Vol. 5 Issue 7
JULY 2014
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OWNER PRESIDENT – Scott Robinson scott@wheelsofthunder.net 612-730-3719
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Special Features
Paul Teutul Sr .........................................4
EDITORIAL STAFF
BIR - Racing Through Summer ................24
EDITOR/CREATIVE DIRECTOR editor@wheelsofthunder.net 763-421-4400
Princeton Speedway .............................28
Photographers/Writers
Mystik Terracross..................................40
MYLIE LAVOLD TOM EDWARDS
Pro Stock Cars .....................................46
BILLY BOYLE JENNA OSTERLUND
Rally’s & Shows
CEAJA PHILP
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Mystic Lake - Northern Thunder ..............9
STEVE CASPER
Ogilvie Raceway ..................................16
ADVERTISING STAFF SALES – Scott Robinson scott@wheelsofthunder.net 612-730-3719
ERX BeaterX.........................................32
Thursday Night Thunder ........................36 BRRP....................................................45
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Reviews & Tech
SUBSCRIPTIONS
Transworks ..........................................18
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Departments
Garage Built.........................................12 All content published herein is owned exclusively by Midwest Wheels of Thunder Magazine. Reproduction or further dissemination of the content herein is strictly prohibited without the express written authorization of Midwest Wheels of Thunder Magazine.
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Boiling Point .........................................14
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ABATE of MN ......................................39
Game On! ...........................................50
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Written by Mylie Lougheed Photography by Greg Abrignani
“I’ve always believed that you can’t keep it unless you give it back. That’s always been a philosophy of mine…it’s part of the feeling that you have when you’re able to be in a position where you can give back, because, there’s a reward in that.” –Paul Teutul Sr. Page 4
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PAUL TEUTUL SR. Orange County Choppers
There is more to Paul Teutul Sr. of Orange County Choppers fame, than meets the eye. Under what may be perceived as a tough exterior, lays the heart of a man who is passionate about kids, animals and helping others. I will admit, I was a bit nervous prior to my interview with the famous, and sometimes infamous, Mr. Teutul. But, if I have learned
one thing over the years, it is never judge a book by its cover. I found Sr. (as he is called) to be a man with a passionate heart, an attitude of determination and strong work ethic. Teutul is best known for his custom motorcycles and themed choppers that are designed and built by Teutul and his team at Orange County Choppers. Teutul and OCC gained national and international fame on the Discovery Channel’s reality series American Chopper and CMT’s Orange County Choppers. The shows gave us all a close up look at the building of some of the coolest and cutting edge bikes ever made. Yeah there was drama. But its television, what do you expect? Again, don’t judge a book by its cover. The important thing is that the show opened a window to custom bike building and really got people thinking creatively. Speaking of thinking creatively, the OCC team has not let up on setting the bar high and reaching new heights in engineering and imagination. On June 20th, OCC unveiled the Forever Remembered Hearse Chopper or Casket Bike as Teutul calls it. Teutul says it was one of the most chal-
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lenging things they have done. “We had to get the bike to go straight down the road which was difficult due to the weight of the sidecar, or casket side. We had to design a special front end to make it work.” This is just another example that if you can imagine it, OCC will work with you to build it. A phone call to senior designer Jason Pohl and a healthy bank account is all you need. Pohl has been with OCC since 2004, using his design and computer skills to take 2-dimensional conceptual drawings and modeling and reshaping them into fully functional 3-dimensional parts. “Don’t ask me how he does it,” says Teutul with apparent respect and admiration for Pohl’s skills.
made by Bill from Executive Choppers, Baker 5 Speed left side drive transmission, Primo Primary Belt Drive, PM Hand Controls, Accutronix Brass Pegs foot controls, No School Choppers Dual Headlight, DNA
ing a 70’s style bike. I just finished the gold chopper in the pictures.” The bike features
Custom builds can run into the hundreds of thousands of dollars if that’s what the customer wants. Teutul says they built a bike that topped out around a million. But that’s not the norm. “Back in the day we did bikes for big corporations like Nike and Caterpillar that were up there in price but that’s less common these days. Now, a hundred thousand is good price for a build.”
Diamond Spoke Wheels and OCC custom tank, rear fender, risers, handle bars, fishtail exhaust, air cleaner. The paint, leather and chrome are also OCC custom; paint by Ralph Estrada and leather seat by Pirate
a Rolling Thunder Softail Frame, Indian 100 Cubic Inch Motor, Harman Front End
Upholstery and chrome by Chromemasters (Nashville, TN).
Besides commissioned builds, Teutul still builds bikes as a hobby. “I’m always build-
Teutul says not all the bikes he builds are super fancy or extreme, and even calls them “plain”. “I don’t build pro-streets or anything like that. It’s mostly the traditional David Mann style chopper.” “Plain” as they may be, Teutul says they’re built with correct angles and alignment, which is key in building choppers. Building isn’t limited to bikes at OCC. One of their latest builds is the Orange County Chopper’s Café. The restaurant is located in Newburgh, NY along with OCC corporate offices but plans for more locations are in the works, as are franchising opportunities. The theme is probably what you would expect, says Teutul. “When you come in there’s bikes hanging from the ceiling, wheels on the walls and lots of memorabilia.” The menu is pretty standard; wings, sandwiches, salads and entrees like steak, ribs and chicken. But Teutul says it’s the burgers that are the stars of the show. “We have the best burgers anywhere, by
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much that’s what I refer to. Because I think when these kids come here, it breaks your heart. But…the thing of it is they’re here because they want to be with you, they want a part of you… it’s their dream. So, to me it’s an honor to be able to do that, and I think I get more out of it than they do.”
far. I would challenge anybody to make a better burger.” Maybe Bobby Flay will show up and take Teutul up on that challenge?
abled heroes by providing education, empowerment and a sense of healing through their favorite outdoor pursuits,” says founder Mitch Serlin on the foundation’s website. Teutul and OCC have donated a bobber style chopper (the last bike built by Paul Sr. and Paul Jr. as seen on TV) valued at $22,000 for raffle. Tickets are $20 and available online at hereoshope.org. Drawing will take place on August 30th at 11:00 p.m.
According to Make a Wish Foundation’s January 2012 press release, “Teutul’s support of Make-A-Wish dates back to 2004, when the Orange County Choppers crew granted the wishes of several kids wanting to meet them. Since then, the Orange County Choppers team has granted more than 50 wishes to Make-A-Wish kids and has supported its local chapter, Make-AWish Hudson Valley, by hosting events for wish kids and their families and inviting them to Orange County Choppers programs.” Because of his support and dedication to the organization, Teutul was chosen as the Make-A-Wish Person of the Year in 2005, an award he was much honored to receive.
Make a Wish and the Hudson Valley SPCA are two charities that Teutul supports regularly. Business keeps Teutul beyond busy but never too busy to help others. It seems Teutul is always doing something for one charity or another, especially if it helps kids, animals or our nation’s service men and women. Currently, he is involved with the Hope for Heroes Foundation whose mission is “to bring the outdoors back to our nation’s dis-
In a June 2012 interview with CNBC Teutul talked about Make a Wish. “We support the Make a Wish Foundation— it’s terminally ill kids, and basically, they get a last wish, and we were number one as far as their wishes which is, I think, pretty impressive, you know, to want to come here and see …bike guys. When I talk about making a difference in people’s lives, pretty Teutul makes wishes come true for animals as well. He not only supports the HVSPCA, he serves as vice president. “It’s one of the few true non-kill shelters,” says Teutul. “It’s a challenge with all the medical and other bills but it’s important to have a non-kill place for the animals to have a chance for a good life.” He encourages adopting a rescue animal if at all possible. “There are places where you can get a specific breed or just a mutt/mix.” Another way Teutul helps others is by openly talking about his addiction and sobriety. 29 years sober, Teutul knows it isn’t
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easy getting and staying sober. “When you are out there getting high it’s a way of life. People don’t know or don’t believe there is something better. I was one of those people. But there is a life without booze or drugs and it’s a good life.” Teutul got sober through AA and encourages others to take that first step and go to a meeting and reach out to someone. “I didn’t trust anyone at first but then I found out all the things we had in common, how we were all the same.” He also says we wouldn’t be where he is today if he hadn’t gotten help and gotten sober. When Teutul finds that rare “me time” he says he is usually at home with his “four dogs, two cows…and partridge in a pear tree.” You can also find him fishing, working out and enjoying one of the many classic muscle cars in his collection. Of course, he still has a passion for jumping on a bike and heading out for a ride on the open road.
Fans looking to catch up with Teutul in person this summer can find him at the New England Patriots Bike Unveil on July 20, benefiting the New England Fitness Challenge. For a chance to will the custom OCC chopper visit www.NEFC2014.com. From there, Teutul heads to Charlotte NC, for a July 25th appearance for Black Flag. If you are feeling like a fall road trip, head to Reno, NV to the Street Vibrations Fall Event on September 24-28 and catch up with Teutul at the rally. Registration is open now at www.roadshowsreno.com/sv_fall.php or, join Teutul on the Make-A-Wish Charity Ride at Orange County Choppers World Headquarters in Newburgh, NY on October 4th.
The road of life has been a scenic ride for Paul Teutul Sr. From the Merchant Marines, to building bikes in his basement, to heading a multi-million dollar business, his journey has had twists and turns, beginnings and endings and it sure isn’t over yet. That brings to mind a quote I read by Ursula K LeGuin, “It is good to have an end to journey towards; but it is the journey that matters in the end.” I think Teutul would agree. Connect with OCC Website: orangecountychoppers.com Main Corporate Office: 845-522-5248 Twitter: PaulTeutulSr Instagram: PaulTeutulSr Facebook: Orange County Choppers https://www.facebook.com/orangecountychoppers
What does the future hold for Teutul and OCC? A return to the Discovery Channel for one thing. Yes, it is true. Contracts were being signed at the time of my interview with Teutul. “I’m looking forward to being back on air and building bikes,” says Teutul. He says fans can look forward to seeing some new things this time around. “I think we are going to try showing some different technology. It will be bike related but we want branch out and try new things. We have talked about a steam engine and other unique things that viewers will be interested in.”
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Lukawski 1940 Ford Coupe Deluxe Car “4 U Pops!” In 2000, William was diagnosed with cancer and was in and out of the hospital. Through the hospital visits J recalls that when it seemed his dad was at a low he would mention the latest updates for their project, which he said would lighten his father’s spirits. Sadly William’s battle with cancer ended with his passing on March 10th, 2001. Even though he was not able to finish the 1940 Ford Coupe project himself, J and his family made a promise to him that the car would be completed as he had wished. They did just that!
Written by Ceaja Philp
Stock Original This is where it all started!
Sound Familiar? Do you have a story of your custom ride? E-mail editor@wheelsofthunder.net and you could be featured with your ride in the next issue! Page 12
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A dark alley in South Minneapolis, MN, sitting next to a burn barrel sure doesn’t sound like great place to be for a diamond in the rough. In 1964, William Lukawski recognized the same thing, gave the owner $40 and brought home his project car. It was a chore just to get the 1940 Ford Coupe Deluxe home that day, with missing floor boards and trying to keep from falling through what was left of them as he shifted the gears. Lukawski got his Coupe together and raced it in the late 1960s and early 1970s. The Ford has seen many different engines under its hood, including a 283, 327 and a few 350s. After the birth of their son, J in 1969 and his daughter Terri, in 1971, the Ford Coupe became a daily driver, running errands, getting groceries, going to work and so on through the late 70s and early 80s. In 1994, J and his dad decided to start a complete restore on the ‘family car’. This time it was to have things such as air conditioning, new interior (now that the kids were ‘ice cream safe’), power windows, brakes and more. They were excited to take the car in to have it dipped (an acid process to rid all the old paint, rust, etc). Excited until they saw the car afterwards and realized
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a lot of the car was now gone. The project then became bigger with having to put in a new floor, firewall and other parts that came up missing after the process had been done. They continued working on the Coupe on and off while working on other cars along the way for the next 5 years. With the help of Julianne Lukawski, J’s mother, with how she felt her husband would have liked to see the Coupe complete, they were able to get it done the very morning of the 2003 GSTA show. They rolled it out of the shop and to the show. It was a very happy moment for the entire family. The 1940 Ford Coupe that had been a part of their lives for so many years was sitting on the show room floor as an entry. The beautiful Coupe was nominated for Street Rod of the Year by MSRA in 2003 (only 12 are chosen and voted on through the year). It was again nominated in 2005, but this time won, and throughout 2006 it was celebrated as MSRA’s Street Rod of the Year. Another award that stands out to the family is the Silver Hacksaw Award, given out by the Twin Cities Roadsters. It was given to them at the MSRA event in 2004. This award is given to a non-member
with a pre-1949 closed car that they feel would be ‘the perfect car…if you cut the top off’, as they are a convertible group. J is proud to say they hold many other awards with their ‘family car’ and his mother drives this car still today. There is so much care and love that has been put into the completion of the Lukawski’s prize 1940 Ford Coupe. Even the license plate expresses their love for the man who holds the most special place in their hearts, which reads, “4U POPS”. Today, their 1940 Ford Coupe features a 1967 Corvette 327 with 425hp, 700R4 transmission with overdrive, 9” Ford rear end with 355gears, paint by Unique Body and Paint, interior by Bill’s Auto Trim and such luxuries such as power windows, power seats, cruise control, stereo system, and A/C. The body has been modified by shortening the bumpers, hidden handles with poppers for the doors and trunk, and the hood has been ‘nosed’ with 2 ½ inches cut out. There is no doubt meeting J and his mother at this year’s 2010 GSTA, the blue flamed 1940 Ford Coupe Deluxe will be passed from generation to generation with great pride and a wonderful story to tell.
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Written by Billy Boyle
A SOLDIERS FALL FROM GRACE – THE MEDAL OF HONOR SAVES FACE On May 31st 2014 I first heard of an American soldier that was held captive for five years by the Taliban was in the process being released. As a father of a Marine I was elated that the United States of America and our President Barrack Obama negotiated a deal to get one of boys back home after a grueling five years in captivity. The initial details were sketchy on what was negotiated and then the details hit the newswire. For me it was like I was deflated from the emotional state I was in just a few hours prior. The details that we were releasing five of the top Taliban leaders being held at Guantanamo Bay for Sargent Bowe Bergdahl. My concern was releasing five known and proven leaders of one of the top terrorist militant groups in the world. Previously released prisoners have marched right back from where they left off and have killed and maimed just like they did before they were captured. Believe me I am a supporter of never leaving an American behind, but I also know that the caliber of this swap opened a big security risk for American Military personnel to be targeted by any terrorist group in exchange for more dirt bag terrorist.
The Negotiations The President’s response was Sargent Bergdahl health was failing quickly and we had to make a move quickly or he would die. Watching the swap and closely watching Bergdahl he appeared to be well nourished and alert. I have seen more American homeless GI’s stateside that look far worse than the captured Bowe Bergdahl. I had hoped there was a deeper reason that this ridiculous swap negotiated, as in tracking devices being shoved so far up the Taliban leaders rectums that we could follow their every move. But that was my only hope of the USA saving face. The reality of the negotiations had started to fall completely apart when information from Bergdhal’s own platoon buddies came forward to disclose that he was never abducted by the Taliban. Bergdahl simply walked away from his post exposing the security of the now vulnerable outpost and sought out the Taliban. When more information started to leak out we the American people found out that our President did not clear this swap with Congress as it is written in the constitution. In this case, the secretary, Chuck Hagel, acknowledged in a statement that he did not notify Congress ahead of time. When Mr. Obama signed a bill containing the latest version of the transfer restrictions into law, he issued a signing statement claiming that he could lawfully override them under his executive powers. “The executive branch must have the flexibility, among other things, to act swiftly in conducting negotiations with foreign countries regarding the circumstances of detainee transfers,” he wrote in the signing statement, adding that if the restrictions “operate in a manner that violates constitutional separation of powers principles, my administration will implement them in a manner that avoids the constitutional
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conflict.” So if you were playing poker we traded our full house for a lone two of spades. I still don’t get it and probably never will, but let’s get off this possible Taliban sympathizer and turn our attention to a true American hero. The Medal of Honor Marine Cpl. William Kyle Carpenter is the newest recipient of the Military’s highest honor the Congressional Medal of Honor. Again being a proud father of a United States Marine I was excited that a Marine was selected, however the skeptic in me emerged. Corporal Carpenter was well deserving of the award, but did our government speed up the award ceremony to take the heat off the President for the bumbling release of the five Taliban leaders? Marine Corporal William Kyle Carpenter’s Story Cpl Carpenter was serving in Afghanistan when, on November 21st, 2010, he was on a rooftop in Afghanistan’s province of Helmand where a grenade came onto the roof to endanger both him and his fellow Ma-
Marine Corporal William Kyle Carpenter July 2014
rine, Lance Cpl Nicholas Eufrazio. Cpl Carpenter then covered the grenade to protect his friend from the blast and in turn saved both of their lives. As a result of the blast, Carpenter lost part of his jaw, his right eye and required frequent surgeries for dozens of fractured bones. Lance Cpl Eufrazio sustained damage to the frontal lobe of his brain from the shrapnel, inhibiting his speech until late 2012. It was Cpl Carpenter’s immense bravery that undoubtedly saved both of their lives, according to many of the troops who served with the men. So let’s get this right Bergdahl walks away and leaves his buddies behind and Corporal Carpenter shields his buddy from a grenade with his own body. Bergdahl denounces the United States of America and Corporal Carpenter visits wounded warriors regularly to inspire them to get back on track. And the released Taliban at least one has already vowed to kill Americans. Way to go B. O. Medal of Honor II
iban fighters and guided air strikes that helped repel the attack. He also used a tactic known as "cooking off" grenades, pulling the pin and holding it longer than usual so the enemy couldn't throw it back. "While it is an honor to have been nominated for the award, it is not mine alone," he said. "The honor belongs to every man who fought at Vehicle Patrol Base Kahler, especially to those who made the ultimate sacrifice that allowed the rest of us to return home. I have an absolute responsibility to tell our story, because there are nine men who cannot and it is their names you should know." They are Sergio Abad, Jonathan Ayers, Jason Bogar, Jonathan Brostrom, Israel Garcia, Jason Hovater, Matthew Phillips, Pruitt Rainey and Gunnar Zwilling.
Former Staff Sgt. Ryan Pitts "I take comfort somehow in the pain of that loss, because it reminds me that they meant something to me and I never want to forget that and I appreciate the sacrifice they made for us," he said. Ryan Pitt rocks, here he is being honored for the nation’s highest award and as a true hero would do mentions his comrades that lost their lives battling the Taliban in that bloody battle.
As far our so called released prisoner of war the word on the street is that several of Bergdhal’s comrades were in killed in action while looking for the missing soldier. We need to honor these brave Patriots for the sacrifice they made while in search of a fellow soldier. But that’s what these brave men are trained to do, Carpenter shielding his buddy from a grenade, Pitts never giving up even in the face of death and the odd’s stacked against them. And finally we have these five Patriots putting their lives on the looking for a possible deserter. Whatever side you support in this debate of did he stay or did he go, American Military go above and beyond every single day. They don’t turn their back on their comrades or country. They don’t seek out the enemy because America opposes their cause and the leader of our country should confide with the experts before letting five homicidal criminal maniacs back into the Terrorist network. What was he thinking? I could write a book on what has transpired over the last decade that are somewhat related to the actions like the Bergdahl stroll in the park. But we need to focus on the now – bring our heroes home, bring them home with honor, and never forget what sacrifices these brave men and women have made so we can live free. As always I welcome your comments, your views and your input. The point of the Boiling Point is to weigh up the pro and cons. I really tried to see both sides with this article, but the more I read and research the case the more I am in disbelief that this event actually happened. I am an Irishman from South Boston with a thick spine if you have another view of the incident let’s bring it on. I am sure we can publish your side of the debate. Stay safe, healthy, and enjoy the awesome summer.
Ryan Pitts will wear the nation's highest award for combat valor, but the humble and soft-spoken Medal of Honor recipient who continued to fight after being wounded in one of Afghanistan's bloodiest battles insisted that the medal belongs to all of his comrades who fought and died that day. Pitts, now a 28-year-old married father of one, will receive the medal in July at the White House. The citation says Pitts fought off enemy fighters on July 13, 2008, in Wanat, Afghanistan. Despite losing blood from wounds in both legs and an arm, he continued to fire at about 200 TalJuly 2014
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18607 Highway 65 NE • East Bethel, MN 55011
763-219-4181 Exceptional work by exceptional auto mechanics
A
recent visit to Transmission Works on Highway 65 in East Bethel, Minnesota brought to my attention the importance of values when you own a business. Meet Nick Dubovich owner and operator of Transmission Works, as I started to interview Nick the phone would ring again and again, Nick would apologize and excuse himself to take the customers call. As a former owner of a business and now writer for Wheels of Thunder the last thing Nick needed to do was apologize. I recognized that customer’s calls are not distractions, customer calls are what keep a business thriving much like Transmission Works. That’s what sold me on this truly family owned business. When Nick and I finally got a little time to speak that is what impressed me was this business started long before Nick Dubovich hung the “Open for Business” sign up.
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Written by Billy Boyle
Making auto maintenance easy & convenient for you! A well-maintained car or truck is sure to last you many years on the road. So whether you need an oil change, scheduled maintenance services, or a tune-up, you an always depend on us for quick turnaround times and courteous service at an affordable price.
TRANSWORKS A business that focuses on family, customers and the community. Nick started working in his dad’s auto body and maintenance shops at a very young age. You could say he was weaned in the business or bitten by that bug that excites you to go to work every day. To round out that experience Nick eventually found his way to the new and used auto parts business for ten years. This was kind of a nice stepping stone to make way for what was to become his primary livelihood. Nick found his niché working for a company that specialized in the transmission repair and installation. Nick had an opportunity to do what he had dreamed about doing. He solidly planted his feet and financial resources and bought the place he once was employed by. That was twelve years ago and Transmission Works is still one of those true family operated business that found a business plan to keep it successful. As Nick describes the success “It all boils down to customer commitment, giving people the best service they could possibly get and treating them and their ve-
hicle like a VIP everyday”. I can see why customers refer Transmission Works to family and friends as the first place of choice when needing transmission work or other maintenance work performed on their prized possession. Speaking of other maintenance work, Transmission Works employs three full time techs that are all professionally certified to take your vehicle from start to finish much like a doctor treats his patients. Diagnosing your vehicles problems early and accurately saves valuable time and money. Nick stated “there is nothing we can’t do” I have all the confidence in the world of my technician’s” Tranny’s are our specialty, but our guys have so much experience in other areas it makes sense to offer the full service plan. Maybe you need a quick purchase of a battery or the replacement of a windshield wiper Transmission Works also offers a full
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Financial donations are one area where Transmission Works steps up to the plate; however the real hits the road when it comes to rolling up the sleeves and volunteering at an event or two. From my personal perspective I have seen too many local businesses talk the talk about community support, Transmission Works and the Dubovich’s live it and breathe it. That is why local and family owned businesses survive and grow. I spoke a customer as he was leaving his comment was that he would not take his vehicle to any other
than any billboard you could buy on a well-traveled highway. That is real people talking about exceptional service.
line of batteries from Interstate Batteries and Excide. They also have full visibility center offering ANCO wipers to keep the windshield clear, clean and safe. The family business consists of Nick’s two brothers and his wife, waiting in the wings is the Dubovich’s 14 year old daughter, but they may be waiting a while as she is a busy lady playing basketball and lacrosse. This is a nice Segway about Transmission Works community commitment. Nick being from the area and knowing how important sports and activities are to a growing community he and his wife tend to get more involved than the everyday business owner.
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service center, he trust Nick, his team of mechanics, and the commitment to customer excellence. That statement is better
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If you need to contact or visit Transmission Works for any service needed they are located at 18607 Highway 65 N.E. in East Bethel, MN. You can call them for an appointment or answer to your questions at 763-413-7001. Or visit the website at www.transmissionworksmn.com. Trust me - you will be glad that you choose Transmission Works for all you automotive needs.
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n true Fourth of July fashion, Brainerd International Raceway’s July racing schedule starts off with a bang and features a diverse lineup that race fans have come to expect.
I
The schedule starts with the 28th Annual PleasureLand RV Show & Go on the Fourth of July weekend, followed by an Aussie-style
cruisin’ event, the fourth Bracket Drag Racing Series weekend and Superbike racing.
largest events of the summer, and this year should be no exception.
Variety, again, is the name of the game at BIR as the July schedule gives fans a taste of some unique and new types of racing and driving events.
This year’s Show & Go features the debut of the Cheerios Racing Great North Legends Cars, which will be on the road course Saturday and Sunday for wheel-to-wheel racing action. The Legends Cars are five-eighths scale replicas of 1930s coups and sedans, but these are built for speed. They’re light and quick and always put on a great show. Throughout the season, they race at paved oval tracks around Minnesota, so ask around to learn how much fun they are to watch.
It all starts July 4-6 with the PleasureLand RV Show & Go, which is a long-running tradition at BIR. There’s drag racing, road racing, a car show, live music, camping and a spectacular fireworks display to celebrate Independence Day. It’s always been one of BIR’s
Visit www.BrainerdRaceway.com for more details Page 24
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Written by Geoff Gorvin
The Legends Cars will be sharing the road course Saturday and Sunday with the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA), which will be racing in several different classes, including open-wheel cars, Spec Racer Fords and vintage racers. They have practice and qualifying sessions both days and then 12-lap races each afternoon. On the drag strip, giant horsepower will be on display during the second leg of the Muscle Car Series. Off the track, there’s a classic car show, live music by Junk FM, activities and games for kids, and fireworks, all on Saturday. The Aussies come to town the following weekend, July 11-13, for Powercruise, which is a crazy cruising that’s unique to
North America but huge in Australia, New Zealand and parts of Europe. It’s a full-participation event for drivers interested in a Play Day for their cars. Individual events include drifting competitions, power skids (accelerated burnouts), off-street drags, burnout contests and stage shows. But the cruising sessions are very popular because it allows participants to load up their car with their buddies and cruise around BIR’s road course next to muscle cars, modifieds, hot rods and imports. When the track recovers from Powercruise, drag racing and Superbike racing takes over July 18-20 with the fourth weekend for the Bracket Drag Racing Series on the drag strip and the Central Roadracing Association’s insane brand of Superbike racing on BIR’s Competition Road Course. Fans can watch more than 250 dragsters, cars, trucks, bikes, snowmobiles and Junior Dragsters battle on the drag strip for prize money and series points. It’s some of the most competitive amateur drag racing in the country. The Bracket Series has street classes for those who want to give drag racing a try, but a more appropriate opportunity might be the Wednesday Night Drags – Street Legal Style program, where BIR opens its drag strip to anyone who wants to try their hand at drag racing. For $25, drivers can run the track as many times as time allows, using the light tree, the scoreboard and the burnout box. There’s even an announcer calling the action. There are three dates this month: July 2, 16 and 30.
Photograph provided by Rick Corwine July 2014
If you’re looking for unique racing events, BIR is the place to be this summer. www.WheelsofThunder.net
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une has been another fantastic month of racing and activities at the Princeton Speedway. The month featured a Kid’s Night, the Upper Midwest Sprint Cars and lots of great WISSOTA Amsoil Dirt Track Racing action. The weather couldn’t have been more perfect on May 30 when Justin Pogones won the Street Stock Feature. Ryan Kostreba took the lead while Pogones stole second. Allen Gessell, Jr. moved in and the three of them battled for the lead. Pogones pulled away and rolled the Pogo Chicken Powered #01 into victory lane for the second week in a row. Page 28
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Written by Tami Jo Kuehn Photography by Bailey Sens and Laura Hess-Ulman WISSOTA Modified feature had some great action as well that night. The race got underway with Dustin Nelson in the lead. Don Eischens moved into second and began to work Nelson for the lead. Nelson kept him back but Eischens caught Nelson’s bumper and dove low. Eischens made the pass and drove away from the pack. As the checkers were raised, Shawn Fletcher and Nelson were side by side for second. Fletcher was faster and took second while Don Eischens rolled his Richmond Tire and Auto #9e into victory lane. There was rain in every direction, however the Upper Midwest Sprint Car series (UMSS) was in the pits and was ready for action on June 6. The UMSS were on hand for the 13th Annual Billy Anderson Memorial Race. Anderson was a long time racer who was injured in a sprint car accident, and after a long time battle with medical complications, passed away in 2001. The sprints took the green and Chris Graf claimed the
lead. Brooke Tatnell quickly made the pass for first and soon the leaders were lapping. Tatnell used the whole track surface to lap drivers when Davey Heskin and soon thereafter Graf went over the tracks edge. Both drivers kept going and the race remained green, but Graf gave up his second position. The Sprint 25 lap feature went flag to flag as Tatnell took the checkers. Tatnell celebrated by doing multiple “tornado style” burnouts and the crowd went wild. 23 WISSOTA Midwest Modifieds filled the quarter mile for the next race that night. Kevin Schmidt quickly took the lead but the first caution appeared. Multiple cautions took place but Schmidt retained the lead. Denis Czech and Jason Hall battled for second but soon took Schmidt’s sides and went three wide for first. Hall pulled ahead but the yellow flew putting Czech and Shane Sabraski on his bumper. The top three drove away as the green waved, but Sabraski made the pass for first. Sabraski held the competition the remaining laps putting his #7a into victory lane. Jasmin Matthewman and Lexy Kastner brought the Princeton Speedway Hornets to the stand and Matthewman grabbed first. Dannie Burkholder came through the traffic and assumed the lead. Matthewman held onto second as the yellow flew for incidents on the track. Burkholder remained in the lead as the green flew and put his #46ssg sponsored by Outdoor Authority in victory lane for the third time this season. The first Kid’s Night of the season was also in June and families filled the stands. Bike’s were donated, activities planned and inflatable’s were available for kids enjoyment. Marv’s True Valu and Just Ask Rental of Princeton sponsored the night and supplied the inflatable’s and activities. Also, Princeton Public Utilities, Riverside Chi-
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ropractic, ABRA Auto Body and Glass, Bright Child, Minuteman Press, Princeton Speedway, Little Red Wagon, Dirt Race Central, Roxbury Racing Transmissions, Walmart, Guys Towing, Princeton Trading Post, Jasmin Matthewman #06 Racing, Dannie Burkholder #46ssg Racing and Amanda Milbrandt #81 Race Team donated the bikes to be given away. Along with the normal Jr. fans, there were Jr. flag people and even a Jr. announcer. It was a fun night for the kids and adults! After the bike excitement settled, the JNP WISSOTA Mod Fours ran with Abby Garin and Tommy Bawden on the front row. Bawden grabbed the lead but the yellow waved. Bawden took the lead on the restart but Keith Thell took second. Thell passed Bawden and sped away as Funt stole second. Thell took the win with his Wollak Construction #00t. The WISSOTA Super Stocks took the clay and Kyle Robideau claimed first. Mike Loomis and Shane Sabraski battled for second as they rounded the curves. Sabraski took second and passed Robideau’s #23 for the lead as the yellow flew. Sabraski was alone on the restart while Loomis and Robideau went door to door for second. Dexton Koch waited patiently behind them until Loomis broke away. Koch then grabbed the high groove and settled into second. Sabraski was a straight-away ahead and took the checkers in his West Metro Buick GMC sponsored Super Stock.
The final race on Kids Night was for the WISSOTA Modifieds. Dustin Nelson and Jeremy Nelson brought the drivers to the stand and they battled side by side when the green flew. After a couple laps, Dustin Nelson broke away. Jeremy Nelson kept second and ran the cushion along with Larry Zeller. Both drivers nearly went off the edge, but kept their cars going. Shane Sabraski moved into second and with only two laps remaining Zeller was next to Sabraski. Zeller tried to take second, but Sabraski’s lower groove was faster. Dustin Nelson maintained his lead and rolled his
#46 into the Massman Geothermal & Mechanical Victory Lane. Looking forward, July and August will feature many great nights. Make sure you mark your calendar for July 18. This date will be the second and final Kids Night of the season. This Kids Night is Meet the Drivers night where all drivers pull on the track and kids get to meet them, get candy and other prizes. It’s a fun night for the entire family. Kids aged 12 and under will also be FREE this night. July 25 will be the 2nd Annual Car Show. The Car Show takes place before the races at the track with cars being on display. Drivers, Fans and track employee’s all vote on the cars and awards are given before the night is over. If you have a car you want to show, contact the speedway and get registered. The winged warriors UMSS sprint cars will swing into Princeton again on August 15 for the Kouba Memorial race. Their first visit to the track was great with lots of action, make sure you come out for this night’s action. Remember, the Princeton Speedway races on Friday nights at 7pm. To get all the up to date info on the Friday Night Car Fights visit www.princetonspeedway.com or “like” us on Facebook by searching Princeton Speedway.
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PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT This is the foundation of everything we do in life. Whether at work or play, knowing what has been successful in the past and problems that may develop in the future keeps us sharp. This is why the military trains constantly. It is also the foundation of motorcycle rider training, motorcycle awareness, and, my focus today, interaction with your elected officials. Legislatively, Minnesota motorcyclists have had it pretty good for a number of years. This has lulled many people into the false belief that this will always be so. They just assume that others will take care of their ride. I am here to tell you that there are forces lining up that want to take your ride, as you know it, away from you. Read on: What if they priced you off the road? Don’t think it can happen? For the second year in a row there was a bill introduced in the Minnesota legislature (HF3393) that would force you to buy very expensive insurance before you could legally ride your street bike. How expensive you ask? I asked my insurance agent to write up a quote based on the requirements of the bill. If this type of statute were to become law, I
would be looking at a $1,443 increase for insurance annually. That’s increase. On top of what we are already paying. Per bike, not per rider. Our household has four motorcycles registered for street use - a whopping $5,772 more per year! The summer parade and town hall meeting season is in full swing across Minnesota. Your state representative and senate candidates will be there ready to talk. Get to know them now. Then when this issue and others come up in the 2015 legislative session, you will have a much easier time making contact and getting their support. Practice makes perfect. What if they tried to sneak something into a nationwide bill? Recently ABATE of Minnesota sent out an Enews alert asking for immediate action. A routine appropriations bill contained a provision that would allow federal agencies to throw their resources at state legislatures to reduce motorcycle fatalities (Read: helmet laws). Two US Representatives had written an amendment to remove this language and they asked all freedom loving bikers to contact their US House of Representatives for support (The vote was in two days). Many Minnesotans
did exactly that. Some went an extra step and actively engaged other motorcyclists to take action the following morning (Thanks Red). Thanks to quick action from freedom minded motorcyclists across the country we were successful. However I was a little surprised at some of the responses I received. “I don’t know who represents me”, “How do I find the office number” etc. These folks should have been making regular contact on minor issues over the years so they would be ready to act when called upon. The phone number should have been in the smart phone. Again, practice makes perfect. Football players practice during the week so they are ready on Sunday. First responders train constantly so they are ready at a crash or accident scene. Motorcyclists take rider training so they are prepared for an emergency. Bikers should also prepare for future days of defending motorcycling freedom. I am reminded of the New York City tourist who asked a cop “How do I get to Carnegie Hall?” His response: “Practice, Practice, Practice!” Yours in freedom, Mack
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MystiK Terracross championship 2014
T
he Mystik Lubricants Terracross Championship rolled into Southern California and brought UTV Supercross style racing to the San Diego County Fair. Racers from all over the United States, and a bunch from right here in Southern California came out to participate in one of the largest, most anticipated UTV races ever held! The Page 40
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racing was full of chaos, excitement and hard nosed door-2-door competition. Everything was filmed for television to be aired on on CBS sports at a later date, but it was all about the spec Polaris RZR XP1000 class at Terracross and thats where the best racing took place for 2 days strait.
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Photos By: Rusty Baptist & Ernesto Araiza UTVUnderground.com
Terracross is one part MX and one part enduro. The format is consists of practice, seeding, qualifying and then finals or mains. All seeding and qualifying is held on Saturday with Sunday hosting the LCQ’s and Mains. In front of a packed house both days, just under 26 spec Terracross XP1000 s competed in front of packed stands at the San Diego County Fair which attracts 10s of thousands of people each and every day. The machines as mentioned are spec XP1K’s provided by series sponsor Polaris. Machines are outfitted with doors, roofs, beadlock wheels and tires. The only difference between machines are the graphics adn some cars run Pro Armor doors, some factory Polaris doors, some run Walker Evans Racing
wheels, others run Method Race Wheels but all are on GBC Motorsports Kanati Mongrel Tires and all sport 5-point harnesses. One interesting feature on the machines were the new Factory windshield intrusion bars. This could be an inside look of what to expect from the factory at Polaris this year. The Polaris doors were also different providing a full door vs. just a half door. Racers are allowed to adjust their ride height and tire pressure but are prevented from adjusting or adding anything else to their machines.
With a qualifying format the pressure is on racers to perform. Only 16 cars make each main leaving 10 racers to sit the sidelines and miss the big filmed for TV main! Racers are encouraged to “put on a show” both for fans and for TV and thats exactly what they did! The other exciting part about Terracross is the lineup of drivers. Of course the reigning 2013 champ and Polaris poster boy RJ Anderson is back this year as is last years UTVUnderground.com driver Chad Ragland. Colten Moore, Dana Creech, Darryl Rath, BC Vaught, and Brian Bush are a few of the other returning racJuly 2014
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ers from 2013. Ragland moved out of the factory UTVUnderground.com #23 race car into a new #33 CageWrx / UTVUnderground machine making room for WORCS star Mitch Guthrie Jr.! “Mitchie” took over the #23 UTVUnderground / Walker Evans Racing RZR this year for us and we couldn’t be more excited about having him on our team with support from Super ATV, Holz Racing Products, GBC and Utendorfer Design. What also makes this year exciting is the addition of Supercross racing legend Jeremy McGrath! Showtime McGrath will be piloting the #2 Loctite RZR this year and not only does that add another level of competition for racers it also adds a lot of excitement to the series as a whole. As a UTV guy, I am honored to have McGrath competing in a UTV and I know I share that sentiment with many others in our sport. Joe Duncan, the head of Terracross, went one step further in making sure the opening round of Terracross went off this year. Besides locking down one of the coolest venues to ever host a UTV race, he also
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brought out off-road icons Walker Evans and Larry Ragland to come participate. Walker Evans who jumped behind the wheel of his very own Walker Evans Racing Polaris RZR brought the same style of driving to Terracross that has earned him
21 off-road racing championships, including 5 Baja 1000 wins! The 75 year old put on a clinic racing his young prodigy RJ Anderson head to head both days at Terracross. Day 1 saw RJ lead Walker into the big arena over / under gap jump but before
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they could even complete a lap the racing legend through a pass that would overtake RJ and give him the lead for the next 5 laps! He would finish that exhibition race in the lead with RJ making comment to us that he was trying everything he could to run Walker down! Larry Ragland is no slouch either! Lightning Larry Ragland is also a 5 time overall Baja 1000 winner and has more wins in off-road racing then we care to count. Larry jumped behind the wheel of his own CageWRX / UTVUnderground Terracross RZR and ran with the pack all day on Saturday. It was so cool to see Larry and son Chad out there in those orange UTVUnderground RZR’s, it truly is a highlight for us here at UTVUnderground.com and an even bigger highlight for our sport as a whole. It really shows where this sport is going when such iconic veterans of our sport are truly embracing UTV culture and competition! The racing caused pure carnage both days for many racers. One driver went end over end just in a practice run and racing claimed numerous drivers due to roll overs, mechanicals and collisions. One such collision would take the reigning 2013 champion and UTVUG race team driver RJ Anderson out on lap one of the first main. After dominating all the qualifiers RJ would lead the pack out of the gate but then one anxious driver would drive strait into RJ on a hair pin turn leaving RJ with a destroyed steering rack. Unfortunately for the driver, RJ was able to pin it down the strait and return the favor by parking his RZR strait into a k-rail sending the crowd into a frenzy! From there it was all about the #23 UTVUnderground.com RZR and teammate to RJ Anderson, Mitch Guthrie Jr., who would work his way through the pack and take over the lead in an exciting first main. Guthrie would begin to lay down some of the weekends fastest laps July 2014
with newcomer Mickey Thomas hot on his tail. Thomas in his #44 RZR tried everything he could to reel the young gun in but he just couldn’t get close to the #23 who would cross the finish line and take home the first big main win of the season! We support all racers, those with and without UTVUnderground.com logos, but of course we are lucky enough to have our very own UTVUnderground.com machine and so to see that RZR win was huge for us for many reasons. #1 we work very hard to help grow this sport, and have done so now for over 5 years. Joe Duncan at Terracross and the staff at Polaris gave us an opportunity to run our own machine and with help from some amazing sponsors and of course with the talents of Mitch Guthrie Jr. behind the wheel we are using this #23 to hopefully help put even more eyeballs on our
site. This site is not just for us, this site is for EVERYONE who loves this sport so the more people who see and read and watch what we do here, the MORE we can do to further promote and grow the UTV industry. This machine is not only a means to have fun, its a tool to hopefully attract
more people to UTVUnderground.com and which in turn will help us turn more people into UTV enthusiasts. After another set of LCQs the stage was set for the second and last main of the weekend. Unfortunately for Guthrie in our #23, he would suffer a broken rear axle which would take him out of making this final race preventing any hopes of a back to back weekend. However, with no one being able to even get close enough to take out the 2013 champ, RJ Anderson was able to lead flag to flag and win his first race of the 2014 season! RJ would hole-shot once again and never look back. The only time racers would get within striking distance was with a couple full course cautions and race re-starts, but even then the smooth, hard driving Anderson would check out
and put time between he and the rest of the pack. The only thing that felt similar between the first and second main was the carnage and that same #44 putting pressure on from the second place position. Mickey Thomas was someone we had never heard of before this weekend. After speaking to Mickey Thomas Sr. we found out that Jr.
has been competing at the GORS series down south. I’ll tell you what, we got our eye on this fast kid from the south. We plan to track him down and fill everyone in on just who he is, and we hope to get some UTVUnderground.com logos on that car sooner than later! In between the Terracross Championship Pro class races was a fun Pro-Am National qualifier round of racing which allowed racers from outside the series to bring in their own UTVs to compete. Names such as Nick Nelson, Nic Grunland, Jake Shaw, James Hill, John Pacheco, Will Rodgers, and Tommy Scranton would come out to test their skills and machines on the track in hopes of earning their own invite to the big class at a later round this season. The racers from WORCS and Lucas Oil put on July 2014
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what looked more like a demo derby than a race at times! They did not disappoint when it came to putting on a show and we were stoked that Terracross allowed this race to happen despite the cars absolutely causing mayhem to the track and to their own machines! We would love to see this class carry through to later rounds, so thank you to Terracross and to the racers who came out on such short notice to battle! In addition to all the fun racing action UTVUnderground.com along with Walker Evans Racing, GBC, Pro Armor and a few other series sponsors set up to show off cars, assist racers and sell products. We brought out the UTVUnderground / RaceDezert / Mint 400 trailer, sold and giveaway a bunch of shirts, hats, DVDs, and stickers and just had a blast interacting with every-
some of your very own UTVUG gear!!
one in our own backyard. If you didn’t get a chance to pick up some of our awesome new gear in person then no worries, we will soon have it up in our store which is already full of other cool swag so go check it out and support the cause by purchasing
We had a ton of fun this last weekend. Thank you to EVERYONE who represented us out there in Del Mar, especially those who did so by purchasing gear and sporting it throughout the race weekend. It was awesome seeing all those red and black shirts and hats running around. I can’t tell you how cool that was for me and our team. Also, HUGE thank you to you racers and teams. You guys are why we do this, you guys and girls killed it out there and helped show those in attendance just how far our little golf carts have come. BIG thank you to Joe Duncan and his dedicated
staff at the Mystik Terracross Championship. You guys put on a hell of show, laid out a fantastic course and really put on one of the most exciting and un weekends of UTV racing we have ever been a part of. Lastly I want to extend a huge thank you to the hard working staff at UTVUnderground.com. As you can see by the images, Rusty Baptist and Ernesto Araiza are 2 of
the best photogs in our sport. They worked their butts off for 2 days strait to make sure you guys have some BANGER images to share, so grab them and blow them up! And stay tuned cause you know we got a sick video coming from our boy Aaron, curtesy of Mad Media. One more shout out goes to Ty who held us down in the UTVUnderground.com trailer all weekend slanging that quality merch. Until Haydays…..
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2014 RACING SCHEDULE BRRP Series includes: IMCA Modifieds & Northern Sportsmods, Legends, Pure Stocks, Hornets, Wissota Mod 4 Sunday May 11th Season Opener - Regular Classes Sunday May 18th Regular Classes Sunday May 25th NOSA Sprint Cars & Regular classes (no Mod class) Sunday June 1st Regular Classes Sunday June 8th Regular Classes Saturday June 14th Tuff Trucks, Train Races, Roll Over Contest Sunday June 15th NLRA Late Models & Regular classes (no Mod class) Saturday June 21st Regular Classes - Fan Appreciation Night Sunday June 22nd Regular Classes Sunday June 29th Regular Classes Sunday July 6th Regular Classes Sunday July 13th Regular Classes Sunday July 20th Regular Classes Saturday July 26th NOSA Sprint & Regular classes (no Mods or Mod-4 class) Sunday July 27th Regular Classes Sunday Aug. 3rd Regular Classes but no Mod-4's Sunday Aug. 10th Regular Classes Saturday Aug 16th Tuff Trucks, Train Races, Roll Over Contest Sunday Aug. 17th Regular Classes Thursday Aug. 21st Rally America Sunday Aug. 24th Regular Classes Sunday Aug. 31st Season Championship - Regular Classes Saturday Sept. 6th Corn Cob National Sunday Sept. 7th Corn Cob National Saturday Sept. 13th IMCA Special Sunday Sept. 14th IMCA Special Friday Dec. 12th ISOC National Snocross Saturday Dec. 13th ISOC National Snocross Sunday Dec 14th ISOC Regional Snocross Regular Classes include: Modifieds, Northern Sport Mods, Mod-4's, Legends, Pure Stocks, Hornets
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U
nlike nitro burning Funny Cars and Top Fuel dragsters, Pro Stock cars are normally aspirated; no superchargers on these race cars. Duel 4 barrel carburetors sit on high rise tunnel ram manifolds; that’s why a “dog house” style scoop is on the hood. The NHRA maximum displacement is 500 cubic inches. The V8 engines use a single camshaft. A ready to race Pro Stock engine carries a price tag in the quarter of a million dollars neighborhood. The racing
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fuel in the gas tank has an octane rating of 118 and is delivered at the rate of more than 7 gallons a minute. With the driver behind the wheel, the cars have in minimum weight of 2,350 pounds. The engines develop 1,200 to 1,300 horsepower. Historically, Pro Stock has consistently produced tightly grouped qualifying fields with the first and number 16 qualifiers separated by as little as .05 of a second. It makes for some great door handle to door handle drag racing
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Written by Tom Edwards
The first NHRA national event to feature Pro Stock as a professional category was the 1970 Winternationals at the legendary Pomona race track. Bill “Grumpy” Jenkins turned on the win light with Ronnie Sox piloting the Sox & Martin car in the opposite lane. Bill made it 2 in a row when he won the Gatornationals in Florida. From 1965 to 1975 The Grump had 13 wins. He was known as The Father of Pro Stock for the many design innovations he brought to the sport. I enjoyed seeing a Grumpy’s Toy Camero race the Sox & Matin Mopar at a Connecticut Dragway match race in the mid 1960’s. Years later at an event at the Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum at the Fairplex in Pomona, Bill and Ronnie autographed photos I had taken at the Con-
necticut track. Jenkins Competition engines have been the power plant of choice for a lot of racers. Seeing Grumpy wearing his standard floppy hat and taking notes at the starting line was a frequent sight at NHRA races for years.
In 1974 Bob Glidden won his first NHRA Pro Stock championship. He did it again in 1975, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988 and 1989 for a record setting 10 titles. His first win was at the 1973 U. S. Nationals. The following year featured 3 wins and he reset the national elapsed time and speed records. Bob finished the 1978 season with 7 consecutive victories. His 1979 season had 9 consecutive national event wins. The Lee Shepherd driven David Rehr & Buddy Morrison prepared entry clinched titles from 1981 through 1984. Glidden’s domination of the category continued with championships from 1985 to 1989. In 1987 he was the number 1 qualifier at all 14 naJuly 2014
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tional events. His final win light was turned on at the 1995 Mopar Parts Nationals. When the NHRA compiled a list of the top 50 drivers during their golden anniversary season in 2001, Bob Glidden was in the number 4 spot. With 6 championships and 97 wins Warren Johnson, The Professor of Pro Stock, is one of the most successful racers in motor
rier with a 200.13 run in Richmond, Virginia. He is number 7 on the NHRA list of the top 50 drivers of all time. At the start of the 2014 season, he is number 1 in victories, final rounds, top speeds and low elapsed times. Keeping record setting performances in the family, Warren’s son Kurt was the first factory hot rod racer with a 6 second run. During qualifying at the 1994 race in Englishtown, New Jersey Kurt had a 6.98 second blast that earned him a place in the record book. With 3 wins in 7 finals, he was the 1993 Rookie of the Year, finishing second to Warren in the championship chase.
Pro Stock championships are second only to Bob Glidden and Warren Johnson in the sports history. The 1998 Rookie of the Year won his first title in 2000 with 10 wins in 14 final rounds. 2002 was another championship season; it featured 8 wins in 12 finals. The following year was his 7th consecutive top 5 finish. The 2004 Indy race kept Jeg on the move. He competed in Pro Stock and won the Super Stock Hemi Challenge. In 2006 after a year away from factory hot rod competition, Jeg returned and it didn’t take him long to find his championship level of racing; he was the 2007 champ, his third Pro Stock title. He made it 2 in a row the next year. 2009 was a 7 win season with one of those coming at Indy, his 3rd win at The Big Go. He earned his fifth championship in 2013 and entered the 2014 season with 57 Pro Stock wins. Greg Anderson has won 4 NHRA Pro Stock championships with titles in the 2003, 2004, 2005 and 2010 seasons. His first na-
Jeg Coughlin, Jr. has an impressive list of on-track accomplishments with wins in a number of drag racing classes. His 5 NHRA
sports history. Warren’s first quarter mile win was at his home state with a 1963 win at Minnesota Dragway. At the national event level, his first win came at the 1982 Summernationals in Englishtown, New Jersey. He earned his first NHRA title in 1992 with 8 wins in 9 final round appearances. 1993 was a second consecutive championship with additional number 1 season finishes in 1995, 1998, 1999 and 2001. He saw final round win lights at the biggest drag race of the year, the U.S. Nations in Indy for an amazing 4 year run; winning all of them from 1992 to 1995. The 1999 championship season showed his dominance of the Pro Stock field; he had the top speed at every race that year. On April 26, 1997 he broke the Pro Stock 200 MPH barPage 48
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tional event win came in 2001 at the Bristol, Tennessee race; his first number 1 qualifying effort was at the Atlanta race. The following season he became a full-time racer and it was an impressive pro debut with 2 wins. The 2003 campaign was the first of 3 consecutive championships. Greg had 12 wins, set 19 track records and was the number 1 qualifier at 14 races. In 2004, things got better for the popular racer. That championship season saw him earn 15 wins, 16 number 1 qualifying efforts, 76 round wins, reach 19 finals and win his third U.S. Nationals trophy. 2005 brought another title with 8 wins in 11 final rounds. That 3 year run of 35 wins is one of the most impressive in motor sports history. His 2006 season was a 5th consecutive top 3 finish with 4 wins in 7 finals and 11 number 1 qualifyJuly 2014
ing spots. For the 2007, 2008 and 2009 seasons Greg had, say it with me, top 3 finishes. His 4th title was earned during the 2010 season; that’s 4 championships in 8 years. In 2005 Erica Enders Stevens became the first woman to compete in Pro Stock since the 1993 season. The following year at the race in Topeka, Kansas she was the first to earn a number 1 qualifying position and went to the final round at the Gatornation-
als in Florida. Erica and her team earned a place in the record book on July 2, 2012 when she became the first woman to win in Pro Stock at a national event, the Route 66
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race in Joliet, Illinois. Greg Anderson was in the other lane for that historic run. She finished in 4th place for the year. Also that year my wife and I saw Erica qualify number 1 and win the race at Brainerd, Minnesota. In 2014 she won the first of 2 races held at the Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway and followed that up with a Springnationals win in Baytown, Texas. That victory was win number 99 for the ladies in NHRA
professional categories. Along with Erica, next generation Pro Stock racers Jason Line, with 32 wins, Dave Connelly who has served as Erica’s crew chief and has 23 wins as a driver, Vincent Nobile’s 8 victories and a 2013 top 10 finish and Shane Gray with 3 wins shows the factory hot rod class has a lot of talented drivers ready to make their mark.
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H
ello Wheels of Thunder Fans! Happy summer to you! GameON! TV is hoping you are enjoying our summer weather now that the sun is shining and we're all outdoors. This issue of Wheels of Thunder is great, as always, featuring unique stories, pictures and sponsor information that underscores the excitement around motorsports! GameON! TV continues to grow & reach so many of you with our sports programming. We broadcast in the Twin Cities on FOX's MY29 and in the Dakota’s and western Minnesota via MidCo Sports Network. GameON! loves sports, from the variety of professional, college & high school sports to all the outdoor events that dot our regional landscape. GameON’s partnership with Wheels of Thunder is strong and just like you, we also enjoy the most comprehensive race magazine and website to be found! Wheels of Thunder magazine gets it and gets you the latest information, amazing pictures and all those terrific stories to the most passionate motorsports fans in the country! GameON! does what no other TV sports interview show does. We offer the region a diverse and entertaining half hour of TV as we bring you the most visible and popular Minnesota sports figures. From the Minnesota Twins to the NFL Vikings, the NBA Timberwolves to the NHL Wild, we also visit with the Lacrosse Swarm and Soccer United FC. There’s NASCAR and we’re on top of your favorite drivers too. Each and every week GameON! comes to you in crystal clear full High Definition and our first APP (it’s free to for Apple & Android phones) is available for your use! GameON! TV is now offering a weekly PODCAST available @ our show website www.GameOnTvMN.com. It’s full of bits and pieces of sports from the region and what’s ahead on our weekly TV show. This show is interactive so we’d love to hear from you! Please visit our Facebook site (friend us @ GameON on facebook), our website @ www.gameontvmn.com and 24/7on twitter #gameontvmn. We'll soon announce a new home base for GameON! show tapings and each
week, we'll continue to list guests and updates on the GameON! website as well as our Facebook site. Get upclose and personal with us!! Furthermore, GameON! Host Rod Simons has baseball on his work schedule as each and every Sunday he’s joined by 4-time World Series & Twins pitching great Jack Morris for This Is Twins Territory @ 10AM on the radio home for your Minnesota Twins @ KTWIN 96.3. So, please join us for all that sports offers us here in our great neck of the woods, via Wheels of Thunder, GameON! and KTWIN radio! And get your Vikings fix with our partner in one of the largest Vikings fan websites in the world, www.PurplePride.org. Hey Wheelies, it’s time to get off the couch and get your GameON! Be a part of the exciting effort we're putting on! Here’s to the summer that’s here! Keep your GameON!
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