WLSR, World Land Speed Record

F1 Driver Sato jumps to IndyCar's KV Racing Technology

Takuma Sato at the end of the 2008 Formula 1 season when he was in talks with Scuderia Toro Rosso to revive his Formula One career [CTRL-CLICK image to launch YouTube video from Takuma Sato, Tokyo, Japan]. Image Credit: The Telegraph

F1 Driver Sato jumps to IndyCar's KV Racing Technology

Longtime driver associated with Honda in Formula 1, Takuma Sato takes a seat in a Honda-powered Dallara at Jimmy Vasser's KV Racing Technology team for the 2010 season. His introduction to the old chassis came with tests last week at Sebring International Raceway and his debut to IndyCar and the other drivers who will compete in the IndyCar Series will come this next week when the established drivers and teams will test at Barber Motorsports Park in Alabama.

Sato, who speaks English quite well (with a hint of a British accent), brings the prestige of a longtime history of driving with some success in European open-wheel competition. A veteran of seven Formula One seasons, he competed in several European series most notably British Formula 3. Sato placed fourth in the British Formula 3 National Class B championship in 1999, third in Class A in 2000 and won the Class A championship in 2001. His greatest winning achievement came when he posted 16 wins in British Formula 3 over the 2000 and 2001 seasons - this is still the record number of wins in a season for this series.

All Thumbs Up! - KV Racing Technology's Jimmy Vasser and new driver, Takuma Sato at Sebring tests on and behind the wheel of the No. 5 KV Racing Technology Dallara after agreement was reached [CTRL-CLICK image to launch YouTube video]. Image Credit: Autosport.com

This excerpted and edited from Autosport.com -

Sato secures KV IndyCar deal
By Matt Beer - Thursday, February 18th 2010, 04:18 GMT

Takuma Sato will return to racing in the IndyCar Series this year after completing a deal with KV Racing.

The former Formula 1 driver has been on the sidelines since his Super Aguri team folded in mid-2008. He has long been linked with an IndyCar move and visited last year's Indianapolis 500, although he wanted to exhaust any potential options for an F1 comeback before switching his full attention to opportunities in America.
----
The 33-year-old Japanese driver contested 92 grands prix for Jordan, BAR and Super Aguri between 2002 and 2008, with his third place in the 2004 United States GP his best F1 result. He is confident that he can be an immediate frontrunner with Jimmy Vasser and Kevin Kalkhoven's team.
----
"We are very excited to have been able to put this deal together with Takuma and his group," said Vasser.

"I can't wait to see what I know will be a extremely fast pace by Taku on the road courses and look forward to working with him and getting him up to speed on the ovals. I have no doubt that Taku will be right on the pace immediately.

"Taku's knowledge and experience will be a great asset and his great sense of humour and easy manner will add positive energy to our team."

KV was a race-winner in Champ Car and has been a regular top ten contender since joining the IndyCar Series, although Mario Moraes' third place at Chicagoland last year is its only podium in the championship to date.

The team also ran former HVM driver EJ Viso at Sebring this week, and could return to a two-car line-up for 2010 after only running Moraes for a full campaign last year. KV is also thought likely to field Paul Tracy in a limited programme again.
Reference Here>>

Well, if IndyCar can not develop an open-wheel racing platform for the next generation to replace the Dallara (see DeltaWing Project), they can, at least, sign proven and tested open-wheel F1 race car champion to invigorate this series.

The season opens with the first of four road/street races on March 14, on the streets of Sao Paulo, Brazil followed by the streets of St. Petersburg, Florida - March 28, the road course at Barber Motosports Park - April 11, and the best street venue in American style open-wheel motorsports ... the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach - April 18.

... notes from The EDJE

Long Beach Readies Itself For The 2010 Toyota Grand Prix

The Committee of 300 of Long Beach begins its 36th straight year of involvement with the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach with a KICKOFF PARTY Thursday night, Feb. 18 from 6-9 p.m. at V2O Nightclub & Events Center, 81 Aquarium Way in downtown Long Beach. Image Credit: C-300

Long Beach Readies Itself For The 2010 Toyota Grand Prix

Construction began today on the famed 11-turn, 1.97-mile street circuit that, in just 60 days, will host the cars and stars of the 36th Annual Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach.

Long Beach Mayor Bob Foster poses on K-rail in what will be Turn 10 of the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach race course [ctrl-click to launch YouTube video]. Image Credit: Andy Witherspoon - GPALB

Long Beach Mayor Bob Foster ceremoniously kicked off the construction by helping workers install concrete blocks on Shoreline Drive and, over the next two months, the Grand Prix Association of Long Beach (GPALB) will build what is essentially a small town for one weekend.

More than 14 million pounds of concrete blocks that line the race circuit will be set in place, turning Shoreline Drive and downtown Long Beach into a comfortable circuit for more than 175,000 people to enjoy six racing events April 16-18.

Safety First with helmets and vest. Image Credit: Edmund Jenks (2010)

What stitches all of this event together from a human perspective after the bleachers are up, the circuit is laid out, and the entrance gates are put in place is a group of courageous volunteers known as the Committee Of 300, or just C-300. The members of this group are part of a nonprofit community service organization dedicated to promoting the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach and the City of Long Beach. The Committee of 300 became known as "The Redcoats" because of the distinctive red jackets worn by its members. Created in 1975 to assist the inaugural race, the Committee of 300 is always visible during the race weekend, when members serve as grandstand ambassadors, assist in the press facility and manage the Paddock Club.

While the Mayor kicked off the construction of the track today, the Committee Of 300 kicks off its effort for the Grand Prix event on Thursday night, Feb. 18 from 6-9 p.m. with construct of its own, a KICKOFF PARTY held at V2O Nightclub & Events Center, 81 Aquarium Way in downtown Long Beach. This party signals the beginning of the race for the 2010 season of volunteering and camaraderie as it is pursued throughout the year by C-300.

K-rail and bleachers getting ready to form the 36th Annual Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach. This perspective is from what will become turn 10 looking slightly Northwest toward Pine Avenue. Image Credit: Edmund Jenks (2010)

It is doubtful that there is another civic-minded organization like it in the whole world. It is the only known organization where anyone can join (social or political pull doesn't count). Only three things are required for membership:

1. Payment of yearly dues.

2. Active participation on race weekend.

3. Exhibiting a desire to become part of a civic-oriented effort to assure the successful growth of the City of Long Beach and its community.

C-300 KICKOFF PARTY 2008 - Just days before the announcement that the ChampCar World Series would merge with the IRL

In addition to its valuable service with the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach, the C-300 can be seen assisting on staffing for the Los Angeles and Orange County Auto Shows, the Belmont Shore Auto Classics Show, the Belmont Shore, Seal Beach, and Daisy Lane holiday parades, and are supporters of the STEEL MAGNOLIAS, an organization for the Stramski Children's Development Center at Memorial Hospital.

Shoreline Drive as it gets lined into a near 190mph race track with the 10,000 pound blocks of concrete known as K-rails [ctrl-click to launch YouTube video] . Image Credit: Edmund Jenks (2010)

As far as the track preparations are concerned ... "Race attendees will need everything from luxury suites to rest rooms to trash containers to hundreds of other little, but no less important, things," said Grand Prix Association of Long Beach director of operations Dwight Tanaka.

"Our staff of 40 will put in more than 30,000 working hours installing concrete blocks, three miles of fencing and 16,000 bolted-together tires, along with 15 huge spectator grandstands, seven pedestrian bridges and eight giant-vision boards for full-circuit TV coverage." continued Dwight, "And then, we're only half-done. Beginning Sunday night, we start taking everything down, inspecting it and getting ready again for 2011."

The 36th Annual Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach will feature 2009 Long Beach winner Dario Franchitti, Danica Patrick and the rest of the IZOD IndyCar Series stars, along with the always-popular Toyota Pro/Celebrity Race, Tequila Patron American Le Mans Series race, Firestone Indy Lights, Team Drifting Challenge and SCCA Pro World Challenge Championships.

Long Beach Mayor Bob Foster (left) and President/CEO of the Grand Prix Association of Long Beach Jim Michaelian are happy to get this party started. Image Credit: Edmund Jenks (2010)

"It's a team effort to construct a circuit which is challenging for the drivers and provides a variety of spectacular views for our fans," said Jim Michaelian, president and CEO of the Grand Prix Association of Long Beach. "Dwight and his staff, together with the City of Long Beach and our suppliers, deserve an enormous amount of credit for building a world-class circuit while, at the same time, minimizing the impact on downtown."

Tickets for the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach can be purchased from the Grand Prix ticket office by calling toll-free at (888) 82-SPEED, Ticketmaster or by visiting www.gplb.com. A handy ticket brochure - which includes circuit map, grandstand and parking locations, ticket prices and order form - can be obtained by calling the ticket hotline.

Ticket prices, which remain unchanged for the second straight year, range from $25 for Friday general admission up to $125 for a three-day ticket that includes Saturday and Sunday reserved seats in upper levels of the grandstands. Pre-paid parking packages are also available when ordering through the Grand Prix Ticket Office. Handicapped seating, IndyCar Paddock passes, Super Photo tickets and a variety of hospitality club packages are also available.

Of course, if paying for tickets is not your thing, and you would rather be a part of the show as opposed to just watching the show, come to the Committee Of 300 KICKOFF PARTY Thursday night, Feb. 18 from 6-9 p.m. at V2O Nightclub & Events Center, 81 Aquarium Way in downtown Long Beach. Volunteer and meet the Mayor of Long Beach, Bob Foster, members of the Grand Prix Association of Long Beach and the supporting cast of this 36th Annual Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach ... the C-300!

... notes from The EDJE

New Open-Wheel Driver Transition To Stock Car Racing Seen

SPEED coverage of the ARCA Racing Series season opener from Daytona scored a Nielsen Household Rating of 2.30 (1,723,000 households), a 59-percent increase over last year's 1.45 (1,062,000 households). Highlighted by the stock car debut of Danica Patrick, race coverage peaked at 2.66 (1,997,000 households), up a stunning 72 percent from last year's peak of 1.55 (1,137,000 households). Image Credit: ARCA

New Open-Wheel Driver Transition To Stock Car Racing Seen

Open-Wheel racing drivers take on a new challenge of placing a heavier, full bodied, sheet metal covered car around their seats as they take to the track in Daytona for the Automobile Racing Club of America race (ARCA Slick Mist 200) this last weekend.

Among the most prominent names from the IRL, Formula One, and etc. were Danica Patrick driving for a team put together by Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Rick Hendrick in the #7 GoDaddy.com Chevrolet, Nilson Piquet Jr. in the #6 Toyota prepared by ARCA standout, Eddie Sharp Racing, and Milka Duno driving the CANTV, Celebrity Jazz sponsored #90 Toyota.

Even though Piquet and Duno got caught out early in a multi-car crash and eventually were unable to finish the race, at the ARCA Series open test at Daytona in December, and in her very first time in a stock car, Milka was the fastest stock car rookie on the second day of the three-day test.

As for Piquet ... this Q&A from his fan website -- You started from a excellent 7th place for a debutant, even for a long time you were in fifth place. But then it went backwards for you.
Piquet: Well, it was almost expected that it would be in the race a completely different story. After the race was interrupted ( red flag ), I could not start my car. A problem with the main switch. Bad contacts or something. So I just had to start from behind again, then around 22, 23, 24 Place.

From there it went so well again to the front, but eventually it was over.
Piquet: I made it back to the twelfth. Everything went perfectly. For sure I would have stayed in front with it. But I had a lot of contacts. On three corners of the fenders the tires had or were scraping. On the right front, the aerodynamics were gone. At some point I was far too slow and could not keep the connection with the other drivers any more. There were also slow opponents.

What is for you the most important lesson of your first oval race?
Piquet: Today I learned a lot, lot more than I ever imagined. Patience is the key word.Just have patience. This is the most important thing.

You had a collision with Danica Patrick.
Piquet: What should I do? I was pushed down, she would probably just below try to get through. Then we touched.

Despite the Danica Mania that commanded the majority of the attention, Lebanon, Pennsylvania veteran Bobby Gerhart out-performed and out-smarted his closest rivals during Saturday's running of the 47th Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 at Daytona Int'l Speedway to earn a record sixth victory at the "World Center of Racing". Image Credit: ARCA

This excerpted and edited from NowPublic -

DAYTONA, ARCA, DANICA and NELSINHO
By Charles Oladeji | February 8, 2010 at 04:57 am

Next Sunday being St Valentine’s Day, another commercially driven ‘day of observance’ (or subservience if you see it thus) recreated by a well known greeting-card manufacturing company will be upon us once more. But, my excitement leading on to the 14th of February will have nothing to do with buying flowers, chocolate confectionary or the agonising ritual of purchasing sexy ladies lingerie. But rather, I’m keenly awaiting the arrival of that “Great American Race” known as the Daytona 500, which represents the real competitive beginning of the 2010 NASCAR season.
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The extensive and gruelling nature of NASCAR competition, and the commitment it demands of Drivers and Teams alike, formed a substantial part of the numerous concerns put forward by those who questioned IZOD IndyCar Driver Danica Patrick’s Part-time involvement NASCAR, even though her participation in Nationwide Series in 2010 will be limited and overwhelming commercially driven (please pardon the pun).

Danica, took part in the scheduled Automobile Racing Club of America race (ARCA Slick Mist 200) at Daytona this past weekend amongst six other lesser known female Drivers including fellow Venezuelan IZOD IndyCar Driver Mika Duno. Unfortunately, Mika Duno did not finish the race while it’s reported that Danica put on a good showing coming in 6th overall having to fight her way back to the top 10 after being bumped off the track on the 54th lap by none other than Nelsinho Piquet.

The Brazilian former Formula One Driver Nelson (Nelsinho) Piquet Jr, who tested in the Truck Series at Rockingham last year for Red Horse Racing (RHR), and has debuted in ARCA racing this year, has also declared his intentions to stay with NASCAR for the foreseeable future. However, he finished in 27th position after being caught up in a pile up later in the 80 lap during the ARCA race on Saturday.

With Danica’s #7 GoDaddy.com Chevrolet finishing top 10 in what can be considered her first real Stock Car test in full glare of the media, Hendrick /JR Motorsport can feel a ‘wee’ bit vindicated for pursuing her driving services so aggressively last year, whilst commentators (myself included) questioned her driving ability in both IndyCar and Stock Car racing, where seasoned and aggressive Drivers like Juan Pablo Montoya have struggled to gain a steady foothold.

Yet, Danica Patrick is having a phenomenal effect on NASCAR at present, and I’ll readily admit to being a Danica Patrick fan. However, I’m no fan of Danica Patrick’s actual racing. Such is the media pull of Danica Patrick that the historic nature of the ARCA race winner Bobby Gerhard this saturday, winning the Slick Mist 200 for the 6th time was reduced to a footnote. How long Danica fans of my particular ilk remain intrigued by the Danica brand as the NASCAR season gets more competitive is unknown to us. What we do know is that beautiful people like Danica Patrick are good commercial business; and much needed business at that.
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As the Daytona 500 rapidly approaches, Danica Patrick’s popularity has even managed to eclipse NASCAR new-age hero. Aged Mark Martin, who, building on last season’s success as part of Hendrick Motorsport with Jimmie Johnson has qualified in pole position for the forthcoming February 14th race. Current Sprint Cup Champion Johnson is positioned 7th on the grid while Martin will share the front grid with Dale Earnhardt Jr come the green flag at 1pm EST on Sunday.

One thing is becoming certain; St Valentine’s Day at Daytona will not be a romantic date with the beautiful people, Danica and Nelsinho.
Reference Here>>

Not just yet anyway ...

The racing debut ended early for Piquet and Duno but as this clipped report shows ... the race was pretty straight forward for the eventual race winner, veteran driver Bobby Gerhart, 51, and just a little less so for Danica Patrick.

Dale Earnhardt, Jr. says that he is refraining from giving driver Danica Patrick too much advice heading into her stock car debut in Saturday's Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 ARCA Racing Series presented by RE/MAX and Menards race, allowing the IZOD INDY Car Series veteran to make her own race day game plan. Image Credit: ARCA

This excerpted and edited from Motorsports.com -

Gerhart wins his sixth ARCA 200 at Daytona
By Joe Jennings - Motorsport.com - 2010-02-06 (Daytona Beach, FL)

Gerhart shared the post-race spotlight with Danica Patrick, who drove superbly to garner sixth place.

Dazzling the crowd, the colorful driver's race report reads as follows: started 12th, advanced to fifth, pitted once, lost the draft and dropped back, made contact with Nelson Piquet Jr. and slid through the grass on the front-stretch and kept the car off the wall, stopped twice for minor repairs, fell back to 20th and taking advantage of yellow flags, she bolted through the field in the in the final 10 laps to secure a solid finish [Danica's sixth place finish], to the delight of the chilled crowd.

"I learned how to use the fenders a little bit," Patrick said. "For the race, I wanted to play it smart, make it to the end and learn something from it. At the end, I just said to myself, 'What the heck, I don't really care as I have made it this far, let's see what else we can do.' It was a lot of fun. I got bumped from the front, the back and the side, and I learned a lot. Having so much fun in the car, I can't wait to do it again."
Reference Here>>

We can not wait either, Danica ... we wish that all of the new open-wheel transition drivers bring excitement to the turn-left crowd in full-bodied cars over the course of this next year.

... notes from The EDJE

The Indianapolis Colts IndyCar / Vision Racing letters of recommendation

The Indianapolis Colts IndyCar - Image Credit: IndyCar Garage

The Indianapolis Colts IndyCar / Vision Racing letters of recommendation

The Indianapolis Colts are playing in the Super Bowl against the New Orleans Saints this Sunday and the IZOD IndyCar Series is right the middle of all the action. The blue and white car that is pictured above was rolled out and shown off at a recent golf outing sponsored and presented by Van Heusen with attendees that featured former NFL Players. IndyCar Series standout, and former ChampCar World Series driver Ryan Hunter-Reay was also in attendance. Jim Irsay should probably sponsor the car for his new son-in-law, AJ Foyt IV ... who is married to Casey Irsay.

Speaking of sponsorships, Vision Racing is looking to have Menard's continue to support its racing effort through its sponsorship of the car driven by Ed Carpenter. Tony George is having trouble retaining his longtime relationship with the home center retailing giant in the mid-west. Menard's has alwayus been tightly associated to the Indy 500 event and its colors have been a standout on the IndyCar Series ever since the IRL was formed by Tony George as a break-away alternative to CART/ChampCar open-wheel racing series.

Now that the two series are again one, and have been solidly one for one full year in 2009 (merged in 2008 but the two racing discipilines still had equipment and racing venues to sort out under the ICS banner), Menards is contemplating a change in its approach to sponsorship in the series. Vision Racing has asked its fans to submit letters of recommendation to the Menards organization in the hopes at retaining this long term relationship they have shared ever since Vision Racing was formed and before with its support of the George/Hulman family and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway racing events.

That shot of the Menards livery on turn 11 ... oops, turn 9, at Long Beach should tell them they (Menards) need to have a store in Southern California. Let them know how you feel Vision Racing & Ed Carpenter have represented them, and how much you LOVE the day-glo yellow No.20 MENARDS IndyCar. Image Credit: Vision Racing (2009)

This excerpted and edited from a Facebook message sent out to "friends" -

To our Vision Racing fans
Sat, January 30, 2010 4:27:41 PM

“It is with profound regret and heavy hearts that we share the following update with you all. Despite the team’s best efforts, Vision Racing will be suspending all racing operations. We have an amazing group of people here that appreciate all the support you have given the team. Efforts to find a solid sponsor partnership have been difficult but will continue so that we may take to the track once again. We hope to see you all there in the near future.”

Followed by:

What Vision Racing Fans CAN Do...
Saturday, January 30, 2010 at 5:25pm

Dear Vision Racing Fans,

We cannot tell you how much your words of support and encouragement have meant to all of our team members in the past few days. We want you to know that we are working hard to get past this speed bump and get our team back to the business of building race cars & IZOD IndyCar & Firestone Indy Lights racing.

Many of you have asked what YOU, as fans, can do to help.

Well, we thought about it and the fact is YOU guys count A LOT. We race BECAUSE of you. We race for you. Sponsors get involved because they want YOU to buy their products and support their involvement in our sport. Neither of us can succeed without you, the fans.

SO... here's what you can do if you want to help.

"LETTERS OF REFERENCE" Campaign

If you are willing, we would ask you to send a letter, email, short note, fax to Vision Racing that we can pass along to potential sponsors AND the sponsors that have been supportive of us in the past. (They don't all yet understand the power of twitter & facebook)

Think of it as a letter of reference that we can use to find and secure sponsors that want your business.

Please feel free to send these to us so that we can pass them along on your behalf:

by email at Visionmedia@visionracing.com

by FAX at 317-295-7066

or by snail mail to:

Letter of Reference
c/o Vision Racing
6803 Coffman Road, Indianapolis, IN 46268
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One of the sponsors that HAS supported Vision Racing and our driver Ed Carpenter for a number of years is MENARDS.

We are NOT asking you to HARASS our friends at MENARDS. In fact, ALL we'd like you to do is let them know that YOU still support us and appreciate the support MENARDS has shown us. The folks at MENARDS love racing as much as you do but they also have difficult decisions to make sometimes.
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We'll make sure your letters get to MENARDS or if you prefer, you can send you letters directly to them by fax at 715-876-2774.
----
Thank YOU!

Vision Racing
Reference Here>>

The letter of reference writing campaign should focus on gaining a sponsorship from any business entity that would like to be recognized as being associated with one of the more compelling figures in all of motorsport ... Tony George.

A lot of motorsports history surrounds Tony George and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

At this point in time, a few entities are finding it easy to turn their back when some are down ... but Tony George is not out if a company would like the special advertising and public relations attention that would be brought by backing a racing effort with the history and "Vision" of a team owned by one of the truly monumental figures in the world of motor culture!

Sample Letter Here>>

... notes from The EDJE

Gentilozzi and Jaguar RSR Racing tour England

Paul Gentilozzi on a "flyer" as he crests the top of the hill at the end of Rahal Straight before entering the Corkscrew at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca during the ALMS final race of the 2009 season. Image Credit: Edmund Jenks (2009)

Gentilozzi and Jaguar RSR Racing tour England

GT racing legend and former co-cheif executive of the ChampCar World Series, Paul Gentilozzi is taking a break from a gruelling development program to feature the XKR in the largest dedicated trade motorsport exhibition in Europe. The race car will be on display at the Jaguar booth alongside a production model XKR, XFR, and the fastest Jaguar ever – the Bonneville XFR prototype, which Paul drove to 225.675 mph on the Bonneville Salt Flats in 2008.

Jaguar asked the Michigan-based RSR team to help create a race car to compete in GT2 racing in 2010. The Jaguar engineering and design teams, based in Coventry, have jointly developed the car from a standard road-going XKR with the RSR team.

Paul Gentilozzi piloting the new Jaguar RSR XKR GT through the "Corkscrew" turn at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca. Image Credit: Scott Coursey/RallyBuzz

The new Jaguar RSR racing car makes its European debut this week at the 2010 Autosport International at the NEC in Birmingham, UK. It is the first and only chance for the public to see the stunning new XKR GT in the metal before it heads back to the US to compete in the entire 2010 American Le Mans Series (ALMS) in North America.

The competition car uses the standard Jaguar XKR lightweight aluminum monocoque together with additional steel reinforcements and safety structure developed by RSR. The 5.0-litre V-8 engine boasts 550 horsepower at 7000 rpm and a maximum speed of 180mph.

The Jaguar RSR XKR GT made its racing debut during the Petit Le Mans event at Road Atlanta in Braselton, Georgia, in September 2009. The car took its first green flag in the American Le Mans Series season finale at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca in October and is set for a full-season championship effort in 2010.

Mike O'Driscoll, managing director of Jaguar Cars said: "Our designers and engineers have taken the best of our standard road-going XKR and with Paul Gentilozzi's motorsport expertise created a first-class competition car. Paul and his RSR team are confident that they can compete against some serious competition in the American Le Mans Series (ALMS).

Speed shot of the new Jaguar RSR XKR GT getting ready for the 2010 ALMS racing season. Image Credit: Scott Coursey/RallyBuzz

RSR principle partner Paul Gentilozzi will be in attendance at Autosport International. Gentilozzi said of his attendance: "Jaguar is so intertwined with British motoring history making this a fantastic opportunity to debut the Jaguar RSR XKR GT racecar internationally. Having our new GT racecar and the Bonneville prototype XFR on display at the biggest motorsport exhibition in Europe with the production cars that made these possible is such a great way to showcase our dedication to the Jaguar brand and to motorsports.”

After taking centre stage at the car show, the Jaguar RSR XKR GT will visit “home” by making stops at Jaguar headquarter sites in Whitley and Castle Bromwich in the UK. “It will be incredibly exciting to take the Jaguar RSR XKR GT back to the team at Jaguar who worked so hard to make this dream a reality,” added Gentilozzi. “A picture may be worth a thousand words, but seeing this car in person is priceless.”

Aside from his role as team owner, Paul is one of the drivers for the #33 JaguarRSR XKR. Next up? The ALMS Winter Test February 22 – 23 at Sebring International Raceway in Sebring, Florida and Season Opener – the 12 Hours of Sebring, March 20.

... notes from The EDJE


(ht: Jaguar GT racing car makes European debut - WheelsUnplugged Automobile Industry News)

Toyota leaves Formula 1 with departing email

Panasonic Toyota Racing’s last Formula 1 car, the TF109. The end of Panasonic Toyota Racing's Formula 1 program is not the end of activity on www.toyota-f1.com - far from it. Image Credit: Toyota Motor Corporation

Toyota leaves Formula 1 with departing email

This morning, those who had been following the exploits of the Toyota Formula racing effort throughout the last couple of seasons, woke up to an email communique outlining the last efforts Toyota Motorsport GmbH will be doing to close the final chapter of their effort.

Jarno Trulli and former Champ Car World Series driver, Timo Glock have moved on, both have signed to drive with newly formed teams for the 2010 F1 season. Jarno was confirmed as one of the newly-formed Lotus F1 Racing's team drivers, joining former McLaren driver Heikki Kovalainen. Timo chose an option where he will be guaranteed a drive, although the car might be less competitive, at the newly formed Virgin Racing. Virgin's car for 2010 will be the first F1 car designed entirely using CFD computer simulation technology and will be powered with Cosworth engines. Timo will be teamed with long-time Brazilian GP2 regular Lucas di Grassi.

Timo Glock and Jarno Trulli take the front row at the Bahrain Grand Prix 2009. Image Credit: Bahrain International Circuit

A visit to the farewell website is a wonderful mix of photography, technology, and past F1 memories.

This excerpted and edited from Toyota's departing email -

A virtual goodbye to Formula 1
Monday 25 January 2010

Toyota Motorsport GmbH bids farewell to Formula 1 with an offering to all those who supported it during eight emotional seasons at the pinnacle of motorsport.

Fans, media and sponsors alike can relive memories from the team in the form of exclusive photos and videos, including an eight-minute video retrospective featuring exclusive footage of moments which variously made us laugh, smile or shed a tear.

Simply visit http://ms.toyota.co.jp/en/ and click on the banner ‘A Virtual Goodbye to Formula 1' to look back on our time Formula 1.

Since our first season competing in Formula 1, in 2002, we have experienced a whole spectrum of emotions but through the highs and the lows, we have been fortunate to enjoy the valued support of partners, media and fans.

There have been so many sponsorship campaigns, media collaborations and distributor initiatives it is impossible mention individual cases but we would like to sincerely thank all those partners, media and fans who have been part of our Formula 1 adventure.

This special website represents the final act for the marketing and communications department, which has ceased normal operations.

Until further notice, all media enquiries regarding Toyota's motorsport programmes should be directed to Toyota Motor Corporation in Japan on bl-pr@mail.toyota.co.jp while only specific requests relating to Toyota Motorsport GmbH in Cologne should be directed to pr@toyota-motorsport.com.

Our media website www.toyota-f1-world.com will continue to function until the end of the year to provide an archive of photography and information from the team's time in Formula 1.
Reference Here>>

Funny, it would be nice to have the same type of departure website attention given to other automobile-culture departures that have happened over this last full year ... and not necessarily departures in motorsport.

Let's see websites devoted to the history and legacy of Pontiac, Saturn, Dodge Aspen, Hummer ... heck, lets just add General Motors and Chrysler, in general, since they were once proud companies involved in the pursuit of free-enterprise and have departed from the annuals of needs-satisfaction, profit-oriented American automobile manufacturers.

... notes from The EDJE

Russo and Steele's auto auction gets major air

“There are downed electrical lines in there, wires, cables, propane heaters and canisters, broken glass, etc.,” Drew Alcazar, founder and co-owner of Russo & Steele, said in an interview Friday afternoon. “We hope to be allowed back in the site by Saturday morning. If we can, we’d like to reopen the auction Sunday, and maybe extend to Monday if there are enough interested owners and buyers.” /// About 600 classic automobiles, including the car that has perhaps piqued the most curiosity at this year’s Arizona collector car auctions — a 1948 Tucker 48 convertible — were in the tents at the time, Mr. Alcazar said. Image Credit: azfamily.com

Russo and Steele's auto auction gets major air

After a successful and enjoyable breakfast gathering for inside auto-enthusiasts and members of the press, the day began well for the folks over at the Russo and Steele.

Russo and Steele in Scottsdale is a standout against the well publicized "No-Reserve" policy of the other major auction held this week at Barrett-Jackson, in that they hold an auction where all cars are held with a Reserve. This auction operation believes that quality consignments are the result of only two scenarios; either the owner had paid a premium or has endured a costly and laborious restoration. Neither of these two will entice this caliber of automobiles to simply be “sold to the highest bidder – regardless of price” ... hence, "No-Reserve".

These consignors want “top dollar” for their car. The challenge all auction companies face is how to attract quality consignments and consign them with appropriate reserves that will be well received by our knowledgeable bidders. A car does not get sold unless it meets the negotiated minimum price - The Reserve.

Russo and Steele’s Scottsdale sale occupies the middle ground of the collector car market — roughly $100,000 to $500,000 — offering mainly American muscle cars and European sports cars.

But the Russo and Steele auction, which began on Thursday, was interrupted that evening by one of the most severe storms the area has experienced in years. Winds tore at two of the tents the company was using to house cars going to auction, collapsing one of them and sending parts of the other blowing onto the nearby 101 Freeway.

This excerpted and edited from Examiner -

Russo & Steele's Scottsdale tents collapse during auction
January 21, 10:57 PM - Classic Autos Examiner, Jim Cherry

Severe weather punishing the American West struck Scottsdale, Arizona with full fury this afternoon during Russo & Steele's auction of ultra rare, blue chip classic cars. See details of Russo & Steele's offerings this year by clicking here.

The tents that collapsed were side structures. Thankfully, no one was injured as most attendees were busy watching the action in the main tent. Between 5,000 and 10,000 people were in attendance at Russo & Steele when disaster struck at 6 P.M., according to AZFamily.com.

Russo & Steele Auction was immediately evacuated. Even car owners had to leave without knowing the fates of their valuable classic rides. It is believed that several cars were damaged.

Arizona state governor Jan Brewer declared a state of emergency due to the extensive impact the severe storm has had all over the state.
Reference Here>>

In Scottsdale strong winds have blown over two tents at the Russo-Steele Auto Auction. The auction had to be evacuated and there is major damage to the tents. There were no injuries reported. Most people at the auction at the time were inside the main tent, which is still intact but two other tents were destroyed along with a lot of expensive cars. What was left of the massive tents at the annual auction in north Scottsdale continued to flap violently in the wind leaving the auction cars exposed to the harsh elements. A lot of the collectors' cars have spent years in garages and have barely seen any kind of weather, let alone a fierce storm. Image Credit: azfamily.com

And this excerpted and edited from the New York Times -

Storm-Damaged Auction Site Remains Closed
By JERRY GARRETT - January 22, 2010, 7:59 pm

McKeel Hagerty, president of Hagerty Insurance, which specializes in coverage for vintage cars, said he had surveyed the auction site from a distance. He said he estimated that perhaps as many as half of the 600 cars had suffered at least some damage. “You can see that some of them have been extensively damaged,” he added.

Was this the worst disaster the classic car industry has suffered?

“Hurricane Katrina was worse,” Mr. Hagerty said. “We lost 500 to 600 classic cars in that one. But, other than that, this is the worst I can remember.
Reference Here>>

For more background on Russo & Steele see: Russo and Steele Scottsdale 2010

... notes from The EDJE

Tony George now has several less jobs in Motorsports - Resigns from IMS Board

Tony George - Team Owner, Vision Racing - Perhaps best known as the CEO and President of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and founder of the Indy Racing League, Anton “Tony” Hulman George also got into the team owning business when colleague and friend Tom Kelley put his IndyCar operation up for sale in 2004. Caption & Image Credit: Vision Racing

Tony George now has several less jobs in Motorsports - Resigns from IMS Board

Tony George resigned today from the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Board of Directors. Last year, Robin Miller writing for SPEED TV cited a source close to the IMS that confirmed that the 49-year-old grandson of Tony Hulman would no longer be CEO of the Speedway after a vote of the IMS board of directors which includes mother Mari, sisters Josie, Nancy and Kathy, attorney Jack Snyder and George.

So now the ouster has been made complete ... Tony George is neither the CEO, or a mamber of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Board of Directors or any remaining role in Hulman & Company, Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Indy Racing League, IMS Productions and other affiliated companies.

This from a press release issued from the Indianapolis Motor Speedway -

TONY GEORGE RESIGNS BOARD MEMBERSHIPS OF INDIANAPOLIS MOTOR SPEEDWAY, HULMAN & COMPANY - INDIANAPOLIS, Tuesday, Jan. 19, 2010 –

The Board of Directors of Hulman & Company and affiliated companies, including the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, has received the resignation of Anton H. “Tony” George from the board of directors effective immediately, according to Mari Hulman George, chairman.

“As members of his family, we are sorry to see Tony leave,” said Mrs. George. “We are grateful for his service to our company as a board member and of course for formerly serving as CEO and president of our companies. I speak for our whole family in wishing him well.

“All of us had hoped that Tony would continue to serve on the board, and we made that clear to him. We are disappointed with his decision to step down despite our wishes.”

His resignation removes George from any remaining role in Hulman & Company, Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Indy Racing League, IMS Productions and other affiliated companies. His term as CEO of the family companies ended June 30, 2009. He continues to be involved in racing through his ownership of Vision Racing, a competitor in the IZOD IndyCar Series of the Indy Racing League.

The board vacancy will be addressed at a later date. In addition to Mari Hulman George, board members include Nancy George, Josie George, Kathi George-Conforti and Jack Snyder.

Mari Hulman George said she is very pleased with the direction of the company and the progress that has been made during the last six months.

“Our company is healthy and is weathering the economic recession well,” she said. “Jeff Belskus, president and CEO of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, and Curt Brighton, president and CEO of Hulman & Company, are both doing excellent jobs in guiding our companies through this difficult time. Many hard decisions have been made, and now our companies are well positioned for the future.”

Personally, we at The EDJE wish Tony great success as a car owner in the IZOD Indy Racing League. Great success in your sophomore year at the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach in April 16-18, 2010.

... notes from The EDJE

Barrett-Jackson Auction Company kicks off 2010

Barrett-Jackson Lot: 5499 - Auction: SCOTTSDALE 2010 - Rare 1950's Chevrolet single-sided porcelain neon dealership sign. Impressive with simulated neon tire movement [crtl-click image to enlarge]. Image Credit: Barrett-Jackson (2010)

Barrett-Jackson Auction Company kicks off 2010

Craig Jackson, CEO of Barrett-Jackson Auction Company, gave a visit to members of the Motor Press Guild (MPG) at their monthly meeting luncheon, Tuesday, Jan. 12, and passed on insights about the process of large scale Automobile and motor culture memorabilia auction sales. Barrett-Jackson's kicks off their year of auction event activity with the annual session that got the ball rolling in 1967, a car show they called, with the appropriate flair, "Fiesta del los Auto Elegance." held in Scottsdale, Arizona. The event was a fundraiser for local charities, including the Scottsdale Library and the community art center.

Barrett-Jackson Lot: 1292 - Auction: SCOTTSDALE 2010 - 1952 WATSON ROADSTER CUSTOM BY BLASTOLENE [ctrl-click to see larger image]. Image Credit: Barrett-Jackson (2010)

Today, Barrett-Jackson Auction Company holds annual auction events in Scottsdale, Arizona - January 18-24, 2010, Palm Beach, Florida - April 1-3, 2010, new this year ... Orange County, California - June 25-27, 2010, and ending the year in Las Vegas, Nevada - September 23-25, 2010.

Craig presented a positive view of the collector car industry as he opened with a short video, spoke for a short time on the state of his industry, and opened the floor to questions.

One of the most interesting questions posed went like this ... You have probably seen it all so is there an auction item that sticks out in your mind that you would like to share?

Craig responded that just recently, at the last Las Vegas auction, he and the staff were left looking at each other, dumbfounded, when the hammer came down on a car for $112,000 dollars. The car was a black & white 1963 Ford Galaxie squad car replication of the television version of the squad car used in the long running TV series, The Andy Griffith Show.


Barrett-Jackson Lot: 63 - 1963 FORD GALAXIE 4 DOOR SEDAN - Lot Number: 63 - Auction: LAS VEGAS 2009 - Sale Price: *$121,000.00 (*includes commission) - Year: 1963 Make: FORD Model: GALAXIE - Style: 4 DOOR SEDAN - Exterior Color: BLACK/WHITE - Summary: Barney Fife Squad car re-creation with a 289cid V8 and Cruise-O-Matic transmission. Built for the famous Barney Fife impersonator, Mick Kieffer. Details: This vehicle was redesigned to accompany Mick Kieffer, one of the nation's leading Barney Fife impersonators. This vehicle has been autographed by the late Don Knotts, documentation and photos are included. Featured on 2 magazine covers: "Rod and Custom" and "Good Guys Gazette". In addition it has been the feature subject of many magazine and newspaper articles across the country. The car's film credits include an episode of the TV series "Cops" filmed in Des Moines, IA, the film "Trash" filmed in CA and a rock video for the Harvey Danger Band. This is a functional "Squad" car powered by a 289cid V8 with a Cruise-O-Matic transmission. The trunk contains the original jack and spare tire. Caption Information & Image(s) Credit: Barrett-Jackson (2009)

Yes, the Mayberry RFD Squad Car ... but this one was a replica built for a Barney Fife (Andy's nervous cousin as played by Don Knotts) impersonator. The car had sold for just about half that price at a previous Barrett-Jackson Auction event (Scottsdale).

Then Craig Jackson made the statement of the afternoon's presentation - "That is why there are auctions ... it only takes two who have an interest in an item, then anything can happen."

Barrett-Jackson Lot: 1307 - Auction: SCOTTSDALE 2010 - 1929 HAMILTON METALPLANE H47 SERIAL #65 AIRPLANE [ctrl-click to see larger image]. Image Credit: Barrett-Jackson (2010)

All auction events held by Barrett-Jackson are classified as "No Reserve", in other words, all bids have the potential of purchasing the car from the seller, and the seller is not allowed to place bids hoping to drive the bidding process up (Barrett-Jackson have people checking the background of bidders as strongly as they know the background of the items up for bid). Further, Barrett-Jackson has contracted with Deloitte and Touche to fashion a code of ethics and procedure to govern the auction process so that people who are involved through either being the seller, or being the bidder, know they are operating on a legitimate and level playing field.

For Barrett-Jackson's part, they will pull an item if for any reason a question about its provenance (background history and authenticity) comes up at anytime before the actual auction. Due diligence is of extreme importance to this process, in that, in Scottsdale, for example, the majority of items being auctioned are going to be sold from between $50,000 to over $100,000 and confidence in the process is what Barrett-Jackson is really selling at each and every event.

See you all at the next Barrett-Jackson - The World's Greatest Collection Auctions - event in Scottsdale, Arizona - Westworld of Scottsdale - 16601 N Pima Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85260 - January 18-24, 2010, and televised LIVE on SPEED Channel since 1997 (consult your local cable listing for broadcast dates).

... notes from The EDJE

A Lamborghini Tale Of Woe In Laurel Canyon

Lamborghini nameplate script displayed on the back of a Gray 680hp Murcielago. Image Credit: Edmund Jenks (2009)

A Lamborghini Tale Of Woe In Laurel Canyon

Today, January 10, 2010, was a day one Lamborghini Gallardo owner/driver (assumed) went a little off on one of the very tight and winding streets just off of Laurel Canyon in the Hollywood Hills North and West of Los Angeles ... a couple of miles North of the Sunset Strip. The exact street location was not stated in the report posted at Jalopnic, but judging from the photos, the street was similar to Willow Glen (or Mount Olympus) ... way too tight and winding. Not a street to be cruzin' at about 560hp strength and speed.

Upended SAAB with the classic Lamborghini wedge doing the deed. View of the mishap looking toward the Southwest. Image Credit: Aaron/Jolopnic

The driver managed to upend a SAAB 9.5 (judging roofline and back door separator bodywork), throwing it into a Toyota Corolla which then was pushed into a Toyota extended cab pick-up truck with shell.

Upended SAAB with the classic Lamborghini wedge doing the deed. Toyota Corolla was pushed around with the front end off to the side of someone's driveway. View of the mishap looking toward the Southeast. Credit: Aaron/Jolopnic

Most people only dream of being able to ride in ... let alone drive a Lamborghini. At the recent Motor Press Guild's Press Day (actually held over a two day period) two Lamborghini cars were delivered for the gathered members of the Press to drive (the Gallardo) and ride (a Murcielago driven by IRL race car driver, Richard Antinucci). The driving was restricted to about seven to ten miles of street type of driving around Auto Club Speedway in Fontana, whereas the ride in the Gray 680hp Murcielago was three laps at IRL speed on the 1.5 mile infield road track - WOW!

MPG Track Day 2009 Lamborghini contingent nose to tail. The one on the left is the Blue Gallardo and on the right, the Gray Murcielago. Image Credit: Edmund Jenks (2009)

Video and still photo of the 560hp Gallardo "street drive" machine. In the street drive, all road rules applied. Image Credit: Edmund Jenks (2009)

Interior door jam of the Gallardo Lamborghini. Image Credit: Edmund Jenks (2009)

The Lamborghini contingent was only available for the first of the two days, so if one was not early on the list to drive or ride ... one was out of luck.

The last three laps of the day with Richard Antinucci, according to Richard ... were the most exhilarating laps he took all day. He was able to reach about 160mph at the end of the short front straight-away each time through, before breaking for the tight right then left-hand turns to begin each lap on the tight infield course.

The Lamborghini tale of woe will end up costing a bit of money and time, but maybe next time the Gallardo pictured in the accident photos will be able to be driven by its owner at full speed on a closed course like Willow Springs International Motorsports Park or up north at the 3.0 mile, 15 turn workout of a road course at Thunderhill Raceway Park.

... notes from The EDJE



TAGS: Crash, Gallardo, Hollywood Hills, Lamborghini, Laurel Canyon, MPG, Murcielago, Richard Antinucci, Thunderhill, Willow Springs, The EDJE

New Year's jump in Long Beach nets Pastrana 269 feet

Daredevil, Travis Pastrana, previously noted for being the first to do a double backflip on a motorcycle, and winning four straight Rally America championships, lands his rally car successfully on a barge moored in the Long Beach, California harbor. Image Credit: Matt Kartozian, US Presswire

2010 New Year's jump in Long Beach nets Pastrana 269 feet

X Game standout and action sports regular Travis Pastrana set a new world record to open up the new year, 2010, on ESPN.

The daredevil shattered the world record for the longest jump in a rally car last Thursday night, making a nearly perfect flight of 269 feet from the Pine Street Pier onto a barge anchored in the harbor.

After teasing the crowd, estimated to near 20,000 thousand, with a warmup run down the 1,000-foot run-in and up the takeoff ramp, Pastrana took off in serious fashion, flying across approximately 200 feet of water to the landing ramp on the barge just a few minutes after midnight EST to bring in the new year.

His Subaru skidded sideways after landing and slammed into a wall at the end of the barge, but Pastrana emerged unscathed, ran to the end of the barge and after getting his response from the crowd, did a backflip into the Long Beach harbor water.

The old record was 171 feet set by Pastrana's Subaru teammate, Ken Block, in a rally car in November 2006. Pastrana wanted to break that mark by more than 100 feet.

"The flight was awesome," the 26-year-old daredevil said. "I couldn't have asked for anything better."

Asked to comment on his celebration jump from the Red Bull landing ramp into the harbor waters ... "It's soft," jester-ed Pastrana. "It was a lot colder than I anticipated."

He broke the old record by 98 feet.

"This is one of the cooler feelings, just to be part of something so huge," Pastrana continued. "It was kind of pass or fail. It was just a really good time and trying to push the envelope of what's possible in a car."

The stunt was the latest in Red Bull's New Year, No Limits series.

Happy 2010 to Travis Pastrana, Red Bull, Subaru, the City of Long Beach, and all who just love the setting of world record marks in this Motor Culture world.

... notes from The EDJE