![]() Sports Car Club of America opened the New Year with the hire of Kristen Poole, who will be taking on the newly created role of Senior Manager of Marketing to bring new energy and horsepower to marketing efforts organization wide. Poole has been an SCCA member since 2015, and served as Regional Executive for the award-winning Susquehanna Region for the past three years. As an independent contractor for SCCA in 2019, she brought value to both Track Night in America and Time Trials programs in various roles from coaching and event lead to logistics management for Time Trials Nationals. “Although I’ve only been a member for five years, I grew up going to races with my dad,” Poole said. “I’ve always had a passion for motorsports—for the cars, yes, but more so for the people who are like family. I’m excited for the opportunity to work on a national level to maximize marketing efforts and foster stronger connections with our members.” Heyward Wagner, SCCA’s Senior Director of Marketing & Experiential Programs, said, “In her role as Senior Manager of Marketing, Kristen will be tasked with the development and execution of a new, comprehensive and cohesive digital marketing strategy for the organization. We see it as a much-needed overhaul intended to enhance marketing and communications efforts across the organization.” As a career marketer, Poole brings 15 years of experience to the SCCA marketing team with skills in writing, design and photography, and professional experience managing robust email marketing, marketing automation, complex projects and social media programs. Poole graduated from Penn State University in 2006 with Highest Distinction honors and a bachelor’s degree in communications. Photo: Kristen Poole, SCCA’s new Senior Manager of Marketing
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![]() LAS VEGAS, Nev. (Jan. 18, 2020) -- Ten individuals, all who have made significant contributions to the Sports Car Club of America® (SCCA®) and world of motorsports, became official members of the SCCA® Hall of Fame Saturday evening during the Awards Banquet that closed out the 2020 SCCA National Convention at South Point Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada. However, many other awards and honors were handed out during the annual gathering. Below is a rundown of those accolades. Woolf Barnato Award: Charlie Davis, San Francisco Region This is SCCA’s highest award and is presented to a member who has made an outstanding, long-term contribution to the Club. David Morrell Memorial Award: James Foyle, Southwest Louisiana Region This award is presented to encourage continued participation in the Steward’s Program by recognition of an active National Chief Steward who has exhibited outstanding performance and dedication to the sport and the highest principles. The winner is selected by the Chairman of the Stewards and the Executive Stewards. President’s Cup: Robeson Clay Russell; Central Carolinas Region Presented to the driver demonstrating ability, competitiveness and success at the National Championship Runoffs®. The winner is selected by the Stewards of the Meeting and the Chief Steward of the National Championship Runoffs along with the President and CEO of SCCA. The inaugural presentation in 1954 was performed by President Dwight D. Eisenhower. Member of Excellence: Rich Bireta, Kansas Region Selected by SCCA’s Board of Directors, this award is presented to the volunteer who shows the greatest commitment to SCCA activities. The recipient can be involved in Solo, Rally and/or Road Racing. This person personifies the SCCA volunteer who gives of his/her time and effort to help organize, work in a specialty or any volunteer role necessary to a motorsports event. John McGill Award: Glen Thielke, Milwaukee Region Presented for significant contribution to the Road Racing Program. The winner is chosen by the Club Racing Board and the Vice President of Road Racing. Dirty Cup: Leon Drake, Tennessee Valley Region This award is presented annually by the RallyCross Board to recognize an individual that has made an extraordinary contribution to the sport of SCCA RallyCross. This award normally recognizes contribution over time. The award recipient can make their contribution as a competitor, organizer, worker, administrator, etc. The contribution of the winner shall have had a positive impact on the program nationwide. Spark Plug Award: Jon Seaton, Arkansas Region For an outstanding effort in promoting and publicizing RallyCross using multimedia to further the recognition and growth of RallyCross. This can be given to an individual, region or division. Divisional RallyCross Achievement: Central Division This award is presented in recognition of a Division’s activities in RallyCross for a new or on-going program. This may include events, promotions, attendance, innovation in public relations, etc. Nominations clearly indicating the qualifying details may be made by any Rally participant, with the recipient being selected by the RallyCross Board. Regional RallyCross Achievement: Atlanta Region This award is presented in recognition of a Region’s activities in RallyCross for a new or on-going program. This may include events, promotions, attendance, innovation in public relations, event participation, etc. Nominations clearly indicating the qualifying details may be made by any RallyCross participant, with the recipient being selected by the RallyCross Board. Robert V. Ridges Memorial Award: Bruce Fisher, Detroit Region Bob Ridges was Secretary of the RoadRally Board from the inception of the National program in 1957 until his death in 1965. This award is presented to the SCCA member who exemplifies the highest degree of dedication and sportsmanship in the sport and who has made an outstanding contribution to the success of an event. This award is not intended for sitting RRB members, Official Observers, Rallymasters, or Officials unless they have clearly demonstrated extraordinary dedication, achievement, and/or sportsmanship above and beyond the duties and responsibilities of their office. The recipient is selected by the RRB based on recommendations of any Rally participant or Board member. This is the highest honor within the SCCA Rally Program and may not be presented each year. Arthur J. Gervais Award: Jim Crittenden, Milwaukee Region Arthur Gervais was a longtime Rallymaster of the Historic New York National RoadRally. The award is presented annually to the year’s outstanding National Course Rally. The winner is chosen via a vote of the top 20 competitors in each class who have competed in at least four events. Prior to 1989, this award encompassed all National Rallies each year. W. David Teter Tour Rally of the Year: Kate and Clarence Westberg, Land O’ Lakes Region David Teter was the editor of the modernized and comprehensive RoadRally Rule Book, Rallymaster of seventeen consecutive March Lamb Regional rallies, and an outstanding competitor on the NTR circuit. This award is presented annually in recognition of the outstanding NTR. Selection is made by vote of the top 20 competitors in each class who have competed in at least three events in that class. Divisional RoadRally Achievement: Central Division This award is presented in recognition of a Division’s activities in RoadRally for a new or on-going program. This may include events, promotions, attendance, innovation in public relations, etc. Nominations clearly indicating the qualifying details may be made by any Rally participant, with the recipient being selected by the RoadRally Board. Regional RoadRally Achievement: New England Region Presented in recognition of a Region’s activities in RoadRally for a new or on-going program. This may include events, promotions, attendance, innovation in public relations, event participation, etc. Nominations clearly indicating the qualifying details may be made by any Rally participant, with the recipient being selected by the Road Rally Board. Best New Regional RoadRally Program: Susquehanna Region The Best New Regional Road Rally Program Award recognizes creativity at RoadRally events. The Tom Burke Awards The Tom Burke Awards are presented to Regions for exemplary efforts to activate and grow the SCCA. Formerly named the Chairman’s Award prior to 1987, one award is given to the RE of a Region in each of the Region Size categories from the preceding year. The awards are given in honor of SCCA member Tom Burke. His love of SCCA and passion for what we do not only ignited in others a desire to become SCCA members, but also served as a call to engage in SCCA activities. Mr. Burke’s ambassadorial approach to prospective and current members served as a model for the spirit of the SCCA. - Small Regions (under 200 members): Old Dominion Region; Mark Sanetrik, Regional Exec. - Medium Regions (201-400 members): Glen Region; Ed Zebrowski, Regional Exec. - Large Regions (401-800 members): Cincinnati Region; Tony Brown, Regional Exec. - Jumbo Regions (over 800 members): Central Florida Region; Stephen Mullen, Regional Exec. Region of the Year Awards The Region of the Year Award gauges a Region’s management team performance relating to the SCCA’s Goals and Business Strategies. Winners are as follows. - Small Regions (under 200 members): Puerto Rico Region; Jose de Miguel, Regional Exec. - Medium Regions (201-400 members): Utah Region; Kevin Schulz, Regional Exec. - Large Regions (401-800 members): Buccaneer Region; Don Johnson, Regional Exec. - Jumbo Regions (over 800 members): Houston Region; Larry Svaton, Regional Exec. Hall of Fame Finally, the Hall of Fame honorees inducted Saturday evening were: Bill and Jane Goodale, Walt Hansgen, Scott Harvey, Joe Huffaker, Cat Kizer, Bob and Patty Tunnell, and Dave and Sherrie Weitzenhof. Bill and Jane Goodale Within the Sports Car Club of America, Bill and Jane Goodale have been far more than accomplished drivers. They have been leaders, facilitators, officials and even mentors. It could be argued that most SCCA members have been affected by their efforts, certainly on the Solo side. But beyond that, the grace, kindness and sense of inclusion they’ve displayed has become a hallmark of SCCA’s Solo Program. Jane was Solo Chair during the 1970s when New England Region’s Solo program was just beginning to be a presence. She traveled the ProSolo circuit and went on to lend support to the Region and fellow competitors, and was well known as host of the Region party at Solo Nationals. Meanwhile, Bill was New England Region’s first, and for decades only, Solo Novice chair. In the early years of Solo Nationals, Chief Stewards were usually from outside the Solo community. When that changed to instead utilize those involved in autocross, Bill was one of the first to be asked to fill the role. He did for decades, working with and mentoring many others who have taken on the role as Solo Nationals grew. Bill’s record in competition was impressive, too, as he was named the 1989 Driver of Eminence, received the 2010 Solo Cup, and claimed several national championships along the way. Walt Hansgen A member of the Northern New Jersey Region since joining SCCA in 1951, Walt Hansgen’s influence and impact in American and European sports car racing was immense. As a competitor, Hansgen achieved much. He was a four-time SCCA “C” Modified National Champion, a three-time recipient of SCCA’s President’s Cup, and competed at world-class endurance events, NASCAR Grand National races, and a couple Grands Prix. Hansgen was also named the New York Times “Best Driver of the Year” and Sports Illustrated “U.S. Sports Car Driver of the Year.” Hansgen’s successful racing career aside, he was a very active member of the Northern New Jersey Region where he held the Regional Executive position. On a National level, he served on the Competition Board and worked diligently to improve the Club’s road racing program, safety standards and competition rules. Additionally, Hansgen conducted racecourse safety inspections, making recommendations for circuit improvements to benefit drivers, crew and spectators alike -- standards that are still in use today. Hansgen also served as an early president of the Road Racing Drivers Club (RRDC). Scott Harvey While attending UCLA in the 1950s, engineering student Scott Harvey began rally and racing efforts in an MG-TD. By 1956, he had joined the Sports Car Club of America and was working as a Chrysler engineer in Detroit where he managed to convince superiors to loan him a 300D for motorsport activities -- the first in a long string of Chrysler products he competed in over the years. And while some know Harvey for engineering high-performance suspension parts, his real impact came through advancing the sport of performance rally. It is Harvey’s early adoption of the European idea of high-speed rally that landed him in the SCCA Hall of Fame. He helped form a club, called The Ralligators, that worked alongside SCCA’s Detroit Region to create European rallying in the United States. Harvey was instrumental in creation of the MONY (Michigan, Ohio, New York) rally series, with most MONY events being SCCA rallies. This eventually led to creation of the SCCA PRO Rally series in 1973, which Harvey became first overall champion. Before that, he had participated in traditional Time-Speed-Distance (TSD) rallies where in 1963 and 1964 he won the SCCA National TSD championship. In 1968, Harvey served as Chairman and Rallymaster of the Press On Regardless rally, a milestone event for the sport in America and the longest running rally event in SCCA history. Under his leadership, Harvey and the Press On Regardless were awarded the prestigious Arthur Gervais Rally of the Year in 1968 by SCCA, the first time a “performance” rally had been selected for the award. Harvey was also instrumental in bringing the World Rally Championship to the United States with his involvement in the 1972 Press On Regardless rally, an event in 1973 and 1974 with World Championship status. Joe Huffaker “Little” Joe Huffaker, the son of 2017 SCCA Hall of Fame inductee Joe Huffaker, has made a big mark in Sports Car Club of America road racing. At an early age, the younger Huffaker helped out around his father’s garage before “officially” joining Huffaker Engineering in the early 1970s. Over the years he gathered a lot of useful knowledge, from his father and great drivers and mechanics, before taking over the business in 1991 when his father retired. The younger Joe, however, didn’t just continue his father’s work. He significantly expanded the operation to become a force throughout SCCA Club Racing and Pro Racing, maintaining the highest possible standards in car construction and presentation, regardless of the series. As proof, note the fact that Huffaker Engineering has produced over 35 SCCA Runoffs® National Championship cars and claimed three SCCA Trans Am titles. Their successful record has earned the Huffakers the honor of being the very first father-son duo to be inducted into the Sports Car Club of America Hall of Fame. Beyond his car and engine building prowess, “Little” Joe -- who actually stands 6 feet 5 inches tall -- is an equally talented racecar driver. He has too many wins to count in SCCA road racing competition. But a couple highlights, as of 2019, include his 13 poles at the Runoffs and 10 National Championships gathered up across two different classes in cars he designed, built and prepared -- a feat that stands as testament to Joe’s immense talent. Cat Kizer A continuous member of SCCA since 1976, Catherine “Cat” Kizer holds a special place in SCCA history. She was the first female to be crowned a Runoffs champion, and the only woman to be awarded the President’s Cup. These two accomplishments have made Kizer a role model for other female racers. It was 1979 when Kizer made history at Road Atlanta during the National Championship Runoffs. She faced a formidable field of competitors, many of whom were previous national champions. Starting from eighth on the grid, she quickly drove her H Production Red Roof Inns MG Midget into the lead. A great battle ensued up front, but it was Kizer who was first to the checkered flag. That inspiring drive earned her the prestigious President’s Cup award that year. The following year, Kizer was back at the Runoffs, placing her car on pole and finishing third in the race. Bob and Patty Tunnell The Solo duo of Patty and Bob Tunnell have posted an illustrious record when it comes to autocross competition. From Volkswagens in the early 1980s, through a long and storied stretch driving BMWs at many preparation levels, the married couple achieved success few have matched. They have claimed numerous Solo Nationals Championships and ProSolo Championships across many classes and categories, from Stock through Modified, in cars which were not the obvious choice for victory. Bob’s recognition awards from SCCA have included the Solo Cup and, together with Patty, Driver of Eminence. Beyond their success between the orange cones, the Tunnells stand as an example of how to be active, involved members of both the Solo community and Club as a whole. Bob has served the Club on a variety of fronts, including time on the Solo Events Board and as a Chief Steward for Solo Nationals. Patty and Bob have also lent their valuable experience and positive attitude to the Club’s burgeoning Time Trials National Tour program. All throughout, the Tunnells never forgot how important it is to encourage experienced competitors to befriend and mentor those new to SCCA activities. Their kindness and compassion are also on display through philanthropic endeavors that create a very positive image for the Sports Car Club of America. Dave and Sherrie Weitzenhof Dave Weitzenhof’s record over more than 50 years of SCCA road racing demonstrates his skill as both a driver and technician. Overall, he has seven SCCA National Championships and was presented with the Road Racing Drivers’ Club Mark Donohue Award in 1972, as well as the 1977 SCCA President’s Cup trophy. But as Dave himself admits, none of that would’ve been possible without the help of his wife, Sherrie Weitzenhof, who has been by his side and an instrumental part of the “team” throughout half a century of racing. The fact that Sherrie is officially recognized as a “Friend of the Road Racing Drivers’ Club” proves that point. Furthermore, Sherrie supported the SCCA NeOhio Region by organizing many events, including the successful and long running Competition Clinic, and she chaired the NeOhio Hall of Fame committee. To his credit, Dave earned four SCCA Runoffs wins in the highly competitive Formula Ford class, as well as a pair of Formula Continental Runoffs victories and a Formula Vee SCCA National Championship. Beyond that, he has won far too many SCCA races to count. Outside the car, Dave was an accomplished engineer with Bridgestone/Firestone and has numerous patents to his name. Throughout his involvement in SCCA racing, Dave openly shared insights on car setup and vehicle dynamics, as well as his tire expertise with fellow racers. Some of that know-how was deployed while serving as a test driver for development of the Sports Renault program, which evolved to become Spec Racer Ford -- one of SCCA’s most popular car classes in road racing. 2019 SCCA Board Election and Bylaws Revision Results
TOPEKA, Kan. (Nov. 25, 2019) -- The Sports Car Club of America® has announced results for the SCCA® Board of Directors elections conducted in four of SCCA’s geographic Areas. Two new board members were selected, and two incumbents rejoin the board for another three-year term in office. Jack Burrows, of Harrisonburg, Virginia, retains his position as Area 2 Director. Chris Albin, of Maryland Heights, Missouri, retains his title as Area 6 Director. Charles Dobbs, of Horseheads, New York, ran unopposed and is the new Area 10 Director. And finally, it is Steve Strickland, of Marion, Virginia, who won his bid for the Area 12 Director seat. The 2019 Board of Director election results are as follows: Area 2: Encompasses part of the Northeast Division, including Northeast Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Steel Cities, Washington DC, Central Pennsylvania, Mahoning Valley, South Jersey, Susquehanna, Blue Mountain and Misery Bay Regions. - Incumbent Area 2 Director Jack Burrows ran unopposed Area 6: Encompasses the Midwest Division, and each Region contained within it. - Incumbent Area 6 Director Chris Albin ran unopposed Area 10: Encompasses part of the Northeast Division, including Central New York, Southern New York, Western New York, Finger Lakes, Mohawk-Hudson and Glen Regions. - Charles Dobbs ran unopposed Area 12: Encompasses part of the Southeast Division, including Alabama, Atlanta, Buccaneer, Tennessee, North Carolina, Central Carolinas, Old Dominion, Eastern Tennessee, South Carolina, Middle Georgia, Tennessee Valley, Chattanooga, and Blue Ridge Regions. - Steve Strickland: 548 - Melanie Murray: 300 The full 2020 SCCA Board of Directors will be as follows: Area 1 - Bob Dowie Area 2 - Jack Burrows Area 3 - Lee Hill Area 4 - Marcus Merideth Area 5 - Peter Jankovskis Area 6 - Chris Albin Area 7 - Dan Helman Area 8 - Arnie Coleman Area 9 - Charlie Davis Area 10 - Charles Dobbs Area 11 - Jason Isley Area 12 - Steve Strickland Area 13 - Jeff Zurschmeide Also contained on the 2019 ballot was an initiative to update SCCA Bylaws concerning procedures related to voting on future matters put in front of members. The initiative passed by more than the two-thirds vote required, the tally being 6,867 to 400 votes, and allows for any official SCCA notification/communication in the future to be delivered to the membership in either written or electronic media (e.g., email) form. Notices may be communicated in person, by U.S. postal mail or other method of delivery, by email or other electronic means, or by publication in SportsCar Magazine or any other publication routinely provided by the Club to members. Election ballots were received and counted by Mize, Houser & Company, Certified Public Accountants. The current board is set to have one more meeting in December, with new BoD members officially taking their seats January 1, 2020. ![]() TOPEKA, Kan. (Nov. 6, 2019) -- Registration is now open for the 2020 Sports Car Club of America® National Convention taking place January 16-19 at South Point Hotel and Casino in beautiful Las Vegas, Nevada. This year’s Convention -- themed “One Team. One Experience” -- will consist of engaging and educational presentations, fun social gatherings, the Club’s Annual Meeting, and the SCCA® Hall of Fame and Awards Banquet. Additionally, an all-day Tire Rack Street Survival Summit will be held Sunday to focus on the teen driving course and discuss/share thoughts on the program. On the theme, SCCA President/CEO Mike Cobb said: “Building on the success of our 75th Diamond Anniversary year, the SCCA 2020 Convention will provide a great opportunity for Members, Region Leaders and Event Leadership to continue the pursuit of our collective Mission of delivering a safe, fun and exciting motorsports experience for enthusiasts. The SCCA 2020 Convention will provide significant value to SCCA leaders by focusing on how we can collectively and collaboratively impact member experience, program experience and leadership experience across 2020 and beyond. In short, we will fuel future SCCA growth by delivering excellence as one team in pursuit of delivering a more unified enthusiast experience.” Before the National Convention officially commences Thursday evening with the Annual Meeting and Welcome Party, SCCA will host a FREE open house Thursday afternoon, January 16, at South Point Hotel and Casino. Open house classroom sessions offer a free opportunity for ALL SCCA members to be trained and certified in some of the most critical roles needed to execute SCCA events. Leadership Summit seminars Friday, Saturday and Sunday provide SCCA members with opportunities to further develop leadership skills, acquire specific SCCA training and network with others. There will be 10 sessions focused just on skills to help Club members become better leaders, and over two dozen classes offering ways to build stronger Regions. Another 30 seminars are designed to provide insight on how to further the quality of local events. No matter how long someone has been an active SCCA member, there’s a new nugget of knowledge to be gleaned from the National Convention. Once the work is done, National Convention offers a whole host of fun activities where participants can reconnect with friends and mingle while networking with others from across the country. Extracurricular activities include the Welcome Party, hosted lunches, evening karting, group bowling, a pinewood derby, bingo and everything else Las Vegas has to offer. Of course, there is also Saturday evening’s Hall of Fame and Awards Banquet that wraps up festivities. General Admission is only $325 per attendee. That offers access to the Welcome Party, Leadership Academy seminars, and Hall of Fame and Awards Banquet. Diamond Club admission, costing $400 per person, is again available this year and includes a commemorative gift, preferred seating at the Hall of Fame and Awards Banquet, access to the Diamond bar during the Welcome Party and Hall of Fame cocktail hour, and a Diamond Club badge. A portion of Diamond Club registrations go towards the SCCA Foundation. More information on ways to attend the National Convention can be found at https://www.scca.com/pages/convention-ways-to-attend. Register for the Convention by clicking here. A block of rooms at South Point Hotel and Casino have been set aside for SCCA National Convention attendees. Guests can book a stay by contacting the hotel’s reservations department directly at 866-791-7626 or visit https://www.scca.com/pages/2020-national-convention-book-a-room. In order to obtain the special group rate, guests need to identify themselves as attendees of the SCCA National Convention or supply the group code SCC2020, which will entitle a rate of $70/night midweek and $125/night during the weekend with a $14 resort fee. Some additional fees and taxes may apply. The block of rooms for convention attendees will be held until December 23, 2019. So, don’t delay in making reservations. The hotel requires a first night’s deposit of room and tax, per room, to guarantee individual reservations, and a credit card will be charged for the first night’s room and tax. Guaranteed reservations will be held until 6:00 a.m. the following date TOPEKA, Kan. (July 3, 2019) – Again in 2020, the annual SCCA® National Convention will return January 16-18 to South Point Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas.
This is where voices are heard and decisions made. Be the first to learn of the Club’s strategic objectives and goals for the coming year, and learn ways to forward the SCCA Mission, Vision and Values The Convention will again be a familiar format that encompasses leadership development and skills training, and is a great opportunity to network with leaders from across the country and learn ways to develop a stronger Region. Details on times and a full schedule will be announced later this year. But as usual, the Annual Meeting and welcome reception will be held Thursday, followed by two days of training. Various fun social activities will certainly be included, too. The SCCA Hall of Fame and Awards banquet on Saturday night then caps festivities. Organizers are also seeking additional topics and presenters for 2020 Convention leadership and training sessions. Those who believe they have subjects of interest can submit a presentation proposal at https://www.scca.com/pages/speaker-application. Presentations are usually done in one-hour blocks. Longer presentations are allowed under rare circumstances. The submission deadline is July 28, 2019, for presentation proposals. More information about the 2020 SCCA National Convention will be made available at https://www.scca.com/pages/nationalconvention in the coming months. More information about hotel lodging deals can be found at https://www.scca.com/pages/2020-national-convention-book-a-room. It’s one of our favorite times of the year, when we get to start releasing details about the Tire Rack Time Trials Nationals and the food, fun and ferocious competition coming your way at NCM Motorsports Park September 27-29, 2019.
Registration for the event opened at 12:00PM CDT on Wednesday July 17, and in addition to the three days of camaraderie and competition, our partners and Holley Performance are helping give all entrants a fourth day – Holley Performance Day – at no extra cost. The second-ever Time Trials Nationals puts an exclamation point on the inaugural Time Trials National Tour and will be three days of competition with practice and Time Attack sessions Friday followed by TrackSprint and TimeAttack Saturday and Sunday. Some will get to stand atop the KONI Podium, and all will get to enjoy parties, food and fun each day, creating an experience you don’t want to miss. As we teased above, the opening the event will be the first Holley Performance Day on Thursday, September 26. With support from SCCA partners and Holley brands, those of you who enter Time Trials Nationals will have access to lapping sessions, a car-control clinic on the SCCA Starting Line Autocross Course and chalk talks from our partners, including Racers360 and ApexPro. Rumor has it we might even have some pro-level driving coaches who can take you for a spin in your own car if you desire. Many of you came last year, and we’re looking forward to seeing all of you back and lots of new faces for the second annual edition celebrating automobile competition and enthusiasm. As always, you can learn more about SCCA Time Trials, the Tire Rack Time Trials Nationals and the Holley Performance day at https://timetrials.scca.com/. TOPEKA, Kan. (April 24, 2019) -- Sports Car Club of America® (SCCA®) and Global Time Attack (GTA) have reached an agreement where SCCA, through its SCCA Pro Racing division, will become the official sanctioning body for 2019 Global Time Attack events throughout the United States.
This agreement includes a licensing program that allows new drivers to gain experience and accreditation to earn their way into pro time attack ranks, a system utilized by GRIDLIFE. SCCA and GTA will also be working together to produce unique, cooperative events during a number of weekends this year. Additionally, top-performing SCCA Time Trials Nationals (TTN) drivers will earn their way into GTA events, and the top 2019 TTN finisher will receive an invite to the 2020 Super Lap Battle organized by GTA. Heyward Wagner, SCCA’s Senior Director of Marketing and Experiential Programs, said the concept of working together with GTA was piloted at the February Super Lap Battle conducted at Circuit of the Americas, an event sanctioned by SCCA. “This latest partnership formalizes steps taken by the North American Time Attack Council to align GRIDLIFE, Global Time Attack and SCCA,” Wagner said. “This latest development is a solid foundation where each organization can experiment, learn and grow to produce exciting, top-notch events within a unique sector of motorsport. Plus, this now gives SCCA’s burgeoning Time Trials program a means for producing drivers who proceed up the ladder to highly competitive events hosted by other North American Time Attack Council organizations.” Jason Dienhart, President of Global Time Attack, agreed that SCCA and GTA working together further legitimizes time attack activities in North America and positions the sport for growth. “We now have a clear path towards Global Time Attack for drivers with little or no previous experience through this new licensing program and the Tire Rack SCCA Time Trials Nationals presented by Hagerty,” Dienhart said. “This is an exciting time for time attack.” SCCA, GTA and GRIDLIFE are the founding members of the North American Time Attack Council (NATA) dedicated to the development, evolution and success of time-based, competitive motorsport events such as Time Attack and Time Trials. The goal of the Council is the progression of motorsports through the consultation and collaboration of its members in the planning and execution of programs and events. NATA and its member organizations seek to represent the interests of all drivers, from beginner to professional competitor, in order to ensure access, inclusivity, consistency and a high-quality driver experience. Based in Torrance, California, Global Time Attack was established in 2010 with the simple desire to assemble the world’s fastest dedicated time attack cars together on a particular circuit. Through its events, live broadcasts and partnerships with independent media outlets, GTA presents this motorsport in an exciting, engaging and involving manner in order to elevate this community as a whole – including teams, fans, manufacturers, supporters and sanctioning bodies. The goal is to provide an accessible and challenging forum for the growing community of time attack motorsports enthusiasts, from the drivers to the builders. SCCA Pro Racing is a division of Sports Car Club of America and provides full-service organization, operation and sanction for numerous professional racing series like F4 U.S. Championship and Trans Am. SCCA Pro Racing is a voting member of the Automobile Competition Committee of the United States (ACCUS) - the FIA delegate for the United States. The Sports Car Club of America®, Inc., founded in 1944, is a 67,500-member motorsports organization that incorporates all facets of autocross, rally and road racing at both Club and professional levels. With headquarters in Topeka, Kansas, the SCCA annually sanctions over 2,000 events through its 116 Regions and subsidiary divisions. Much of the SCCA’s activities are made possible with support from the following Official Partners: Hagerty, the Official Insurance Partner of SCCA; Hawk Performance, the Official Brake Products of SCCA; Sunoco, the Official Fuel of SCCA; and Tire Rack, the Official Tire Retailer of SCCA. To learn more, please visit www.scca.com. Photo Courtesy of Global Time Attack Designed to grow the Sports Car Club of America® at all levels, Track Night in America Driven by Tire Rack is investing directly in regions thanks to the Track Night Region Development Grant. Funded with $50,000 in 2019, SCCA regions began submitting grant requests in January.
Submissions were reviewed by a five-person committee made up of SCCA Board of Directors members and National Staff. Proposals were judged on both merit and need, with monies being offered to support any region development activity across the board. Oregon Region received a grant for improvements to the region from registration to safety. The money will be used to update our computers and emergency services equipment, and for further recruitment of volunteers. Several other innovative and interesting concepts received funding this year. Some of the 2019 grant recipients are as follows: Kansas Region Sprint Bracket pilot race: Program designed to allow any “race” car to be competitive on the track. It will be marketed towards SCCA members who haven’t been active recently, as well as drivers from other sanctioning bodies who may have eligible cars, but haven’t been exposed to SCCA yet. Finances from grant will primarily be used for promotion. Texas Region TX Region Inaugural Targa Event: Region hosting first Targa event in 2019, which will consist of a Time Trial and Solo Event, linked by a Road Rally. Event will span two days and have the goal of increasing long-term, multi-discipline participation. Chicago Region Worker Recruitment: Using track video screens, PA announcements, program ads and a booth at the track; promote the fun with cars opportunity when volunteering to work events. Kansas City Region Operation Growth-Through Better Communication/Marketing: Three-pronged approach to build Region’s membership and increase participation in Regional activities. First, revamp current website. Second, revive Regional Newsletter. Third, grassroots marketing at various events. Finger Lakes Region Finger Lakes Region SCCA Track Day: Establish the SCCA in Track Day Events at Watkins Glen International with the hopes of having a Track Night in America event in the future at the track. Utah Region Track Cross: Region will have events at Utah Motorsports Campus. Events will utilize the Region’s autocross timing equipment to record a lap time of a partial lap on a road race track. ![]() Having just celebrated our 75th Birthday, SCCA now looks to the future and with excitement as it announces a new race series aimed at engaging a growing segment of motorsports participants. The SCCA Spec Racer Ford® Challenge Presented by the Skip Barber Racing School will utilize the iRacing platform to digitally visit 12 of America’s greatest tracks and bring motorsports into the homes of thousands. The program is more than eSports. Through partnership with Skip Barber Racing Schools and support from Track Night in America® Driven by Tire Rack, the series seeks to create a bridge between digital and analog motorsports. Race winners will earn a free entry into an SCCA Track Night event and the highest finishing driver in the final points standings, who does not already have a SCCA recognized racing license, will earn a 3-Day Skip Barber Racing School and be on their way to an SCCA Full Competition License. “This is a huge opportunity for fans and enthusiasts to get involved in SCCA racing,” Senior Director of Marketing and Experiential Programs, Heyward Wagner stated. “We have 75 years of bringing people to the track in our history and as we look forward to our future, there is no greater way to create access to motorsports than to bring the tracks to people. The opportunity is especially powerful when we can partner with Skip Barber Racing Schools to use this program as a way to get an enthusiast behind the wheel on a real-life track.” More and more car enthusiasts are turning to eMotorsports as their budget-friendly alternative to taking their own car on track, and rightfully so. The pros are turning to iRacing as a training tool to keep their skills sharp. Names like Ricky Taylor, Nick Tandy and even Will Power all use iRacing to keep their edge. The Spec Racer Ford Challenge will be available to all iRacing drivers but only SCCA members will be eligible to win great prizes like free Track Night in America entries and even a three-day Skip Barber Racing School. SCCA members must go to the registration page and fill out basic information. Once registered, the top finishing SCCA member each week will receive a free Track Night in America entry. At the end of the 12-week season, the top finishing SCCA member will receive a free three-day Skip Barber Racing School. The season starts on March 12 at Autodromo “Interlagos”. Learn more by visiting https://www.iracing.com/ Sign up here: https://www.scca.com/pages/iracing-scca-srf-series Each year, Sports Car Club of America® recognizes great performers for their skill, hard work and dedication. The first batch of 2018 award winners come from within the Summit Racing Equipment SCCA® Road Racing program.
First is the Jim Fitzgerald Rookie of the Year honor, which goes to Formula Continental® driver Jason Reichert from the Las Vegas Region. The award is presented to the SCCA® Road Racing competitor showing the greatest promise and is based on driving ability demonstrated during the first season of National competition. Winners are selected by the Club Racing Board based on nominations submitted by Executive Stewards. At the 2018 SCCA National Championship, Reichert showed great skill by remaining focused throughout the 20-lap event on Sonoma Raceway’s 12-turn, 2.52-mile circuit. He eventually inherited the lead with only a couple laps remaining and fended off a strong second-place challenger to bring home a win in his first Runoffs appearance. Next is the Kimberly Cup, which is awarded to the SCCA driver who has shown the greatest improvement in the past year and is chosen by the Club Racing Board. The 2018 Kimberly Cup recipient is Formula F (FF) driver Jonathon Kotyk of the Buccaneer Region. After finishing fourth at Indianapolis Motor Speedway during the 2017 National Championship, Kotyk came back strong in 2018 at Sonoma Raceway to claim a dominant flag-to-flag victory for his first Runoffs win. Kotyk also was the 2018 FF U.S. Majors Tour Northeast Conference Point Champion. Then there’s the 2018 Mechanic of the Year award, which goes to Joe Carr -- Chief Mechanic at Huffaker Engineering and a member of the San Francisco Region. Mechanic of the Year is selected by SCCA technical staff based on submissions received through a survey completed at SCCA.com or through email invitation. To be considered for Mechanic of the Year, nominees must demonstrate a strong commitment to their duties and to the drivers they support. As validated through numerous nominations, Carr consistently puts his customers/drivers ahead of himself, devoting whatever time is necessary to get cars in top form and on track, showing amazing innovations and a can-do attitude. He has prepared numerous drivers for the Runoffs, is an exceptional person, and a truly talented mechanic in countless ways. |
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February 2020
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