2009 OPTIMA Batteries Ultimate Street Car Invitational

[Jimi-FM3]

The 2nd annual OPTIMA Batteries Ultimate Streetcar Invitational
presented by Ridetech
When: Saturday November 7, 2009
Where: Spring Mountain Motorsports Ranch, Pahrump, NV.
Gates will open at 7:00 am

OPTIMA Batteries and FM3 Performance Marketing announces the The 2nd annual OPTIMA Batteries Ultimate Street Car Invitational presented by Ridetech. The event is designed to give builders and owners of some the world’s most awesome street driven cars the opportunity to show their stuff on a closed circuit professional road-racing course. The event is held following the conclusion of the SEMA show and is intended to reflect the craftsmanship and performance of SEMA-quality vehicles and to promote those manufacturers and vendors that are closely associated with the automotive performance industry supported by SEMA and it’s members. The OPTIMA Batteries Ultimate Street Car Invitational presented by Ridetech is an exclusive invitation-only event designed to highlight the best-of-the-best street cars in the country.

The event will be a combination of styling, driving, handling and acceleration/braking. The goal of the event is to bring up to 40 of the best street cars in the world to the track and put them through their paces highlighting overall design, build quality and performance. Each event, styling, autocross, 0-60-0 and road course hot laps will be timed individually (styling will be judged) with the overall cumulative times being the final result. The lowest cumulative time for each vehicle, combined with styling points will determine the finishing order. Awards will be presented to the top three finishers in each event and “The OPTIMA Batteries Ultimate Street Car” award will be given to the vehicle posting the lowest cumulative time over the combined events. The styling portion of the event will be determined by a 4-judge panel of automotive industry styling and design professionals with points being awarded on a 1-10 scale (1 being the best and 10 being the worst). Style points will be added to the cumulative time for the final result.

Sponsors, manufacturers and media testing/R&D vehicles will also be included in the event and will participate alongside invited participants. Vehicles not meeting the rules requirements will be run in a separate exhibition class and will not qualify for The Ultimate Street Car.

Rules for the event are simple with safety being paramount. All cars will be required to run on DOT approved tires (no drag radials) and must have at a minimum a functional seatbelt. All drivers will be required to wear a helmet during the road course portion of the event and will be encouraged to wear a helmet during all events. This is a street car event with an emphasis on street driven vehicles that bear a significant resemblance to common production vehicles. Hot rods, muscle cars, sport compacts, import cars and trucks/SUV’s are welcome but no purpose built race cars will be allowed and no kit cars. The “Spirit” of the event is to promote vehicles that are somewhat obtainable and built with aftermarket performance upgrades. Any vehicle not complying with the “Spirit” of the event will not be allowed. Compliance with the “Spirit” of the event will be at the sole discretion of the race director and OPTIMA Batteries. All vehicles will be required to pass a technical inspection to assure safety during the event. Builders and/or owners must drive their own vehicle, and all vehicles must participate in all segments of the event to qualify for “The Ultimate Street Car” award. There is no charge for the invited participants and breakfast and lunch will be included with the invitation.

Source Interlink and other print and television media will provide coverage of the event and consider a feature article on The OPTIMA Batteries Ultimate Street Car. OPTIMA Batteries, Ridetech, BFGoodrich, Baer Brakes and Source Interlink, along with numerous sponsors and forums will be promoting the event via their websites during the time leading up to the event. TV programming is currently being negotiated, and various Internet TV outlets have agreed to provide coverage as well.

Corporate sponsorship for the event is still available. Please contact Jimi Day at 414-702-4939 or [email protected] or visit the event website at www.optimainvitational.com.

Current event sponsors include: OPTIMA Batteries, Ridetech, BFGoodrich, Baer Brakes, HOT ROD Magazine, FM3 Performance Marketing, Pfaff Designs, Shelby Automotive, Lateral-g.net, Pro-touring.com, Silver State Classic Challenge and Good Guys Rod & Custom Association

[Jimi-FM3]

Rules and Regulations for the OPTIMA Batteries Ultimate Streetcar Invitational presented by Ridetech:
1) The OPTIMA Batteries Ultimate Street Car Invitational presented by Ridetech is an invite only event. 10 invitations will be reserved for vehicles displayed during the 2009 SEMA event.
2) Paid sponsors/manufacturers may enter one vehicle of their choice into the event that meets 2009 OUSCI requirements and compete for The Ultimate Street Car
3) All OPTIMA Batteries Ultimate Street Car Invitational presented by Ridetech participants must compete in all segments of the event to qualify for The Ultimate Street Car Award:
a) Styling
b) Autocross
c) Acceleration/braking
d) Lap times (2.2 mile road course)
4) The registered owner or builder of record must drive the vehicle for all events. The owner and/or builder may separate driving duties – no professional drivers will be allowed to compete for The Ultimate Street Car.
5) All drivers will be required to sign a liability waiver. Passengers must be at least 18 years of age and will be required to sign the same liability waiver as driver.
6) A mandatory driver/passenger meeting will be held at Spring Mountain Motorsports Park prior to the first competition.
7) Only official wrist banded drivers and passengers may ride in the cars on the track. The drivers may change during the competition provided they have attended the drivers meeting and have the proper wristband.
8) All vehicles must represent a street capable vehicle with a strong resemblance to a current or former production model. No purpose built race cars or kit cars will be allowed. The only open-wheeled vehicles allowed are '34-and-older domestic vehicles and replicas thereof. Other vehicles such as production “concept” cars may be allowed. This event is designed to be a fun and spirited competition to showcase vehicles conceived and built using parts and manufacturers supported by SEMA.
9) All competitors must have current registration, proof of insurance, and a current driver's license. The following are required: current registration, working headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals, and a safety-glass windshield. Side windows must roll up and down in the manner designed by the factory. Full hoods are required on all entries.
10) Each entrant will be issued a number which must be clearly visible on the windshield, side windows or rear window. White shoe polish is acceptable.
11) Participants must use DOT approved tires. Tires will be required to pass a technical inspection at the track. The spirit of the event requires the use of a DOT approved “street” tire – no modifications to tires will be acceptable, including shaving. Any vehicle with tires showing any evidence of modification will be immediately disqualified from the event. No racing tires of any sort, including drag radials, will be allowed.
12) Competitors must use a single set of tires for the entire event, no tire changing between events will be allowed. Tires will be marked during tech. Tire changes will be allowed in the event of a catastrophic failure, but replacements must be of the same manufacturer and model as those approved during tech inspection.
13) Helmet use is required during the lap times segment of the event and is encouraged but not required for any other segment. The autocross course design will attempt to keep speeds below 35 M.P.H.
14) Participating cars must pass a basic safety inspection that will include but may not be limited to the following:
a. Functional seatbelts.
b. Proper brake pedal pressure and travel.
c. Sufficient throttle return spring and secured battery.
d. All lug nuts in place and tight.
e. Hubcaps/clip-on center caps are to be removed.
f. All loose items must be removed from vehicle.
(Floor mats, things hanging from rearview mirror, cassettes, CDs, and glove box, console, trunk items.)
15) Each segment of the event will be timed to 0.00.00 (except the styling event). Times will be cumulative for the four events and the entrant with the lowest cumulative time after all four segments will be awarded the OPTIMA Batteries Ultimate Street Car. Only entrants completing all four segments of the competition will be eligible to win the grand prize. For the three timed events, participants will have the option to throw out the worst time in each segment. Styling segment points will not be adjusted or thrown out.
16) The styling segment of the event will be determined by a 4-judge panel based on overall quality, design and craftsmanship of the vehicle. Styling points will be awarded on a 1-10 scale with 1 being the best and 10 being the worst. The style points will be added to the cumulative time for the overall scoring.
17) Race director and event management staff will have COMPLETE discretion to deny or remove from competition anyone in the event for any reason.
18) The OPTIMA Batteries Ultimate Streetcar Invitational presented by Ridetech will be run rain or shine.

[Steve1968LS2]

We'll be there and ready to rock.. the main goal will just be faster than we were last year.

:woot:

TEAM :lateral:

[Jimi-FM3]

Here's a link to a short video from last year's event...

www.hotrod.com/multimedia/hot_rod_videos/6205344/the-optima-batteries-ultimate-street-car-invitational-video/index.html

[ivmotor]

A couple clarifications:

treadwear rating? last year I remember it being 140, is this year the same?

open to all makes? Car Craft RSE will not let me participate 'cause I have a Volvo

style points? Driving style, car style, hair style...whatcha looking for?

How do I sign up?

[Vegas69]

I'm in as long as I get an invite.:yes: :yes: :yes: And I'll drive to the track.:thumbsup:
Shameless plug for an invite or sponsor:
http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa251/Payback1969/012.jpg

[Kendall Burleson]

nice cars That is cool:hail: :hail:

[skatinjay27]

A couple clarifications:

treadwear rating? last year I remember it being 140, is this year the same?

open to all makes? Car Craft RSE will not let me participate 'cause I have a Volvo

style points? Driving style, car style, hair style...whatcha looking for?

How do I sign up?
style points- looks of the car.

invite only-to participate you'd have to either have one of the event sponsors/vendors want your car to represent them...(really only lat-g or pt.com since most vendors already have their own cars)
or have your car at sema and that it stands out enough to get an on-site invite (10 spots)at the show.

[g_vanlaar]

I'm in as long as I get an invite.:yes: :yes: :yes: And I'll drive to the track.:thumbsup:
Shameless plug for an invite or sponsor:
http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa251/Payback1969/012.jpg

Man... That car looks great with those wheels!

[Stuart Adams]

Man... That car looks great with those wheels!

Nice car.

[Jimi-FM3]

A couple clarifications:

treadwear rating? last year I remember it being 140, is this year the same?

open to all makes? Car Craft RSE will not let me participate 'cause I have a Volvo

style points? Driving style, car style, hair style...whatcha looking for?

How do I sign up?

Tire rules have changed for this year and we are going with DOT legal street tires, no drag radials allowed. See rules 11 and 12. As far as what we're looking for, if it drives on the street and can be competitive in the environment that we've created, we're interested. We do specifically support the SEMA event and the sponsors that make this happen, so if your car will be at SEMA or is endorsed by any of the sponsors of the event, that's a good start. If you feel the car is SEMA quality and just didn't get in but belongs in the event, you can complete an entry form which will be available next week on the OUSCI website www.optimainvitational.com. BTW - we're still big fans of the Mullett so we may consider hairstyle points! Thanks for the idea!

[Spiffav8]

I'm in as long as I get an invite.:yes: :yes: :yes: And I'll drive to the track.:thumbsup:
Shameless plug for an invite or sponsor:
http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa251/Payback1969/012.jpg

SHOT GUN! :D

[chicane]

We'll be there and ready to rock.. the main goal will just be faster than we were last year.

:woot:

TEAM :lateral:

Have tools... will travel... lets just make sure Penny is running on all 8 cylindes this year to make it fair... :_paranoid

[WILWAXU]

Awesome show last year! Expect bigger, badder, faster, more this year :D :thumbsup:

[fesler]

We hope to be there with a new 2010 Camaro

http://i269.photobucket.com/albums/jj73/FeslerBuilt/2010%20Camaro/Img0007.jpg

[OLDFLM]

We'll be there!!

CF-71 Freedom Bird is "officially in the running for one of the 40 spots we have available!"

Thanks Jimi!

V/R,
Ty

[70rs]

Congrats Ty!!! And to everyone involved with the build too, hats off to all of you!!:hail:

[mpozziCPL]

Hi Jimi,

Just want to get clarification about tires as the rule #11 states that participants must use DOT approved "street" tires and no racing tires will be allowed. These three tires listed below (BF Goodrich, Hoosier, and Kumho) are DOT approved whereas a Goodyear "slick" is not and there's a lot of chatter going on about their use being allowed. While not recommended for street use, they are technically legal for such; lots of autocrossers do drive on them to and from events. I'd hate to see someone buy a set, bring them to OPTIMA, and then be told no-go. Worse yet, hate to see competitors think that these R-comps aren't allowed, don't consider them eligible for OPTIMA, and then competing against those that have them. If that happens, it will come down to a tire battle instead of one where the best car wins.

If DOT-legal R-comps are permitted by definition per-se, we need to know so we can plan accordingly.

http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q75/Awsum24/Autocross/bfg_gforce_r1_ci2_1.jpg

http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q75/Awsum24/Autocross/ho_a6_ci2_l.jpg

http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q75/Awsum24/Autocross/ku_ecsta_v710_ci2_l.jpg

If the above listed tires (and others of similar configuration) are NOT permitted for OPTIMA, is the Toyo R888 (see below) an approved tire? This is what Steve Rupp had on his car last year.

http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q75/Awsum24/Autocross/PXR888_Left.jpg

Thanks,
Mary Pozzi

[XcYZ]

I believe there will be some clarity on this soon as one of this year's Presenting Sponsors is a tire manufacturer.

[Jimi-FM3]

Mary, the BFG R1 will be legal, as with the Hoosier R6 and A6 and other comparable tires that have a dot rating. I haven't seen any slicks with a dot rating, but I can tell you we will not allow slicks or shaved rubber.

BFG has stepped up to be the official tire sponsor of our event and I would encourage every one that doesn't have tires to please support our sponsors!

[Steve1968LS2]

Mary, the BFG R1 will be legal, as with the Hoosier R6 and A6 and other comparable tires that have a dot rating. I haven't seen any slicks with a dot rating, but I can tell you we will not allow slicks or shaved rubber.

BFG has stepped up to be the official tire sponsor of our event and I would encourage every one that doesn't have tires to please support our sponsors!

This is what I posted over at pro-touring.com ... am I hired? lol

And the BFG R1 even comes in the much loved 335/18 :yes:

[Jimi-FM3]

I didn't have any idea that tires would be such a big issue in an amateur competition event! That being said, I'm impressed with the level of competition and the dedication and willingness of these car owners to bring these bad beasts out to the track and beat them like a rented mule! That's the whole purpose of our event and I want to thank everybody for their enthusiasm and input. For those folks that think pro-touring SEMA quality cars are garage art, I've only got one thing to say -

OPTIMA Batteries Ultimate Street Car Invitational -
presented by Ridetech, of course!:woot: :woot: :woot:

[Roadster Shop]

Not to throw a wrench in everything, but isn't running R compound tires against the whole "Street Car" idea? It was said that no Drag Radials can be run, but we CAN run Track Racing Radials like the BFG R1 and Hoosier A6????? Let's be honest here, each of these tires are 1 or 2 lines away from actually being a slick.

Running these tires extremely slants the competition in favor of anyone running them. The competition is about street cars... is anyone running these tires on a daily driver??? I highly doubt it.

Shouldn't the competition be car vs. car, not track tire vs. street tire?

Just my opinion.

[Vegas69]

I'm running R888's on the street now. Having to drive to the event from a pre determined spot could change things.:unibrow:

[Steve1968LS2]

I'm running R888's on the street now. Having to drive to the event from a pre determined spot could change things.:unibrow:


I'm driving to the even from CA on whatever tires I'm going to run.. even if they are R1 tires.. It was fun being the only car there without a trailer..

hope there's no rain.. :willy:

[CptKlutz]

On a practicality note: how do you get those race tires up to working temp before an autocross events? They don't work particularly well cold. Tire warmers next? Keep it street I say and stop at R888, R1R etc. Those are actually fine on the street and semi cold. Just another 2c. ;)

[Datsbad]

Not to throw a wrench in everything, but isn't running R compound tires against the whole "Street Car" idea? It was said that no Drag Radials can be run, but we CAN run Track Racing Radials like the BFG R1 and Hoosier A6????? Let's be honest here, each of these tires are 1 or 2 lines away from actually being a slick.

Running these tires extremely slants the competition in favor of anyone running them. The competition is about street cars... is anyone running these tires on a daily driver??? I highly doubt it.

Shouldn't the competition be car vs. car, not track tire vs. street tire?

Just my opinion.

I completely agree with this !!

[Datsbad]

Heres a Idea....Since BFG stepped up as the event sponsor how about we all have to run there tires?????
(didnt mean them supply )
Id be happy to run them ... always worked well for me in any environment.
BFG you listening, I got a DEMON that needs Optima and BFG plastered on the car !!!

[OLDFLM]

Or ask BFG to supply tires to all cars competing in the event!! Then it would truly be a car vs car challenge and the tire issue would be completely eliminated! IMHO

[Jr]

Jimi,
Any chance Big Red will be there to do some exhibition runs?

This year I will be bringing my video camera.:thumbsup:

David

[Jimi-FM3]

No Big Red this year but we'll have some other really cool stuff for the exhibition class. Can't make everybody happy on the tire rules, we decided to go DOT because it's technically street legal. I hear everybody and we'll potentially look for another solution next year. If you are reading this and were someone that asked us for this rules change, speak up!!!

[Jimi-FM3]

The OPTIMA Batteries Ultimate Street Car Invitational presented by Ridetech has grown beyond our wildest imagination. The car count is still the same, but the media and PR for the event is growing daily. We want to get as many enthusiasts and like-minded individuals involved as we can, and I know many of you on this forum have expressed your wishes to be at the event. I'm looking for 10-15 individuals that would like to be part of the OUSCI race control team. We have opportunities for the tech, timing & scoring, and operations team. We can't pay your way to SEMA but if you're in the area and want to hang out an extra day, you can be part of the Ultimate Street Car team. We'll make sure you have a ride from Vegas to Pahrump and back, and each team member will receive a special OUSCI team t-shirt, breakfast and lunch at the track, and special recognition at the awards ceremony.

The event is Saturday November 7th, gates open at 7am and close at 5pm. We will try to have an organizational meeting one day during the SEMA event to make sure we have everything in place, and we'll buy dinner or lunch there too. If you're interested in joining the team, please email me at [email protected] and let me know what team you'd like to join. Thanks everybody for your consideration, we're looking forward to a kick-a$$ event!!

[Jr]

Jimi,
Last year I had some good BBQ. Will the same guys be working this year event?

David

[Jimi-FM3]

Yup, we're gonna invite him back.

[mpozziCPL]

:thumbsup:

Cheers,
Mary Pozzi

[coolwelder62]

Hey guys I got a chance to meet and hang out W/Jimi Day from FM3 this weekend at the K.C.GoodGuys.Man what a great guy. And because of Jimi I had the chance to meet some more nice people in this hobbie of ours. If you are at a Good Guys dont miss the chance to meet Jimi & Mike in optima battery booth.They are GoodGuys and an asset to our hobbie.Keep up the good work. Thanks Scott.

[clill]

Website says 0-100-0 but first info post here says 0-60-0 ?

[rogue]

Running these tires extremely slants the competition in favor of anyone running them. The competition is about street cars... is anyone running these tires on a daily driver??? I highly doubt it.

6600 miles this year on RA1s and 5 track days here. I only know of one car in this community thats daily driven and its Tyler from ATS....

[Jimi-FM3]

It's 0-60-0, not 0-100-0, sorry for the confusion.

[Jr]

Jimi,
Can you post a list of cars that WILL be at the event this year? I heard some of the cars that will be attending, but would like to get a full event list.

David

[Steve1968LS2]

Jimi,
Can you post a list of cars that WILL be at the event this year? I heard some of the cars that will be attending, but would like to get a full event list.

David

I know of one that will be there for sure... :_paranoid

[Jr]

I know of one that will be there for sure... :_paranoid

Steve, Thanks for the update. :thumbsup:

And, i forgot to thank you for the ride at Costa Mesa GG event. That LS 402 is putting down some power. Thanks.

Good luck on Nov 7th. I can't wait for the spring mountain event...I will get some more video of your car from the grand stands.

[fleetus macmullitz]

Here's the link to the updated list.

http://www.optimainvitational.com/competitors/

[Vegas69]

Looks like a solid list...look forward to being there.

[MarkM66]

Here's the link to the updated list.

http://www.optimainvitational.com/competitors/

Looks like a lot of the same cars as last year.

[Steve1968LS2]

Looks like a lot of the same cars as last year.

Only sponsors were allowed to bring cars back for the competition.

Some cars from last year (Shipka's, etc) are being allowed to run as exhibition cars.

So, most of the "competitors" cars are new.. except mine, it's just old news :)

[skatinjay27]

it says rodger lee 69 camaro and larry callahan 69 camaro... damn 67-68sget no respect! lol

[Jr]

Thank you for that list. Looks like some tough competition.

I had no idea they had a website for this event.

[fleetus macmullitz]

it says rodger lee 69 camaro and larry callahan 69 camaro... damn 67-68sget no respect! lol

That might have to wait till next year when our very own superhero Flash Gordon hurls his body and his '68 down the track at high rates of speed.

:lol:

Note to self..have someone remind Flash not to look for a 'deal' on brakes! :mad:

[Jimi-FM3]

Here's the updated list, sorry it's small...this is the list as of today. Just FYI - there will be a press conference in the OPTIMA booth at 10AM on Thursday to announce the final entries - there will be a couple of surprises so be sure to attend!

[coolwelder62]

Jimi do need to atend the sema press conference. I was going leave thurs morning. so I would miss it.Scott.

[Steve1968LS2]

Here's the updated list, sorry it's small...this is the list as of today. Just FYI - there will be a press conference in the OPTIMA booth at 10AM on Thursday to announce the final entries - there will be a couple of surprises so be sure to attend!

Wow.. that list is tiny!!! lol

Email me the list and I will get it up in real size.

[Jimi-FM3]

Scott, it's not a requirement but it's gonna be fun and you'll get some props if youre there.

[Steve1968LS2]

Scott, it's not a requirement but it's gonna be fun and you'll get some props if youre there.

I wish it was a "bit" later in the day but I will be there.. Leaving my house at 5am :)

[Steve1968LS2]

Here is the list in all of its legible glory:

http://i35.tinypic.com/24err76.jpg

[coolwelder62]

Jimi I am a nobody how do I get tickets to SEMA so I can get in. Its going to be at leased a 20 hr. drive haulin my clunker to vegas. I hate to leave earlier in the week then the powers that be tell me no at the door.Scott.

[XcYZ]

I updated the Competitors list and included images of of the cars (at least the images I was furnished with anyways)

www.optimainvitational.com/competitors

[Steve1968LS2]

I updated the Competitors list and included images of of the cars (at least the images I was furnished with anyways)

www.optimainvitational.com/competitors

Come on.. I cant' believe you don't have a picture of my car... :rofl:

Use this one.. http://i34.tinypic.com/ejssas.jpg

:unibrow:

[XcYZ]

Come on.. I cant' believe you don't have a picture of my car... :rofl:

Use this one.. http://i34.tinypic.com/ejssas.jpg

:unibrow:



Sorry! Jimi didn't send a pic and I didn't want to just assume which pic of Penny you'd like on the site.

I added that pic. :cheers:

[Flash68]

Motiv8r is DEFINITELY not a 69 Camaro. ;)

[camcojb]

Motiv8r is DEFINITELY not a 69 Camaro. ;)
good point Dave. :yes:

Jody

[Steve1968LS2]

Sorry! Jimi didn't send a pic and I didn't want to just assume which pic of Penny you'd like on the site.

I added that pic. :cheers:

I like that picture.. it has an intimidation factor.. :lol:

[Flash68]

good point Dave. :yes:

Jody

we inferior 67-68's gotta stick together :lol:

[rat_rod_russell]

How do you think I feel? The only truck!!! :lol: oh and I hope to give some of you lot a run for your money. Brianne is going to kick butt in my truck, and I think we're all going to be pissed because the three chicks are gonna to cream everyone. :faint: no surprise there

Later
-Russell

[Tom.A]

This is the Duramax Chevelle.

http://image.popularhotrodding.com/f/18092338+w750+st0/0906phr_04_z+1970_chevy_chevelle_turbo_

more info here (http://www.popularhotrodding.com/features/0906phr_1970_chevy_chevelle_turbo_diesel/photo_04.html)

[Jimi-FM3]

Ok, I have to spill it, I didn't grow up as a GM guy, I was 20 before I even realized Camaro was made in 67 and 68!! :faint: Since then I have made amends and do know most of the subtle differences in the first gens - someone please tell me on the list who has what year and I'll correct those and pay proper respect to the 67-68 crowd. My apologies across the board.. :hail:

[Steve1968LS2]

Ok, I have to spill it, I didn't grow up as a GM guy, I was 20 before I even realized Camaro was made in 67 and 68!! :faint: Since then I have made amends and do know most of the subtle differences in the first gens - someone please tell me on the list who has what year and I'll correct those and pay proper respect to the 67-68 crowd. My apologies across the board.. :hail:

You seem truly sorry so well will give you a pass... THIS TIME!


Larry Callahan's Camaro is listed as a '69.. it's a 68

[fleetus macmullitz]

I was 20 before I even realized Camaro was made in 67 and 68!! :faint:

I don't blame you Jimi, I hold this nations school system responsible.



:D

[Jimi-FM3]

I did go to public schools :beavis: I've made the change to Larry's car...

I don't blame you Jimi, I hold this nations school system responsible.



:D

[fleetus macmullitz]

Even I would have paid attention if U.S. history courses in the public schools included 'Significant events in the history of the U.S. musclecar.' :cool:

[GregWeld]

Even I would have paid attention if U.S. history courses in the public schools included 'Significant events in the history of the U.S. musclecar.' :cool:

I remember these "old cars".... but at my age it gets harder and harder...

Now... What were we talkin' about?

[Flash68]

Wow. Someone was fired up about Optima.... :_paranoid

[Stuart Adams]

Who was testing at pahrump today?

[James OLC]

DSE... Rupp... Pozzi...
Yeah....

[Steve1968LS2]

Who was testing at pahrump today?

DSE booked time on the track with their cars today... I guess they are in this to win! :yes:

Their cars looked very good.. we were all pretty jealous.

Mary, Dave, Mark, Charley and Myself were all there at the Corvette driving school.. nice, but no substitute for taking our cars around. Might be worse since we don't have ABS and now we are use to it! lol

Fun day though.. :thumbsup:

[brotourer]

DSE booked time on the track with their cars today... I guess they are in this to win! :yes:

Their cars looked very good.. we were all pretty jealous.

Mary, Dave, Mark, Charley and Myself were all there at the Corvette driving school.. nice, but no substitute for taking our cars around. Might be worse since we don't have ABS and now we are use to it! lol

Fun day though.. :thumbsup:


im bringing my pom-poms to head up the "bad penny" cheering section on saturday :thumbsup: not in like a weird way or anything tho...

[Tom.A]

This is a very short and poor quality clip. Sorry guy's. The Vette behind JA is a ZR1
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B-ScCSa0FEI

[DFRESH]

Not the best pics--but more will be coming

Doug

[DFRESH]

I have a few others to upload

[DFRESH]

I was working the event this time around and wish I could have taken pics of everycar there---

Doug

[fleetus macmullitz]

This is a very short and poor quality clip. Sorry guy's. The Vette behind JA is a ZR1
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B-ScCSa0FEI

Enjoyed it, thanks Tom. :thumbsup:

[rwhite692]

Tom thanks for the video and Doug thank you for posting those, great pics.

Anyone have the results yet? Looked at the Optima Invitational website, but, nothing is posted yet...

*edit* there are some results posted here

http://www.pro-touring.com/forum/showthread.php?p=596331

[Ringbrothers]

I got to watch some video on the flight home today - pretty awesome. We kept getting in trouble by the flight attendant because it was too loud - only thing was everyone around us was wanting to watch.
Great job everyone!
Staci

[Tom.A]

Enjoyed it, thanks Tom. :thumbsup:

Thanks,
Hopefully somebody did better video than me . LOL! There was lots of people taking video. There was even talk of a 30 minute show on speed. It was a real treat to see JA with Stielow at the wheel:thumbsup: Just a sweet car.

[customcam]

DFRESH Thanks for the pics, there awesome
Congrats to Steve and BP & Charlie & JA :lateral:

[jimbo]

Some pics.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/sundayslacker/sets/72157622639408169/

[tones2SS]

Thanks for the video and pics guys!
Looked like an awesome time!:thumbsup: :cheers:

[coolwelder62]

Left pahrump 8:00am sun. morn. Got home to kansas 6:00am mon. morn.Had a awsome time. so busy didnt get to meet everybody. Finally got to meet Tyler & Matt from Anvil Auto, Great Guys. MR.STEVEN RUPP I owe You the Tshirt of you choice.Great Job aginns't Super tough conpetiors. You & Your car are turely amazing.Mark Steilow in jack ass is one fast sombit*h.I would pay almost any thing to drive that good.This was the a event of the year bar none.Scott

[Steve1968LS2]

Left pahrump 8:00am sun. morn. Got home to kansas 6:00am mon. morn.Had a awsome time. so busy didnt get to meet everybody. Finally got to meet Tyler & Matt from Anvil Auto, Great Guys. MR.STEVEN RUPP I owe You the Tshirt of you choice.Great Job aginns't Super tough conpetiors. You & Your car are turely amazing.Mark Steilow in jack ass is one fast sombit*h.I would pay almost any thing to drive that good.This was the a event of the year bar none.Scott

Well, it's a win according to thier rules.. but I think thier rules need to be fine tuned for next year.

I want to win based on performance, not on style. We had some mech issues but I'm very proud of the car, David Pozzi, and myself.

The only good thing about "winning" this year is that I can come back next year and prove a point.

[buickfunnycar.com]

Good for you Steve & Dave,awesome job taking the title again this year...:thumbsup: :cheers: :woot: :willy: :bow: :hail:

[XcYZ]

I don't know what people will think of my idea, but I'm just trying to simplify and level the scoring system. I would hope the end result would provide less drama? The main issue that I have is that the style had the overwhelming deciding factor in the event based on it's 0-100 scale where each point added 1 second to the overall time.

I'm not going to get into who should have won, but I simply don't want people to be penalized on something that's subjective. Personally, I didn't care that many seconds were added to overall times when the AX and Speed/Stop were decided by tenths or hundredths of a second.

So here's my opinion - which is exactly that, just an opinion - I would like to see each single event pay points. Add up all the points for the overall win. If there's a tie, then the quicker lap on the road course breaks the tie.

3 of the events are individually worth 20% of the score, but the road course is worth 40% of the overall score.


Road Course:

1st - 20pts
2nd - 18
3rd - 16
4th - 14
5th - 12
6th - 10
7th - 8
8th - 6
9th - 4
10th - 2



Autocross:

1st - 10pts
2nd - 8
3rd - 7
4th - 6
5th - 5
6th - 4
7th - 3
8th - 2
9th - 1
10th - 0



Speed/Stop:

1st - 10pts
2nd - 8
3rd - 7
4th - 6
5th - 5
6th - 4
7th - 3
8th - 2
9th - 1
10th - 0



Styling

1st - 10pts
2nd - 8
3rd - 7
4th - 6
5th - 5
6th - 4
7th - 3
8th - 2
9th - 1
10th - 0

[Steve1968LS2]

The main issue that I have is that the style had the overwhelming deciding factor in the event on the 0-100 scale.



We don't know that yet..

There's no way they used a 0-100 SECOND method for this. I know 8.5 seconds was added to my score for the style part. It's obvious that I didn't score an 8.5 our of a hundred for Penny. Especially since the roadster shop Corvette won with a 8.x score and the Mustang came in second with a score of 15.

In any event, I will await Jimi's explanation and I hope they can fix the rules for next year.

[Steve1968LS2]

I also don't know if I agree that the Road Course should weigh more than the other events.. just because some people don't like it. Autocross if more of a test of a STREET CAR than the road course is.

Just my .02

[ccracin]

I like it Scott. I second this! :thumbsup: Well, the revamp and scoring. The weighting could be discussed. If it is a true "Street Car" test, than I think a ride and drive should be added. Things like interior noise, ride comfort, cabin temperature, street manners etc. should be evaluated. If not, it becomes who can make the fastest race car street legal. I think it should be just the opposite. Take a great street car and make it as close to a race car as possible without losing it's "Steet Car" image. I think Bad Penny is just that along with quite a few of the competitors. It could however get out of hand quickly without some rule changes. I could have made the car in my avatar street legal and done very well performance wise. But would I have called it a "Street Car" nope.

[XcYZ]

The percentages can be set to whatever. They could all be equal. I just threw that out there. :cheers:

As far as the 0-100 styling points, Jimi said that during the awards presentation at the end of the day. He said the black Mustang that was in the Baer booth scored 15 points and the Roadster Shop Vette scored 7 points. He pointed that out because the Mustang won the Gran Turismo award at SEMA, yet finished 2nd in the OUSCI styling category.

I should also congratulate you and Team BP on the win. :thumbsup:

[Steve1968LS2]

I like it Scott. I second this! :thumbsup: Well, the revamp and scoring. The weighting could be discussed. If it is a true "Street Car" test, than I think a ride and drive should be added. Things like interior noise, ride comfort, cabin temperature, street manners etc. should be evaluated. If not, it becomes who can make the fastest race car street legal. I think it should be just the opposite. Take a great street car and make it as close to a race car as possible without losing it's "Steet Car" image. I think Bad Penny is just that along with quite a few of the competitors. It could however get out of hand quickly without some rule changes. I could have made the car in my avatar street legal and done very well performance wise. But would I have called it a "Street Car" nope.

Just don't say I need to have wipers!!! lol

[Steve1968LS2]

The percentages can be set to whatever. They could all be equal. I just threw that out there. :cheers:

As far as the 0-100 styling points, Jimi said that during the awards presentation at the end of the day. He said the black Mustang that was in the Baer booth scored 15 points and the Roadster Shop Vette scored 7 points. He pointed that out because the Mustang won the Gran Turismo award at SEMA, yet finished 2nd in the OUSCI styling category.

I should also congratulate you and Team BP on the win. :thumbsup:

And that's why the 1-100 deal doesn't make sense since I was told I gained 8.5 seconds from that style catagory.

Like I said, let's wait for the explanation and then we can ask for revisions for next year.

[James OLC]

First off - congratulations to Steve and Dave on Bad Penny’s repeat as winner of the OPTIMA Ultimate Street Car Invitational; regardless of any other considerations, Steve and Dave worked their butts off on Saturday and the month before to get Penny ready and at the end of they day they pulled it off. David first noticed that the power steering pump was going away on the orientation laps and when Steve hit the autocross it was done; while the autocross course was not as demanding (from a steering point of view) as some of the others that Steve has tackled, it was still a ton of work to drive with no power assist. That they were able to (a) find a power steering pump in Pahrump and (b) get it changed in time to run the road course and finish the event was a testament to their dedication and in the end their hard work paid off. Great job!

Second – hats off to OPTIMA Batteries for putting on the event and to all of the sponsors that made it possible. All of the controversies – tires, drivers, invitees, scoring, and anything else – aside, the fact is that this was only the second time that the event had been held and it was a TON OF FUN! The quality of the cars there was awesome and – for the most part - they were being driven to their very limits. It was great to see guys like Larry C. driving the absolute butt of Motiv8r and loving it. To see Bill and Yancy and Mark and Charlie and a host of others driving their cars to the very limit was incredible and without FM3 and OPTIMA stepping up to organize the event and sponsors like Ridetech and K&N it never would have happened.

Third – it’s a competitive event and we (pro-touring) remain the cream of the crop. Throughout “the week” there were opinions galore on who would win and why. There was discussion about practicing, new vs. old, race tires vs. street tires, and pro’s vs. joes and in the end OLD JOES won the day. But a couple of big worries were disproved – new cars don’t automatically have an advantage over our old cars and professional drivers are not a magic bullet, nor are pre race practice sessions. Some of the best drivers IN THE WORLD were in attendance at the race and they did not dominate the competitions where they were expected to… Paul Tracy put some fast road course laps down in the F/M 2010 Camaro but he did not walk away from the field at all… nor did Tanner Faust dominate on an autocross course that was seemingly designed with drifting in mind. The Nissan GTR was not a factor, nor was the AMG Mercedes or any of the other new cars. Pro Touring and vintage G Machines truly ruled the day. And everyone was pushing hard – as shown by the attrition and off road excursions. It was really cool.

I think it was a great day and want to congratulate everyone who was fortunate enough to participate – both as competitors and volunteers. And I think that the volunteers need to be recognized as well – they worked tirelessly throughout the day and were also a big part of making the whole deal possible.

We had a lot of fun and it was great seeing everyone there. For my part I want to thank Robert for the ride to Pahrump on Saturday and (as always) Dave and Mary for the help getting the car ready.

[ccracin]

Well stated James! Congrats on another event under the belt of the OLC! Awesome car.

[ccracin]

Just don't say I need to have wipers!!! lol

Nope, It doesn't rain in SoCal! Now if I were to come I may have to run snow treads! LOL. Have you even heard of those?

[crazycarl]

Pahrump is supposedly building a drag strip in the next year.

Adding in a street driving segment is ridiculous, this isn't GoodGuys SMOTY.

Congrats to everyone who made it into the event. I will have pics to post in a few days.

Carl

[buickfunnycar.com]

First off - congratulations to Steve and Dave on Bad Penny’s repeat as winner of the OPTIMA Ultimate Street Car Invitational; regardless of any other considerations, Steve and Dave worked their butts off on Saturday and the month before to get Penny ready and at the end of they day they pulled it off. David first noticed that the power steering pump was going away on the orientation laps and when Steve hit the autocross it was done; while the autocross course was not as demanding (from a steering point of view) as some of the others that Steve has tackled, it was still a ton of work to drive with no power assist. That they were able to (a) find a power steering pump in Pahrump and (b) get it changed in time to run the road course and finish the event was a testament to their dedication and in the end their hard work paid off. Great job!

Second – hats off to OPTIMA Batteries for putting on the event and to all of the sponsors that made it possible. All of the controversies – tires, drivers, invitees, scoring, and anything else – aside, the fact is that this was only the second time that the event had been held and it was a TON OF FUN! The quality of the cars there was awesome and – for the most part - they were being driven to their very limits. It was great to see guys like Larry C. driving the absolute butt of Motiv8r and loving it. To see Bill and Yancy and Mark and Charlie and a host of others driving their cars to the very limit was incredible and without FM3 and OPTIMA stepping up to organize the event and sponsors like Ridetech and K&N it never would have happened.

Third – it’s a competitive event and we (pro-touring) remain the cream of the crop. Throughout “the week” there were opinions galore on who would win and why. There was discussion about practicing, new vs. old, race tires vs. street tires, and pro’s vs. joes and in the end OLD JOES won the day. But a couple of big worries were disproved – new cars don’t automatically have an advantage over our old cars and professional drivers are not a magic bullet, nor are pre race practice sessions. Some of the best drivers IN THE WORLD were in attendance at the race and they did not dominate the competitions where they were expected to… Paul Tracy put some fast road course laps down in the F/M 2010 Camaro but he did not walk away from the field at all… nor did Tanner Faust dominate on an autocross course that was seemingly designed with drifting in mind. The Nissan GTR was not a factor, nor was the AMG Mercedes or any of the other new cars. Pro Touring and vintage G Machines truly ruled the day. And everyone was pushing hard – as shown by the attrition and off road excursions. It was really cool.

I think it was a great day and want to congratulate everyone who was fortunate enough to participate – both as competitors and volunteers. And I think that the volunteers need to be recognized as well – they worked tirelessly throughout the day and were also a big part of making the whole deal possible.

We had a lot of fun and it was great seeing everyone there. For my part I want to thank Robert for the ride to Pahrump on Saturday and (as always) Dave and Mary for the help getting the car ready.

Man...very well stated James.:thumbsup:

[cmraman]

First off - congratulations to Steve and Dave on Bad Penny’s repeat as winner of the OPTIMA Ultimate Street Car Invitational; regardless of any other considerations, Steve and Dave worked their butts off on Saturday and the month before to get Penny ready and at the end of they day they pulled it off. David first noticed that the power steering pump was going away on the orientation laps and when Steve hit the autocross it was done; while the autocross course was not as demanding (from a steering point of view) as some of the others that Steve has tackled, it was still a ton of work to drive with no power assist. That they were able to (a) find a power steering pump in Pahrump and (b) get it changed in time to run the road course and finish the event was a testament to their dedication and in the end their hard work paid off. Great job!

Second – hats off to OPTIMA Batteries for putting on the event and to all of the sponsors that made it possible. All of the controversies – tires, drivers, invitees, scoring, and anything else – aside, the fact is that this was only the second time that the event had been held and it was a TON OF FUN! The quality of the cars there was awesome and – for the most part - they were being driven to their very limits. It was great to see guys like Larry C. driving the absolute butt of Motiv8r and loving it. To see Bill and Yancy and Mark and Charlie and a host of others driving their cars to the very limit was incredible and without FM3 and OPTIMA stepping up to organize the event and sponsors like Ridetech and K&N it never would have happened.

Third – it’s a competitive event and we (pro-touring) remain the cream of the crop. Throughout “the week” there were opinions galore on who would win and why. There was discussion about practicing, new vs. old, race tires vs. street tires, and pro’s vs. joes and in the end OLD JOES won the day. But a couple of big worries were disproved – new cars don’t automatically have an advantage over our old cars and professional drivers are not a magic bullet, nor are pre race practice sessions. Some of the best drivers IN THE WORLD were in attendance at the race and they did not dominate the competitions where they were expected to… Paul Tracy put some fast road course laps down in the F/M 2010 Camaro but he did not walk away from the field at all… nor did Tanner Faust dominate on an autocross course that was seemingly designed with drifting in mind. The Nissan GTR was not a factor, nor was the AMG Mercedes or any of the other new cars. Pro Touring and vintage G Machines truly ruled the day. And everyone was pushing hard – as shown by the attrition and off road excursions. It was really cool.

I think it was a great day and want to congratulate everyone who was fortunate enough to participate – both as competitors and volunteers. And I think that the volunteers need to be recognized as well – they worked tirelessly throughout the day and were also a big part of making the whole deal possible.

We had a lot of fun and it was great seeing everyone there. For my part I want to thank Robert for the ride to Pahrump on Saturday and (as always) Dave and Mary for the help getting the car ready.


Totally my pleasure. It was great to have the time to get to know you and Debbie, and now I feel that I gained some new friends.

[Stuart Adams]

Pretty simple deal, the cars with the best times should finish accordingly. If its a car show then so be it. Kinda ridiculous really. Don't need explanations or sugar coats, #'s are numbers.

When after a race you need explanations, that's all you need to know.

[chr2002ca]

Congrats to Steve and the folks that helped out with improving Penny for once again taking home 1st place. :thumbsup: Congrats to Steve also for his continued advancement in his driving capabilities. It's quite an accomplishment to win 2 years in a row and it certainly adds to the legacy of Penny.

As for the contest itself, I definitely agree with Steve that style should be thrown out all together. That's just too subjective. The idea sponsored by Chad of having a 'street driving characteristics'(road noise, easy of steering and braking, comfort, etc) is a good one, but again that might be subjective in parts also. However, there has to be some sort of category like that, or as Steve said, it ends up being a performance-only contest and then you have people entering race cars and that'll 'get by on the street' for the event. There definitely has to be something done about the tires. Tires can make all the difference and they need to level the playing field with strict rules on those. When people are showing up with a different set of rims and tires from what they run on the street, that just doesn't seem right. It's not a street car contest if that's happening, in my humble opinion.

Or, they just don't give out an 'overall 1st place', and give individual category awards which might reinforce the idea of 'fun' versus 'a competition'. We all win just by getting to watch it or participate in it. Kudos to Optima for putting it together and letting us see such a wide variety of cars and drivers going at it. I'm not missing out again. I'll be there next year to watch and take notes for sure.

[Steve1968LS2]

agreed 100%. Show-touring at its finest. A guy brings out an original cobra, mops up on everyone then gets ripped apart because it doesn't have a 30k paint job and the latest carbon fiber goodies?

:thumbsup: to all the competitors and Steve but this events pretty silly. :lol:

Again, there's no problem with having a style component.. it just needs to be fair and balanced accordingly.

There's a reason this event is the day after SEMA.. it's not a SCCA divisional race.

[clill]

The event wasn't silly . It was a great event that would have ended great if they would have stuck to their own published rules. The Cobra would have easily won the overall.

[Vegas69]

It was a great event and if we all keep whining enough maybe they will just cancel it next year. That's something to seriously consider. We all hear about the "Economic" times and cut backs in marketing dollars.

[Steve1968LS2]

It was a great event and if we all keep whining enough maybe they will just cancel it next year. That's something to seriously consider. We all hear about the "Economic" times and cut backs in marketing dollars.

So long as they "fix" it for next year I'm in.. it was the best run event like this I've ever been to. Just needs some fine tuning in the rules department.

Keep in mind that this is only their second event. I'm optimistic about next year.

[buickfunnycar.com]

So long as they "fix" it for next year I'm in.. it was the best run event like this I've ever been to. Just needs some fine tuning in the rules department.

Keep in mind that this is only their second event. I'm Optima-mistic about next year.

Fixed it for ya Steve...:yes:

[Stuart Adams]

Come on fellas. No "its only the second event" stuff and other sugar coats. It was a fantastic day, great turnout of cars, alot of good people. All competing by the rules and in good spirit. I saw guys helping each other for oil, parts etc. I enjoyed watching all the cars, no matter who built it or what click they belong too.

It was an invitational, so if you invite cars to compete then judging on looks is bogus because you basically invited the car to run the event. It's like inviting all ugly cars that are fast then awarding the slowest car first because it shines better, if you know what I mean.

Do you really think people would show up if the rules were: fastest car if not subjectively percieved for STYLE, by the way what does style points mean, ?? might not be the winner. Well that is what you have here. The cobra and others had WAY better times and didn't even place?

Steve's car is awesome and my post is not directed at the car, I just feel for the guys that raced hard and posted #'s and it didn't mean much in the end.
If it was close it would be one thing but you all will be suprised when you see the real numbers.

Congrats to Mary on your awesome autocross numbers.

Congrats to all that put on a great day, hope next year EVERYONE doesn't walk away going "huh".

[Steve1968LS2]

It was an invitational, so if you invite cars to compete then judging on looks is bogus because you basically invited the car to run the event.

ONCE again.. in case it was missed the first time.. the Cobra was not invited.. it won the slot by winning a GoodGuys autocross.

As said, there's no problem having a style component, IF it's done right.

[Steve1968LS2]

Congrats to Mary on your awesome autocross numbers.

Congrats to all that put on a great day, hope next year EVERYONE doesn't walk away going "huh".

I'm waiting for the numbers..

And yes, congrats to Mary for her second place autox finish.. that was another wierd deal they need to fix.

Next year needs to be fixed or there's no point in going.

[Tom.A]

Steve,

Congrats on the win. I feel bad for you as you continue to defend your position, but everybody knows you did not hold the gun while the Cobra was robbed. Your car is awesome so please don't be offended. Should the Cobra have been allowed? IMO no, As a muscle car guy I had already figured that if somebody showed up in a 2200 lb car with a ringer driver that it does not reflect badly on the PT style 3000-4000 LB cars. Kinda of Apples and Oranges thing. However it seems like the style points leap frogged you over the Cobra, Jackass & DSE car? Maybe I am wrong but I thought you posted that in the three timed events BP finished behind JA? I understand that the DSE car was a sponsor so they don't count. Even if it is only a 10 second "Style" span that is huge. I hope they drop the car show side of it.

That said I thought the event had improved over last year's. I really hope Optima continues either way as this is a great event. This kind of reminds me of the '03 Nascar series where everybody was pissed thinking the #17 Dewalt team stoled the cup by not winning the events. Look what happened...they changed the rules and the 24 team was robbed by that goofy Kurt Busch. LOL. So the point is we should all be careful what we wish for.

You should be proud as others should for running the cars hard. You fought through the Power steering issue as others fought their own battles. I overheard Stielow had an issue while running the big track but still made a 1:49 lap. That's the way racing go's.

[clill]

LOL...Stielow's seatbelt came off during the first timed lap.... That would have made me pucker...

[Teetoe_Jones]

LOL...Stielow's seatbelt came off during the first timed lap.... That would have made me pucker...

Yet he still went for 4 more laps and ran the sh*t out of that thing. I loved watching him go around that course.

Tyler

[fesler]

What is everyone complaining about? The event went very well and it was a fun day but it seems that some people just can’t be happy about anything. The cobra beat the crap out of all so it should have won. Who cares what kind of a car it was and it was invited by winning at Goodguys. Steve and him should go head to head

We brought out a daily driven stock car with lowering and charger and street tires and did very well with it. We were there to have fun and see what our cars could do. I think for a $65K car we held our own very well and yes our buddy Paul did the driving and why in the hell would we do it when we have friends like that. Who cares who wins some of you guys are way too deep into this and need to CHILL out a little. You would have a lot more fun.

[Steve1968LS2]

What is everyone complaining about? The event went very well and it was a fun day but it seems that some people just can’t be happy about anything. The cobra beat the crap out of all so it should have won. Who cares what kind of a car it was and it was invited by winning at Goodguys. Steve and him should go head to head


What would be the point of that?

My only gripe with the Cobra was that it didn't follow the spirit of the competion or the owner/builder rule.

It's a badass car for sure and it kicked major ass... but it should have.

And I really don't care who wins, I think everyone just wants clearer rules for next year :)

By the way, that was a badass 2010 you had there. :thumbsup:

[Steve1968LS2]

LOL...Stielow's seatbelt came off during the first timed lap.... That would have made me pucker...

Makes keeping your seeting position a little difficult I bet.. lol

So, fess up.. who put the belts in the car? ;)

[Steve1968LS2]

Steve,

Congrats on the win. I feel bad for you as you continue to defend your position, but everybody knows you did not hold the gun while the Cobra was robbed. .

Thanks, I was as surprised as anyone... I just came, drove hard and played fair.

Again, my position is more that Jackass was robbed since it was a real street car and had a builder or owner driving it.

But that's just my .02

Still curious to see the numbers though. :cheers:

[clill]

I think Reiter's put the belts in the car.

I don't mind losing to a sorted out 427 Cobra still owned by the orig owner. Even if he had a hot shoe driver that wasn't the builder he probably could have beaten us himself. Great car.

I'm going to assume that after Jimi gets back he will post the stats and things can get sorted out. It was a long day and everyone was running on fumes.

[Steve1968LS2]

I think Reiter's put the belts in the car.

I don't mind losing to a sorted out 427 Cobra still owned by the orig owner. Even if he had a hot shoe driver that wasn't the builder he probably could have beaten us himself. Great car.

I'm going to assume that after Jimi gets back he will post the stats and things can get sorted out. It was a long day and everyone was running on fumes.

Ain't that the truth.. all those late night and long times finally caught up to me and kicked my ass.. I feel like crud.

I never mind loosing.. I mind when the rules aren't clear, regardless if they benefit or hinder me.

It was a pleasure running on the same track as Jackass, it's a hell of a car :thumbsup:

[coolwelder62]

Well as for my self and my son Kevin we had a great time. We drove 3200 miles round trip and logged 44 hours of driving time and would turn around and come back tomorrow.It was the best time we have ever had racing togather. I meet a ton of super nice people. And saw a lot of people helping other peolple.I knew we would'nt be the fastest car there. But we were going to at lease show up a have a great time.When car in front of me on the road course shelled his motor and oiled down the the track I backed off a little. It was more important to me to finish.The best thing was when David Freibuger & Robb Kinnan came over and said they Loved my car. I cant until next year so I can have a go at another goodguys autoX. In the mean time I will work hard on my car this winter and sign up for more driving lessons next year to improve my skills.Thanks to everbody that showed up and made this and awsome event for us car guys.Scott Mock. P.S Next year make the event two days so we we have time to take more photos and meet & visit with everybody at the event.

[chr2002ca]

As a muscle car guy I had already figured that if somebody showed up in a 2200 lb car with a ringer driver that it does not reflect badly on the PT style 3000-4000 LB cars. Kinda of Apples and Oranges thing.

Agreed. The Cobra doesn't even have a real windshield(bring a toothbrush for those highway drives). Don't get me wrong, it's an AWESOME car and it's GREAT to see it and its designated driver ripping up those courses(that's the main point right?), but if they're going to add a performance competition element to this spectacle, I'm not sure how mixing it in with the other PT cars there creates a level playing field.

Again though, it's an awesome event. Kudos to Optima. I'm sure the event will keep getting better.

[Steve1968LS2]

Well as for my self and my son Kevin we had a great time. We drove 3200 miles round trip and logged 44 hours of driving time and would turn around and come back tomorrow.It was the best time we have ever had racing togather. I meet a ton of super nice people. And saw a lot of people helping other peolple.I knew we would'nt be the fastest car there. But we were going to at lease show up a have a great time.When car in front of me on the road course shelled his motor and oiled down the the track I backed off a little. It was more important to me to finish.The best thing was when David Freibuger & Robb Kinnan came over and said they Loved my car. I cant until next year so I can have a go at another goodguys autoX. In the mean time I will work hard on my car this winter and sign up for more driving lessons next year to improve my skills.Thanks to everbody that showed up and made this and awsome event for us car guys.Scott Mock. P.S Next year make the event two days so we we have time to take more photos and meet & visit with everybody at the event.

My biggest regret was that it was so hectic that I didn't have time to BS with people. Even the little time I did spend chatting was a blur.

The event needs a few less cars and an OFFICIAL lunch break.

[crazycarl]

Agreed. The Cobra doesn't even have a real windshield(bring a toothbrush for those highway drives). Don't get me wrong, it's an AWESOME car and it's GREAT to see it and its designated driver ripping up those courses(that's the main point right?), but if they're going to add a performance competition element to this spectacle, I'm not sure how mixing it in with the other PT cars there creates a level playing field.

Again though, it's an awesome event. Kudos to Optima. I'm sure the event will keep getting better.

This car had the least modifications out of anything present as far as I am aware. To me, it was the closest to being a street car. It had only bolt on components. It was also not the only car to feature a non-owner/builder driver.

[Steve1968LS2]

This car had the least modifications out of anything present as far as I am aware. To me, it was the closest to being a street car. It had only bolt on components. It was also not the only car to feature a non-owner/builder driver.

Except for the fact it's not street driven and has an open exhaust...

Who else had cars without a builder or owner driving? Just curious.

[GregWeld]

The Mercedes was a total "disconnect" -- to see this nice looking street car - and trying to put the uncorked header sounds it was making with the "docile" German luxo boat was just unreal...

Here's a burnout it did... And YES WE WERE CLOSE! :>)




http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Optima%20Challenge%202009/DSC_5869.jpg



http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Optima%20Challenge%202009/DSC_5870.jpg



http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Optima%20Challenge%202009/DSC_5871.jpg



http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Optima%20Challenge%202009/DSC_5874.jpg

[Steve1968LS2]

The Mercedes was a total "disconnect" -- to see this nice looking street car - and trying to put the uncorked header sounds it was making was just unreal...

Here's a burnout it did... And YES WE WERE CLOSE! :>)


That Mercedes was nuts.. and smokey.. lol

How did it do in the 0-60-0 and the autox?

[GregWeld]

This "sequence" gives you an idea of just how fast JA can hit 60 MPH... I snapped a photo on launch - and he was already 10 feet away! By the THIRD pic he's already hard on the brakes....


http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Optima%20Challenge%202009/DSC_5800.jpg


http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Optima%20Challenge%202009/DSC_5801.jpg



http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Optima%20Challenge%202009/DSC_5802.jpg



http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Optima%20Challenge%202009/DSC_5804.jpg



http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Optima%20Challenge%202009/DSC_5805.jpg

[GregWeld]

Alex (#1 son) snapped this photo of BP launch... I was more than impressed at how hard it launched - and how straight! No fuss no muss - just flat azz getting after it.


http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Optima%20Challenge%202009/DSC_5744.jpg

[groovyjay]

Cobra, Cobra, Cobra... :unibrow: :thumbsup: :lol:

http://kuvaton.com/finnshark/Yhe.jpg

EFI looks right at home in that classic Cobra. :cool:

http://kuvaton.com/finnshark/Yhc.jpg

One of my favorites in the whole event, but so was like 30 other cars... :rofl:

[GregWeld]

In looking at the pictures posted -- I happened to notice this first picture - previously posted - of Tanner Faust doing an impressive burnout.... and noticed that ALEX was taking a picture from the REAR view (he's in this first picture with a camera up to his eye...Just behind the first BIG CONE) and thought it gave an interesting perspective! LOL - cough cough - gag - man I love the smell of burning rubber!!


http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Optima%20Challenge%202009/o_104a.jpg


NOTE THE SHADOW


http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Optima%20Challenge%202009/DSC_5820.jpg


http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Optima%20Challenge%202009/DSC_5821.jpg


http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Optima%20Challenge%202009/DSC_5822.jpg


http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Optima%20Challenge%202009/DSC_5823.jpg

[Steve1968LS2]

I was very happy with the Penny's performance in the 0-60-0. The car launched so good that I'm really dying to get to a drag strip. Can I use Hoosier A6s as drag tires?

I "think" our best time was a 7.3 or 7.4 .. not bad for no ABS. Also, because I'm old and slow my event was really the 0-64-0 lol

[tones2SS]

Cool pics guys!!:thumbsup: :cheers:

[mazspeed]

Pretty simple deal, the cars with the best times should finish accordingly. If its a car show then so be it. Kinda ridiculous really. Don't need explanations or sugar coats, #'s are numbers.

When after a race you need explanations, that's all you need to know.

I agree. Fastest car in all events should win. Otherwise what's the point?

[GregWeld]

I agree. Fastest car in all events should win. Otherwise what's the point?

Yep -- since it's by invite only -- why invite someone and then shove their nose in the dirt... You saw/knew the car when you invited it to participate!

It's like -- Let me beat on my half million dollar car -- for FREE... win... and then someone doesn't like the color I painted it... Uh... sure!

Having said all that - and my opinion means NOTHING - it was and is a great event!

[Steve1968LS2]

Yep -- since it's by invite only -- why invite someone and then shove their nose in the dirt... You saw/knew the car when you invited it to participate!

It's like -- Let me beat on my half million dollar car -- for FREE... win... and then someone doesn't like the color I painted it... Uh... sure!

Having said all that - and my opinion means NOTHING - it was and is a great event!

They just need to be sure of who/what they are inviting.. having us go agains SCCA track cars really doesn't help make the point they are trying to make.

Don't worry.. it will all be fixed though :)

[Kendall Burleson]

Alex (#1 son) snapped this photo of BP launch... I was more than impressed at how hard it launched - and how straight! No fuss no muss - just flat azz getting after it.


http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Optima%20Challenge%202009/DSC_5744.jpg

Was this the same son you dId a play by play on the chassis 101? Look like he is there from the potos.:rolleyes: :rolleyes: :rolleyes:

[Flash68]

them are some bad ass pics! nice work.

[GregWeld]

Was this the same son you dId a play by play on the chassis 101? Look like he is there from the potos.:rolleyes: :rolleyes: :rolleyes:

Yes Kendall -- that same Alex! He went with me to the Challenge... said it was the best day he'd had all year!

He loves cars - he just never did really understand what his Daddy was doing down in the shed... (not that I do anything like what was racing there!) But I think he gets it now!

:>)

Glad you made it home in good sted! That's a long drive. I took almost 3 days to "wind" my way back. Stopped and BS'd with Roger @ Ironworks... Made a couple of other "buddy stops"... all good -- nothing ever wrong with a good old fashioned "road trip"!

[James OLC]

LOL - the Speed Stop Challenge (0 - 60 - 0) was a trip... on my first pass the gizmo that was supposed to tell me I hit 60 didn't work. I was getting worried when I hit the first of the skid marks so I said forget it and got hard on the brakes... turned out I hit 85. Still stopped pretty good but damn - blew that one big time.

Funny thing was that Jody joked about it in the staging lane and actually eyeballed the speed pretty close - he must have been a cop in another life.

[1964_442]

wow!! whos chevelle is this? any more pics and info please?:thumbsup:

http://www.lateral-g.net/forums/attachment.php4?attachmentid=20789&d=1257664186

[Stuart Adams]

wow!! whos chevelle is this? any more pics and info please?:thumbsup:

http://www.lateral-g.net/forums/attachment.php4?attachmentid=20789&d=1257664186

Awesome car in person.

[Steve1968LS2]

wow!! whos chevelle is this? any more pics and info please?:thumbsup:

http://www.lateral-g.net/forums/attachment.php4?attachmentid=20789&d=1257664186

Super Chevy shot a feature on it for a future issue and that's the car they "followed" during the competition.

Very nice car and the owner is pretty cool.

[66LS7]

That Chevelle was pretty awsome, he was really moving on the course & then something happened with the engine(possible bearings). Great build:thumbsup:



Randy(D&Z Customs LLC.)
[email protected]
1-262-347-9741

[GregWeld]

Yep.... I helped 'em push it onto the trailer.... so it couldn't make it under it's own power. BEAUTIFUL car! Really nicely done. Lots of cool detail.

[crazycarl]

Very nice car, sounded great too.

http://i699.photobucket.com/albums/vv352/wingnutthehutt/Optima%20Ultimate%20Street%20Car%20Invitational%20 2009/rIMG_0815.jpg

http://i699.photobucket.com/albums/vv352/wingnutthehutt/Optima%20Ultimate%20Street%20Car%20Invitational%20 2009/rIMG_0818.jpg

[coolwelder62]

That car was awsome.Really nice.My only complaint was, it was only 1 day.Went by so quickly. There was no time to meet everybody or see everything. NEEDS TO BE TWO DAYS JIMI DAY.:thumbsup: :thumbsup:

[1964_442]

thanks 4 the pics :thumbsup:


still looking for more info on that one

[dwfastcam]

I'm in as long as I get an invite.:yes: :yes: :yes: And I'll drive to the track.:thumbsup:
Shameless plug for an invite or sponsor:
http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa251/Payback1969/012.jpg

Hey bud, did you ever sell an LS3 headed LS2? If so it made good power.

[CarlC]

After 9-1/2 years it's back from the dead......