Things are taking a fast turn for the worse especially at the border and this is a very important situation for all La Carrera Panamericana and Chihuahua Express teams. At this very moment we have many friends who are racing even as I type this and as soon as I hear anything I will post it.
When? March 19-20-21, 2010.
Where? City and State of Chihuahua, Mexico
Location? Chihuahua City is 220 miles south of El Paso, Texas, and only
145 miles west of Presidio, Texas.
CLICK HERE to read about armed gunmen blocking roads.
This news report came in less than 3 hours ago...
Mexico's violence
THREE horrendous killings occurred recently in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, just across the border from El Paso, Texas. They underlined the severity of the influence of drug cartels in Mexico, but also sounded a warning to Americans.
Shot dead were an employee of the U.S. consulate general, her husband, and the husband of another U.S. employee. What was new was not the execution-style killings, but that these were the first American government officials to have fallen victim to them.
The spreading poison of the cartels in Mexico, which cause some observers to fear that the country of 112 million people is becoming a drug culture, is alarming to Americans. One reason is the historically close relationship between the United States and Mexico.
A second reason is that there are many Mexicans in the United States, who have both legal and illegal status.
And third, although maintaining law and order in Mexico is clearly the business of the Mexican government and not the United States, the fact is that Mexico's drug cartels' existence depends on the hungry market for their product on this side of the border.
The basic relationship between the United States and Mexico will remain in spite of the drug trade and its corresponding slaughter, which has spread from Mexicans to Americans. While there is grumbling in the United States about the impact on jobs here as a result of the 1994 North American Free Trade Agreement, nearly half of Mexico's $140 billion worth of imports last year came from the United States.
Mexico was the second-largest destination for American exports, behind only Canada, the other partner in NAFTA.
In spite of U.S. efforts to control the nearly 2,000-mile border with Mexico, it remains porous. The idea of building a fence and wall along the border was abandoned recently because it is not the most effective method of addressing the problem.
U.S. aid to Mexico through the Drug Enforcement Agency, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Immigration and Naturalization Service is intended to improve coordination, to tighten border procedures, and to control the trade in arms across the border. President Obama is reportedly considering an increase in aid in the aftermath of last weekend's killings.
President Felipe Calderon of Mexico is using the Mexican army to curb violence along the country's northern border. U.S.-Mexican military cooperation has too sensitive a history to offer much promise.
Probably the best action the U.S. government could take to help alleviate the drug cartel problem would be to modify America's own drug policy.
The problem is twofold: the supply of product from Mexico and demand for it from the United States. It is a matter that cries out to be addressed from both ends.
Showing posts with label Chihuahua Express. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Chihuahua Express. Show all posts
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Monday, January 12, 2009
RALLY MEXICO NEWS -- From Chihuahua to Elkhart Lake !!
RALLY MEXICO NEWS
January 12, 2009
Feliz Año Nuevo!
**CHIHUAHUA EXPRESS, MARCH 27-29
The Chihuahua Express packs nearly 325 miles of open road racing into a three-day weekend. In three days you will race almost as far as La Carrera Panamericana, but you will return to the same hotel and same bed each night.
The Xpress is open to just about any properly equipped car – vintage or modern – that is capable of being driven on the street. Daily and overall trophies in several classes will be awarded. Carrera cars will compete in separate classes and overall trophies.
The City of Chihuahua, is only 220 miles south of El Paso and 142 miles west of Presidio, Texas. So you avoid the 1800 miles drive to Tuxtla Gutierrez. As a consequence, the logistics of supporting your racecar are much easier and much less expensive.
The cost of the event is $2000, which covers the driver(s), required co-driver, and the car. Hotel accommodations are extra. Rooms at the luxury Westin Soberano are $165 per night. A Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express, Hampton Inn, and City Express are in the same area. The only other required expense is a Mexican rally license, which cost $280 per person last year. (It will also be good for the Carrera in October.)
The Express Convoy will gather in El Paso on Tuesday, March 24 in El Paso, and will cross the border the next day. Advice and information about Mexican customs procedures will be provided. The Convoy should arrive in Chihuahua City in the early afternoon on the 24th. Most competitors check out of their hotel on Monday morning, Mach 30, and head back to the States via El Paso or Presidio.
A registration form is attached to this newsletter. Return it by email or snail mail with your check for $2000, or use Pay Pal (please add Pay Pal’s 3.8% commission).
For more information request the Xpress FAQ and go to: www.chihuahuaexpress.com.
**HOT RODS AT THE EXPRESS – SOMETHING NEW!
“Chacho” Medina and Eduardo “Lalo” Leon—old friends-- are jointly issuing a special invitation to owners of hot rods and street rods in the U.S. and Mexico to participate in the Chihuahua Express Tour this year. For an introductory fee of only $650 these cars will be able to run the same course as the racecars on Saturday and Sunday. The entry fee will also include two nights at the Holiday Inn, plus awards and trophies. Hot rods from the U.S. will be escorted down to Chihuahua from El Paso on Friday, March 27.
The hot rod tour will visit the fantastic Copper Canyon on Saturday and on Sunday will make the remarkable drive to Ojinada (Presidio) through the Canyon of the Moon. The roads are excellent and the weather temperate in March.
**SAFETY AND SECURITY IN MEXICO – LOOK AT THE RECORD
Several new participants in the Chihuahua Express have expressed concern about their safety and security while in Mexico. Given the constant reports of violence in U.S. newspapers, there is little wonder that such concern is being expressed.
Mexican cartels having been fighting for years to control the flow of drugs from South America and Mexico into the U.S. Virtually all the violence in places like Ciudad Juarez, Tijuana, and Nuevo Laredo is the result of this conflict and the efforts of the Mexico government to suppress the cartels.
While there is no guarantee, we can only report that for twenty-one years the Carrera Panamericana, and for five years the Border Challenge and Chihuahua Express, have avoided any such problems. Race activities take place along rural highways that are well patrolled during the event by local, state, and national police—even army units. We travel as a big group, and do not frequent areas and neighborhoods subject to drug-related violence. As individuals, we also exercise caution, look out after each other, and use our “street smarts.”
**LA CARRERA PANAMERICANA, OCTOBER 23-29
Because of the lengthy holiday schedule in Mexico not much news has been released by the Carrera Office, except the dates. The official web site still shows the entrants and route from last year.
At this point, the route is expected to be about the same – from Tuxtla Gutierrez to Nuevo Laredo, but we will not know that for sure until later in the year. The entry fee for 2009 has not been released as well. Thus far, a dozen norteamericanos have sent in their $500 deposit, guaranteeing them one of the 40 slots initially made available to racers north of the border. Most of those who have signed up have participated in the race in prior years. Several of those who crashed out of the event last year have indicated their plans to return, so the field is expected to look very much the same.
Of special note are plans being made in Washington, D.C. to field two cars for disabled veterans of the war in Iraq and Afghanistan. Anybody want to help these guys?
**PREPARING YOUR CAR FOR RACING IN MEXICO
For the new participants here are a couple of recommendations. Find a topographical map of Mexico. See all that brown running through most of the central part of the country? That color does not indicate desert, but high elevation—from near Oaxaca far north to near Saltillo. Most of Mexico is a high plateau dotted by mountain ranges and volcanoes. From the middle of the first day until the middle of the last day, the race cars operate at high altitude – from 5000 to 10,000 feet. Take heed; be prepared.
Internal combustion engines and fuel delivery systems tuned for sea level do not work well at high altitude. The carburetion must be adjusted (leaned out) because the air at high altitude is much thinner and will not carry as many gas molecules into the combustion chambers. Of course, if you lean your engine out too much may consume itself.
Because the air at altitude is thinner, it will not cool the engine as efficiently. Air molecules absorb heat, and with fewer air molecules available, more heat stays in your engine and radiator—which tends to produce vapor lock and cause other problems.
High altitude also plays havoc with the heat and lungs of old dudes who live in Cities under 500 feet in elevation. Beware! Those who live in Aspen or Andermatt have a distinct advantage….. or Mexico City!
Those who sign up for CARRERA DRIVER will be given detailed information about to prepare fully for racing vintage cars at high altitude.
**ROLL CAGES – DO IT RIGHT
There seems to be no clear set of compatible instructions or drawings yet for the optimum roll cage for a vintage Mexican rally car.
If you are planning to buy or build a car for vintage racing in Mexico, you should get your roll-cage plans checked. If you are building a car and have not installed the cage, please send in a drawing of the cage and its specifications--outside diameter of the tubing, type of tubing, and tubing wall thickness. If your roll cage has been installed, send a full set of photos, or drawing, and specs.
Even though your car may be accepted on the basis of the information you supply, the tech inspector in Mexico—who represents the Mexican racing federation--will make the final decision.
**CARRERA CARS RETURN TO PIKE’S PEAK
Carrera cars will again be featured at the Pike’s Peak International Hill Climb, July 19, 2009. These cars will race up this majestic mountain with entries from the Rocky Mountain Vintage Racing Club one more time. This is the second time in 10 years that vintage cars have been allowed to run the granddaddy of American motoring events. They were quite popular last year.
Last year two Carrera cars, a ’64 “Olds” crewed by Doug Mockett and Angelica Fuentes, and a Subaru piloted by Kevin Jones came home with trophies. Mockett and Fuentes won the Historic Division, beating out some local boys from RMVR.
The race is 12.4 miles up the mountain--from 9100’ to 14,300’ in elevation. There are over 150 turns in the 12.4 miles. Eight or nine miles are paved; the rest is exciting gravel. The competitors practice on the mountain three mornings before the main event. The views are breathtaking.
The entry fee is $750. Do not register on the PPIHC web site or send your entry directly to that organization. Register only at RMVR.com or you will be charged a higher fee.
All cars must be manufactured prior to 1972 and have run either the Pike’s Peak before, or the Carrera or Chihuahua Express.
In addition to the hill climb, RMVR is planning a big vintage car show in Manitou Springs on Saturday July 18 before the race on Sunday. So get that Carrera car out of the garage and up to Manitou Springs (outside of Colorado Springs) next July.
**CARRERA CARS INVITED TO ROAD AMERICA
All Carrera-eligible cars are invited to enter the SVAR vintage race at Road America, Elkhart Lake (WI), May 15-17, 2009. The Carrera cars will have their own dedicated run group. The weekend will include three practice sessions, a qualifying race on Saturday, and a feature race on Sunday. The entry fee is $475. The cars are also eligible to participate in the longer enduro race. Entrants must hold a current racing license from a recognized racing association.
Check the web site at SVRA.com or call Cal Jensen, SVRA Competition Director at 561-379-7751. Transport of cars from the Left Coast will be arranged.
**CARRERA ARCHIVES
Several Carrera racers have made contributions to the made contributions to the race’s archives. Thanks in particular to Dave Gussack, Matt Hamilton, and a professional photographer, Alex Sudea. Contact Alex in Britain at asudea@rexfeatures.com for info about his photos.
PLEASE SEND YOUR PHOTOS AND STORIES FOR THE ARCHIVES.
How’s your Dutch? State of the Art, the company that supplied the trendy jackets for LCP last year has produced two short films on 2008. Find the link on the official web site: www.lacarerapanamericana.com.mx.
Blogs. Gary Faules continues to entertain and edify with his great blog on the Pan Am. Check him out at http://lacarrera2007.blogspot.com/. Gary also has a video on the 2007 event due out anytime know.
Michael Emery, creator of the Luche Libre Team (1965 Datsun Fairlady), and a professional photographer continues to great photos and stories at: http://www.luchalibreracing.com/content/?s=1&l=5.
Kristin Stewart offers her well prepared blog, which contains many photos of the Carrera and the Chihuahua Express, at http://funksterwtf.blogspot.com/.
Marcia Blas presents a warm, unique perspective at http://RoadRallyRhythms.com . Marcia and her husband Franc are preparing a car for a future Carrera. Marcia crewed for Tom Overbaugh last year and has also participated in the Chihuahua Express.
Here’s one of my favorite photos by Marcia. Love those Mexican girls!
Photographs. Danny Bailey has a DVD of exceptional photographs from last year’s LCP for sale for $50. Contact him at shootingtheworld@rogers.com.
Also Check out Enrique Cedillo’s photos at: http://picasaweb.google.com/ecedillo/Panamericana2008.
If you want to watch the three-car collection corner outside of Aguascalientes, click here : http://www.sporcar.com/sporcartv/sporcarplayer07.asp?formato=4&seccion=MEX&video=PANA-SLP-AGS.FLV. This film and others can be found on myTube.com.
Of particular note is a recently discovered video and photos of the infamous wreck of #395 on La Bufa in 2005, perhaps the best known and most analyzed crash in Carrera history—because of the number of cameras present. This film clearly shows that the driver was able to rotate the car ninety degrees back toward the highway after going off – which suggests that nothing in the steering linkage had failed – before the car’s tires dug into the dirt, ripping off the front right wheel sssembly, and causing 8.5 flips and rolls. VOLCADURA EN LA CARRERA PANAMERICANA 2005 ZACATECAS for the scary video.
Clement Marin has provided another photo of this crash that actually shows the front wheel of #395 being ripped off the car, as it slides sideways down the shoulder. Clemet has also published a book of his photographs. Click on http://img126.imagevenue.com/img.php?image=85715_IMG_2405_122_1123lo.jpg
Contact Clement at clement.marin@online.fr.
**LEGAL WARNING
Like all forms of motor sports, the Pan Am is dangerous. It can also lead to a lifetime of addiction to road racing in Mexico.
**CONTACT INFORMATION
If you change email addresses, please let CARRERA NEWS know.
Gerie Bledsoe
North American Coordinator
La Carrera Panamericana
The Chihuahua Express
677 Highland Ave.
Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
650-726-9890 (home office)
650-726-9599 (fax)
650-867-9488 (mobile)
gbledso@aol.com
www.panamrace.com
www.lacarrerapanamericana.com.mx
www.chihuahuaexpress.com
January 12, 2009
Feliz Año Nuevo!
**CHIHUAHUA EXPRESS, MARCH 27-29
The Chihuahua Express packs nearly 325 miles of open road racing into a three-day weekend. In three days you will race almost as far as La Carrera Panamericana, but you will return to the same hotel and same bed each night.
The Xpress is open to just about any properly equipped car – vintage or modern – that is capable of being driven on the street. Daily and overall trophies in several classes will be awarded. Carrera cars will compete in separate classes and overall trophies.
The City of Chihuahua, is only 220 miles south of El Paso and 142 miles west of Presidio, Texas. So you avoid the 1800 miles drive to Tuxtla Gutierrez. As a consequence, the logistics of supporting your racecar are much easier and much less expensive.
The cost of the event is $2000, which covers the driver(s), required co-driver, and the car. Hotel accommodations are extra. Rooms at the luxury Westin Soberano are $165 per night. A Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express, Hampton Inn, and City Express are in the same area. The only other required expense is a Mexican rally license, which cost $280 per person last year. (It will also be good for the Carrera in October.)
The Express Convoy will gather in El Paso on Tuesday, March 24 in El Paso, and will cross the border the next day. Advice and information about Mexican customs procedures will be provided. The Convoy should arrive in Chihuahua City in the early afternoon on the 24th. Most competitors check out of their hotel on Monday morning, Mach 30, and head back to the States via El Paso or Presidio.
A registration form is attached to this newsletter. Return it by email or snail mail with your check for $2000, or use Pay Pal (please add Pay Pal’s 3.8% commission).
For more information request the Xpress FAQ and go to: www.chihuahuaexpress.com.
**HOT RODS AT THE EXPRESS – SOMETHING NEW!
“Chacho” Medina and Eduardo “Lalo” Leon—old friends-- are jointly issuing a special invitation to owners of hot rods and street rods in the U.S. and Mexico to participate in the Chihuahua Express Tour this year. For an introductory fee of only $650 these cars will be able to run the same course as the racecars on Saturday and Sunday. The entry fee will also include two nights at the Holiday Inn, plus awards and trophies. Hot rods from the U.S. will be escorted down to Chihuahua from El Paso on Friday, March 27.
The hot rod tour will visit the fantastic Copper Canyon on Saturday and on Sunday will make the remarkable drive to Ojinada (Presidio) through the Canyon of the Moon. The roads are excellent and the weather temperate in March.
**SAFETY AND SECURITY IN MEXICO – LOOK AT THE RECORD
Several new participants in the Chihuahua Express have expressed concern about their safety and security while in Mexico. Given the constant reports of violence in U.S. newspapers, there is little wonder that such concern is being expressed.
Mexican cartels having been fighting for years to control the flow of drugs from South America and Mexico into the U.S. Virtually all the violence in places like Ciudad Juarez, Tijuana, and Nuevo Laredo is the result of this conflict and the efforts of the Mexico government to suppress the cartels.
While there is no guarantee, we can only report that for twenty-one years the Carrera Panamericana, and for five years the Border Challenge and Chihuahua Express, have avoided any such problems. Race activities take place along rural highways that are well patrolled during the event by local, state, and national police—even army units. We travel as a big group, and do not frequent areas and neighborhoods subject to drug-related violence. As individuals, we also exercise caution, look out after each other, and use our “street smarts.”
**LA CARRERA PANAMERICANA, OCTOBER 23-29
Because of the lengthy holiday schedule in Mexico not much news has been released by the Carrera Office, except the dates. The official web site still shows the entrants and route from last year.
At this point, the route is expected to be about the same – from Tuxtla Gutierrez to Nuevo Laredo, but we will not know that for sure until later in the year. The entry fee for 2009 has not been released as well. Thus far, a dozen norteamericanos have sent in their $500 deposit, guaranteeing them one of the 40 slots initially made available to racers north of the border. Most of those who have signed up have participated in the race in prior years. Several of those who crashed out of the event last year have indicated their plans to return, so the field is expected to look very much the same.
Of special note are plans being made in Washington, D.C. to field two cars for disabled veterans of the war in Iraq and Afghanistan. Anybody want to help these guys?
**PREPARING YOUR CAR FOR RACING IN MEXICO
For the new participants here are a couple of recommendations. Find a topographical map of Mexico. See all that brown running through most of the central part of the country? That color does not indicate desert, but high elevation—from near Oaxaca far north to near Saltillo. Most of Mexico is a high plateau dotted by mountain ranges and volcanoes. From the middle of the first day until the middle of the last day, the race cars operate at high altitude – from 5000 to 10,000 feet. Take heed; be prepared.
Internal combustion engines and fuel delivery systems tuned for sea level do not work well at high altitude. The carburetion must be adjusted (leaned out) because the air at high altitude is much thinner and will not carry as many gas molecules into the combustion chambers. Of course, if you lean your engine out too much may consume itself.
Because the air at altitude is thinner, it will not cool the engine as efficiently. Air molecules absorb heat, and with fewer air molecules available, more heat stays in your engine and radiator—which tends to produce vapor lock and cause other problems.
High altitude also plays havoc with the heat and lungs of old dudes who live in Cities under 500 feet in elevation. Beware! Those who live in Aspen or Andermatt have a distinct advantage….. or Mexico City!
Those who sign up for CARRERA DRIVER will be given detailed information about to prepare fully for racing vintage cars at high altitude.
**ROLL CAGES – DO IT RIGHT
There seems to be no clear set of compatible instructions or drawings yet for the optimum roll cage for a vintage Mexican rally car.
If you are planning to buy or build a car for vintage racing in Mexico, you should get your roll-cage plans checked. If you are building a car and have not installed the cage, please send in a drawing of the cage and its specifications--outside diameter of the tubing, type of tubing, and tubing wall thickness. If your roll cage has been installed, send a full set of photos, or drawing, and specs.
Even though your car may be accepted on the basis of the information you supply, the tech inspector in Mexico—who represents the Mexican racing federation--will make the final decision.
**CARRERA CARS RETURN TO PIKE’S PEAK
Carrera cars will again be featured at the Pike’s Peak International Hill Climb, July 19, 2009. These cars will race up this majestic mountain with entries from the Rocky Mountain Vintage Racing Club one more time. This is the second time in 10 years that vintage cars have been allowed to run the granddaddy of American motoring events. They were quite popular last year.
Last year two Carrera cars, a ’64 “Olds” crewed by Doug Mockett and Angelica Fuentes, and a Subaru piloted by Kevin Jones came home with trophies. Mockett and Fuentes won the Historic Division, beating out some local boys from RMVR.
The race is 12.4 miles up the mountain--from 9100’ to 14,300’ in elevation. There are over 150 turns in the 12.4 miles. Eight or nine miles are paved; the rest is exciting gravel. The competitors practice on the mountain three mornings before the main event. The views are breathtaking.
The entry fee is $750. Do not register on the PPIHC web site or send your entry directly to that organization. Register only at RMVR.com or you will be charged a higher fee.
All cars must be manufactured prior to 1972 and have run either the Pike’s Peak before, or the Carrera or Chihuahua Express.
In addition to the hill climb, RMVR is planning a big vintage car show in Manitou Springs on Saturday July 18 before the race on Sunday. So get that Carrera car out of the garage and up to Manitou Springs (outside of Colorado Springs) next July.
**CARRERA CARS INVITED TO ROAD AMERICA
All Carrera-eligible cars are invited to enter the SVAR vintage race at Road America, Elkhart Lake (WI), May 15-17, 2009. The Carrera cars will have their own dedicated run group. The weekend will include three practice sessions, a qualifying race on Saturday, and a feature race on Sunday. The entry fee is $475. The cars are also eligible to participate in the longer enduro race. Entrants must hold a current racing license from a recognized racing association.
Check the web site at SVRA.com or call Cal Jensen, SVRA Competition Director at 561-379-7751. Transport of cars from the Left Coast will be arranged.
**CARRERA ARCHIVES
Several Carrera racers have made contributions to the made contributions to the race’s archives. Thanks in particular to Dave Gussack, Matt Hamilton, and a professional photographer, Alex Sudea. Contact Alex in Britain at asudea@rexfeatures.com for info about his photos.
PLEASE SEND YOUR PHOTOS AND STORIES FOR THE ARCHIVES.
How’s your Dutch? State of the Art, the company that supplied the trendy jackets for LCP last year has produced two short films on 2008. Find the link on the official web site: www.lacarerapanamericana.com.mx.
Blogs. Gary Faules continues to entertain and edify with his great blog on the Pan Am. Check him out at http://lacarrera2007.blogspot.com/. Gary also has a video on the 2007 event due out anytime know.
Michael Emery, creator of the Luche Libre Team (1965 Datsun Fairlady), and a professional photographer continues to great photos and stories at: http://www.luchalibreracing.com/content/?s=1&l=5.
Kristin Stewart offers her well prepared blog, which contains many photos of the Carrera and the Chihuahua Express, at http://funksterwtf.blogspot.com/.
Marcia Blas presents a warm, unique perspective at http://RoadRallyRhythms.com . Marcia and her husband Franc are preparing a car for a future Carrera. Marcia crewed for Tom Overbaugh last year and has also participated in the Chihuahua Express.
Here’s one of my favorite photos by Marcia. Love those Mexican girls!
Photographs. Danny Bailey has a DVD of exceptional photographs from last year’s LCP for sale for $50. Contact him at shootingtheworld@rogers.com.
Also Check out Enrique Cedillo’s photos at: http://picasaweb.google.com/ecedillo/Panamericana2008.
If you want to watch the three-car collection corner outside of Aguascalientes, click here : http://www.sporcar.com/sporcartv/sporcarplayer07.asp?formato=4&seccion=MEX&video=PANA-SLP-AGS.FLV. This film and others can be found on myTube.com.
Of particular note is a recently discovered video and photos of the infamous wreck of #395 on La Bufa in 2005, perhaps the best known and most analyzed crash in Carrera history—because of the number of cameras present. This film clearly shows that the driver was able to rotate the car ninety degrees back toward the highway after going off – which suggests that nothing in the steering linkage had failed – before the car’s tires dug into the dirt, ripping off the front right wheel sssembly, and causing 8.5 flips and rolls. VOLCADURA EN LA CARRERA PANAMERICANA 2005 ZACATECAS for the scary video.
Clement Marin has provided another photo of this crash that actually shows the front wheel of #395 being ripped off the car, as it slides sideways down the shoulder. Clemet has also published a book of his photographs. Click on http://img126.imagevenue.com/img.php?image=85715_IMG_2405_122_1123lo.jpg
Contact Clement at clement.marin@online.fr.
**LEGAL WARNING
Like all forms of motor sports, the Pan Am is dangerous. It can also lead to a lifetime of addiction to road racing in Mexico.
**CONTACT INFORMATION
If you change email addresses, please let CARRERA NEWS know.
Gerie Bledsoe
North American Coordinator
La Carrera Panamericana
The Chihuahua Express
677 Highland Ave.
Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
650-726-9890 (home office)
650-726-9599 (fax)
650-867-9488 (mobile)
gbledso@aol.com
www.panamrace.com
www.lacarrerapanamericana.com.mx
www.chihuahuaexpress.com
Saturday, May 24, 2008
Mexico Racing Videos
Take a ride inside a 1951Chrysler New Yorker.
Watch closely in this one for Jon and Gary.
Friday, May 16, 2008
Two Wiiild And Craaaazy Guys
Kevin and Mark before Mark grew a beard. (Honest it's them.)
Ever notice how some people leave a more lasting impression on people than others? Having met Kevin Jones and co-piloto, better known as "partner in crime" Mark Williams we found them to be the kinds of guys we are proud to call our friends. Hey, I don't know what in the hell to say about them owning a pink iPod but some question are better left unasked. Besides, what goes on in Mexico stays in Mexico or so I'm told.
Check out the video Kevin and Mark shot as they traveled thru parts of Mexico on their way to race the Chihuahua Express. CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO. After leaving Chihuahua every Chihuahua in the city of Chihuahua had been "sand proofed" at the request of the Subaru team. Some say they saw Mark and Kevin holding down the dog in the photo while saying, "It's the least we can do for the people of Chihuahua. Besides, what else can we do since there are no pigeons here?"
Monday, May 12, 2008
Mexican Rally Video
Here is a great compilation from the recent Chihuahua Express where teams and drivers go not only to have some fun amongst friends but also to test their equipment, cars and skill while tuning up for the La Carrera Panamericana.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Check out this great blog
This blog is the creation of Carson Scheller's daughter. Carson raced with us in the 2007 La Carrera Panamericana but as is the case with some many of us, he just didn't get enough. In an attempt to feed his racing appetite he made the mad dash down to Chihuahua to run the three day event only this time he was accompanied by his daughter. After reading her blog it seems as if she is suffering from the same need for speed as Carson and the rest of us. Her blog is titled THE CHIHUAHUA EXPRESS and without a doubt it is one of the top blogs dedicated to this event and if she finds time to do as awesome job reporting on this years La Carrera Panamericana I know where I will be reading.
For some great reading about La Carrera style racing and the many adventures that ensure be sure to read her blog. Not only does she give a good overall feeling of what to expect regarding this type of format but in fact she does an awesome job of reporting about many the racers and teams we all consider our great friends.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Rally Mexico Update from Gerie Bledso
April 16, 2008
CONTENTS:
**CHIHUAHUA EXPRESS – A GREAT EVENT IN THE BOOKS
**CARRERA: NORTH AMERICAN REGISTRATIONS AT 47
**CARRERA FIESTA – Los Angeles -- May 10th RSVP NOW!
**CARRERA HOTELS
**PAN AM RULES FOR 2008
**COYOTE CONVOY DATES
**CONCURSO DE MOTOR SPORTS IN SAN MIGUEL
**SPOUSES AND FRIENDS AT LA CARRERA?
**CONTACT INFO
**CHIHUAHUA EXPRESS – A GREAT EVENT IN THE BOOKS
The second annual Chihuahua Express came of age last weekend. 51 cars participated, with 41 running in the top-speed stage rally competition. 10 cars participated either in a T/S/D rally or the touring class. 31 of the competition cars were from the U.S. By all reports, it was an outstanding event.
When the dust settled, the overall winners were Kevin Jones and Mark Williams* from the U.S. in a Subaru WRX. The results were not in doubt from the first day. They finished 11:06 ahead of the second place car of John and David Magnuson* (U.S) in their well-prepared Mazda RX7. Third went to Bruce Redding and Steve Shaeffer (U.S.) in a Subaru. They were 12:49 back.
The top Pan Am car, a ’54 Studebaker, driven by Franciso Marquez and Aracelli Ramirez finished in fourth, 20:34 behind the winners. Lars Stugemo, driving a Mats Hammarlund Studebaker, had been leading the Pan Am cars until he crashed the last day.
The other top ten finishers included:
5. Ralph Carungi and Bill Richert (’53 Lincoln, Turismo Mayor)
6. Gerie Bledsoe and Vance Stewart III (’93 Camaro Z28, 4.5+ liter)*
7. Jorge Silva and Horacio Chousal (54 Studebaker, Turismo Mayor)
8. Fran McKinnon and John Putnam (’08 Mustang GT, 4.5+ liter)
9. Steve Waldman and Juan Jose Alessio (Mitsu Evo 9)*
10. David Cooper and Larry Hitchcock (’51 Chrysler, Original Pan Am)*
*Indicates they also won their class.
Tom Silver and David Fuss (U.S.) won the hotly contested Historic C class and 12th overall when Richard Tyzack (U.K), who had led for two days, developed water pump problems on the last day and apparently was penalized for missing a control station. Doug Allen and Chip Fudge also finished on the podium in Historic C. John Voss (U.S.) and Michel Sharp (U.S.) were on the podium in the under 2.4 liter class. Rookies Mike McBride and Joel Eisenberg did well, too.
Other casualties among front runners included: Jerry Churchill (engine), Doug Mockett (crash damage), Bill Beilharz (engine), and Mauricio Guerro. Joe Harding and Chris Salyer lost their cars to fire after crashing. There were no injuries, except a broken ankle (Harding). 18 cars were DNF.
The spirit award goes to John Schantz and Gabrielle Youngstrom (U.S.). They lost the transmission in their ’54 Olds on the first day, but they found and installed a used one the second day in the parking lot, and re-joined the race the third day to finish 33d overall. Gabrielle also got the best dressed and best ‘too award.
Next year special attention will be devoted to modifying the classification system so it keeps up with the wide variety of cars entering the event.
Congratulations to the organizer, Chacho Medina, and his group of 75 officials for an excellent race!
**CARRERA -- NORTH AMERICAN REGISTRATIONS AT 47
As of this date, 47 “norteamericanos” have registered for La Carrera 2008. Another fifteen have indicated their intent to participate this year. Several are seasoned Pan Am veterans. Of those who have registered, nearly half are rookies.
The entry fee went to $6000 on April 1. The next four applicants will fill our quota of 50 slots for this year. The big question is: will the quota be enforced?
If you have not registered your interest in running the Pan Am this year with the Coordinator, then you should plan on participating in the event in 2009.
**CARRERA FIESTA -- MAY 10TH --LOS ANGELES
A LCP Fiesta will be held on Saturday, May 10th, 5-8 PM, in South Pasadena, Los Angeles, California at the private hot rod collection of Ron Lee. His collection includes one of two ’55 Kurtis GT coupes, and a ’32 Indy car, plus many beautiful hot rod creations.
RSVP is important. Ron must know who is coming by this weekend. A contribution of $25 for food and drink will be appreciated. Please make your reservation now at gbledso@aol.com.
Bring photos and DVDs to share.
**CARRERA HOTELS
The premium hotels are full, so forget about the Quinta Real in Zacatecas--the famous bullring hotel--if you do not have your name on the list already.
If you need a room in Tuxtla Gutierrez before October 23 or a room for your support crew, you should let Monica Grossmann de Leon know at monica.grossmann@yahoo.com.mx.
To make a reservation, you must pay for the rooms up front, and there is no refund or transfer of rooms later, says Ms. Grossmann.
The names of the actual hotels will be announced a week before the race.
**PAN AM RULES FOR 2008
A complete set of rules for the event this year has not been posted on the official web site. Also, the classification of the cars -- in the new chart form -- seems to be only available in Spanish.
The roll cages rules posted on the web site and dated 2008 are the same as last year’s. They remain somewhat unclear, especially when linked to the diagram that is also posted on the web site.
**COYOTE CONVOY DATES
Oct. 17 – convoy assembles in Laredo, Texas, 9:00 PM meeting
Oct. 18 - convoy crosses border, 6:00 AM arrive in San Miguel de Allende, 4:00 PM
Oct. 19 – Carrera Classic Car Show, San Miguel
Oct. 20 – depart for Tuxtla Gutierrez, 7 AM, drive around Mexico City night in Minatitlan
Oct. 21 – arrive in Tuxtla Gutierrez, 10:00 AM
You need not be a registered competitor to join the convoy and participate in the car show in San Miguel. All cars are subject to approval.
If you want to follow the race and drive the same roads in a tour—not officially connected to the event, please contact the North American Coodinator. You must have a car—your own or a rental—to participate.
**CONCURSO DE MOTOR SPORTS IN SAN MIGUEL
All competitors and friends are invited to the Concurso de Motor Sports in San Miguel de Allende. The Concurso will include several venues for hot rods, classic cars, racecars, and vintage motorcycles. Some of the venues will be judged. All proceeds go to benefit children and families in the San Miguel area.
San Miguel de Allende is rated by Condé Nast magazine as one of the top three places in the Americans to visit, and one of the top ten in the world. There is no other place in Mexico where you can see a 16th century colonial town virtually unspoiled by modern times. You will also find boutique hotels, art galleries, and a wide variety of restaurants, where you can eat the food and drink the water without concern.
SMA is 590 miles—by freeway—from Laredo, Texas, and is served by the airport at Leon-Guanjauato (BJX). Several airlines fly from Dallas, Houston, and LA into BJX. Some flights go into nearby Querétaro. SMA is only 3 hours north of Mexico City by car.
Information about the Concurso will be available at www.concursosanmiguel.org. Hotel discounts and packages will be offered.
**SPOUSES AND FRIENDS AT LA CARRERA?
The Pan Am is a long hard race. The cars and support vehicles are on the road from 6or 7 in the morning until 5 or 6 most evenings. The evenings are devoted to servicing the racecar and waiting for the driver’s meetings to begin. Unless your spouse or special friend understands and truly appreciates the nature of this event, their attendance the whole week is not recommended.
However, if they want to sample the event, they might find the preparation of the cars and some of the ceremonies in Tuxtla Gutierrez (Oct. 21-24) interesting, along with the qualifying run and the formal start on Friday. They can fly back to the U.S. on Oct. 24.
Another option for them is joining the race for two or three days by flying into Leon-Guanajuato (BJX) and meeting the event in Querétaro (Oct. 27), San Luis de Potosí (Oct. 28) or Aguascalientes (Oct. 29). They can stay with the race until it leaves Zacatecas (October 30). Rental cars are available at the airport, or a car and driver can be arranged. There are flights into and out of all of these cities, but Leon (BJX) is the best for direct flights to the U.S.
Saludos amigos,Gerie Bledsoe
North American Coordinator
Monday, April 14, 2008
Don't kid yourself, it's NOT a rally.
If anyone tells you that the rally type format used in La Carrera Panamericana or the Chihuahua Express is not really racing do me a big favor and kick them square in the Cojones! In this weeks running of the Chihuahua Express over 55 cars started but on the last day a friend wrote they only saw 27 finish. Now anyway you look at it that's not a race for sissys and no it's not because they stopped somewhere for cocktails either.
A friend wrote telling me that possibly I shouldn't write about the high attrition because some people might not like it. That's like talking about a boxing match without anyone getting hit. Racers know there are risk and that's a risk they accept. Quite the contrary, if I didn't talk about attrition it's possible someone reading my blog or others like it might not fully give safety equipment the full benefit of the doubt. Folks, THIS IS SERIOUS RACING and not just another Sunday drive. The only reason these people are alive to talk about these wrecks is because they know the risk and THEY TOOK NOTHING FOR GRANTED.
Two of the cars above are toast, literally, and they are both good friends of mine whom we met at last years La Carrera Panamericana. Had they taken even the smallest safety items for granted I may very well have not been able to write this entry. Thank God they are safe. After looking at the photos above you can see why we are so concerned about them.
The 1953 baby blue Studebaker driven by Lars Stugemo of Sweden and his co-piloto Filipe Argueles of Mexico took a dive into a drop-off ravine after rolling.
Englishman Joe Harding and Co-piloto Paul Lisec took a trip to Hell (fire and all) in his beautiful 1963 Falcon Sprint. Joe is now back in the U.S. with what might be a broken ankle. Talk about heat, note the seats in Joe's car are completely burned away only minutes after the fire began.
Both Joe and Lars are very competitive drivers who have our respect besides the fact that both are fine gentlemen we are proud to call our friends not to mention both had outstanding cars we loved. I hope both teams will be able to pull something off soon since both are already entered in this years La Carrera Panamericana.
Ironicly, the white 1953 Studebaker with the red flames painted on the side belongs to Chris Sayler. Chris has run in previous La Carrera Panamericana's and based on photos of previous experiences he has had I can tell you he knows just how important safety equipment is including a good roll cage.
Sunday, April 13, 2008
Californian's Kick Chihuahua's butt
Photo courtesy of Bret Haller The Unlimited Class
I just talked to Gerie Bledso and even though Gerie was rushing off to dinner/awards ceremony I was able to get a few quick results.
High overall was taken by Californians Kevin Jones and Mark Williams! All Hail Technoviking! Congratulations guys.
Another Californian team of John & David Magnuson who run with us in NASA took 2nd place overall.
Another awesome Californian performance was none other than Gerie Bledso. Not only did Gerie win first place in the demanding Historic C class but took 6th place overall honors as well.
What a way to represent guys! Hurry safely home and finish filling us all in with "The rest of the story."
A few other quick notes are Doug Mocket and Angélica Fuentes are doing OK in spite of having a serious run in with a guardrail which took them out of contention. Richard Tyzack's car lost a water pump and he too became yet another statistic of attrition. There is still no official medical report on Joe Harding's ankle and he is on his way home as I type this so as soon as I hear anything I will post it here. Joe is one tough competitor but one we want to see around for a lot of years so let's all say a prayer for Joe and keep him in our thoughts. As for the rest of the results as soon as I hear what they are I will get them posted. As far as the reports of the teams who were burnt as a result of a crash as soon as I get more accurate information on them I will popst that as well. In the meantime let's hope and pray that was not serious.
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