MotorWerks Magazine Volume 3 issue 1

THE ULTIMATE READING EXPERIENCE! VOLUME 3 ISSUE 01 APRIL 2013 Published by TreeFree Publishing A division of Webtronic Enterprises

s ’ a e R s Jame

n u G G I B .. .

TECH - THE INITIAL COOPER RSR UPGRADES GREAT GRAND-AM PICTORIALS! FEATURED PHOTOGRAPHER - JOHN SCHROEDER MotorWerks Magazine - Online at www.motorwerksmag.com - 1

This Month 18

Taking a Stance - Bimmercruise ‘12

26

Soggy Lime Rock - Wet end to season

40

A Fitting Tribute - MINI fans come to thank RSR Motorsports.

48

Double Duty for Schwartz - It’s a MINI and M5 at Lime Rock Park

56

OH-Fest - hits Mid-Ohio.

78

Goodbye to the M3 GT - Last outing at Petit LeMans

86

Highway to Help - Part Deux

92

The Roar Before The 24 - Early season testing at Daytona

96

4 Scored and MINI, MINI more! - MINI Thunder IV

114

James Rea’s Big Gun - A super modified R56

128

Adam Isman’s Blog - Laguna Seca and first Grand-Am event

136

Cooper RSR - Ian Stewart comes onboard

142

Twice around the Clock Plus - Thunderhill 25 Hours

148

Tony Donuts has a Dream- One sweet M3

156

Virginia is for Historics - Gold Cup BMWs at VIR

162

Towering Inferno - Turner on fire at COTA

180

New Era for BMW NA - The Z4 GTE arrives on our shores

208

Miniology - The Science and Study of all things

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From the Editor’s Desk

THE ULTIM ATE READING EXPERIENC VOLUME 3 ISSUE

E!

01 APRIL 2013

Published A division by TreeFree Publishing of Webtron ic Enterpris es

James Rea’s

Welcome to the first issue of

BIGGun

2013, it is a bumper issue as I wanted to get some of the Lime Rock and other coverage from last year. It helps lead us into this year which I think is going to be an amazing year for racing. The good news is we have more help getting you

.. .

TECH - THE INITIAL COO PER RSR UPG GREAT GRA RADES ND-AM PIC TORIALS! FEATURED PHOTOGRAP HER - JOHN SCHROEDER MotorWerks

Magazine

- Online at www.motor

werksmag.c

om -

1

MOTORWERKS MAGAZINE (MWM)

interesting stories and fantastic photos from across the

is ‘The Ultimate Reading Experience’ and is dedicated to all BMW and MINI enthusiasts covering their cars and lifestyles.

world. Norman Nelson has come on-board and will be our

Volume 3 Issue 01 - APRIL 2013

West Coast correspondent as well as continue to promote his amazing MINI Thunder event at Thunderhill. John Schroeder will be covering the East Coast and we are working on the mid-west as we speak.

We have some new advertisers on board this issue and both MINI of Concord and BMW Concord have some great discounts available to our readers. We are gathering parts for Cooper RSR and you will be seeing some majors changes over the next few issues.

Racing season is getting closer in Canada and this year we are going to try and give you some Time Attack coverage.

This is a section of motorsport that is growing all over the world and it is one you can run with your road car.

Be part of MWM by sending in photos and data about your car. Wanting to make a point? Send a letter to the Editor and tell the World what you think! Go to our website, www. motorworksmag.com and click on Contact to view the contact info for Readers’ Rides and Letters to the Editor.

Editor - Ian Rae E-Mail - ianrae@motorwerksmag.com Phone - (905) 467-5148

CONTRIBUTORS

Ian Rae, Norman Nelson, Tony Weber, Halston Pitman, Chris Knox, Chris Green, John Venditti, Rich Simpson, Jake Galstad, Lyndon Handy, Adam Isman.

CONTRIBUTIONS WELCOME

Photographic and Editorial contributions to MWM are welcomed.

Photgraphs must be sent in hi-res format and can be .JPEG or .TIFF. Editorial contributions to be in Word format. Contributors must make every effort to ensure there is no infringement of copyright belonging to any other person or persons. MWM is not responsible for any such misrepresented contributions. Contact the Editor by e-mail to discuss any editorial concepts.

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Ian Rae, Janis Rae, Melissa Smith, Halston Pitman, Tony Weber, John Scroeder, Paul Schmitz, Jake Galstad, Norman Nelson, Dito Milian, www.gotbluemilk.com Various BMW & MINI images courtesy BMW Group Press Club

ADVERTISING

Advertising Manager - Janis Rae E-Mail - janrae@motorwerksmag.com

CREATIVE ADVISORS

.

Jim Weekes - J Graphics Scott Brown - Scott Brown Graphic Designs Mike Goodwin - MG Digital

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MOTORWERKS MAGAZINE (MWM) is published four times a

Enjoy

Editor, MotorWerks Magazine

year by TreeFree Publishing, a division of Webtronic Enterprises. Contents may not be reprinted without express written permission of the Editor.

The publishers do not accept any responsibility for the use of copyrighted material from unsolicited sources. The publishers also cannot be held responsible for any errors or ommisions in articles published by MWM. All brand names and logos are trademarks of their respective owners. The BMW and MINI names and logos are registered trademarks of BMW AG and their subsidaries. MWM is not directly affiliated with BMW, any of its distributors or dealers.

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On The Grid Toronto, Canada, 12th March.

Bimmercruise returns to CTMP Randy Sparre has confirmed that Bimmercruise ‘13 will return to the Canadian Tire Motorsport Park DDT on Sunday August 25th for Canada’s largest BMW only show. The show that combines a cruise, show and autoslalom enjoyed a huge turnout in 2012 and Sparre hopes for a repeat of that this year. “The move to the DDT worked well for us, all the feedback I got was hugely positive. The only thing I would like to see improve is the attendance by the BMW MINI fans, we have a few MINIs that run with the Trillium Chapter AutoSlalom and I am sure anyone with one running at Bimmercruise will have a blast.

On the show side we will have trophies for the MINIs as well, so I put out a warm invitation to all the MINI clubs around to come out and have some fun. More information can be found on the website at www.bimmercruise.com

Barcelona, Spain, 29th March.

DTM test a success

The four BMW teams have made another important step on the way to the start of the DTM season on 5th May 2013 at Hockenheim. Over the course of four days

of testing at Barcelona, the BMW drivers covered more than 7,000 kilometres. The other manufacturers involved in DTM also tested at the 2.977-kilometre version of the “Circuit de Catalunya”.

During the test, the eight BMW DTM drivers and test and development driver Maxime Martin continued the preparations for the first race of the year by completing an extensive programme.

Reigning DTM champion Bruno Spengler tested with his BMW Bank M3 DTM on Tuesday and handed over the wheel of the car to Martin on Wednesday. Meanwhile, Augusto Farfus, Martin Tomczyk and Timo Glock were also on duty on the first two days. On Thursday and Friday, Dirk Werner, Joey Hand, Andy Priaulx and Marco Wittmann took to the track. The fastest lap time of all the BMW drivers was set by Farfus on Wednesday. His personal best time was 1:06.177 minutes.

In addition to working on the set-up of the four BMW M3 DTMs, the BMW drivers tested two potential innovations for the 2013 DTM season: the newly developed Hankook option tyres and the Drag Reduction System (DRS). The BMW drivers used the opportunity to familiarise themselves with the new tyre spec and the adjustable rear wing. The next important date in the run-up to the season kick-off is the presentation of all the BMW M3 DTM cars in Munich’s BMW Welt on 6th April 2013.

Just three days later, the second and final joint pre-season test will begin at Hockenheim.

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Bruno Spengler (#1, BMW Team Schnitzer): “Being back in the car was a lot of fun. You can feel the increasing excitement ahead of the season everywhere. The testing was okay – we successfully completed our scheduled programme. Quite obviously, the new option tyres and the DRS made for extra excitement.

When it comes to the tyres, we took a close look at the performance of the new spec over longer distances, and we learned a lot. The DRS is definitely a lot of fun for every racing driver.

You clearly feel you can shift up earlier and that the top speed on the straights is higher.

That’s something you have to get used to and, therefore, you have to work lap by lap on finding the limit. That’s why the test here in Barcelona and also the one held in Hockenheim are so important.”

Dirk Werner (#2, BMW Team Schnitzer): “It’s great to have got back on the track. The test at Barcelona felt somewhat like an unofficial season kick-off. It was about completing our scheduled testing programme lap by lap and getting experience with the option tyres and the DRS at the same time. As I see it, both look likely to add excitement to the races.”

Augusto Farfus (#7, BMW Team RBM): “You can really feel the increasing excitement in the run-up to the season opener. It was great trying the option tyres and the DRS. Both innovations certainly have got what it takes to help us provide the DTM fans with even more thrilling motor racing. We had no major problems

at Barcelona and made good progress.

There still is a lot of work to do, but I’m optimistic we will be well prepared for the start of the season.”

Joey Hand (#8, BMW Team RBM): “It was my first real outing for BMW Team RBM and, in addition, Barcelona’s circuit represented virgin territory for me. Despite this I can say everything worked just fine. The guys did a great job. The conditions here change massively over the course of the day. We virtually had to hunt this track down.

Despite this, we learned a lot. I hope the test at Hockenheim will be just as successful.”

Martin Tomczyk (#15, BMW Team RMG): “I can feel the excitement growing. My first day of testing on Tuesday was one of the best in my entire career. We were able to fully test the potential innovations. Then, on day two, it was back to a more conventional programme. The overall result is positive, and despite the limited preparation time we are heading in the right direction.”

Andy Priaulx (#16, BMW Team RMG): “Doing a test like this with my new team is really nice. We used the time to get to know one another better – and I quickly found a good rhythm. I definitely will leave Barcelona with a lot of positive experiences under my belt. The option tyre is quick and consistent. Then when you go out again on the standard tyres after a stint on the options you have to re-adapt. That’s an interesting challenge.”

Marco Wittmann (#21, BMW Team MTEK): “I was really looking forward to the test here at Barcelona. After all, it was my first outing with my new Ice-Watch BMW M3 DTM. I felt really comfortable in the car, and the relationship with BMW Team MTEK is already very good. It’s important for us to get used to each another and optimise the work flow to make sure we will be in the best possible shape for the season opener. And today was a good step on the way to achieving this goal.”

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Timo Glock (#22, BMW Team MTEK): “We were able to complete a lot of laps and, quite obviously, this was helpful for us as a new team and for me as a DTM rookie. I still have problems in understanding the standard tyre but despite this was happy with our long-runs. At the same time, driving with the option tyres was a lot of fun for me. We will continue our work at Hockenheim and try to make the best possible use of the short preparation time prior to the start of the season.”

Maxime Martin (BMW Motorsport Test and Development Driver): “Unfortunately, a technical problem cost me some time. However, I still completed a total of 120 laps and once again learned a lot. Altogether I’m happy with the test. Being a part of this team, enjoying the atmosphere and driving this sensational car is just fantastic.”

Munich, 5th March 2013.

DTM gets BMW Race Taxis!

When the DTM season gets underway in Hockenheim on 5th May 2013, the eight BMW M3 DTMs in the starting line-up will not be the only BMW racing cars thrilling fans on the track.

In 2013, BMW Group Classic will send the historic BMW M3 from the 1987 season and the legendary BMW M1 Procar into action as race taxis at each of the ten events on the DTM calendar. With experienced motorsport

professionals at the wheel, selected visitors will be able to experience the fascination of a DTM race at close hand.

Jens Marquardt is one of those who can’t wait to see the racing legends back in action. “BMW Motorsport has a unique heritage in production car racing,” said the BMW Motorsport Director.

“Last year we were frequently treated to the sight of legendary BMW racing cars from past decades during DTM weekends. And each time the reaction of the fans and our guests was overwhelming. This year we want to give them something really special by sending out classic ‘race taxis’ as part of the DTM support programme. Fans of a leading race series will be able to feast their eyes on cars like the BMW M3 from 1987 and the legendary BMW M1 Procar on a regular basis once again. And we’ll also be inviting one or two drivers from that era of racing to step back into the cockpit as ‘taxi drivers’. We’re looking forward to seeing the faces of fans, partners, customers and sponsors light up – and are in no doubt that the BMW Group Classic ‘race taxis’ will add even greater appeal to this year’s DTM season.”

The 1987 BMW M3 is the ancestor and role model for the current title holder, the BMW M3 DTM. It was with this model that Eric van de Poele won the title in the DTM in BMW’s first season in the series – a feat that Bruno Spengler was able to repeat in style twenty-five years later with the current car.

The BMW M1 will also stir up memories of spectacular racing success enjoyed by the manufacturer. The race taxi will be the 470bhp car, with which Nelson Piquet lined up in the specially created Procar series in 1980. Three years later, Piquet was crowned Formula One World Champion in a Brabham BMW. The race taxi rides will take place on all ten of the 2013 season’s DTM weekends. The racetrack will provide the stage for the return of the two

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legends between practice and qualifying on Saturday, and before the race on Sunday.

The illustrious racing drivers signed up by BMW Group Classic for the job at hand are already feeling the excitement ahead of their appearance in these icons of BMW motor sport history. Only

the current BMW Motorsport team members cannot be considered for the “race taxi” driver role, the DTM regulations ruling that the extra experience of the track would give them an unfair competitive advantage.

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Endurance racing for BMW CCA We have been following the discussions about an endurance series being run within the BMW CCA Club Racing arena with great interest. With the recent announcement that Turner Motorsport will be the Title Sponsor for the new series it was good to see the series was indeed going to happen. MotorWerks will be in Ohio to cover the opening round at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course.

Gary Davis posted this on the BMW CCA site BMW CCA Club Racing has announced a new BMW CCA Club Racing Endurance Series, presented by Turner Motorsport. This series will supplement the current Tire Rack Club Racing sprint-race series; the endurance series has its own set of rules to supplement the current Club Racing rules, and will conduct its own championship, separate from the class championships currently awarded in Club Racing.

The endurance races will primarily be run in conjunction with select Club Racing-sanctioned weekend sprint races.

“BMW CCA Club Racing gave me my first opportunity to get on the track, as well as the chance to begin my racing career,” says TMS

owner Will Turner. “Because of the BMW CCA, I was able to pursue my passion for racing and build what is now Turner Motorsport. Because I have been involved in every aspect of the sport, I have a unique understanding of all the costs and requirements associated with different levels of motorsports, including Club Racing. For this and many other reasons, I am so excited to become the title sponsor and provide Club racers with what they need most: monetary prizes supporting their success and continued progress in the sport. I really like the concept behind this new Club Racing endurance series, and I look forward to the first race.”

Along with Turner Motorsport as the title sponsor, Driving Impressions will be the premier sponsor of the endurance series. Robert Zecca of Driving Impressions has been involved with enduranceracing series under other sanctioning bodies, and DI will be involved with substantial product awards.

The first race of the series will be a fourhour race at Mid-Ohio on May 24; the second scheduled race will be the DelVal New Jersey Motorsports Park event on August 23. The third race is tentativelyplanned for the national-race weekend at Watkins Glen in September.

The endurance race rules have been forwarded to the Club Racing website; for now, they can be found under the “for the racer” section.

Ultimately, there will be a link on the Club Racing site that will take you to a page dedicated to the Club Racing enduro series.

Thanks to Ron Checca, Kish Galappatti, and Miguel Aponte-Rios for completing the process started by Patrick Spikes. Aponte-Rios will be the third member of the enduro committee. Also thanks to the Club Racing Rules Committee for enduring a number of teleconferences to finish the process.

Special thanks to Will Turner and Robert Zecca for their enthusiastic support of BMW CCA Club Racing’s newest series.—Gary Davis, National Chairman, BMW CCA Club Racing

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Courtesy ALMS

United SportsCar Racing in 2014

On March 14, United SportsCar Racing was unveiled as the new premier sports car series in North America beginning in 2014.

The name was chosen as a result of the specific meaning each word has. United is powerful and universally recognized for its true meanings; unity, collaboration and synergy. In the short term it represents the uniting of the GRAND-AM Rolex Sports Car Series and the American Le Mans Series presented by Tequila Patrón. However, long term it represents the uniting of fans, partners, teams, drivers and sportscar racing as a whole. The meaning of the word is intended to follow a similar evolution as it has for the United States. Originally it stood for uniting the colonies and today is just as relevant because it stands for uniting the people.

The words SportsCar and Racing were chosen because they are descriptive words that allow existing and potential fans to easily understand what we do.

United SportsCar Racing also unveiled a new logo – a modern interpretation of a helmet. The goal of the logo was develop a mark that was unique and has the potential to stand on its own, like the Nike swoosh and the Apple logo.

The helmet was chosen because it’s an unowned icon of racing. Drivers are recognized by their helmet designs but also have an emotional connection to their helmet. As Emanuele Pirro once said “How can you expect it to protect you, if you don’t protect it.”

The design of the helmet combines signature elements of tracks on which the series competes.

The sweeping middle section represents a road while the upper portion represents tracks such as Daytona International Speedway, a combined oval and infield road course or “roval.” The lower portion represents the road and street courses the series will race on such as Sebring International Raceway and Road Atlanta.

In addition, IMSA was announced as the sole sanctioning body moving into 2014 and the

logo was refreshed to align with the new brand ecosystem. IMSA was originally created in 1969

by John Bishop and NASCAR’s Bill France Sr., to produce high-level, professional sportscar racing in North America and has now come full circle as a result of the merger.

Some of the world’s best and most popular drivers have competed under the IMSA banner for more than 40 years.

The goal of the logo refresh was to remain true to the brands heritage but update it to fit the modern and aspirational goals of the new brand.

As part of the refresh, the colors were changed from the current blue, red and white to red, black and white, the original colors from 1969 and current colors of the new brand.

In 2014, IMSA will sanction United SportsCar Racing, Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge, Cooper Tire Prototype Lites, IMSA GT3 Cup Challenge, Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Canada, Ferrari Challenge and Lamborghini Super Trofeo.

To learn more about United SportsCar Racing and enter for a chance to win two tickets to the 2014 Rolex 24 At Daytona and officially licensed merchandise, visit www.unitedsportscar.com.

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Product News

Burntisland, Scotland. (14th March, 2013)

Help Marshals when you buy and sell Pitmart, a new Auction & Classified website launched in 2013 in the United Kingdom, is introducing a unique concept to raise awareness of and support for Marshals and safety personnel.

The Marshals Fund is a fund, set up with the aim of helping to improve the facilities and working conditions for Marshals. It is hoped that the fund will raise awareness and ultimately money, through the buying and selling process on Pitmart.

David Scott, Trustee and Chairman of the Marshals Fund Advisory Committee is excited at the prospects of how this could benefit marshals, “We are all aware of the importance of marshals and how much they contribute to our sport. This collaboration will provide a unique opportunity to raise funds to support marshals. By donating a small amount every time you buy and sell

something on Pitmart, you can be a part of the bigger plan, to help improve the working conditions of volunteer marshals.”

This dynamic trading platform will be the first of its kind, with an aim of uniting all disciplines, levels and interest of motorised sports, including Clubs, Organisers, Teams, Competitors, Circuits, Manufacturers, Distributors and Enthusiasts.

Founder and Director Bryce Wilson believes it’s also a great opportunity to revive motorised sports, “We see this exciting concept as an opportunity to raise awareness of different forms of motorised sports. We hope to increase support and participation by increasing the cycle and lifetime of equipment, making it more affordable to become involved, but also creating the ideal environment to realize funds invested in equipment when moving to different levels or disciplines. While we are helping our sports and ourselves, we also have an opportunity to give back to marshals. ” The Marshals Fund has launched its first auction, a framed official 2013 Sahara Force India Polo Shirt, signed by F1 Driver Paul Di Resta. All proceeds raised by the auction will be donated to the Marshal Fund. The auction will close on April 8th.

For more information on the auction, visit www. pitmart.com/DiResta. Throughout 2013 further auctions will be held to benefit the fund.

For more information on Pitmart or the Marshals Fund, visit www.pitmart.com

Woodcliff Lake, NJ – March 29, 2013

BMW 328d Sedan Debuts!

BMW debuted the new 328d Sedan at the New York International Auto, ushering in the next wave of BMW Advanced Diesel models in the US. The 328d will feature BMW’s 2.0-liter TwinPower diesel 4-cylinder engine. It produces 180 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, available from 1,750 rpm. It will be mated to an 8-speed

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automatic transmission. The 328d Sedan will accelerate from 0 – 60 mph in just over seven seconds. Preliminary highway fuel economy estimates are expected to be 45 mpg. The 328d Sedan will be available in rear wheel drive and also with xDrive, BMW’s advanced all-wheel drive system. The sedans will be joined by the 328d xDrive Sports Wagon. All Three variants will arrive in US showroom as 2014 models in fall of 2013.

Woodcliff Lake, NJ – March 29, 2013

MINI Cooper race school at Indy!

MINI USA has partnered with Miles Ahead to launch a performance driving program called ‘MINI Performance Motoring School.’ Hosted at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway beginning in the summer of 2013, the program will consist of performance driving instruction from internationally accomplished professional race car drivers, and offers the opportunity to get behind the wheel of a 2013 highperformance MINI John Cooper Works Hardtop. The Miles Ahead training will take place on the infield road course at the historic Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

The MINI Performance Motoring School gives enthusiasts a unique opportunity to learn performance driving skills in an iconic motorsports venue. The program includes exercises for slalom / handling, precision braking, skid control, timed sector runs and instructor-driven hot laps. The BMW Advanced diesel models have already John Cooper Works engine is MINI’s performance shown to US enthusiasts that diesel power model, with a 208-hp twin-scroll turbocharged can be perfectly suited to The Ultimate Driving engine paired with technology developed for MachineTM. With the introduction of the first precision handling and responsiveness, making 4-cylinder diesel BMW engine offered in the US, it the perfect MINI model for this thrilling driving BMW Advanced Diesel power and particularly outstanding levels of torque and outstanding fuel experience.

“This program combines an amazing experience efficiency. Preliminary fuel economy estimates with learning skills that can be critical behind for the rear wheel drive 328d Sedan are 32 mpg the wheel every day on the main roads,” said city/45 mpg highway/37 mpg combined*. BMW Jim McDowell, Vice President - MINI USA. “It is Advanced Diesel technology includes Selective Catalyst Reduction to make the new 328d models for the fans who really want to experience what a MINI is capable of doing, as well as test and true clean diesels. refine their own motoring skills. The iconic track Levels of performance and luxury expected of setting is an added bonus.” any BMW 3 Series will be ensured with levels of standard equipment on par with the 328i gasoline The new MINI Performance Motoring School is models. The options list will include Luxury, Sport an extension of MINI’s partnership with Miles Ahead, which was established in 2011 to offer a and Modern Lines as well as M Sport. teen driving intensive for new drivers. Created Detailed specifications and pricing will be available closer to launch. All three 328d variants by Indy 500 veteran, Stephan Gregoire, and business partner Ted Woerner, Miles Ahead will be available in US showrooms this fall.

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works to address the disproportionate number of collisions, injuries and fatalities involving teenage drivers.

Miles Ahead is the only driving school in the 104year history of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway licensed to conduct driver training on its grounds.

One car per student in the MINI Performance Motoring School program ensures a full day of behind-the-wheel exercises, and classes are capped at 14 students to ensure ample attention and guidance from the instructor team.

“The MINI Performance Motoring School is fun, yet informative, teaching a range of invaluable skills,” said Gregoire. “The sessions, which are expected to appeal to individuals and businesses alike, include instruction on skills that are rarely taught in traditional driving lessons, but need to be called upon in emergency situations on the road. It also provides ideal preparation for those interested in doing track days or even those who have just wanted to really put themselves to the test behind the wheel.”

The international team of instructors is made up of some of the world’s most accomplished race

car drivers, including Alex Lloyd, Stefan Wilson, Dan Clarke, Stephen Simpson, Zach Veach, Dillon Battistini, Ryan Lewis and Miles Ahead founder, Stephan Gregoire – a seven-time competitor in the Indianapolis 500, and a four-time competitor in both the 24 Hours of Le Mans and 24 Hours of Daytona.

The one-day program is $995, and class dates are available from June to November 2013. A double-up option is available for an additional $250, allowing a participant to share the driving time with a guest in their vehicle. Corporate event sessions of the program are also available.

All participants must be over 18 and have a valid driver’s license. For more details about The MINI Performance Motoring School or to reserve a spot in one of the summers sessions, go to the Miles Ahead website at www.BeMilesAhead.net.

Woodcliff Lake, NJ – February 6, 2013

3 Series GT added to line-up

The all-new BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo adds an innovative new concept to the BMW 3 Series

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line-up. The BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo is, first and foremost, a driver’s car which combines the dynamics that have earned the new 3 Series a spot on “Car and Driver’s” 10 Best list for 22nd consecutive years, with luxury seating for four and generous and flexible luggage capacity. The new BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo will arrive in the US, as both a 328i and a 335i, in the summer of 2013 as a 2014 model.

Typical BMW proportions, four doors with frameless windows, coupe-like profile, sloping roofline and large tailgate define the distinctive exterior character of the BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo. An active rear spoiler – the first on a BMW – adds to the aesthetic appeal and reduces lift at highway speeds. The new BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo is 7.9 inches (200mm) longer than the 3 Series Sports wagon, offers a 4.3 inch (110mm) longer wheelbase and stands 3.2 inches (81mm) taller. The clever use of proportions, surfaces and lines ensures that the 3 Series Gran

Turismo is immediately recognizable as a BMW 3 Series.

M Sport: The optional M Sport line gives the new BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo a shot of adrenaline that spreads beyond its exterior and interior design. As well as the all-new aerodynamic package, including numerous body components (front apron with large air intake, rear bumper with diffuser, side skirts), and the BMW Individual High-gloss Shadow Line trim, the optional exterior color Estoril Blue metallic ensures an unmistakably sporty appearance and unbeatable road presence– an effect underpinned by 18 or 19-inch light-alloy wheels in hallmark M design.

Inside the car, features such as M door sill finishers, an M leather steering wheel and an M driver’s footrest shape the sporty yet elegance ambience. The driver and front passenger can settle into sports seats. Technical features of this package include lowered M Sport suspension and enhanced aerodynamics.

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Concord, CA – March 29, 2013

MINI Motor Con

A MINI Motoring Club in the East Bay! Of course MINIs like MINIs. They just can’t help it. So it’s only natural that they (along with their eclectic, but always interesting owners) like getting together whenever possible, with fun times usually tagging right along. We like to motor, find the curviest roads, and the most interesting spots. Does this seem like fun to you? We hope to make MINI Motor Con, a enthusiastic community of rugged individualists who genuinely feel and act more spontaneous thanks to their MINIs. After one joins, you will never be at a loss for friends or things to do; whether it’s rallying, road tripping, racing or supporting a good cause. MINI Owners may come in all shapes, sizes, colors and creeds, but they all share one belief: life is way too short to leave it in park. Does it sound like fun to you?

Because MINI of Concord is associated with the

new club there are many benefits to joining the newest MINI motoring club in the East bay!

You don’t have to have a MINI to join, but you may have more fun if you do :) • Multiple MINI motoring runs throughout the year • Huge Summer and Winter Rallies • MoC is a sponsor of MINI Thunder the best MINI HPDE event on the West Coast • Games and prizes throughout the year • Website interaction with other members • Pup Rallies .....and many more things that will be added as the club develops :) MINI Motor Con ambassador Shana Bates saw the need for an East Bay club after being at the MINI Thunder IV event in February. “I saw how the various clubs had a kinship, how there were many hugs and greetings all through the day when people met up. Everyone’s love of the MINI brand brought him or her together in a friendship that in some cases has lasted for many years.

That is rare in this day and age. Norman Nelson and his friends from Shasta MINIs made the MINI of Concord people feel so at home, it was not about business but like-minded people hanging out together.”

For more information you can visit their website or reach them by snail mail or e-mail MINI Motor Con c/o MINI of Concord 1961 Market Street Concord, CA 94520 info@minimotorcon.com or Shana@minimotorcon www.minimotorcon.com

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Rancho Santa Magarita, CA

Next Generation in Driver Cooling The MOMO Pro-ICE is completely different from any Cool ShirtTM or cool suit system available today. The advanced enclosure design separates ice from water and utilizes MOMO’s patent pending tube-cooling technology to deliver the next generation in driver cooling. Here’s how it works: One large chamber contains the cooling coils that are packed in ice; the other (smaller) chamber is the water reservoir; water is cooled as it passes through the aluminum cooling tubes.

The result is superior heat regulation over a longer period of time. In short, the Pro-ICE is the first first driver cooling system to regulate body temperature while delivering superior duration for a given amount of ice.

Pro-ICE dimensions: 14.5” x 11” x 11.5”,weight (system only): 14.0lbs (6.3kg) Approx.

Weight Installed (system, tray, water, ice): 25.0lbs (11.4kg) Ice Capacity: approx. 8lbs (4.0kg), Reservoir Capacity: 22 Oz (650ml), Power Requirements: 1.5A @ 13.8VDC, waterresistant Deutsch electrical connectors, includes instructions and drain hoses The complete Pro-ICE Kit (ADCPIK) includes: Pro-ICE Cooling System (ADCPI) Mounting Tray (ADCPIMT) Mounting Straps (ADCISS) Optionally: On/Off or Continuously Variable pump control (ADCIWH or ADCIFC) Drain Kit (ADCIDK) Installation and maintenance instructions Optional Accessories: Pro-Ice driver connection hose (ADCIDCH) Pro-ICE replacement pump (ADCIRP) Male Fitting Kit (ADCMFK) Universal Female Fitting Kit (ADCUFFK) Break-Away Fitting Kit (ADCBAFKW - ADCBAFKB) Made in the USA USA & International patents pending.

FEATURES • Up to 4 hours of cooling from 8 lbs. of ice.

• Five-times the insulation of a typical ice chest.

• MOMO’s patent pending tube-cooling technology.

• Universal quick disconnect fittings support MOMO™, Cool Shirt™ and F.A.S.T. ™ cooling garments.

• Optional On/Off or continuously variable flow control • Integrated vertical baffle reduces sloshing & stabilizes weight load in corners.

• Water tight seal & rubber T-handles lock lid in place MotorWerks Magazine - Online at www.motorwerksmag.com - 17

Words and photos by Ian Rae 18  - MotorWerks Magazine - Online at www.motorwerksmag.com

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Bimmercruise ‘12 moved from the Powerade Centre in Brampton to the Canadian Tire Motorsport Park (formerly known as Mosport) for 2012. The CTMP Driver Development Track would be its new home rather than the Grand Prix circuit and the vast complex would allow Randy Sparre ample space to put on what is without a doubt Canada’s largest BMW only show.

For attendees, there were lots to do, checking out the cars, walk down the manufactures midway, even run their car on the dyno or just lay back and watch the BMW Clubs Canada Trillium Chapter’s AutoSlalom. I for one loved the move to the DDT, its layout interspersed with cones, allowed competitors to enjoy an open flowing track as opposed to the normal parking lot layouts that can be restrictive.

Unlike the previous year where Bimmercruise got hit by the weather that destroyed downtown Goderich we basked in beautiful sunshine all day.

The fan turnout was impressive and from the discussions I had, everybody had fun.

For those not familiar with the DDT is is a multi-

track layout that is a bit wider than a go-kart track and perfect for AutoSlalom and Time Attack events. The longer straights had cone chicanes added to them to keep the speed down as directed by AutoSlalom rules. The length of the track allowed a second car to be started once the first had moved out of harms way. The cruise part of the event came from the Serpa BMW facility in Newmarket, ON and was well supported as usual.

When he managed to grab some time to himself, Sparre told us, “This is what makes it all worthwhile! Last year we had weather issues, today was just what we needed for all those BMW fans out there. Look at these show cars, talk about quality. The guys from Stance Factory supported us pretty good and walked away with eleven trophies. The AutoSlalom and lapping here was well recieved and I can say without a doubt that the move to the CTMP DDT was the correct one. We will be back here next year and the show will be bigger and better.”

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AWARDS BEST OF SHOW - Fabio Salzarulo BEST INTERIOR – Anuk Bhandai BEST ENGINE – Kevin Nekouzad BEST EXTERIOR – Sally Moreira BEST I.C.E. – Peter Raposo BEST WHEELS – Narash Lalmen BEST STANCE – Jay Chang RAREST RIDE – Emil Zlatkov Z-SERIES 1st Place – Jay Chang Z-SERIES Runner Up – Paul Danila VINTAGE CLASS 1st Place – Uve Wulff VINTAGE CLASS Runner Up – Emil Zlatkov LUXURY OTHER CLASS 1st Place – Raymond Au SAV CLASS 1st Place – Giulio Palazzo 6-SERIES CLASS 1st Place – Zain Habib 6-SERIES CLASS Runner Up – Richard Ankoma 7-SERIES CLASS 1st Place – Sergey Isababyan E28 CLASS 1st Place – Sia Honarkhah E28 CLASS Runner Up – Mark Dobies E34 CLASS 1st Place – Todd Richardson E39 CLASS 1st Place – Sam Yeh E39 CLASS Runner Up – Fil @BimmerHeaven E39 M5 CLASS 1st Place – Julian Lai E39 M5 CLASS Runner Up – Terry Ratchev E30 CLASS MILD 1st Place – Sally Moreira E30 CLASS MILD Runner Up – Bruno Mediati E30 CLASS WILD 1st Place – Rod Hoddinott E30 CLASS WILD Runner Up – Peter Raposo E36 CLASS 1st Place – Michael Poku E36 E36 CLASS Runner Up – Isidro Pereria E36 M3 CLASS 1st Place – Steve Stefonidids E36 M3 CLASS Runner Up – Naresh Lalmen E46 CLASS 1st Place – Derek Bajus E46 CLASS Runner Up – Kevin Nekouzad E46 M3 CLASS 1st Place – Fabio Salzarulo E46 M3 CLASS Runner Up – Ian Farr E60 CLASS 1st Place – Rob McKenzie E60 CLASS Runner Up – Ken Rogers E8x CLASS 1st Place – Martin Lodder E9x CLASS 1st Place – Vestor Fernandes E9x CLASS Runner Up – Ran Li E9x M3 CLASS 1st Place – Arash Farahani E9x M3 CLASS Runner Up – Ian Farr MotorWerks Magazine - Online at www.motorwerksmag.com - 21

John Venditti pushes hard in open lapping

Below: Randy Sparre, always busy

Below: Get them interested at an early age

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Everybody loved the open lapping after the AutoSlalom event

BMW power!

Munich Magic!

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M POWER - YOU BET!

werplant A super clean M3 po

RACEPAK ON DISPLAY

d products from HeadsUpRacer.com ha Carbotech and Racepak, RePlay XD, DefNder on display

MR TEDFEST HIMSELF

t fame was on Ted Kalman of Tedfes l the cool rides hand checking out al

A CLASSIC 2002

ed out 2002 was Ricardo Mendes’ trick g 2002 as far as the most outstandin t then I am a fan I was concerned, bu atching rims and of wide arches and m tires.

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Words by Ian Rae, photos by author, Janis Rae and Melissa Smith

It was season’s end and there were still championships to be decided. Lime Rock Park was the perfect place for it to happen with the Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge field split into their respective classes. That eliminated the possibility of either class tripping over one another and gave one less excuse that could be

used. What nobody was prepared for was the rain! It came down in buckets, it made figuring out who was leading or who was being lapped difficult if you were outwith hearing range of one of the track loudspeakers. With the rain coming down like cats and dogs Scotsman Chris Knox had a smile on his face as that is his kind

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y g g So

k c o R Lime

of weather. The smile got wiped off when it was announced that the times in qualifying meant nothing. The rain did not mean a procession of cars intent on getting to the finish, we saw side by side duelling right down to the last lap. There was no quarter given or asked.

As you can read elswhere in this magazine the

rain did not affect the RSR MINIs on the track, instead the problem was inside the car where fogging windshields really turned racing hard with another car into a crap shoot. Their wish to end the MINI presence in CTSCC with a good result was washed away as fast as the rain running down the track.

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The RACE EPIC/Murillo Racing 328i of Coombs and Mosing led many laps but a coming together with another car ended the dream finish they wanted going out of 2012. By the end of the race it was the three championship protagonists, Pierre Klienubing, Andy Lally and Tom Long that were up front and challenging. As it dried Klienubing’s Mazda 3 could not match the pace of Lally who eventually lost out by .4 of a second as they crossed the line.

John Capestro-Dubets and BimmerWorld head honcho James Clay came in sixth, not a position they would have been cheering about normally but that was all it took to gave BMW the manufacturers title in ST. Well done to all the BMW runners in ST during 2012. In the drivers championship the last five in the top ten all piloted BMWs which is encouraging going forward. The team championship saw all three BimmerWorld cars in the top ten which was the initial push James Clay wanted when he went back to a one class team.

In the GS class BMW made the podium courtesy of Mark Boden and Brian Sellars in the Fall-Line BMW M3. Plumb and Carter finished the season in sixth with team owner Boden one place behind and all three Fall-Line cars finished in the top ten with BMW taking the runner-up spot in the manufacturers championship.

There were no titles to be had for BMW this year and where was Turner Motorsport this year?

Turner seemed to have a year where the racing luck was always on the other guys side but let me remind you of how good those guys can be!

They know how to win and will be back before you know it!

The world on the street is that many ST teams will be moving over to Dinan for power in 2013 and you know they know how to make power.

Best wishes to all BMW teams for 2013 and thanks to RSR Motorsport for some great MINI years!

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This shot really shows how wet it was at Lime Rock Park, notice how much fogging is inside the windshield. It was the biggest issue the RSR Motorsports team faced all weekend.

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Jayson Clunie leads the pack into corner two

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BimmerWorld had all three cars in the top ten of the championship

Lime Rock Edition leds at Lime Rock!

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Rum Bum brought out the M3 to help with the championship chase!

Racing was CLOSE!

Jesse Coombs leads ST

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A FITTING

Tribute

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!

It was a bitter sweet weekend when we arrived at Lime Rock Park for the season ending Continental Tire Sports Car Series event. Up till then we had only talked about the MINI disappearing from the Grand-Am scene, this weekend would see reality set in and the R53 would finally be gone from the premier tin top series in the USA. Former UK MINI Challenge Champion Chris Knox, Randy Smalley, Norman

Nelson and yours truly had put together the R53 MINI Swansong to send the fan favorite British Marque off with a bang. After a good run at Laguna Seca Knox would be paired with Sarah Cattaneo at LRP, who had returned to the RSR Motorsport fold for the final MINI event. Nelson had done a sterling job of organizing a MINI car corral, just as he had at Laguna Seca. He also had persuaded MINI-USA to bring out the JCW

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GP II from their nearby New Jersey base to allow the East Coast race fans see the new pocket rocket from the brand. The weekend may have had an air of finality about it but with all the MINI fans that showed up and the knowledge that the MINI was good around this twisty Conneticut track there was a lot of expectation and plenty of smiles to be seen.

Unfortunately there was no fairtytale ending to the MINI Swansong, the bad weather that handed the MINIs a bit of a handling advantage also played against them. Race day dawned wet; so wet I can’t remember being as wet ever at a track. The Continental tires combined with the sure footed handling of the MINI worked well but fogging up of the windshields prevented any of

ever done. I enjoyed the last two events with RSR and cannot thank Randy Smalley enough for all the support. He has a quality race team and this is something I will remember for the rest of my life.”

Knox was not the only one to say thanks to Smalley, the myriad of MINI fans from the corral visited the RSR pits and told Randy how much they enjoyed watching the MINIs over the years.

On Saturday afternoo a slightly bemused Smalley arrived at the MINI Corral for a supposed meet the fans session and was promptly met by Patrick McKenna of MINI-USA who presented him with a mounted door mirror momento to thank him and RSR Motorsports for flying the MINI flag in one of the most competitive race series on the planet.

the drivers taking an advantage. Chris Knox told us, “It really was hit or miss, run close to another car and you were just following a colored blob the spray was so bad. If it missed the corner so would you. Once the fogging set in that was it, it was over. I love racing in the wet coming from Scotland but the combination of wet and fogging made it one of the most difficult races I have

So where do we go from here? RSR has committed to racing Hondas from 2013 on. While we see MINIs in B-Spec it looks as if Grand-Am has dropped the class.

How about MINI-USA and MINI-Canada get together and fund a R58 program run by Octane Motorsports?

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Norman Nelson looks beat!

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Words by Johan Schwartz, photos by Ian Rae, Sneed Speed Shop 48  - MotorWerks Magazine - Online at www.motorwerksmag.com

Do u

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Before going into the season finale Grand-Am B-spec race last year at Lime Rock Park I had never driven a MIN Cooper. It was to be an experience for sure but one I enjoyed enough to put together a season in the new Pirelli World Challenge TCB Class, it comprises front wheel drive cars that are equalized to some degree to ensure very close racing. Cars competing will include the MINI, Ford Festiva, Kia Rio, Fiat 500, Honda Fit and Mazda2.

My first race car was a Saab 96 with a Ford V6 engine on a dirt road course, back in the 80s and most recently in Grand-Am’s ST class. However, the bulk of the races throughout my career have been in rear wheel drive cars. As a factory instructor for BMW Performance Center, I was at Lime Rock that weekend showcasing the new 560hp M5, giving hot laps to all the VIPs between the events race sessions. For the Grand-Am spectators and for a few dozen lucky passengers, we transformed the seven turn 1.5 mile road course into a synchronized M5 drift track where we hung the tail out in unison through a few of the corners on Continental street tires.

Going into the weekend I had the opportunity

to run this last B-Spec race of the year in a car prepped by MINI of Charleston and run by Brad Davis. My great friends at Instrumart and Sawaya Segalas helped out with sponsorship and it was a treat to get the car up front to put on a great show. My first experience with a MINI was when I put it into gear leaving the pits heading for the track. My driving style had to change significantly going from the M5 to the Mini, as they are two completely different animals.

In low horsepower cars you need to carry every bit of momentum as you can, being smooth is an absolute must. It’s crucial to be smooth and flowing because it is so hard to get back time you lost after scrubbing off too much speed and from overdriving the car to compensate for it. Hands should never move fast and be in a constant mode of correction, but rather smooth and precise with emphasis on looking all the way through the corners. In order to carry the max speed through the corners you need every bit of grip that you can get. Sorry if I am harping on here, but smooth hands, smooth braking and throttle inputs are extremely important. If you are upsetting the suspension, over-compressing

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the springs and putting excessive loads on the tires, you will not achieve the maximum mechanical grip of a low horsepower car like the B-Spec MINI. When using the brakes it is particularly important to release the brake pressure gradually versus simply releasing and stomping back on the gas pedal. Trailing off the brake should be a smooth transition, so as you turn the wheel you are simultaneously releasing the brake. The front tire contact patch with a loaded chassis makes the car turn more efficiently with less steering wheel input. The object is then to get on the throttle as soon as possible, without just stomping on it. Too much throttle will lift the front end of the car taking away the car’s ability to turn efficiently, thus creating understeer. And understeer will wear out the tires quicker, and will increase the cars turning radius making each lap longer than necessary, therefore adding fractions of a second to your lap time every time you do it.

So following everything I talked about above I

managed a good showing first time out in the MINI, we were the fastest car in the field by .6 seconds in the rain.

Qualifying was the next session and by this time the rain stopped and the track had dried. Again, we set the fastest time and earned the pole by .4 seconds ahead of my team-mate; Brad Davis who piloted the other Mini of Charleston entry. Before the start of the 45-minute race I was told to conserve the left front tire, as Lime Rock is all right handed corners with only one left hand turn. My goal with the car in the beginning was to drive it to the max while using the least amount of slip to keep the tires fresh for the finish.

I held onto the top spot for the first six laps. The Honda was pushing me hard in West Bend (a long right hander) and I did not want to use my tires so hard so early. The Honda made a pass on the outside and I let him have the spot. My goal was to push him hard and fill his mirrors with Instrumart, Sawaya Segalas, and MINI of

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Charleston sponsor logos for the next twenty minutes while he wore out his left front tire.

While pressuring the Honda to overdrive, I was trying to read where the Mini was stronger. When it was time for me to make a move, he took the inside line and made himself very wide. Blocking is not the way I would have raced, but it was his prerogative to defend his spot. I tried to make the same outside pass that he made on me on a couple of occasions, but got blocked. A couple of times we were side by side with me on his inside, but I did not want to put a dent in the MINI that Brad Davis from MINI of Charleston had let me race. I ended up missing the win by 14/100 of a second, so close but so far in racing terms.

It is only the top step of the podium that really matters.

I am looking forward to my next race at COTA in World Challenge where we will be racing along with the Australian V8 Series on May 23rd and 24th Until next time, have fun with your MINI or BMW; keep the shiny side up.

Johan Schwartz is a factory BMW instructor, personal coach and professional racecar driver.

His company Endurance Karting provides Arriveand-Drive karting for race schools and racing. He will be driving a B-Spec MINI Cooper in the 2013 World Challenge series that is being built and prepared by Sneed’s Speed Shop.

Info can be found at, www.johanschwartz.com and www.endurancekarting.com

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B-Spec refers to all cars meeting a common set of rules that can be adopted by any race circuit or sanctioning organization. B-Spec cars will feature showroom stock racing cars utilizing stock engines and chassis, fitted with a competition roll cage, racing seat and other safety equipment; and manufacturer-approved suspension components, tires and wheels. Weight distribution will be used to balance performance among competing manufacturers.

B-Spec cars represent one of the fastest growing segments in auto racing. Aside from the MINI Cooper, Mazda2 and Honda Fit, other B-Spec cars in high-demand include the Chevrolet Aveo, Ford Fiesta, Hyundai Accent, Nissan Versa and Toyota Yaris.

The Pirelli World Challenge TCB class will be contended over 14 rounds at six events, started with the Circuit of the Americas on the same card as the Austrailian V8 Supercars and ending at the season finale in Houston.

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These are a few shots of the build of Johan’s car at Sneed’s Speed Shop. Next month we will have an in depth article on MINIs in B-Spec talking with people like TC Kline, Brad Davis and Chris Sneed.

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t s e F OH o i h O d i M Hits

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Words by Ian Rae, photos by author and Halston Pitman MotorWerks Magazine - Online at www.motorwerksmag.com -  57

OH-Fest indeed! Firstly because it was my first ever BMW CCA Oktoberfest event. And secondly, the track events were at none other than the famed Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course located just north of Columbus, OHio. And do you know what? I never got to see what Oktoberfest was all about as I spent all my time at the Mid-Ohio track.

Those that know me, understand I am heavily into racing and the chance to check out the BMW Club Racing and hang with my good friends; the Schardt family of Forgeline fame was too good to miss. Of course the Canadian contingent was there, parked in the Club Racing paddock so there was plenty of ‘Ehs’ going around. James Clay and the BimmerWorld crew were on site along with their resident shooter Halston Pitman whom I spend a lot of time with at Grand-Am races. It was almost like being at a home track with all my buddies around.

The track events were divided into racing and a well-subscribed HPDE event. The race series

was divided into two groups, quite simple A and B. The faster you were and more modifications you had and you got to play with the fast cars.

Heading up that group was not other than Mr. Clay himself and his nemesis Randy Mueller, watching these guys duke it out every time they went on track was a pleasure. They were side by side; nose to tail and I have no idea who was the innocent surprised by the duo when they arrived at the Keyhole and promptly went each side of him, but I am sure he had a story to tell on his return to the pits, (maybe even a change of racesuit). Clay’s ride was one of his 2011 Grand-Am GS spec cars now having moved away from Continental Challenge rules on the aero front, added some additional power and a Drenth sequential box to make the car competitive with Mueller who still just had the edge on the BimmerWorld head honcho.

It was nice to see the many variants of BMW that were now used as racecars. There is not much you can do with a Spec E30 but seeing

Nicky Schardt making good use of Grand-Am Conti cast offs

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Erik Maxwell had a busy weekend at O-Fest with lots of track time in different cars

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the likes of TC Kline’s Z4 and B Spec MINI shows that BMW racing can involve different models and you do not have to follow the mainstream.

It was great to see sixties and seventies 2002 models in both racing and HPDE guise. Between races BMW NA were giving rides in their 3.0 CSL, Performance Friction E46 PTG car and their Procar M1 amongst others. The PFC E46 is probably one of my favorite racecars and the shutter was worked hard and fast every time it came around. Those with a big smile on their face as they alighted the CSL, were most probably chauffeured by none other than current BMW DTM driver; Joey Hand. The one car I really wanted to see on track was Scott Hughes’ E36 Valvoline car but I had to content myself with smiling a lot as I walked past the garage where the full-size car sat with a 1/24th replica on the cowl.

It was non stop track time at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course except for that most civil of road race customs, lunch. Groups of students were part of a well-subscribed HPDE event and during one of the instructor sessions I had the chance to ride along with Nicky Schardt in her E46 M3.

Running on what is basically is her home track Nicky put on a great display with Continental Tire Challenge cast off slicks on he Forgeline rims and it left me with a huge respect for the technically challenging Mid-Ohio course. (Nicky is a pretty good shoe by the way, thanks!)

A huge part of an October HPDE event at MidOhio is the Forgeline Alloy Wheels BBQ for attendees that is put on by the Schardt family.

A packed room at a local hotel was joined for a period, by James Clay and the BimmerWorld crew who arrived as some of their donated prizes were being handed out. Both BimmerWorld and Turner

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ALL GUNS BLAZING

BMW CCA event You see all sorts at a

A TOUCH OF NOSTALGIA

02 run with all the It’s great to see a 20 late model BMWs

THREE WHEELING

his last ride in Erik Maxwell enjoyed ell has left the TC Kline’s E36. Maxw back to racing company but will be eventually

TIRED OUT

AXXIS team had The Ralph Warren M ries racecars at both 1 series and 3 se Oktoberfest.

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Motorsport along with other companies donated prizes to be given away through the evening. For me it was a great chance to meet people I had seen at the track but never had a chance to talk to. The highlight of the evening for me had to be master raconteur Mike Valentine of radar detector fame spilling the beans on how the very first Fuzz Buster was developed. Unlike many other electronic devices it was NOT developed in a clean environment, the Ohio Highway Patrol can attest to that! Thanks Mike, you were the star of the evening; I have never been so close to rolling around on the floor laughing in my life.

So would I do it again, hell ya! Only this time I would like to try and take in more of the other events and social happenings. Laguna Seca 2013 is starting to sound better and better even though there will be no racing events there, those being held at Watkins Glen instead. Given the proximity of Watkins Glen to my home base just outside of Toronto I am not really disapointed.

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Forgeline’s David Schardt doing some on track development

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KEEP YOUR EYES ON THE TRACK!!

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Below: Mr Chang’s sweet E46 M3

Below: Nice looking 2002

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There wew quite a few MINIs at the HPDE!

TC Kline brought out his B-Spec Cooper!

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Y B d o o G T G 3 M to the

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YE

If you are going to end a career it is always better to end it on a high and that goes for a racecar as well as a driver. The final outing for the Rahal, Letterman, Lannigan BMW M3 GT came at one of the biggest races of the year, the Petit LeMans at Road Atlanta. It was bitter sweet for many but looking forward to the new Z4 GTE cars there was a very bright light on the horizon.

First of all a bit of history! The E92 M3 debuted in 2009 when RLL fielded two E92 M3s, the #90 driven by Joey Hand and Bill Auberlen and the #92 driven by Tommy Milner and and Dirk Müller. It was a troubled season but the #92 car managed to finish second in the 2009 Petit Le Mans event. The early season issues only allowed the team to finish third in the team championship.

2010 would see the RLL team step it up and the much coveted team championship was the reward for BMW and RLL. This was after winning only one race at Road America, the BMWs proved to be reliable and fast over the whole year. Even with all the good finishes the elusive driver’s championship still eluded the team, Bill Auberlen and Tommy Milner finishing third in the drivers championship.

The saying third time lucky proved to be true when RLL started off the 2011 season with a one-two finish at the 2011 12 Hours of Sebring. They went on to win two more races through the season and Joey Hand and Dirk Müller took home the drivers championship and RLL secured a repeat team championship.

It was back to American Le Mans Series for a fourth year with the E92 BMW M3. After winning their second 12 Hours of Sebring in a row, the team went on to win one more race at Road America and that leads us to Atlanta and the Petit LeMans series finale.

Things were not easy for the previous year’s champions as a coming together with a prototype put the #56 car in the pits with a broken brake caliper. As the race passed the half-way point, the No. 55 M3 GT was in fifth and the No. 56 machine in tenth. After an inspired drive Auberlen would make his final stop for new Dunlop tires only eight laps from the checkered flag to bring the No. 55 M3 GT home third.

Uwe Alzen ran a strong double-stint as the race entered darkness to continue to move the No. 56 car forward. He would eventually hand off to Dirk Müller who would bring the car across the finish line in fourth.

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“It was a tough day for us,” said Bobby Rahal, Team Principal. “We lost a brake line early in the race on the 56 car and dropped three laps.

A couple of times the yellow came out and could have given us a chance to catch up again and everyone else got all the good luck. We kept being caught in the wrong spot. The 55

guys did a good job today. They went from being a lap down to leading the race. We ran right with the Corvette and Ferrari and if you get that close to the win, it is disappointing not to be able to close the deal.”

Bill Auberlen, driver No. 55 M3 GT – “We had some troubles early this weekend, but RLL always

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keeps their focus forward and they got the best result that we could. Third is a great result. Thanks to everyone for making my 17th season racing for BMW such a fast one. I hope my 18th is even faster.”

Jörg Müller, driver No. 55 M3 GT – “I didn’t expect today’s result because at the beginning of the race we were struggling with lots of little problems.

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a great year. Definitely my pole at Mid-Ohio, our win at Road America and today’s podium are highlights.”

Dirk Müller, driver No. 56 M3 GT – “We wanted to fight back for another championship, but we had tough luck this year. A really a big thank

you to everyone. Today could have ended badly, but we came back to finish fourth. Third and fourth is a great way to finish the season.”

Uwe Alzen, driver No. 56 M3 GT – “This is a very tough race. We had trouble in the beginning with the brake caliper. That cost us three laps, but we

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finished fourth. Road Atlanta is a great circuit.

The people and the atmosphere are great.

Jonathan Summerton, driver No. 55/56 M3 GT – “With the win at Sebring to start the season and a podium to finish up makes this a great season for me. It was definitely very exciting

to drive both cars in the same race. It was a unique experience and something I will always remember.”

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Words by Ian Rae, photos by Melissa K. Smith

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Part Deux

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Getting the right setup

Passing a GT Ferrari in night testing

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No Brian behind the wheel this year.

Lets give something back!

The Highway to Help team making the best of the ‘Roar’ test!

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Highway to Help, Part Deux One of the things I admire about the racers of Grand-Am is how many of the drivers and their teams care about others. I would say at a rough guess that at least fifty percent of the teams have some sort of charity related to the team or driver.

The 50 Plus and Alegra Motorsports team that made a big splash at the fiftieth running of the Rolex 24 in 2012 would again return to Daytona for the fifty-first running of the epic twice around the clock sportscar event. AC/DC front man Brian Johnson would not be behind the wheel in 2013, instead preferring to be the front man for the team and this years charity and promote Alzheimer’s Awareness. Johnson said the team chose Alzheimer’s because it has such an impact not only on the victims but on their families and because, “It’s a silent killer—you’re alive but you’re dead, and it shouldn’t be that way.”

Alzheimer’s is now the nation’s sixth leading cause of death, affecting about five million Americans The driver line-up this year consists of Americans, Brian DeFoor, Frank Beck, Jim Pace, Carlos de Quesada and Brit Ian James and their weapon of choice is once again be the Riley prototype

with power from Dinan Engineering. To go with the new charity, a new color scheme of purple, red and white is ready to stand out on the high banks of Daytona and raise the awareness of Alzheimers. More info can be found on www. fiftyplusracing.com

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24

THE

ROAR BEFORE THE

Roaring into 2013, the early season test at Daytona International Speedway brought out new cars and new faces to the BMW ranks. Returning Rolex series Champions Chip Ganassi with Felix Sabates Racing was back once again with Dinan BMW power and would be joined for the whole season by Team Sahlen’s Racing who had moved up from the GT ranks and would be fielding two Riley prototypes for the full year. Sahlen’s would be also using powerplants from the Californian BMW tuner. 50 Plus racing returned without AC/ DC frontman Brian Johnson behind the wheel but he was there as the frontman (see Highway to Help, Part Deux) Turner Motorsport would again be the only BMW runner in the GT class but 2013 would see them run two car for the championship. Paul Dalla Lana and Bill Auberlen would return in the #94 car and Michael Marsal BimmerWorld would return with three ST cars but there would be a bit of a driver shuffle as some drivers left and new ones arrived. Team principal James Clay and John Capestro-Dubets will not be seen as often this year as they are going to developing the new F30 platform for BimmerWorld. Seth Thomas and Dan Rogers will again be seen in the CRC Brakleen 328i while Greg Liefooghe now partners with Tyler Cooke and two new faces hop on board the #80, Greg Strelzoff and Connor Bloum.

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Fall-Line Motorsports would again be back in GS with three cars with an established driver line-up returning with the exception of Brett Sandberg co-driving the #48. The team topped the timesheets claiming the top two spots in Grand Sport on day one. Charles Espenlaub grabbed the number one spot by turning the day’s fastest lap in the No. 48 BMW M3 (109.278 mph) while

Hugh Plumb was second-fastest in the No. 45 BMW M3 (108.963 mph). Plumb was paired with his regular co-driver Al Carter. Team principal Mark Boden would again share with Brian Sellars.

Automatic Racing would field their BMW M3 as well as an Aston Martin Vantage, both in Invisible Glass colors. Ron Ecklin Jr and Steve Philips would handle the driving duties in the German

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machine.

Over at EPIC Motorsports/Murillo Racing Jeff Mosing and Jesse Coombs were again aboard the Atomic Capital/Mosing Motors 328i.

Chris Mitchum would again run the #62 and 63 on a pair of BMW 128i cars. For Daytona it would be Christophe Contre and Izzy Sanchez Jr in the #62 with Johnny Kanavas and J. Safina in the #63. The other 128i would be the Burton Racing version for Terry Borcheller and Mike LaMarra.

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D E R O C 4 S INI MORE M , I N I M and

Words by Ian Rae, Photos by author, J What can a trip to Northern California’s Thunderhill Raceway in mid February be for, other than Stormin’ Norman’s MINI Thunder.

Event founder Norman Nelson must have a conduit to the Almighty Himself as version 4 once again scored and was blessed with wonderful weather. Other than a bit more wind than Norman would have liked, the mid sixty to seventy degree temperatures brought out more cars than had ever been seen previously at the event.

We knew that MINI Thunder is now the premier HPDE MINI event on the West Coast and it needed to be covered but the purpose of the trip

to NorCal was twofold. Obviously to capture this great event for posterity but also to pay back Nelson for all the hard work he put into the MINI Swansong and helping Chris Knox race at the last two events of the Grand-Am series in 2012. To many of us, Nelson is jokingly known as the MINI godfather and his Facebook page links him to MINI lovers all over the world; nobody knows the effort he puts into promoting events for MINIacs and one of the biggest is now his own MINI Thunder.

Nelson and the husband and wife team of Eric and Lisa Diamond came up with the original idea, they took it and tried it out at Thunderhill

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Janis Rae and Dito Milian

where Eric worked. The many compliments made them try again and again. This years event was the fourth running and it became the most successful to date.

Event sponsors make a point of being there where they can address the people who use their products can be talked to face to face. Neillo MINI have long been associated with the event and this year were joined MINI of Concord. Shana Bates of MoC told us, “We may have been a bit late getting involved this year but from everything people have told us, this is a great event. We would like to try and involve our customers in it either by coming out for the track experience or caravanning from the dealership to the event, just like the Niello VIPs did today.” Steve Lowery of O2 Motorsports goes all out for MINI Thunder; his biggest problem is choosing what cars to bring. This year he loaded his two-car trailer with the almost World famous MNE TAXI and his V-Tec powered Mini traveller Wooly Bully. His wife Stacey, one of the glamorous Shasta sistas drove the couples MINI GP for Steve to tear up the track. Don Racine and the Mini Mania crew were on hand to partake in the track fun and show just how well their cars run to potential customers. MotorWerks Magazine advertiser,TC Kline Racing arrived with both a R56 and a B-Spec Cooper. TC has shops on both California and Ohio and said, “I know the weather is great here in California but my whole reason for being in California just now is to be at this event; I heard great things about it and it seemed the best place to show people that we work with more than BMWs, Volkswagens and Porsches. Some of these people have never seen the B-Spec MINI, you saw yourself how well it handles out there; it is a great way to get into motorsport” Although the event title credits ‘Stormin’ Norman’ there are more people involved that make the event possible. Prior to the event Norm, his wife Jesse invite over the Lowery’s and fellow Mini fanatics Bob

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Above: Chris Knox mixes it up with a Formula Mazda during one of the Instructors sessions.

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and Linda Wilson. Between excellent food and beverages they set to work and filled all the ‘Swag’ bags with the giveaways from the sponsors. This was no mean feat as there were over 200 bags to fill! Norman then transported the bags to Thunderhill, as his classic MINIs would not be able to accommodate them come the event weekend. Nelson integrated the Thunderhill trip with coming into San Francisco and picking up myself, wife Janis as well as 2011 UK MINI Challenge champion Chris Knox who was flying in from Scotland to meet up with all

his MINI friends and spend some time on track as a guest instructor as well.

Set up as a one-day format for the driving portion of the event, MINI Thunder IV includes early registration on Saturday evening as well as a dinner and casino night for those who wanted it. Mini Mania buck$ bought you chips to play with and they could then be exchanged for prizes such as a Replay XD camera and roll cage mount, a $300 off voucher for a Leaf Racewear Elite racesuit and two 25% off vouchers for a set of Hot Bits Canada suspension kits. Nelson

Above: The MINI Countryman was very QUICK

Below: Session over, thanks!

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Yes that is a MINI engine in the back AND one in the front too, designed & built by Jacques Andres of Bay Bridge Motors! The plan is to run in trhe Thunderhill 25 Hours in December. was happy with the evening and told us, “ I have to send out a big thanks to all who pitched in and helped with registration, the dinner and Casino tonight. The generosity of the many Mini sponsors and vendors just blew me away. We had over $10,000 worth of donated prizes for our casino night and Sundays Grand Prizes. Many of our vendors volunteered to perform the free pre-tech inspections that are needed before a car can go on track and they all helped promote the event in their own locale. We have to thank MINI-USA for bringing the JCW GP II out so people could get their first view of the car; it was great to see it lead our parade laps! In fact the list of people we have to thank goes on and on. Without their support we could not put on this event.” Sunday’s Grand prizes were handed out based on voting by the Thunderhill corner workers Heather Cheung of Milpitas CA received $1500 worth of CARBONMINI.COM carbon components for Best “Un-Save” of the Day (off course). Bill Hartner of Sherwood, OR won the

$1500 Forgeline Wheels Discount Voucher and Steve Joneli, Terrebone, OR took home a MINI Thunder entry for 2014 for the Best Mechanical Comeback. Joneli hurt the motor in his Z-Car MINI but repaired it and was back out later in the day.

Sunday dawned a little cooler but that is not a bad thing when you have your head stuffed inside a nomex-lined helmet for most of the day.

On track events started with orientation laps for those who wanted or needed them followed by a drivers meeting for all attendees. Then it was off to the track for the Advanced students.

In my case I gave up my first session so Chris Knox could acclimatize himself with the track, no point in having an instructor who does not know his way around, is there? I don’t know if it is any better in summer but the winter sun was so low in the sky it was blinding as you entered and went around turn one. Sunglasses are a must! I was very impressed with Eric Diamond and his crew of volunteers; they made maximum

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use of time and had one group coming in as the other entering the track. It was all done very professionally.

As for track downtime through the day, it was minimal, one blown engine, one MINI running out of gas and three spins.

Once the event had ended and everything was put away, Nelson was asked for his thoughts, “Proud, thankful, and exhausted!” He went on, “Although I had seen all the Minis during

the morning, it really didn’t hit me until I was standing at Start/Finish as they were lining up for the group photo shoot that realized just how many we had. I was amazed. Pride - We have a great team of people helping to make this the best Mini trackday in America and we all take pride in this great event, I could not do it without them. And what can you say about Thunderhill?

There is no better facility around! Over the past couple of years I have heard some say

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the “MINI” phenomenon is dying and the clubs are shrinking and people are loosing interest.

You could never tell that from MINI Thunder.

Enthusiasm in the Mini community is a great as ever. What other car clubs do you see with two hundred and ten cars running parade laps? We have already set the date for next year. I cannot ignore the sponsors, without them we could not do this, they deserve a huge thanks also.”

More information on MINI Thunder can be found online at www.minithunderhill. com and by going to www.facebook.com/ StorminNormansMiniThunder.

Thunderhill Raceway Park is located at 5250 Hwy 162 Willows Ca., 95988 and can be found on the Internet at www.thunderhill.com

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MINI OF CONCORD

Concord had a New sponsor MINI of V large presence at MTI

THE STIG

was not saying The Californian Stig ed to instruct by much but still manag pointing fingers.

MIX AND MATCH

assic and BMW It was great seeing Cl er.

MINIs running togeth

FAMOUS NUMBERS

ed the factory LBL 6D and 177 ador e Monte Carlo Cooper S that won th unio Aaltonen and Rally in 1967 with Ra Henry Liddon.

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SHASTA GIRLS

No MINI Thunde r would happen without the Shas t MINI girls.

HAPPY DUDE!

Bill Hartner’s trip from the far Nor th was made worth while when he w on the Forgeline Whe els $1500 off discount voucher.

IT’S FOR SALE

Steve Lowery’s hi ghly customized Mini Traveller features a Honda V-Tec

Z CARS MINI

Lunatic Racing ow n one of the only two Z-Cars Minis in th e USA.

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MINI Thunder IV was the first ever track event for my wife Janis; she ran in the Beginners class and had our good friend Chris Knox alongside as an instructor. While she agrees she was not very fast, Chris was impressed by her taking the proper racing lines. “It was a great experience! And Chris was a great instructor, patient but also trying to get me to push a little harder and explore my limits. I

originally was going to just run one

session but had so much

fun I had to go back for

more!”

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Chris Knox learns the track with yours truly alongside Below: He indeed BE QIK

Below: Miniology broadcast Live from MTIV

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Steve Lowery’s latest claim to fame is leading Chris Knox for a few laps!

Early arrivals enjoyed dinner on Saturday night

It got crowded at times!

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THRU THE ES SES

Line astern , all manne r of MINIs make the tr ip to Thund erhill for a great day on the trac k and hanging ou t with like m inded people.

LET’S GO RAC

ING BO

YS! Rich Peters on brought his USTCC Cooper S to Thunderhill

YELLOW PERIL

Doug Peters on has bee n a huge pa MINI Thund rt of er and beh in d the wheel o MIke Kearn f ey’s Fortech M IN I is a driver to be feared

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s ’ a e R James

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I am sure most of you have seen the movie Transformers where late model muscle cars transform into weapons of destruction.

Pensacola, Florida’s James Rea has a transformer of his own. He took his sedate and simple 2009 MINI Cooper S and transformed it into “Tackleberry”, one of the nicest R56s in the Southern States! It is the ‘Big Gun’ he takes out to the periodic car show and MINI cruises around the Florida panhandle.

Why Tackleberry? Rea explained, “To make a long story short, I have just finished serving ten years with the Department of Homeland Security. Previously I spent fifteen years in the military (U.S. Marine Corps. Force Recon 197884 and U.S. Air Force Reserve 1995-2004) and served a short time in support of Operation Noble Eagle (2002). So you could say I am familiar with military operations and firearms. I always believed that serving my country is the most prestigious thing I could ever do. I took a lot of pride in serving, but I also take a lot of

pride in my Cooper S. I loved the fact that it has a 6-speed manual; it is a true delight. I really wanted the stealth-like look for my MINI and I think it ended up very tactical looking, ergo the name Tackleberry. For those that do not remember, Tackleberry was the character played

by David Graf in Police Academy. He was the trainee that had all the guns. A few years ago, one of the guys at work gave me that nickname since I have a sizeable gun collection. So, it seemed only fitting that I put the name on my vehicle. Henceforth, my MINI became known as “Tackleberry”.

So how did a retired macho man with an interest in guns end up in a MINI? “In March 2010, we ordered a MINI Cooper S for my wife as a retirement gift to herself. After serving as an educator for forty years, she deserved something that was just for her. So in May, we sold her 1993 Honda Del Sol and took delivery of her brand new Horizon Blue MCS. It seems to be the ‘in’ thing to name your MINI, so my wife’s

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The titaNM lower control arms are a new addition. The 3D Design carbon fiber rear diffuser works well with the NME stainless exhaust. became ‘MIN MIN’. That is when the bug hit.

Rea was driving a 2006 Hummer H3 that he was very happy with and had even modified to it to satisfy his personal needs. It was a real pleasure to drive, but as time went on and operating costs went up, the need to get something more economical was making more sense. The occasional seat time he was getting in his wife’s MCS set Rea to thinking and on April 2, 2012, checked out a nice 2009 Astro Black R56 and a deal was made.

James went on, “It only made sense to get a MINI after driving my wife’s on and off for the last two years. As soon as I saw the car, I knew what I wanted to do with it. It came loaded with a lot of goodies like Sport Suspension, Premium Package, Cold Weather Package, Bluetooth, and Panoramic sunroof. In appearance, it was very plain with halogen headlights, 16” wheels, and lots of chrome. First of all the chrome had to go and carbon fiber parts figure big in my plans.

Several years ago, I customized a 1993 Honda Accord LX Coupe. It was a daily driver as well as a show car. I even auto-crossed it one time.

It sounded strange that a nearly forty-year old man was getting into an import car culture that

was meant for the young kids. I competed in car shows for nearly ten years with that car. I have competed in a couple small shows with the MINI, but that is not the intent this time around.”

One of the first jobs at hand was a tint job; the beltline was blacked out, as was the taillight trim and the lower grille trim. The headlight trim was adorned with CARBONMINI carbon fiber overlays. At this point, I replaced the chrome grille trim with a black JCW set. The boot handle was replaced with a JCW carbon fiber handle and the bonnet received a new JCW carbon fiber scoop. The door handles, gas cap, antenna base, and mirrors also received carbon fiber overlays from CARBONMINI. At the sharp end of the car, a NM Engineering carbon fiber front lip was installed with APR Performance support rods aerodynamically balancing the rear of the car is a M7 Tuning carbon fiber C-Wing and a 3D Design carbon fiber rear diffuser.

The suspension was also given some attention.

OEM springs were replaced with H&R Sport Springs, giving the MINI a 1.4” drop. A 22mm NM Engineering adjustable rear sway bar, NM Engineering adjustable rear sway bar links, and NM Engineering Titanium lower control arms

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Right: 17” x 7.5” ET45 NM Engineering RSe05 wheels in matte black with drilled four pot Wilwood calipers behind.

Below: James is extremely proud of his R56 MINI Cooper S ‘Tackleberry’

Below: Before and After! Tackleberry is a true Transformer, in fact the change is unbelievable!

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More carbon fiber!

The theme is black, stealth black!

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were installed to correct the suspension geometry after the drop. The factory 16-inch rims were replaced with 17”x 7.5” ET45 NM Engineering RSe05 wheels in matte black and wrapped with Goodrich G-Force Comp2 215/45-17 rubber.

Performance was enhanced by installing a host of products from NM Engineering; including a Stainless Steel Cat-Back exhaust, Titanium Turbo Heat shield, Engine Torque Arm Mount Insert, Carbon Fiber Hi-Flow Induction Kit, Discharge Pipe (Blue), and an Air Charge Pipe (Blue). A Helix front mount stepped intercooler, and an Akrapovic downpipe has also been added. A NM Engineering upper tie bar wrapped in 3M Di-Noc carbon fiber vinyl helps to dress up the engine bay.

The interior did not miss out on the modification.

An AutoCarbon Carbon Fiber/Alcantara steering wheel; was fitted with a CARBONMINI carbon fiber steering wheel overlay kit. CARBONMINI also supplied the dash/vent carbon fiber overlay kit and door ellipse carbon fiber overlay kit.

From John Cooper Works came a carbon fiber/ Alcantara shift knob with an Alcantara suede shift boot and a JCW carbon fiber/Alcantara e-brake handle with an Alcantara Suede E-brake boot. One of the most notable changes came in the way of custom-made HID headlights from Performance Auto Solutions. James loves how the new HID lights not only work well but also adds to the stealth look of Tackleberry.

Although he would love to track it sometime, James just wants to have a MINI that is different from anybody else’s. One that makes a statement wherever it goes. And it has to have the performance to match its personality.

Many people would think it is there now but Rea considers Tackleberry a work in progress. “There is always something I can upgrade. As we talk, I am waiting for a new turbo manifold and Forge BOV to arrive and I am hoping to add some more carbon fiber goodies from CARBONMINI real soon. In the meanwhile, I just have a lot of fun driving it.”

The engine bay is purposefu

“After all, it is all about the driving experience.”

James would like to thank Justin and John at MINI of Pensacola, Erin at CARBONMINI, Jerry at NM Engineering, Waylen at Way Motor Works, and Tony DeLeon for the help and support with Tackleberry.

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ul and looks great!

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Right: James absolutely loves the carbon look from CARBONMINI.com, thanks Erin!

Below: From this angle ‘Tackleberry’ looks supr stealthy and altogether different from when James first purchased the R56.

Lower: CARBONMINI wheel inserts meets an AutoCarbon Carbon Fiber/Alcantara steering wheel making for a great look.

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Thursday September 6th @ 2:30pm

Wednesday September 5th, 10:00pm Hello readers, and welcome to the unexpected part 2 of my blog journey through my first season of professional car racing! The past 36 hours have been nothing short of surreal. Yesterday I got a message on Facebook that a friend of a friend was frantically looking for a co-driver in this weekend’s Grand-Am Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge race at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca in the ST class. My first reaction was indifference because I know how last minute deals usually end up working, and I didn’t think this could be any different. However, I started researching the team, and my potential co-driver, and I started to realize this could be an amazing opportunity. I had a brief phone message with Chris Mitchum, the owner of the team I would be racing for, and in about 15 minutes we had a deal done and a contract signed. It was like nothing I’ve ever heard of before. I didn’t sleep much last night because I couldn’t believe what had happened, and I was trying to process everything at once. I was supposed to be starting school today, but instead I caught an early flight to San Francisco which ended up being delayed over 2 hours for fog. This weekend my teammate from karting and one of my closest friends is also racing in the same class with a rival team, and I am very excited to race against him in a race car for the first time. It was also convenient that he was on the same flight, and I was able to get a ride from the airport to Monterey from him.

Once I got to the race track, I met my Mitchum Motorsports teammates and my BMW 128i race car for the first time. I won’t get to meet my codriver Zach Lutz until tomorrow because he had to catch an overnight flight tonight. A couple of the other drivers on my team and I walked the track and went over some of the key areas. Once we completed the lap, we headed back to the hotel and got some dinner before bed.

I just got off the track from my first session in the BMW. The sessions are 45 minutes long which seems like a long time but it just flies by, considering you have to share the car with another driver. Sharing the track with 60 other cars is also tough. There are 2 classes on track at once and limited space. Finding clean track is almost impossible. For me, the first session was not about speed, but about learning the car and getting comfortable on this famous track. I only got 3 or 4 laps because guys kept crashing and I was black flagged into the pits 3 times during my time in the car. So far the day has been going well though. I was woken up fairly early by the arrival of my co-driver who was ready to get going to the track early.

I had a chance to chat with him a bit in the car on the way to the track and we are both excited about the opportunity to work together this weekend. It was nice to be back at the race track without TV cameras in my face all day, too! Session 2 is coming up shortly.

Thursdays @ 9:30pm I just made it back to the hotel after a really nice dinner in Carmel. I had a good second session in the car this afternoon, but it seemed like I got unlucky with the black flags again, and I only got a handful of laps. Zach is trying to set the car up for the track and his seat time is just as valuable as mine, so we are trying to share the car as equally as possible. I had a chance today to walk around the GrandAm paddock a bit and it was really exciting.

Seeing some of the professional drivers that I have grown up watching and reminding myself that they are going to be racing against me is surreal. I have never been to a Grand-Am race before but I follow the series on TV religiously.

It’s time to get into bed because we are on track early tomorrow morning. Good night!

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Words by Adam Isman, photos by Ian Rae

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Friday September 7th, @ 11:00am This morning’s practice session went really well.

Both Zach and I are very happy with the balance of the car and I am getting faster and faster every lap. I am still struggling to find clear track and I can’t really gauge what lap times I am capable of, but that still isn’t the goal of today’s program. I am really happy with the team and the car so far though, and I feel like I really lucked into this last-minute deal. It has been exciting every step of the way. The mechanics and engineers on the team are extremely professional, and it’s an exciting program to be a part of. Having studied engineering in the past, I enjoy that part of the sport and I like getting involved in the engineer’s meetings.

focussed on my weekend and hope I can bring home a good result. There was a 30 minute warm-up session this morning that I just finished.

The team decided it would be best if I did the whole session, so I could get comfortable in the car before qualifying. I didn’t set a great lap in the session, but I know what the car is capable of and I hope I can go faster in qualifying. It’s hard not really knowing where I stand in this field. I don’t feel like I have had a lot of seat time this weekend so far. We finished the morning’s session with a tire scrub in. This car doesn’t like brand new tires, so we run a few light laps on them before qualifying so we can get the most out of the car.

Saturday @ 2:00pm The race is about to begin, and I am starting Friday @ 5:00pm in the 19th position. Qualifying went really well Zach and I both feet pretty comfortable with the and I set my fastest lap of the weekend by over car setup so we decided to devote most of this afternoon’s session to getting me more seat time. a second. I think I did the fastest lap of the Unfortunately, about 10 minutes into the session, weekend in the car so far, so I will be interested to see how fast Zach can go in the race. These the red flag came out for a heavy impact with race starts are all about survival, and in our team the tirewall in turn 4. Even worse, the car was strategy meeting earlier today, we discussed being driven by my close friend Remo, who did fuel mileage and how we can get the most out heavy damage to his car. He was bloody quick of our fuel runs. We also talked about our fuel in the session too, running 2nd in class when he window and when it would be appropriate to crashed. When Zach came in for the red flag, I make our first, and hopefully only, pit stop and remember getting into my car, just hoping that driver change. I am pretty nervous about the Remo was okay. Turns out he is fine, and I hope driver change. We never got a chance to practice his team can get the car fixed up and ready for doing one, and even though I have the easy job tomorrow. In the meantime, once I got back in the car, I completed a handful more laps and got of just undoing the belts and getting out, there comfortable with the car and now I feel ready for is so much happening that a small mistake can be costly. Yellow flags could also play a big factor tomorrow’s qualifying session, and then the big in our strategy. Right now it is time to head over race! to the pit lane where all 60 cars in the race are being displayed for the fans to walk through and Saturday September 8th @ 10:00am meet some of the drivers and see the cars. It Last night Remo was feeling pretty upset about should be exciting! his big crash and didn’t feel like going for his team’s dinner, so the two of us just went for a Saturday @ 8:30pm low key dinner in Carmel. This morning he got Today’s race was a big disappointment for the worst news possible; that the car was too the whole team. Out of 4 cars, 3 didn’t finish damaged to be fixed in time for today’s race. He including ours. However, our sister ST car had its will have to sit out. I feel bad but I have to stay MotorWerks Magazine - Online at www.motorwerksmag.com - 131

best finish of the year in 10th, so I am definitely happy for them. I got a good start in the race and just help my position and didn’t make any contact. It only took about 15 minutes for the first caution of the day to come out. Once we went back to green, it took about another lap for the next caution, when a few of the teams in front decided to roll the dice on an early pit stop. At the next caution, only a couple of laps later, we decided to make our pit stop and driver change. I completely botched the stop, having overshot the pit stall, meaning the fuel hose couldn’t reach. Once we got the car fueled up we were back in the race but well outside the top 20. At the next caution we caught back up.

I’m not sure why, but we were quite short on fuel after the stop. I think when I overshot the pit stall we didn’t get a chance to fill the car right to the top, so we had to come back in for a fuel top-up. Back out on track, we were fighting hard to make up positions while fighting the numerous caution flags. We felt like we had a

good long-run car, meaning that we would get faster as the laps ticked off, but because of all the full course cautions, we never did more than 5 laps of consecutive green flag laps. With about 45 minutes to go, Zach was making a pass for 14th when he got pinched off coming into the corner and crashed out. The car was pretty badly damaged and we were out of the race. It was a disappointing moment considering how well the weekend had gone up to that point. We set the 6th fastest lap of the race, proving that we had the car to run at the front, we just didn’t get the breaks. I was happy with my own personal performance, as was the rest of the team. My fastest lap of the weekend was only 0.3 seconds shy of Zach, and considering how little track time I got, that was a big accomplishment. The race also set a record for number of caution flags in one race, almost doubling the previous record, and it was the first time in the series’ history that more laps were run under caution than under green flag conditions. Having had some time to

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reflect, it was a good introduction to GrandAm racing, and I am really hoping to do more of these races in 2013 and beyond. I am back

at the hotel now and ready for another early morning and trip to the airport. I hope I can bring you more blogs from trackside in 2013.

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Words by Ian Stewart, photos by Ian Rae Editors Note: We recently announced that MINI racer Ian Stewart of Maitland Importers in Orlando, FL had agreed to become a technical advisor on our project car Cooper RSR. Thanks Ian! One of the first things I stress as being super important on a road / track car was good maintenance. Cars that get 3k oil changes never have leaks. I’ve got customers with 250k on their cars and have never once have had a oil leak, but they change their oil religiously every 3k. The cars with 15k oil changes come in here leaking like crazy with as little as 60k miles on the clock.

The longer time periods between oil changes allow the seals to harden and not do the job of sealing the engine as they are supposed to. It also allows the build up of sludge which does things like narrow oilways and prevent proper lubrication of engine components and that can be

catastrophic.”

The next step was to figure out what exactly we were going to use the car for. As last year Ian Rae will be competing in the BMW CC Trillium Chapter AutoSlalom Championship as well as a couple of Ontario Tim Attack events. Now for others in warmer climates there are implications to what type of events you are going to run and how you modify the car to run in them.

The universal #1 upgrade for a MINI tends to be brakes not matter what type of events you are going to run. I recommend better pads and fluid as a first move. It is a cost effective upgrade that will make a huge difference and if you remember our last MINI article you will recall Ian Rae agreed with that after having brake issues at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park. In Cooper RSR’s case we are going a little further. Ian had fitted the Carbotech pads all round later last year and this year he talked to Turner Motorsport who are one of the biggest StopTech dealers and had them send an upgrade package. It consisted of

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front StopTech SportStop slotted rotors, which match the standard rotors with the addition of cross drilling. The kit also included a set of StopTech braided brake lines that should help give a firmer pedal due to them not stretching as the pedal is applied hard. Finally Turner’s own caliper bushing upgrade kit exchanges rubber bushings for brass versions that stop the caliper from twisting and the pads are applied equally just like the premier big brake kits on the market. #2 would be to add camber in the front. Hard driving causes the front tire to roll over and chew the outside edge, no amount of air pressure adjustment will stop this unless you inflate them like balloons and enjoy a hard as a rock type ride. It is an absolute must to add camber for track duty. About -2 to -2.25 degrees will help a bunch. In Cooper RSR’s case Ian has a set of Hot Bits Suspension coilovers complete with caster/ camber plates. When these are fitted we can dial in the required camber. #3 comes back to maintenance, you have to

check out the cooling system and run thicker oil.

MINIs don’t have much oil cooling from the stock cooler and then combine that with an engine cooling system that isn’t operating correctly (due to a leak or a radiator full of dirt and sand) you have a recipe for buying a engine. I did on my first trip to the track in our car seven years ago.

I would actually put a rear sway bar at #4. Rear bar helps to push down the inside front tire onto the ground. It not only helps the car rotate better into the corner, it also aids traction on corner exit and lessens the need for a limited slip differential.

Remember we are talking about stock or near stock cars here and trying to let you see how you can make small changes to your car, go out, be competitive and have loads of fun. #5 would be obvious.... get some decent tires.

The OEM runflats don’t handle track use at all.

Those are probably the top five I would pick to have a fun problem free day at the track. Now to go fast at the track is a different list.

Now we more on to some of the more common HOT BITS DT2 SERIES Double adjustable High pressure monotube shock design 46mm shock piston diameter Motocross grade seals Fully serviceable and tuneable

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modifications people do and sometimes they have not put a lot of thought into it. We mention figuring out what you want to do with the car. That is for two reasons, firstly the more mods you have you tend to be placed in more competitive classes and that may not be a good idea. Secondly you have to look are where and when to are going to push the car hard. The problem is in the south if you put a pulley on and run in the summer your going to go slower then stock pulley due to the extra heat created.

An example is our car at Sebring in August many moons ago was no quicker with a 17% pulley than a standard 0% one. This was because overdriving a supercharger creates heat as it is driven by the engine, when the ambient is so high it takes more to drive the supercharger, making even more heat and you actually make less power in the engine. However I’m certain in the dead of winter that modification would have been a two to three seconds a lap gain. So depending on where you are located and if the most of your running is in high heat conditions an pulley change is not always going to provide the gains expected. I encourage customers tracking in warmer climates to go with a lesser pulley of JCW size or thereabouts. The huge thing to remember is the JCW does not stop you making descent power! We’ve got a customer that made 244whp on a JCW pulley. It was a GP and along with the JCW stock pulley, I added a RMW head, RMW Dominator Cam, 450cc injectors, RMW shorty header WITH A CAT, a Jan Tune and stock JCW exhaust, GP intercooler and air box. You’d never tell it apart from a normal GP. It went from 171whp to 244whp with above mods so with 15% to 17% drivetrain loss that should be about 280ish at the crank In my opinion that was the perfect car. Dead quiet until you really romp on it.

That is a pretty good return on around a $5500 investment. Methanol Injection can be a huge help if you are looking to run more boost but it’s illegal with most clubs and fairly expensive to install and can get complicated.

Ian at MWM questioned me about a LSD and

The StopTech Sports Stop rotors come with the hats and between the vanes finished with a black E-Coating to stop corrosion.

The discs are direct replacements for the originals and fit the OEM calipers. Lateral runout is held to 0.002” or less and the machined finish is designed to prevent glazing of the brake pads.

Get rid of your OEM stretching brake lines and improve pedal feel and response with StopTech’s braided line. There is no point upgrading your brakes and not getting a set.

Get two sets of Turner Motorsports caliper bushing upgrade kits and eliminate the calipers twisting with the OEM rubber bushings. The result is a longer pad life and better brake system feel.

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whether it is needed. At a low horsepower level the stock diff isn’t that bad and you are not going to gain much, add a pulley and a tune and YES you want a LSD but it is big bucks and the sway bar mod we talked about in point number will go a long way to help without spending the extra money at this stage. When you do decide to go to a diff there is only one choice as far as I am concerned, the OS Giken. I have it on my car and it is on Jan Bruegemann’s Time Attack car I drive, the adjustability makes it perfect for whatever power output you have. Just remember the more power you make, the more important the LSD is going to be and the further you want to be from the OEM style diff and the more important a clutch style LSD like the OS Giken will becomes.

We also talked about clutches and I recommend the factory clutch up to 250 whp. It is probably more reliable then most of the less expensive aftermarket stuff anyway.

Editors Note: Another modification we are doing that makes life a little easier is changing from wheel mounting bolts to studs. I got a set from TC Kline Racing that come with the bull nose just like NASCAR studs, wheels can now be easily hung on the studs while the nuts are being screwed on. This is just what is required if you are changing the wheels at the track and you travel on your own. At the same time as I was at TC’s he introduced me to the Rennsport steering wheel quick disconnect. It truly is a work of art and the first one I have ever seen that has absolutely no play in any direction. Its unique design does not use the traditional spline and because of that is so easy to put on a baby could do it. Now all I have to do is get the MOMO Mod30 wheel to mount on it!

TC Kline Racing’s NASCAR style stud kit makes life easier when you are changing wheels a lot. Something that is a huge help at track days! Just make sure you order the correct size.

TC only aligns himeself with quality products and the Rennline Quick Disconnect is that for sure. There is no more trying to align the splines to center the wheel, the shape of the QD is such that it aligns the wheel for you. You can even do it with your eyes closed.

Next issue will include some of the other things we have been working on. One will be a new look for Cooper RSR and the other is about making me more comfortable.

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NITROGEN ON_BOARD The DT2 versions incorporate nitrogen as does the entry level DT1 series plus a 30-step compression adjustment on the nitrogen canister.

LOTS OF ADJUSTMENT

Check out how much threaded length is available for spring adjustment.

Each revolution of the locknut equals 1.25mm of ride height adjustment.

REAR SHOCK MOUNT

The red knob on top of the DT2 allows a 40-step adjustment of rebound. In Cooper RSR’s case we need to drill a hole above the mount and install an extension rod to bring the adjuster knob inside the car.

INCLUDED IN THE KIT

In a full front and back kit you recieve four adjusting wrenches, making for a team effort and speedy changes at the track. Also included is a pair of adjustable sway bar links. This allows proper aligment of the sway bars once the vehicle has been lowered.

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Words and photos Norman Nelson 142  - MotorWerks Magazine - Online at www.motorwerksmag.com

Twice Around the Clock Plus The NASA/US Air Force 25 Hours of Thunderhill I was fortunate to get the assignment to cover the tenth running of the NASA/US Air Force 25 Hours of Thunderhill at Thunderhill Raceway Park, in the foothills outside of Willows Ca. I made two visits to Thunderhill during the week preceding the race that was held on Saturday Dec. 8, 2012. What I saw was the building of a “community” as more race transporters, trailers, and RV’s arrived each day and set up is their assigned areas. UPS, Fed EX and local delivery trucks lined up at the main gate for the chance to deliver their drop shipments, ensuring the teams had everything required to run twice around the clock.

Never having been to an endurance race this early; I had never noticed what it takes to put on and compete in such an event. All the supplies that are needed to not only to support the race cars, but the teams, equipment, tools, food, communications, computers and more. Many of the teams run four drivers and up to eight to ten crew members. They all need food, fresh clothing, and a place to rest. As the teams arrive they are directed to their assigned paddock location and quickly mark their boundaries. Then begins the meticulous process of unpacking the transporters and organize all the equipment.

Every item has been marked and each item has its own location. Crews inventory everything as they unpack and then check the condition of the part, ensuring it is ready for rapid deployment if required. After all is unloaded, checked, set into place, the crews begin the process of hooking up all the computers and communications that is required for an event of this magnitude. The team RV’s are parked about one foot apart so that they can all fit in the allocated space. These are a must for an endurance event as drivers, crews, team members, all need a quiet place to sit and rest between shifts.

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any other. While drivers are going out of track getting used to the cars and track, the other crew members not supporting that effort are practicing their pit stop procedures, making sure they master the refueling, tire changing and race day duties. Others grab their radios and head out to the spotter locations around the three-mile track so they can be sure they have good communication with the crew chief on the pit wall. The cook is busy setting up the serving tables and chairs, gas grills and coolers so that he can keep all these people fed for the next week. As you can imagine not everyone sits down for a meal at the same time. It is a twentyfour hour task to have good hot food ready at all times and people like BimmerWorld’s Dave Taylor are a master of that.

Drivers are getting into and out of the cars, making sure they have their seat pads properly marked so when drivers changes come they have the right setup to fit the car. Each driver is different, one maybe five foot six and the other six feet four and it is extremely important they all can reach the pedals, see the mirrors and be belted in. While I was walking through the paddock, it looked like a busy ants nest, with people scurrying about, but they all did it with precision and purpose. They all have their assigned tasks and practice it over and over to be sure its perfect on race day.

I ran into Kevin Murray of MCE Racing who has a racecar fabrication, welding, and Dyno shop at Thunderhill. He has been there for all the 25 Hour endurance races and I ask him if he would have some time to sit and talk.

He replied with, yes but not until after hour number 11. He said that is when the BMW’s will start to have some exhaust system cracks and require welding repairs, he then mentioned the Mazda’s, Corvettes, and others. Seems that he has done this before and can almost tell when things are mostly likely to break or wear by car manufacturer. I was amazed at how much planning and works goes into every aspect of this race even for the track fabrication guy.

Many of the drivers have flown in from a long distance away and may not be running with their regular team or a familiar car, some will have never been to Thunderhill before. They need to get used to the car, it’s handling, performance as well as getting to know the track. When race day comes and the green flag drops, you would think that the drivers would be pacing themselves for the long twenty-five hours ahead. Not the case, I think they are driving 100% right from the start and then step it up to 125% for the last hour. My hat is off to the teams, crews, drivers, for this magnificent effort. All the practicing like a team and functioning like a family is with one goal – FINISH, winning is just a huge bonus!

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s t u n o d y n THoas a Dream

it ty odd years into what en tw er ov ing ild bu y age slowl /Grey ny got into cars at the ned several other Euro A dream car that is! To ow s ha He y. da to is ce ’s ing his friends street ra ce then, including an 80 sin rs of seventeen by watch ca an rm Ge t ke mar e NY (on the border of th a few , 190e Cosworth, and in the Yonkers area of es ed rc Me s as Cl ly Sick a Conquest TSI but qu to his dream NYC). He started with ’s but always went back W BM r he ot He . an ecifically Germ went Euro and more sp W E30 M3. s and knew that car the BM tie en tw rly ea his in bought his M3 by leaving it stock, then it was a keeper. First 148 - MotorWerks Magazine - Online at www.motorwerksmag.com

r otos by John Schroede Words by Ian Rae, ph

1988 BMW E30 M3 EXTERIOR JD Autobody Viper Red, Painted by

Mt Vernon NY Wing EVO 3 Adjustable Rear EVO 2 Front bumper ProFormance Industries by x8 16 els he W RS S BB in New Rochelle NY

ENGINE M5 S-38 Engine From a ’91 Shrick Cams Shrick Cam Sprockets Dinan Chip Custom Intake Light Weight Flywheel Header Catless German Spec Custom Borla Catback

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TRANSMISSION S-38 Transmission BRAKES/SUSPENSION Bilstein Race Struts H&R Springs Custom Camber with -2 camber rear Schrick Front/Rear Strut Bars Racing Dynamics sway bars Poly Bushings E36 M3 Rotors, Calipers, Pads INTERIOR/SOUND E36 M3 Power Seats Custom head Unit 700 Watt Custom sound system in rear So what is in the future for Tony’s super clean ride?

Well he is looking into a set of custom coilovers and brakes and better gear ratios so he can take advantage of all that engine modifications he has done.

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The first race held at Virginia International Raceway in 1957. Fifty-five years later in 2012, the Heacock Classic Gold Cup Historica Races & Car Show payed tribute to the great cars and drivers that were present that first weekend of racing back on August 3-4 in 1957.

“It’s always been about celebrating great history on a great track with great friends,” said Harvey Siegel, who began restoring VIR in 1998 after the track was closed in November of 1974. Connie Nyholm added, “Looking back at the tradition of the Heacock Classic Gold Cup, we felt the most important ingredients were the fun, the parties and the people who either have or desire a connection, both old and new, with VIR.” “I can’t wait to welcome all the vintage sports cars, their owners, drivers and enthusiasts from across the country to our historic track in October.

We host many races and gatherings at our worldclass resort, but there’s a special place here at VIR and in our hearts for vintage racing cars,” Siegel enthused. “Show or go, we have a place for people to enjoy themselves at VIR.” And on October 5-7 the historic Gold Cup races gave fans a chance to see some of the great cars of the past. Our good friend Sput Dodge was at the event and graciously sent us some photos so we can get our nostalgia fix!

Growing up in Europe touring car racing was it as far as I was concerned. BMW 2002s, Alfa Romeos, Escorts, Minis, Imps, the list goes on and on. Not all of these cars were present but there were a great array of BMWs. I don’t know anyone who cannot admit to being stirred by the sight and sounds of an iconic 3.0 CSL being driven at speed. With the trees in the background the echos take you back and remember your first sight of one of these cars being driven in anger!

Thank you to VIR and the SVRA for giving the fans back those memories, and for giving new memories to the next generation of race fans.

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Words by Ian Rae, photos by Sput Dodge

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You see two cars on this page that are not BMWs, chasing the orange 2002 is a bubble arched Mk1 Escort that could be hiding any sort of powerplant from a Kent crossflow to a Lotus twin-cam or a Cosworth BDA. Looking at the photo now, I should have processed it in black and white to really give it that nostalgic look.

The other is a Datsun, that’s right a Datsun.

Not any old Datsun but Bob Leitzinger’s old 510. Those 510s were never seen on British shores but they made a pretty good racecar over here in North America. Leitzinger himself was no slowpoke behind the wheel but you may remember his son Butch who made it all the way to factory teams, running for both Bentley at LeMans and Cadillac during his career.

This all has nothing to do with BMWs but just shows my love for touring cars and proves I still get a kick out of them even after forty years.

Left - Stacey Lowery and team mascot FB welcomes gues

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sts

Left to Right - Steve Lowery, Norman Nelson and Chris Knox

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Words and Photos by Ian Rae

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When the announcement was made that a new Formula 1 venue was going to be built in Texas to bring the Grand Prix circuit back to the United States I was over the moon. I am a big fan of F1, especially after the last few years but I have to admit I was skeptical about the circuit being ready in time. However the Circuit Of The Americas team pulled it all together and in November 2012 the purpose built circuit put on a great inaugural Grand Prix. Passing without DRS, where else do we see that? When GrandAm announced they were going to COTA, the decision was made to attend it, no matter what else I did this year. And so it was on the twentyseventh of February, I evaded the snowstorm blowing into Canada and I headed to the great State of Texas for the GRAND-AM of The Americas presented by GAINSCO and TOTAL. Driving into the COTA makes your jaw drop open; it is huge! The facilities are impressive and one can only imagine how many millions of dollars were poured into making this green

field, a world caliber racetrack. The Continental Tire promoter test day allowed drivers, teams and photographers alike to check out this circuit that has so many elevation changes you can hardly count them. A trip up the 251-feet high COTA observation tower allowed us to really see how big the facility is and marvel at the 3.427-mile black ribbon of tar running beside the patriotic painted red and white stripes. I am not a fan of Tilke designed tracks but this one is something special. Maybe it was because 1993 Motorcycle World Champion Kevin Schwantz and promoter Tavo Hellmund had a hand in conceiving the layout, but the result is a technical and challenging track made for close racing for all forms of motorsport. I could see this weekend was going to be fun!

The second round of the Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge moved west to the COTA with much anticipation. A new circuit always puts more strain on both the teams and drivers. What chassis setup, just how abrasive is the track, fuel

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mileage; lots of questions have to be answered.

The team that sorts that out the quickest has a great shot at the top step of the podium but as we all know, nothing in racing is guaranteed. Of the GS BMW teams, Fall-Line were running well, as they were at Daytona and Turner was showing signs of a resurgence to the contender we know they are.

An early forecast of what was coming from the Turner Motorsport camp was the #96 M3 sitting

on top of the time sheets in practice two. Paul Dalla Lana did a workmanlike job in qualifying to place the Turner Motorsport M3 eighth just ahead of Fall-Line principal Mark Boden. Dalla Lana and Bill Auberlen converted that into a win but not without holding a battle royale with Spencer Pumpelly in the BGB Motorsports Porsche. In the end it was a bit of traffic that gave Auberlen to catch that vital breath and sneak out a minute gap to take the win. Will Turner was over the moon with the result, “What a surreal weekend!

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Coming into both races we were hopeful for a good result but never imagined double wins.

(The duo won in Rolex GT also) The competition is so tough in Grand-AM that one podium is an accomplishment” He went on, “The COTA facility is amazing. It’s a technical track that has both challenging high speed and lows peed corners.

Not to mention the super clean garages!” This is only the second time that double has been pulled off, the previous time was at Miami-Homestead Speedway and it was also by Turner.

Local boy, Austin resident Jeff Mosing had hoped

for a good result in front of hometown fans. He told us, “The #56 Mosing Motorcars / Atomic Capital BMW 328i was good all weekend even with the clutch issues we were having. We finally got it right for the race but the tire pressures didn’t quite get up to our target pressures. The long straight apparently cooled the tires more than we thought it would and the track wasn’t very abrasive on tires either. I brought the car into the pits in fifth but Jesse Coombs got shunted by another car which tweaked the front toe-in by almost a half inch and so he had to drive his heart out to maintain twelfth. We should

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be strong at the next race at Barber as we’ve tested there and placed third there in past years.”

One might have picked the Fall-Line BMW team for top honors on this weekend; all three cars were consistently fast and in the top ten in practice and qualifying. It would be the #48 Fall-Line Motorsports M3 of Charles Espenlaub and Brett Sandberg that would take home team honors on this occasion with a third place finish making it a BMW first and third podium. Eagle Tech, B+, Fall-Line BMW driver Al Carter enjoyed his weekend in Texas even with a lower than deserved finishing position, “COTA certainly delivered on its inaugural Grand-Am weekend.

We had a big crowd on hand and the facilities are just amazing! It is a fun track to drive, but difficult to get all twenty turns right on any single lap. There was tight racing, but plenty of passing opportunities. The only thing that wasn’t perfect all weekend was our gas tank. Hugh (Plumb) and I came up one lap short and finished thirteenth after a splash and go.” The Trim-Tex, BCKSTGR, Fall-Line Motorsports M3 of Mark Boden and Brian Sellers finished sixth making it two top ten positions for the Buffalo Grove, IL based team.

In the ST class Burton Racing had a trying few days before things turned around in the race.

A three-car accident on the Continental Tire

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prom and Satu LaMa Burt 128i did n pena own we w done the d and we m

moter test day saw the team miss practice sessions focus on being able to make the qualifying on urday. With the whole left front corner replaced Mike arra used the limited track time and qualified the ton Racing, BMW Automotive Chemicals, Excelda, BMW i in seventeenth spot. The teams trials and tribulations not end there as they were late to pre-grid and the alty handed down was starting from the pit lane. Team ner Keith Burton explained, “It was nobodies fault that were late, we just had to get some more changes e to the car. We went back into our logbook and used data we got from last years test to make the changes it simply took too much time. However I was glad made those changes. The car was consistent from MotorWerks Magazine - Online at www.motorwerksmag.com -  167

Hugh Plumb hard at work in the B+ Fall-Line M3

The BimmerWorld CRC Industries 328i made the top ten

Great to see the Sahlen BMW prototypes racing!

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n

Photography can be very colorful at COTA

A clutch failure stopped the #63!

BMW train in the ST class.

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lap one to the last lap.” LaMarra charged hard through the pack before handing over to Terry Borcheller at the first caution. Borcheller emerged in mid-pack and struck out towards the front and with one hour to go was surprisingly in the class lead. Burton laughed as he said, “I got on the radio and said get that 23 car out of there, the reply came back, why? It is in the lead! Mike and Terry did a great job; I really think we could have won if it was not for a back marker GS car getting in the way. We became vulnerable to Stevan McAleer in the Mazda and he slipped by for the win. Then Tom Long got by, third was not what we wanted but also not what we expected.

That put BMW into the lead in the Manufacturers Championship, which pleases me. Everyone on the team did an amazing job considering the problems we had, Barber and Atlanta are coming up and I have high hopes for those events. Our idea is to be consistently in the points and if a

win comes along so be it!”

BimmerWorld team principal, James Clay noted, “Two ST cars lodged in the top ten was a fair accomplishment, but I don’t think anyone here is breaking their arms while patting themselves on the back. It was a solid weekend for us on a track where our cars were just a little too heavy to be at the front and we scored some good championship points. But certainly there is more to come from the BimmerWorld team this year.” Second-year BimmerWorld driver Dan Rogers added to that, “COTA is a great track. I think it still has some secrets for us to learn for next year! While we’d always like to have a podium, the car was solid, and a tenth place finish for the CRC BimmerWorld BMW still keeps us in the points. On to Barber!” Fellow BimmerWorld driver Greg Liefooghe was another racer disappointed with his result but happy to have made the finish, “It was great to race at

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Using more than all the track!

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a premier facility like COTA, hopefully we’ll see more tracks around the country adopting the same safety standards. Although our results were not what we were hoping for, we showed some good speed, and I’m looking forward to the rest of the season!” When asked about his experience of COTA, Clay enthused, “COTA is the most impressive facility I have been to, including a few big F1 tracks in Europe. This place is just awesome - big enough to make the pilgrimage from all corners of our continent to drive on and big enough that I think it will change racing in Texas and even possibly the US.” Veteran sports car racer, David Murry was another to enjoy his outing at COTA; “COTA was the second Continental Tire race for our Team

TGM. We are building our team and acquiring all the equipment including tractor, trailer, pit equipment and team members to do the job in a very competitive series. In addition to that we are working on the development of our BMW that runs in the very competitive ST class. We are making gains and had a great result, thirteenth of thirty-three at COTA, which is great for where we are with our development. Everything went well at COTA and we made the correct call for pit strategy; which is very important. The track at COTA is as beautiful as it looks on TV. So much runoff on each corner it is incredibly safe. It was nice to experience actually driving it. We are racing for the JKTG Foundation and proud to be part of it. We will be testing before our next race

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at Barber Motorsports Park and expect to be even more competitive there and beyond.”

Chris Mitchum of Mitchum Motorsports had a weekend he would rather forget, his #62 All American Alloys BMW 128i of McIntosh / Sanchez qualifying twenty-eighth and the Destiny Water / Oakley / Secured Health and Life 128i five spots behind in thirty-third. “Even though COTA is a beautiful track our drivers had a difficult time adjusting to its technical layout but were on point come race day. Unfortunately our #63 car had a very early clutch failure on lap thirteen and the #62 was taken out by an errant GS Mustang on the forty-first lap. Not what we were looking for, but we can do nothing else but regroup and head to the next event.”

Personally I am over the moon about the increase in BMW participation in the Rolex series. Turner Motorsport has gone to two M3 cars, Sahlen’s moved from the GT class after the demise of the Mazda rotary program with two BMW powered prototypes with Dinan power. Current champions Chip Ganassi with Felix Sabates Racing continue to be the standard all prototype teams gage themselves against and will go all season with a target on their backs.

Much like other teams, Team Sahlen had not tested at the track, so set up knowledge was at a minimum. The drivers had only seen the track on Playstation, so they were behind the eight ball as well. The promoter’s test day on Thursday allowed the #42 BMW Powered Daytona

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Prototype to spend the entire day going through a myriad of different set ups. Driver Dane Cameron explained, “This was our first time running high downforce so we learned a huge amount about all of the different options available to us. I think we were all hoping for a bit more speed but there were still many positives to take away from the weekend. In every session we improved the car and we closed the gap to the front of the field, the guys are really settling in with the car so I think it’s all starting to come together. I think the Circuit of the Americas was every bit as challenging as we thought it would be, but we survived and finished one spot better than Daytona.” BMW made the podium but only in third spot. An on track altercation slowed the Ganassi car but when it mattered Pruett was running in third coming to the end of the race. He only gave up the position when he could not hold back Scotsman Ryan Dalziel any longer. As we said earlier Turner won the GT class and the lead Team Sahlen prototype finished eighth.

Even series partners had a lot to say about the event. Steve Schardt, Sales Manager for Forgeline Motorsports told us, “We were very excited about the great weekend our customer had at COTA. When our teams win races, it makes us happy, all our hard work is made worthwhile! Will Turner and his team have to be commended on great wins in both GT and the GS classes. They have been winning races and Championships on Forgelines for close to ten years now and that proves we have a great product.

BGB Motorsports had a great weekend as well. Spencer Pumpelly raced the Turner Motorsports M3 to the very end, finishing a close second in GS as well as taking a class victory in the Rolex GX class. It was a great day for us but we have a lot of racing in front of us. As far as the circuit goes, you cannot fault it, other than I never had a chance to go up the tower. That is on my must do list for

next year” So was it a success? For sure, I have not seen a crowd like it for a long time, was the racing exciting, you bet. Even more so when you watch the race on Speed and can see what was happening all around the track. The negatives?

As a photographer I have to say I have had easier weekends at the track. At nearly three

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and a half mile long, it is a long hike and as our shooting position is dictated light wise that can mean jumping all over the place. With those great access roads beside the track, I would suggest an extended golf cart driving around the inner AND outer roads all day. The other pet peeve was the lack of shooting holes. I understand F1 does not like them but surely

there can be a way of closing extra holes for F1. IF you can cut extra holes for us, talk to somebody like Grand-Am’s Brian Cleary to make sure they are cut in the correct place. Holes in the wrong place are as bad as none at all.

Summing it up, thanks to all that made the event possible, it was a tremendous experience!

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A hard day on Will Turner’s nails!

Below: David Murry enjoyed COTA

Below: What a great crowd at COTA.

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Be

elow: The #80 BimmerWorld 328i had a tough weekend! Below: The #62 Mitchum 128i got attacked!

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A R E New A N W for BM

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Words and photos by Jake Galstad As a Sebring rookie, I have heard many stories through the years; of crazy parties going on for days, people showing up not for the race, but for the atmosphere, legendary battles between teams and cars, and of course the dynasties. In the sixties it was Ferrari, in the late seventies and early eighties it was Porsche, and currently it’s Audi. With eleven wins in the last fourteen years they are certainly a fan favorite. With their sleek

and sexy lines, and quiet hum as they zoom buy, it really makes it hard for the photographer to catch them. It almost seems surreal to witness them whiz by, with only road noise as proof they were even there. As my favorite car, the R18 was one of the most exciting parts of being at Sebring for me. Of course there was the ever-interesting DeltaWing complete with the unveiling of the new coupé version. Of course I was here to cover the debut of BMW North America’s new racecar, the Z4 GTE. I loved the fact that the cars were no longer twins of each other, one white, one frozen black. It was fitting I was at the Petit Le Mans event for the last race with the M3 GT2, I love the look of the Z4 and look forward to covering them further this year.

Then we had the press conference that everyone had been waiting for, the unveiling of the combined series name. United SportsCar Racing is now the way forward, and there were even whispers of an all P1 series, only time will tell.

My senses were tingling with everything that was going on; Sebring was living up to its reputation!

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The coolest thing for me was being able to walk on tarmac that has been in the same place for sixty plus years. Parts of the track remain unchanged since the inaugural 12-hour race, the concete as bumpy or even bumpier. Sebring has a nostalgic feel about it and it is great to see they are not trying to change it into one of those clinical tracks we see the Grand Pris circuit run on. The concrete and bumps are part of what makes Sebring, Sebring and long may it stay the same. It is almost a throw back to

the great road races of the past like the Mille Miglia and the Targa Floria. As a photographer, it was a dream for me because I was able to capture that iconic Sebring shots; that I had only seen before in magazines on the Internet.

The sunset for instance, or the start shot looking down the whole front straight, the racecars bouncing through turn ten, or turn seventeen, right down to the fan experience. I can see what brings the fans back year after year. Surrounded by the most talented drivers in the world and

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shooting with some of the most accomplished photographers, it was a magnificent week of great experiences and shooting.

I am glad to have been able to bring you this photo pictorial featuring a new era in BMW Competition.

Next year with United Sports Car Racing bringing all manner of cars to Sebring it is going to be one to watch, or even better, be there and join the party!

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Probably the most classic Sebring shot you can get, the sunset shot!

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Time to light ‘em up!

The sun going down challenges photographers and drivers!

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I love the new look!

Clean up those tires!

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A slight glimpse of the V8

Hard at work in the pits!

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Light can be challenging at Sebring

A classic Sebring thru the trees shot

The Z4 GTE at speed!

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The frozen black car looks menacing!!

It will take some time to get used to the sports car body!.

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Performance Directory

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Featured Photographer John Schroeder, Yorktown Heights, NY My name is John Schroeder and I’m the founder and owner of JDS Photography. I remember first taking pictures with my dad at the age of eight to ten with disposable cameras at Lime Rock Park in Northeast Connecticut. I couldn’t wait to get home and develop them to see what I got. That continued for a few years till I turned sixteen, got my driving license and the only thing I wanted to do was go to Lime Rock to take pictures of race cars. At the time I had a little Sony 2 mega pixel camera that I got used from a friend for $50 bucks! But that quickly turned into doing video for the next few years because in the off-season I always wanted to remember what they sounded like. Right around nineteen to twenty years old while at college I discovered myself trying to remove cool stills from the video and it was all over from there. I bought a Canon Powershot IS and I was hooked, I used that camera for two years, then bought my first Nikon D80. That lasted for a couple years before buying my first Nikon D300s. Camera bodies are one thing but then I got into purchasing bigger and better lenses. I shared my photos whenever possible and finally got some recognition almost two years ago when shooting from the fan side of the fence at the 50th Daytona 24 Hour race! My photos got published in a bunch of online news articles, what a buzz that was. That spring I finally realized a dream when I got my first opportunity to shoot with a media pass at New Jersey Motorsports Park for the Rolex Grand-Am event. Then came Memorial Day weekend where I got credentials for my old haunt, Lime Rock Park. This is when I decided to go “Pro” and start a business and try and work my way to earning a living taking pictures of race cars. I have since branched out and began doing portraits and landscapes as well (anything to be behind the camera when it’s not

a race weekend). I’m proud of the fact that I am 100% self-taught, allowing me to create my own creative and attractive style.

More of John’s work and his contact info can be found by going to his website, www. JDS-Photos.com or on Facebook

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Feature Shot: Oh, oh!

It was shot at LRP on Memorial Day weekend 2012 in Friday qualifying, I knew that I wanted to be on that hill for qualifying because typically drivers are pushing a bit more and letting it all hang out. Turns out I was the only one there and got this shot when Amy Ruman went “flat out” The shot has been used in local papers, and is in calendars.

Nikon D300S Exposure: 1/80th se,c Aperture: f/4.0 Focal Length: 89 mm ISO Speed: 1250

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Great example of Selective Color Nikon D300S Exposure: 1/400th sec Aperture: f/4.5 Focal Length: 17 mm Lens: 17.0-70.0 mm f/2.8-4.0 ISO Speed: 400

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Above: Even team-mates at Turner Motorsport can get into it with each other. This is not a shot for the team principal to see. Sorry Will!

Nikon D300S Exposure: 1/200th sec Aperture: f/8.0 Focal Length: 15 mm ISO Speed: 400

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Top right: Glowing disks on this Ganassi prototype shows how hard it is braking.

Middle right: Burning the midnight oil with basic lighting.

Bottom right: Capturing one of the new B-Spec MINIs at Lime Rock Park Left: Great use of depth of field with the Rum Bum Porsche in the distance MotorWerks Magazine - Online at www.motorwerksmag.com -  201

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CONTINENTALTIRE.CA

A great exapmle of how good a shot can be taken from the face side of the fence. Walk around your local track and you will find somewhere to get that special shot.

Nikon D300S Exposure: 1/160th sec Aperture: f/8 Focal Length: 15 mm ISO Speed: 160

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This E46 shot really conveys speed!

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It is always good when you can include a sponsors name in your shot.

Team cars together always work as shown by the Fall-Line M3s duelling at Lime Rock Park.

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All is quiet, preperation done, new tires at the ready!

You don’t always have to fill the frame with the subject.

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Miniology is the science and study of all things Mini.

It is a blog, a podcast and a community. We provide an outlet for writers, photographers, videographers and broadcasters to express their interest in Minis or MINIs. We started this site near the end of 2006, as an outreach from our successful video podcast — there were a number of great commercial sites out there for news and information about the Mini/MINI, but we wanted a new site geared specifically towards clubs, their events, and the people; that is, created for and by enthusiasts.

We produce internet TV and radio content that is freely available for download and sharing.

Now, we often find that classic Mini and new MINI events are shared with owners of other small (mostly classic) cars, such as the MGs and Triumphs, as well newer cars such as the Nissan 350Z, Mazda Miata, Smart ForTwo, etc. However, we are primarily Mini/MINI-oriented, so the news and events you find on Miniology is largely focused in that direction.

Miniology a non-profit and charitable organization, consists of dedicated volunteers who collaborate together on the site, blogs, video and audio podcasts.

Our primary producers and correspondents are: Rob ‘Califzeph’ Saunders – owns a 2004 red Mini Cooper S, highly modified and tricked out with all sorts of electronics. Rob is our main Westcoast/California correspondent as well produces and edits many of the podcasts. He lives near Sacramento, California and covers the majority of North Bay area events and near vicinity. Send your email stuff to ROB at MINIOLOGY dot COM! Rob is often trailed closely by his dogs and wife Alice (aka LWR) Christopher ‘StarLord’ Calhoun – has owned both Classic and new MINI models, as well a 2008 smart ForTwo Passion Coupe and a old Chevy Blazer (“the Winter beater”). For the past few years Christopher was our Canadian correspondant with wife Rhonda, though they were often so busy having fun they forgot to take any pictures or videos of the experience. When he isn’t busy doing website stuff or grabbing press releases fresh from BMW/MINI, he’s also

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lending a hand with Rob to publish the other broadcast media content from our fearless team of Miniologists worldwide! So hurry now and email Chris AT Miniology DOT com, he’s back in California and looking for demo rides (or footage therefrom) of other people’s Minis, LOL. Norm ‘Pooper’ Nelson – owns a completely blacked out “stealth” MINI Pooper S with an immeasurable amount of modifications, a very wicked machine indeed. If you look on the boot you will find the ‘C’ in the cooper badge has been replaced by a ‘P’. Norm is one of the founding members of the Shasta Mini club in Northern California. His wife Jesse drives a gorgeous little black British Open Classic (Rover reshell) named ‘Pynt Syz’ — both cars have custom flames painted on them as well, a matching pair! Norm and Jesse have other Minis in their family as well, so you never know what they might be driving Other contributors include Jessica Nelson, Heather Gold, LaLa Sowheazy and Jerry Del Castello.

You can find us at www.miniology.com, iTunes and Stitcher Radio.

Follow us on Twitter, twitter.com/miniology OR facebook.com/miniologypodcast Rob Saunders Producer/Host Miniology TV/Radio califzeph@mac.com

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LOW COST MOTORSPORT FOR THE MASSES!

Autoslalom is grassroots motorsport using your own car in a controlled environment. The emphasis is on car handling and the driver’s skill. Come along and check out the BMW Clubs Canada Trillium Chapter series run in and around Toronto. Enjoy the casual atmosphere with great people.

Joy is Trillium BMW Club

COMING NEXT MONTH CTCC Roundup - Canadian tin tops eh!

GRAND-AM - From Barber and Road Atlanta Featured Photographer - Jake Galstad RePlay XD - The motorsport camera!

Reign in 625 Horses - An E92 M3 gets a ESS upgrade Feature MINI - Bill Hartner’s racer And Much, Much, More!

www.trillium-bmwclub.ca

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