Unfortunately Jilly passed away just after her birthday on the 18th March at home with her loved ones. Our thoughts are with Len, his son Reece, daughter Charlotte and her husband Josh and their son Jack. Godspeed Jilly.
"With the new season upon us and in testing times, Cannon Motorsports is proud to announce that we are going in to a 10th consecutive year of support from Lucas Oil."
"Way back in 2011 after a chance conversation with Andy carter after having some bearing issues, Andy gave me some oil just to try which subsequently worked and led to conversations with Les Downey and Tom Bogner of Lucas Oil.
They were very impressed with our little self-funded team and offered to help us, the result being that our bearing issues disappeared and allowed us to work on other parts of our unique supercharged DOHC 4-valve OHC nitromethane fueled engine.
The support from Lucas Oil has helped our program immensely, last year we had no oil related engine parts failures. We ran our best elapsed time to date winning the "Not the European Finals" event at Santa Pod Raceway, beating the present top fuel twin and UK top fuel bike champion along the way. The full 1/4-mile elapsed time was 6.39 seconds after a very strong world class 4.06 seconds at half track.
Over the winter the team has made big upgrades to the belt drive that has plagued us with issues over time. Breaking £600 drive belts every two passes gets expensive so we really need to sort out our fuel system so as to stop snapping the belts. This of course in addition to running the entire racing distance under full power to get all possible performance out of the bike.
All that said, the bike is pretty much ready to go and the team is more than ready to get to the track. Having the great support from Lucas Oil means that we have the best oil products available. We sincerely thank Dan Morgan and his UK team as well as Tom Bogner and the whole US team for their faith and support in these very testing times, we will do our very best to represent the brand world wide.
So on to this new season. With COVID-19 still restricting our race schedule, we believe all our racing will be at Santa Pod Raceway this year (unless we are permitted to travel to Hockenheim). For our team the glass is always half full and we want to make the best of the meetings we have and run as quick and fast as we possibly can and best showcase the Lucas Oil products."
The Lucas Oil Cannon Motorsports 2021 event schedule, all at Santa Pod Raceway except where indicated:
Sat 22nd-Sun 23rd May 2021: The STP Springspeed Nationals
Sat 25th–Sun 26th June 2021: Festival of Power
Sat 17th-Sun 18th July: The STP Summer Nationals
Fri 27th-Sun 29th August: The NitrOlympX at Hockenheimring, Germany (travel permitting)
Thu 9th-Sun 12th September: The FIA/FIM European Finals
Sat 25th-Sun 26th September: The STP National Finals
Photo copyright by Nitroshutter, Rose Hughes/Ivan Sansom.
Happy 80th Clive! 30th March:
We would like to wish British Drag Racing Hall of Fame member and former Top Fuel Dragster racer on both sides of the Pond Clive Skilton a very Happy 80th Birthday. Have a great day Clive.
DRU cancel 2021 Challenges. 30th March:Drag Race Union, who organise the Super Pro ET and Pro ET Challenge across European tracks and organise and Extreme Outlaw racing, have announced the cancellation of its 2021 Championship, the second year in a row that organisers, including our good, and still-unfired, friend Markus Münch, have had to make this difficult decision due to Covid-19 restrictions:
We from the DRU (dragraceunion.eu) do not see any possibility to run our Pro ET and Super Pro ET Challenges in the proper way we are used to doing.
it is uncertain which events can take place across Europe. The Rivanazzano, Italy Wide Open race originally planned for April has already been cancelled, as has The Main Event at Santa Pod Raceway. Although a calendar has been announced for Zerbst in Germany, the status of the events occurring is currently undecided.
On the other hand, it is questionable who can travel where, due to uncertainty over quarantine and areas of risk. As in 2020, all of this does not allow any Challenge in the usual manner. That's why we won't be offering them in 2021 either. We hope and think, that we are back in business in 2022.
All sponsors money, participation money from 2020 can be transfered to 2022 or be refuded..
No Prep 4, which is being held at Melbourne Raceway 19th-20th June, will be the very first No Prep event to be held at Melbourne. Entry is now closed and with the new race format that we have, it should make for a pretty entertaining weekend for both competitors and spectators.
No Prep is heads up doorslammer racing, 1/8th mile, other than safety there are no rules. Run whatcha brung and hope you brung enough style of racing.
The event will feature two No Prep classes, Big Tyre and Small Tyre, along with all the other track classes run by Melbourne.
As we hinted in our last press release here on Eurodragster.com, we can now announce that Pro Modified Team Owner John Tebenham – JT Racing - have once again stepped up to the plate. John, who also competes himself in his Super Pro crowd favorite Ford Pop, has a long history of investing back into the sportsman racing teams, and here is another example of just that. We are very grateful to have people like John support us; it goes a very long way with the race teams.
JT Racing have put up £250 for each class to the winner, subject to the event being completed and a winner being crowned, which is always the way it has been done with JT right back to UK Top Sportsman days at Santa Pod.
So make a date, 19th–20th June 2021, come and support Melbourne Raceway for the first No Prep race of the season. Our special thanks go out to Gary Springford (Drag Race Engineering), Eurodragster.com (you're welcome - Editor) and Straightliners for hosting us.
(Pictured: event entrants Graham Baldwin in his 1970 Dodge Challenger and Owen Forest's Nova - Callum Pudge photo).
Pioneers' stories – Tony Anderson, part 2. 22nd March:
The latest update in our weekly Pioneers of UK drag racing series, told in the original words of the racers, and accompanied by photos and images from their collections, covers the period 1971 onwards for Surrey-based racer Tony Anderson.
When he decided to go rear engined in 1972, Tony (sat in 'More Trouble') switched the engine to the Daimler 2.5 litre hemi unit, and thus set a trend for British drag racing that has lasted until today. After back problems forced Tony to reliquish the driving seat in 1974 to team mate Russ Carpenter (pictured right), Tony built cars for other Surrey-based racers, eventually getting into engine building for boats, and marine steam engines.
We are presenting stories of other drag pioneers that Tony raced alongside weekly; we have so far presented Derek Metcalf's, Bill Haynes' and Mick Wheeler's stories. Many thanks to Tony for telling his story to Eurodragster.com and to John Hunt for transcribing it and arranging for delivery of Tony's photo collection for Nick to scan.
You can see Tony Anderson's story by going to this link, or via the new index page for the pioneers' stories, which shows links to the UK drag racing history web sites that provide the wider story and context for the story of the sport. Eurodragster.com thanks racers for providing their stories, and John Hunt and drag racing historian Nick Pettitt for help with editing and proof reading the feature.
Following the announcement from Santa Pod Raceway about their rescheduled 2021 calendar, racers will be champing at the bit to get started. The SPRC online entry system is currently unavailable whilst it is being updated with the revised event details, but will open very soon to accept entries for the first event, the Spring Speed Nationals.
Also there are a couple of additional forms required by Motorsport UK, these are being finalised at present, however we hope to have these ready to go in the early part of next week, Please keep an eye on Eurodragster.com for an update of exactly when the entry system will be ready to go.
Feature: The history of UK Pro Modified - part 4. 27th March:
Our latest historical feature, supported by Lucas Oil Products, focuses on the Pro Modified class in 1992 and 1993, following our previous three features from the inception of the class. We describe the increases in performance during these years, with the six second and 200mph barriers both broken, with race results at both Santa Pod Raceway and Avon Park Raceway, incidents and championship positions. The feature includes over 90 photographs of the cars with the stories of races for those years and car details from the period.
Thanks go to drag racing historian and British Drag Racing Hall of Fame director Jerry Cookson for supplying archive material and the photographers who are credited within the feature. You can see our feature by clicking here or by clicking the features, interviews, tributes link from the main menu.
Unusual Car Sales update. 27th March:
Nigel Taylor from the Unusual Car Sales UK Facebook group has been in touch to highlight some very special drag racing vehicles which can be yours for the right price:
We all know how expensive things can get when you start building a race car from scratch so why not buy something that's already been tried and tested and providing it's checked thoroughly and updated as necessary there are some good deals to be had.
Lots of Nostalgic cars, Anglias, 100e's, yanks, rods, junior dragsters, rwyb cars and much more are coming up for sale through the Unusual Car Sales UK site which was set up for like minded folk within the scene, and not just set up to sale cars but to help out anyone looking for hot rod shops, parts, insurance, shows, racing, engineering shops, transportation and much more.
Some of the cars coming up for sale include Doc Stinger's superb Nostalgia Funny Car, Pete Grange's awesome pro street Cougar, the Williams Bros Racing '55 Chevy, Impala and '34 Coupe, the nostalgic "No More Mr Nice Guy" Vauxhall Victor and many more.
Take a look at our Facebook page, unusual car sales U.K. and if you need to know any more about anything for sale, or cwould like to advertise on there, feel free to contact me by PM or via email,
nigel.chevrolet@outlook.com.
Massive thanks to Simon and the Eurodragster team for everything you do and keeping us all up to date with what is going on in our excellent scene (you're welcome - Editor).
The Leap home. 26th March:
Many thanks to honorary Eurodragster.com member Spencer Tramm for sharing with us news of his new racing venture:
Twelve years ago I raced the VW Corrado "Quantum Leap" for the last time before it was sold to Norbert Schneider, I then took a three week trip over to the USA racing in the Rizzoli family’s ’67 Camaro Stock Eliminator car for the NHRA national events at Las Vegas and Pomona as well as the divisional race at Las Vegas in between. Things took a turn when I got home, as I teamed up with Chris Isaacs to field the ’70 Plymouth Duster in Pro Modified. Winning the 2018 National Finals made the effort of the previous 10 years building and running the car worthwhile. Being the first turbo car to win an MSA Pro Modified race can never be taken away from us and is one of my proudest achievements in racing. However, after big engine damage at the 2019 Doorslammers meeting we took some time to decide what to do next and, after some soul searching, we decided to put the car up for sale which is now in the very capable hands of Mick Payne.
It was then time for me to find something new. Having enjoyed my USA adventure and after hearing about Stock/Super Stock coming to the UK, I have purchased a '69 Camaro from Merrill Schrimscher in Florida. The car is currently on its way to the port to be shipped over to participate in Stock/Super Stock, UK Nostalgia Superstock, Pro ET, and now the rules have changed, even some Competition Eliminator. The car currently runs in F/SA with a 350ci small block Chevrolet engine and Metric 200 transmission.
I want to say a big thanks to Merrill Schrimscher who has been amazing to deal with, Tony Morris and Nic Williams for their help and guidance with the purchase and my family, who have been totally behind this despite me promising the Pro Mod would be my last car! Now it’s time for the next 'leap', the leap home.
Good Vibrations renew with SO UK. 26th March:
Alky altered racer Mark Windridge has announced some great news for the Supercharged Outlaws UK series:
Supercharged Outlaws UK have just received our sponsorship package from Jim Maher at California based parts shop Good Vibrations Motorsport for the quick reaction award within our group. Good Vibrations Motorsport are a very helpful and friendly company to deal with for all your racing needs and give generous amounts of free advice. With the Supercharged Outlaws UK at a very strong 35 members, we are looking forward to a great year ahead.
Pixels & Paint on Youtube. 26th March:
Thanks to Landspeed racer and Eurodragster.com sponsor on behalf of Nitro Revival, Geoff Stilwell, for following up the story we published on 14th March.
Auto artist Brad King's new show Pixels & Paint, featuring all the flame work on Geoff's Ford '34 hot rod, has now been posted to Youtube and can be seen at this link. In it, Brad shows in detail the techniques involved in applying flame paint to hot rods and race vehicles. The show was shot in Geoff's Pomona race shop and, from planning and prep to the finishing touches, Brad shares secrets learned over decades of painting and pinstriping. It's highly recommended for all budding hot rod painters and anyone interested in car artistry, and the video information shows links to other material.
Don said "The vehicle will be a Top Fuel or Top Methanol Dragster, Funny Car or Pro Modified. If you are interested in getting some great publicity for your sponsors and the sport, please contact me by FB private message, or by email at don.scott@ntlworld.com".
SPRC race numbers. 25th March:
Thanks to Santa Pod Racers Club Secretary Ian Marshall for providing an update on the forthcoming season:
The 2021 season will hopefully be kicking off very soon, keep a close eye of Santa Pod Raceway's web site and of course Eurodragster.com for important updates soon. On that basis, when we do get started, could I remind all competitors that race numbers will be taken from Championship finishing positions from the 2019 race season please, and not the Covid Cup results, this is for all top 10 positions as normal: Junior Dragster, Junior Drag Bike and all ACU classes will all be as per the final finishing positions in the 2019 season. If you are unsure, don't hesitate to get in touch. For new riders and drivers who are unsure, again please get in touch, either by email to ir.marshall@btconnect.com or call on 01933 313625.
If you want to see your championship position from 2019 it's available on our 2019 points page.
Flying Kestrel documentary released. 25th March:
Eurodragster.com sponsor Webster Race Engineering and Santa Pod Raceway are featured in a documentary series with part one just released on streaming platforms available worldwide.
The Flying Kestrel is the Bedford-based story of Kestrel Beer chief Nigel McNally and his 21 year old son Joel who took a Riley Kestrel barn find from Holland and had it transformed into a potential British land speed record contender capable of over 200mph. The car has an Audi RS3 engine, completely rebuilt using a Motec ECU and Precision race turbo capable of 2.3 bar of boost; the engine now has 900bhp and 650lb/ft of torque.
Filmed by Don Weerasirie of Bedford-based Limelight TV, the documentary tells the story and dramas of having the car rebuilt. A projected series two will cover the car's speed attempts at Elvington planned for June 2021.
Being a marketing expert, Nigel McNally has done a great job of promoting the series. The Flying Kestrel has its own range of clothing and merchandise, a dedicated website and social media channels and a busy schedule of guest appearances at live shows and events across the UK and internationally when they restart. The car and series is also being used as a global marketing campaign for Kestrel Beer as announced on the food and drink trade press. A huge marketing by-product is the inclusion of Santa Pod Raceway and the iconic SPR gantry in a large proportion of publicity shots.
Episodes will be released weekly and is available to view on new streaming provider Insight TV's platform.
Swift snippets. 25th March:
We wish a very Happy Birthday today to drag racing historian, provider of images for our historical features and videographer Nick Pettitt. Also celebrating today are Santa Pod Raceway Commercial Manager Caroline Holden and Top Methanol Dragster legend and British Drag Racing Hall of Fame inductee Dave Wilson. Have a great day all.
This update consists of minor changes to the “Pro Classes”, while also includes an addition of unified Sportsman classes, including Junior Dragster.
The aim of the FIA Drag Racing Commission to include those Sportsman Regulations is to standardise class structure and safety regulations across national drag racing competitions and support national federations by:
Enabling national level competitors to be able to compete across borders more easily, increasing entry numbers for all events
Assisting national level technical officials to maintain a higher safety and regulatory standard
Minimising the resources that an ASN must invest in Drag Racing by having the regulations instead maintained by the FIA, and
Increasing the resale value of competition cars by making them eligible to compete in more markets.
FIA Drag Racing Commission President Lars Pettersson added: "Our sport is quite niche in Europe compared to circuit racing or rallying, so we need to increase cooperation among national federations to ensure that we have a sustainable future, especially when facing the challenges brought on by the pandemic. These unified regulations were developed with input from Drag experts from across Europe and the USA with the aim of making participation in the sport easier for both teams and officials alike."
The FIA Drag Racing Commission would like to clarify that no ASN (national sporting authority) will be forced to adopt those common regulations and can choose to instead continue with their own national regulations.
The recommended link for download of the marked up regulations showing changes for 2021 is here (PDF format).
Swift snippets. 24th March:
Two birthdays to celebrate today: Pro Modified colour commentator and team member of Box of Frogs Drag Racing TeamLucy Moore has her Birthday today, whilst over in Sweden, long time starter at Mantorp Park and Tierp and Junior Dragster Mum Anette Heleander is wished Grattis on her birthday. We hope both have a great day.
Nimbus steps up. 23rd March:
We are delighted to announce that Nimbus Motorsport has become a main sponsor of Eurodragster.com.
Nimbus Motorsport are one of Europe’s leading suppliers of thermal control products, motorsport lubricants and fuels, specialist gloves and equipment for the motor racing industry.
Nimbus have built their enviable reputation over many years by only supplying those products that they fully understand and can reliably recommend to their customers. Started by Steve Clark, a motorsport engineer who wanted to offer others the products he had found during his own experience, Nimbus continues to add new products to its expanding catalogue.
Nimbus was a sponsor of our webcam and are pleased to be able to transfer that support to the site as a whole. Steve Clark commented: "In 2022 we celebrate our 30th year in business and we are expecting a large expansion in sales when racers get back to the track at last. Working with Eurodragster.com as the sole news site covering UK and European Drag Racing will be a great help to promoting our business."
As Nimbus is based only 15 minutes drive from Melbourne Raceway we look forward to publishing a feature on the company when we visit the track later in the year.
Trouble ahead. 23rd March:
Many thanks to drag racing historian Jerry Cookson who has uncovered two additional photos of Tony Anderson's slingshot dragster Trouble. Jerry says "The photos are of Tony at Santa Pod and Hednesford Hills Raceway. The Pod pic was taken by Brian E. Clark. The other is unknown and comes from a Hednesford Old Photos page. Hednesford, as you can see, is a stock car oval set on Cannock Chase and a place I know well having worked there in the nineties but been going to since the early seventies".
Nick Pettitt added "Tony was laying a bit of rubber at Hednesford Hills, the place where the British Hot Rod Association had their first three AGMs in 1963-1965. Looks like the picture was taken in 1970 when Tony had the 'Rogers Custom' decals on the car."
Swift snippets. 23rd March:
Jerry Cookson writes: If you missed Monday's coverage of the NHRA Gatornationals on BT Sport/ESPN then fear not as it's available on Sky Catch Up from the BT Sport button by clicking More Sports for the next 6 days.
Also if you like hot rods, custom cars & bikes and classics then check out a series called Garage Dreams on the STV Player also available from Sky Catch Up. This 30 minute shows feature a wide selection of programming from America and Australia including two programmes from the Bonneville Speed Trials.
Tony was one of the engineering brains behind development of British engines for drag racing use. Starting with a Ford V6 engined slingshot 'Trouble' in 1969 he developed the fuel system to a smaller version of the blown and injected setup used on AA/FDs, running the engine on nitro.
We are presenting stories of other drag pioneers that Tony raced alongside weekly; we have so far presented Derek Metcalf's, Bill Haynes' and Mick Wheeler's stories. Many thanks to Tony for telling his story to Eurodragster.com and to John Hunt for transcribing it and arranging for delivery of Tony's photo collection for Nick to scan.
You can see Tony Anderson's story by going to this link, or via the new index page for the pioneers' stories, which shows links to the UK drag racing history web sites that provide the wider story and context for the story of the sport. Eurodragster.com thanks racers for providing their stories, and John Hunt and drag racing historian Nick Pettitt for help with editing and proof reading the feature.
Swift snippets. 22nd March:
Drag racing historian Nick Pettitt has uploaded another two drag racing videos from his Time Travel series to his Youtube channel, Time Travel 81 uses Ken Robbins' video from the 1990 Santa Pod World Finals. Time Travel 82 features Nick's own video from the 1991 Avon Park Pro Comp Classic. You can see many other videos and historic photos at Nick's British Drag Racing & Hot Rodding Archive web site.
Former UK drag racing photographer Bob Valder has updated his Youtube channel Bob's UK Drag Racing Archive with videos from 2003's Easter Thunderball and FIA Main Event at Santa Pod Raceway. Bob's videos which were shot in high quality cover most classes running at those races.
The cash awards will be £50 for each award winner, with a rollover of the Perfect Light Award and Perfect ET if there is no winner at an event. Full details will be announced before and after each event, with the winner of Bob's Photo Finish Award confirmed after the official timing data from the event is available.
We would like to give a big Thank You to the sponsors of the awards. Bad Habit Racing, the team of Cath and Tig Napier have been mainstays of UK Sportsman racing for over 20 years, running their distinctive purple Dodge Challenger in Pro ET, with a Plymouth Barracuda as back-up in Sportsman ET and UK Nostalgia Super Stock. Cath and Tig have supported the Perfect Light award since 2013.
Headed up by Andy 'Fadster' Hadfield, Team Twister run two cars, Andy's own Supercharged Outlaws 23T street-legal hot rod which regularly runs mid-7 second times at speeds in excess of 170mph – the closest thing to a roadgoing fuel altered. Daughter Purdie races the Twister's Sister Junior Dragster and is destined to have her own Supercharged Outlaw car in a couple of years' time after she graduates from the class. Team Twister have sponsored the Perfect ET award since 2019.
Bob's Photo Finish Award is generously supported by long time Eurodragster.com and drag racing fan Bob Roberts who has kindly supplied material for several features during the last year. The Award will pay £50 each to the racers involved in the closest race of eliminations at this weekend's event. The closest race will be decided upon distance rather than time since, for example, 0.001 seconds at 230 mph is further than 0.002 seconds at 110 mph. For this reason the official timing data will need to be consulted so the winners will be announced here on Eurodragster.com as soon as possible after the event and the winners will then be contacted for their preferred method of payment. Bob's Photo Finish Award is open to all classes during eliminations only.
Although Eurodragster.com decals are not mandatory we would appreciate if it they are carried. Eurodragster.com decals are available in Signing On. The Perfect Awards and Bob's Photo Finish Award will operate from the first championship event of the year, currently scheduled to be the STP Springspeed Nationals on 24th-25th April.
Anyone interested please contact Don on the Facebook Santa Pod Racers group, by FB private message, or by email at don.scott@ntlworld.com.
Dakota Raceway re-opens 20th March:
Thanks to Eurodragster.com sponsor Lee Child for details of the Straightliners Dakota Raceway drag racing event to be held on 24th April:
There will be an eighth mile no time grudge drag race at Dakota Raceway on 24th April with a chance to win £400 per category from the winner takes all prize fund. There will be six categories to choose from.
All categories will have the 16 car pairings decided from an out of the hat selection until the final two race for the money.
Driver and one crew member entry fee is £100. If you get eliminated from the 1/8 mile grudge drag race, you then can do timed 1/4 mile test runs at no extra charge. Extra crew and passengers have an additional charge, however credits from previous events can be used as part payments with the remaining balance to be paid.
Also running at the event will be the NSA Motorcycle Championship organised by Straightliners, and drifting.
Categories:
Pro AWD: Modified, competition tyres, interior removed. Street AWD: Factory appearance, full interior. Pro Rear Wheel Drive: Modified, competition tyres , interior removed Street Rear Wheel Drive: Factory appearance, full interior Pro Front Wheel Drive: Modified, competition tyres , interior removed Street Front Wheel Drive: Factory appearance, full interior
This is a non public event; pre entry, available from next Tuesday, is also required and you can enter via the Straightliners web site.
Dakota Raceway is situated at Smeatharpe Airfield, Devon EX14 9RF. For regular daily updates check the Dakota Raceway Southwest Facebook page.
Trakbytes updated. 20th March:
Many readers, including your editor, have found that an easy and readable way of searching for events in British Drag Race History is the Trakbytes web site, which charts the history of the sport with material from a wide range of contributors. We are pleased to hear that the owner and compiler Chris Dossett has, after a lengthy break, updated the site with a large number of additional entries.
Chris writes: I have finally made the effort to resume work on the website; the first new update has been posted this morning and the new material covers various dates between 1962 and 1994.
I'm sure you're not interested in why there has been a seven year gap since the last update, suffice to say that I've been busy, but I now
find that I have the inspiration to continue from where I left off. Spare time is at a premium though so I can't promise regular massive
updates. I'll endeavour to do as much as I can, when I can. The amount of historical information available on the internet today seems to have
increased exponentially since I last updated the site.
What I'm doing here is an attempt to present a timeline of events and details over the
years that is accessible to anyone who is interested. I have never claimed this archive to be the definitive version of events and always
invited fans and racers to correct mistakes and add to the site. Any details you feel should be included, no matter how insignificant you
think they might be, will be added as, for some reason, people seem to like reading this stuff.
If readers would like to be notified when Chris updates the site, you are recommended to e mail him at chris@trakbytes.co.uk. You can also find Chris's Trakbytes page on Facebook.
Welcome Renegade Outlaw Anglia. 18th March:
We are pleased to welcome Renegade Outlaw Anglia as sponsors of Eurodragster.com. We are particularly proud that a race class has chosen us as a promotional partner.
Outlaw Anglia was formed in 1992 and quickly attracted racers who loved the class for these quick yet sometimes wild handling cars, which were originally popular from the early days of drag racing in both the US and UK and are now raced in the UK and as far away as Australia. Stars of the sport such as Andy Carter and Danny Cockerill cut their teeth on Outlaw Anglia during the early part of their careers. The standard of presentation and showmanship by the class are both high, the April edition of Custom Car showing class member Ben Rushforth on its cover. With a class membership of over 45, it looks to be a great year's racing for Renegade Outlaw Anglia and Eurodragster.com is proud to be featuring it in our coverage of all the class's rounds.
Colin Millar, class co-ordinator said, "Eurodragster.com have always been so supportive of the class and we think its time we realised this and gave some payback. I'd like to add our thanks to outgoing class coordinator Paul Wright for his massive contribution to Outlaw Anglia, looking after the class over many years with huge commitment and professional guidance which is so very much appreciated by the whole class. Thanks Paul."
Please support those who support Eurodragster.com by considering our sponsors first when shopping for goods or services.
If you are interested in sponsoring Eurodragster.com then please get in touch with us at simon@eurodragster.com.
Swift snippets. 18th March:
We have three birthdays and one belated birthday to celebrate today. Happy Birthday to former SCR marshal Bev Batsford, former SCR commentator and Wild Bunch team member Barry Bohannon and graphic artist extraordinaire Darren West. Have a great day all. We also hope that honorary Eurodragster.com member and Santa Pod two seater crew member John Hackney had a fantastic day yesterday.
Drag racing historian Nick Pettitt has uploaded another two drag racing videos from his Time Travel series to his Youtube channel, Time Travel 79 uses Ken Robbins' video from the 1989 Santa Pod World Finals and includes some great shots of Norm Wilding and Roger Sinclair. Time Travel 80 features Ken Robbins' video from the 1990 Santa Pod Cannonball. Both are well worth seeing by anyone with a taste for nostalgia.
Flamholc's busy weekend(s). 18th March:
Swedish ex-pat racer Adam Flamholc with new crew members Aaron Cole, Thomas Monsenego, William Serler, and Charlie White have been busy racing both his Pro Modified '63 Vette and his new No-Prep Nova:
At the start of February, Adam saw the doctor for some successful treatment on his neck which had troubled him so much at the US Street Nationals at the end of January, substitute racer Steve Wiley took over the driving chores.
After the race crew members Thomas Monsenego and William Serler started a Youtube channel which has featured regular updates on the team's progress. The channel will be updated with work in the shop, traveling to races in US, Europe and Russia.
With a couple of weeks off racing in February the team fixed up the trailer, getting the spare motor ready and getting engines done for customers. Preparation of The Viking no-prep '74 Spirit of America Nova came along as planned at Chris Duncan Race Cars who built it over a period of six weeks, which greatly impressed Adam. The car was originally built in 2001 for Chris Duncan himself to drive.
The Nova has a PSI blown 500ci Brad Anderson engine with MSD Pro 600 coil plug ignition with a Davis Technologies Profiler EFI module. The gearbox is a Lenco 2-speed with Bruno converter drive and converter by Neal Chance.
The Nova was tested at Orlando Speedworld on 18th February, the screw blown engine sounding mean, and the car going straight as an arrow on the unprepped track. No times and speeds were recorded of course, this being a crucial feature of no-prep racing so the teams don't try to outrun each other in the engine department.
The next test was at the Texas Motorplex on 24th February where one lane was prepped and the other unprepped. It took 22 hours to drive from Adam's Cape Coral base to the Motorplex. Only small things were changed before the test.
The three runs made at the test session at the Motorplex revealed some ignition problems which Adam addressed at Steve Wiley's shop. Then it was off to the Alamo City Motorplex in Marion, TX where after a test launch the car went left at 330ft, but due to an oiled track by another car Adam wasn't able to check the changes to make it go straight.
Adam commented "No prep is a fun way of racing! But it feels a bit strange to me to try to go down a track they just scraped all the rubber off, but we like it". The race ladder at Alamo City Motorplex was on 26th-27th February was drawn by chip and Adam drew Birdman (James T Finney) in the first round who beat Adam after he got a bit loose at the top end and had to lift. The team commented "It's a different atmosphere, there's more cars here and more media".
After some more work on the car handling at Steve Wiley's, making four link and wing changes, Adam went to the No Prep Bounty Hunters 5 in Odessa, Texas at the Penwell Knights Raceway at Caprock Motorplex 6th-7th March. It was windy with sand blowing over the track. Nevertheless, racing took place. On Saturday there was a grudge/cash day race. Steve driving the car did well, making it to the final round, but the teams decided not to run the finals as air temp was 40F and track temp 45F.
On the Sunday at Bounty Hunters Adam got to round two, where he ran side by side with Cody Baker all the way down, Cody getting the win light but Adam leaving satisfied with the weekend.
The following Wednesday 10th March changing 4-link, gear ratios and some other things on the Viking, Adam was back at Bradenton Motorsports Park. On his second run which was straight, Adam lost the passenger side door which flew off just before the finishline so the race was on to locate a new carbon or glass door. This was fixed last Sunday.
Next weekend is the NMCA season opener in Bradenton, and Memphis Street Outlaws racer JJdaboss has a armdrop race up in north Florida. Adam's plan is to qualify with the Corvette in Bradenton Friday, drive 8-9 hours through the night, race the Nova at JJ:s race, then drive down Saturday night and run eliminations with the Corvette Sunday in Bradenton! This involves swapping the supercharger and fuel system over between the Nova and the Pro Mod Corvette.
Adam plans to run the Corvette in ADRL events, with free entry and a similar engine setup to the Nova. He also wants to run a lot more no-prep races whenever he can. Plans for the remainder of 2020 are to race in Europe and Russia, where he will be helping various teams.
One man burnout competition. 17th March:
Thanks to Pro Modified and Super Pro racer John Tebenham who has let us know his state of preparation for the delayed 2021 season:
"Yeah, can’t wait, both cars are ready and on kill, new engines, spare gearboxes. We are going to have a proper go at winning, not sure what, but we want to win.
"I am determined to win the one man burnout competition. The video of the Test and Tune from last year's Greenlight Nationals shows our attempt then, with one slick on the ground (click photo for footage). I spoke to Ian after the event and he said we all thought it was going over. Yeah, so did I, I am going too do lots and lots of these so get your cameras ready.
"I have great crew, super smart, and we have a place for one more. We are also going to be giving away posters all year for a donation for Bloodwise, so come and see our pit".
Williams Bros position vacant. 17th March:
Further to the announcement on 6th March of a panel beater/fitter position vacant at OCS Paint, which is still vacant, group company Williams Speed Shop has announced a further job opportunity:
The new position vacant is for a mechanic, who must have an interest in American and classic cars and have had experience with working on both classic and American applications. The individual sought should have a positive and willing attitude towards work and be happy to work within the expanding business and team, must have previous workshop experience and good health and safety knowledge. There are good rates of pay which will be discussed with the candidate in person. The applicant will be required to work some days with WBR Racing Team at the track, and overall the position is full time with a driving licence required.
If you are interested in either of these positions position, please either phone 07572 096920 or 01327 220777 or email Holley Marshall at holley@ocs-group.co.uk.
RRC build gallery - Pete Moore's '34 Ford Coupe. 16th March:
Bob Roberts has kindly sent a gallery of pictures taken by him whilst the build of former Outlaw Anglia racer Pete Moore's '34 Ford Coupe street rod took place at Eurodragster.com sponsor Robinson Race Cars.
Bob writes: way back in 1980 I volunteered to help organise the Nationals rod run at Thruxton, created and supported by Hot Rod and Custom magazine. Also involved was Tony Thacker, now a star at the BDRHoF Gala Dinner, but then the Technical Editor at HR&C. Other volunteers included Andy Robinson, who ran our 100 yard drags, and Pete Moore. Both were involved in subsequent Internationals including the final one at Stoneleigh in 1983. The star of the last run was the ZZ Top Eliminator 34 Coupe. Little did we know at the time that thirty some odd years later Pete would commission Andy to build a 34 coupe.
With its running gear from a Vauxhall VXR8, high tensile stainless steel wishbone rear suspension and Corvette C6 uprights at the front, it is fast, it corners, it stops, it rides well, it’s comfortable and above all it looks great. Truly a street rod for the 20's.
Don’t forget that Santa Pod now offers all ticket buyers additional peace of mind that should they choose to protect their order with TicketPlan event ticket insurance. You can apply for a refund if the worst happens and you’re unable to attend the event due to unforeseen circumstances such as: accidents, transport issues and illnesses including if you or a member of your household tests positive for COVID-19.
Pioneers' stories – Mick Wheeler. 15th March:
The latest update in our weekly Pioneers of UK drag racing series, told in the original words of the racers, and accompanied by photos and images from their collections, covers the period 1964 to 1969 for Essex-based racer Mick Wheeler. Mick first encountered drag racing at the 1964 Dragfest at RAF Chelveston. Initially teaming up with Colin Dunster and two others in his native Essex, the team ran a Jag engined Ford Model Y called 'Juggernaut' in 1966, before Mick decided to build his own Hillman Imp-engined dragster.
Mick collaborated with, or raced alongside other drag pioneers whose stories we are presenting weekly; we have so far presented Derek Metcalf's and Bill Haynes' stories. Many thanks to Mick for telling his story to Eurodragster.com and to John Hunt for transcribing it and arranging for delivery of Mick's photo collection.
You can see Mick Wheeler's story by going to this link, or via the new index page for the pioneers' stories, which shows links to the UK drag racing history web sites that provide the wider story and context for the story of the sport. Eurodragster.com thanks racers for providing their stories, and John Hunt and drag racing historian Nick Pettitt for help with editing and proof reading the feature.
April at Spitfire Raceway cancelled, June date confirmed. 15th March:
Our update on 6th March described the quarter mile action planned for Spitfire Raceway, Perranporth on Saturday 3rd April; sadly this has had to be cancelled. Promoter Lee Child said "Our focus is now on the Summer Drag and Drift at Spitfire Raceway on Saturday 26th June. We appreciate the drivers that entered for the April behind closed doors event, we now know how hardcore you are".
As many know, Geoff has located his race shop for his Land Speed Record car 7707 in Pomona, California which is a centre of hot rodding and dragster building in Los Angeles.
One contact of Geoff who has become a close friend Brad King did all the special work on the Transformer Movies. The Optimus Prime truck featured in the movie was actually built in what is now Geoff's race shop.
Brad produces a show called Stories N' Steel on Amazon Prime. It's all about Hot Rods and all the stories of how they came about, told by the builders and paint artists themselves. Brad has produced a programme on Geoff's Ford '34 hot rod featuring how he did all the flames. The programme is 40 minutes long and we'll post a link to it when it is live.
In case you don't have Amazon Prime, you can still see previous shows for free on Youtube which also links to Brad's podcast over at roundsixpod.com.
Brad is putting a full size silhouette of 7707 down the sides of Geoff's rig for his Land Speed Car, in addition to building his own land speed car. Talking of which, subject to travel restrictions being lifted Geoff plans to attend the Bonneville Speed Week on 7th-13th August this year, and the aim is to top 300mph following his previous 258.569mph record in his A/Blown Fuel Rear Engine Modified Roadster. Crewing with Geoff are Rob Loaring and Nick Davies of I.C.E. Automotive, who themselves have raced their Havoc Fuel Altered in nostalgia drag events in 2017, with Scott Barnes, Tony Thacker, Mick Jenkins and others.
The challenge between Geoff and fuel altered legend Ron Hope is still intact, with Ron completely rebuilding his B/Blown Gas Modified Roadster which itself ran 260mph in 2018. More details and sponsor acknowledgements to be published soon.
Photos by Tony Thacker and Geoff Stilwell (Ron Hope after his 2018 run).
Swift snippets. 14th March:
Best wishes for a Happy Birthday to photo journalist, sometime pit note helper and Super Twin Top Gas promoter Mike Kraaij. Have a great day Mike.
Good luck and stay safe to NHRA Top Alcohol dragster racer Julie Nataas who will be racing at the NHRA Gatornationals in Gainesville, Florida today. Julie qualified fourth with a 5.216/271.73 and defeated James Stevens in round one with 5.246/274.27. Round two, scheduled for yesterday evening, needed to be postponed due to delays caused by on-track incidents; Julie will be racing her teammate Rachel Meyer. Sunday's action commences at 12 noon GMT following the clocks going forward in the US and, as ever you can see the results on www.dragracecentral.com.
Entry for the No Prep Nationals 4, Saturday and Sunday 19th–20th June at Melbourne Raceway (Formerly York Raceway) is now closed for No Prep Big Tyre and No Prep Small Tyre classes. All other classes and RWYB entry for the weekend at Melbourne are still to be filled. Please contact Straightliners direct for more details.
I can tell you that Big Tyre has the lion's share of entries and we look forward to some very hard fought racing. The eliminations in Big Tyre will be a little different to what has been done in the UK before. We have some teams travelling a long way, hundreds of miles, so we want to try and give the race teams as much competitive racing as we can.
Due to the size of the Big Tyre entry, we will also run a second chance race for the drivers who don't make the cut. There will be trophies and prize money for both the main race and the second chance race, naturally pro rata. We have studied how other organisations have approached this and come up with what we hope is fair for everyone, and suits the UK No Prep racers.
Racers will have to race their way into the main elimination and there will be win money for each race, we felt that with so many racers it would be nice to reward effort, consistency and make each race relevant as well as sharing the wealth. So Big Tyre will not be just a winner take all, there will be plenty of opportunities to win money over the two days.
Small Tyre will be a little more traditional, running a sixteen car ladder, but they won’t miss out on the fun. Instead of just one elimination on Sunday, Small Tyre will have a race Saturday and a race Sunday, with equal prize money on both days and the opportunity to win on Sunday if you didn't quite get the job done Saturday. Again, there will be trophies and prize money for winner and runner up both days.
As is traditional, every single race, Big or Small Tyre, will be drawn out of the hat up until the final where lane choice will be a coin toss. If for any reason the race is not run to completion, all prize money will be shared equally amongst the racers still in competition. All races are 1/8th mile, no time no speed. The start system is to be confirmed.
I would like to thank the following people, the Alder-Barber family for supplying a perpetual trophy in honour of Heavy Chevy racer Keith Alder-Barber, who we tragically lost to this awful disease earlier this year. Heavy Chevy will continue to compete with Keith's race partner Dave Caruso as wheelman. Thanks also to Gary Springford and Drag Race Engineering (020 8597 9484) for stepping up and sponsoring all the remaining trophies in Big and Small Tyre. Gary and DRE have been staunch supporters right from the very start of the No Prep Nationals at North Weald; this event will also see Gary competing with sons Aaron and Tyler Springford crewing for their dad. We will be making some announcements shortly regarding other sponsors.
Last but by no means least Trevor Duckworth and the Straightliners organisation at Melbourne Raceway for hosting us, Eurodragster.com for always being there (thanks - Editor), couldn’t do this without you guys, thank you.
Photo: Dave Wiggins' Chevy Nova squares off against the Citroen Saxo of Michael J Fox. Photo courtesy of Dunk Rose/D.R. Photography
Williams Bros support Comp. 12th March:Santa Pod Racers Club Secretary Ian Marshall has announced a further class sponsor for Competition Eliminator:
Following the announcement of Comp Eliminator Sponsorship on Thursday, Williams Bros Speed Shop have now also confirmed their commitment to Comp Eliminator. As many will know, the Williams Brothers are big supporters of Stock/Super Stock (which is to be integrated into Comp in 2021); with the family campaigning 3 legal S/S Stock cars in 2020, they with the SPRC are also at the heart of bringing the class to the UK. To back up their commitment to the class, they are to now sponsor all rounds of the 2021 Championship, with a prize fund of £100 for the winner and £50 for the number 1 qualifier at each event.
Williams Bros Racing can be contacted by phone on 01327 220 777 or 07572 096 920, by e-mail on nwilliams@ocs-group.co.uk or at Williams Bros Speed Shop, Brook Farm, Bugbrooke, Northamptonshire, NN12 8LQ.
The Outlaw Anglia drag racing class are excited to have the continued support from Renegade; we head into the 2021 Drag Racing season with hope and anticipation, we will be racing again this year and, fingers crossed, it's not that far away.
Both Jeff Ludgate and Alex Clark from Renegade supported the class in 2019 and although it was a very strange year in 2020, they again provided service and support when the class needed it.
The call out to the class came with only two weeks' notice for our first race event in August 2020 and again both Renegade and Outlaw Anglia continued to see the benefits of this developing relationship.
Renegade will be Outlaw Anglia’s main sponsor for 2021 and we hope to strengthen this partnership as time goes on.
The limited season last year with only three meetings proved to be some of the best racing the class had ever seen, with the Hot Rod Drags providing I think at least nine new PBs with many dropping down into the next second barrier, the expectation was not high as there was no championship, however the performance and commitment of the class provided for some of the best racing for both spectators crews and marshals alike, was it a coincidence that a lot of these teams were using the Renegade products to get the edge, time will tell?
The new season for sure is filled with uncertainty but what is for sure The Renegade Outlaw Anglia Class will not disappoint; the class has 45 fully paid-up teams ready to go out there and put on one of the best shows you've ever seen with breath-taking times and speeds.
Hopefully, you have managed to keep up with some of the upgrades and changes to the Renegade Outlaw Anglia Cars on social media and this can only mean these will keep you on the edge of your seat or possibly the edge of your sofa if you are on the SantaPodTV YouTube link.
The class moves into its 29th year and continues to grow and push the boundaries from its conception in 1992, here is the drivers' list as we stand today which can be viewed in more detail on the class web site www.outlawanglia.co.uk:
Colin Millar
Mick Taylor
Mick Hewitt
Ben Kennedy
Ginner
Ronnie Mercer
Adrian Whitcombe
John Turner
Al O'Connor
Simon Barlow
Peter Jones
Christopher Kenny
Scotty Crookston
Michelle Mockford
Adam Cuthbert
Peter Butler
Barry Crookston
Rob Stone
Dalton Scarlett
John Webster
Steve Wells
Gary Bird
John Willard
Tara Collinson
Barnaby Levy
Kim Harrison
Paul Hensher
Mark Dibley
Garry Hill
Barry Woodford
Martyn Payne
Jedd Guy
Phil Drewitt
Ian Tweddle
Rob Nixon
Tom Margesson / John Gumble
Rob Turrington
Col Law
Spencer Tidswell
Mark Bracking
Ben Rushforth
Dave Pearce
Ted Booth
Shane Bird
Andy Cunningham
A few new faces in the line up as well as a high expectation for some of the teams who were not able to stretch their legs as much as they wanted last year.
We have a gentleman in Australia who has already pushed the boundaries and ran the magical six at over 200mph and we plan to welcome John Willard to the UK in 2022 to race along with the Renegade Outlaw Anglia Class, after all he is a fully paid-up member.
We also have in the background cars being built and they will be at the track real soon, to name but a few, Dave Sidaway with his stunning handmade alloy Fordson Van (credit goes to Wayne Allman), young Aaron Bird making great progress with an all-home build car, Danny Wilson also making great progress on his new Pop (great to see him back in the class) and Stephen Brindle who is nearing the end of the project and is on the final push.
Keep a close eye out folks the Renegade Outlaw Anglia Class with the continued support of Jeff and Alex will be back out real soon, faster stronger and will you see history being made with the “Magical Six” in 2021, for me I really hope so, its time and the contenders are already in place waiting to take the glory. Who will be first? answers on a postcard please!
See you at the Track.
Doug Thorley. 11th March:
We regret to report that Doug Thorley, the first NHRA U.S. Nationals Funny Car champion and an aftermarket giant known for his line of exhaust headers, passed away yesterday (March 10) at the age of 92. A tribute to Doug can be found on nhra.com.
Swift snippets. 11th March:
Best wishes for a Happy Birthday to Wild Bunch co-ordinator Claire Meaddows. Have a great day Claire from all of us at Eurodragster.com.
In 2021 Stock/Super Stock will be integrated into Competition Eliminator at Santa Pod Raceway, with a view to getting NHRA-legal Stock/Super Stock class up and running in the UK. By following this link (Microsoft Excel format), potential participants can see what index within Comp they will initially run against. In most cases, we have taken the current NHRA index and lowered the index by three tenths of a second, this is to allow most European cars to go at least four tenths under their Comp index and remain somewhere near competitive within Comp, the intention is, after two events to look at the assembled data and make any adjustments to the Stock/Super Stock indexes we deem necessary to keep the Stock/Super Stock both competitive, but also in check with the rest of the Comp classes.
There are initially four to six cars in the UK that will get involved by the year end, as some are being completed and one car has yet to arrive from the States.
As mentioned in the virtual Riders and Drivers meeting, the idea is to separate Stock/Super Stock from Comp at the FIA meetings at Santa Pod and hopefully with additional cars from Europe we will then run Stock/Super Stock as a separate class in its own right, with the specific Stock/Super Stock regulations.
If you have any questions, please contact Ian Marshall on 01933 313625, or e-mail him at ir.marshall@btconnect.com.
2021 SPRC class title sponsors. 10th March:Santa Pod Racers Club Secretary Ian Marshall writes: with the 2021 race season hopefully starting very soon, Santa Pod Racers club are now pleased to confirm our 2021 National Championship class title sponsors whom we thank for their support.
The full list of class title sponsors comprises:
Comp Eliminator - Track Worx (class title sponsor): Track Worx have been involved in motorsports for over 10 years, and strive to be the best whilst providing a one stop workshop for all Motorsport needs. When it comes to Race cars for Circuit, Drag, Sprint and Professional Drift cars, we can offer all aspects of work, from basic service and event preparation to complete car builds, and it doesn’t stop there. We offer complete tailor made Motorsport aftercare packages from big race team’s right down the owner/driver privateers in your choice of event, anywhere in the world. If you have a need for support at a Race facility anywhere on the planet, we have the facilities to accommodate you and your requirements, contact us at trackworxuk@gmail.com.
Comp Eliminator - Engine Data Analysis (class sponsor): EDA have also confirmed that they will continue their Sponsorship of Comp Eliminator in 2021 with an upgraded commitment of £80 to the winner and £40 to the runner up at each of the events at Santa Pod this year. Engine Data Analysis can be contacted on 01977 516622, or by email on mailto:info@engine-data.co.uk, for further contact information regarding your engine build, tune and dyno requirements go to the EDA website at www.engine-data.co.uk.
Super Pro ET - Peter Nee: Steve and Babs Saunders write: Pete was a true hot rodder at heart, he lived and breathed drag racing, hot rods and American muscle cars. He was with me from my very early hot rod days at the beginning of the 80's and at the very start of our drag racing. He loved NHRA drag racing, British drag racing and going to the States, travelling to visit as many drag racing meetings as possible. Apart from being my Crew Chief, he himself had many different cars through his life, ending up with his much loved Firebird which he was planning on racing himself this year. With his untimely passing, his work collegues from DH Pearson, Middlesbrough had a collection for Pete's family to donate to his lifelong hobby in some way. Suzie, Pete's sister, contacted me with the idea of sponsoring Super Pro ET in Pete's name.
Pro ET - Modurstang: Modurstang is the UK's premier Mustang specialist. Anything from an approved routine oil change for your brand new S550, to a full restoration of your 1960’s stang. If you have any ideas or would like to chat about a project, feel free to call us. We can put your mind at ease. For example, S550 supercharger packages are tried and tested to offer you the best possible performance at a competitive price. Modurstang is the one-stop-shop for all your American motor servicing needs. We can make your Mustang dreams a reality. Please take a look at our web site at www.modurstang.co.uk or phone us on 01608 678818 or mobile on 07774 712000.
Sportsman ET - Hutchinson & Dibley Ltd:Hutchinson and Dibley Ltd is a Buckinghamshire based precision CNC engineering company specialising in the production of 'hard-to-manufacture' parts. We have over 50 years of experience in most industries including defence, oil, gas and marine, as well as machining most common metals and plastics but also working with difficult materials such as Titanium, Magnetic Iron and Inconel. Our shop facility includes CNC turning and milling as well as welding and fabrication equipment. Our entire production is ISO9001:2008 approved and accredited.
Super Comp - B Fast R: Who are B FastR? We’re a team of petrol heads, with a love of all things automotive. We live and breathe motorsport, and we want to inspire the next generation of car builders, support staff, and, of course, drivers. Our mission is simple, to bring you the best content from across the planet. Whether it’s the engineering behind the latest and greatest purpose-built race-car, or the story of one man who’s spent 50 years in his barn perfecting a tarmac shredding, road-storming piece of history, we’re there!
We’ll be bringing you regular video features on some of the most iconic automotive personalities on the planet-from the F1 stars of tomorrow, to the best kept secret in the smallest American town. But we’re about so much more than that; we want to inspire young people who love cars, but don’t know how they can find their way into the world of motorsport. From the obvious engineering roles, to the people behind the scenes designing PR campaigns and looking after the all-important sponsors, we want to throw the doors open on professional motorsport, and mentor those who really know what they want! We’re also one of the UK’s largest producers of textiles, giving us unparalleled opportunities in the world of clothing. From design & production of team wear, through a full range of apparel & merchandise, to the latest homologation FIA race suit, we are unique in how we approach individual requirements, and offer a one-stop, complete turn-key solution for race teams & businesses of any size. If you’d like to work with us, or think you have a story we’d be interested in, then let’s talk. Build - Race - Conquer.
Nostalgia Super Stock - N.E.M Plant: N.E.M Plant deal with Farm and Industrial ground works, and specialise in all aspects of internal and external concrete floors and yard areas, details of their work can be found on their Facebook page (new website to follow soon) at our Facebook page or alternatively they can be contacted at info@nemplant.com, by landline on 01327-831113 or mobile on 07961-577367.
Junior Dragster - Lucas Oil: Lucas Oil have been looking after many riders and drivers in motorsport, with their second to none Oils and Oil based products. Junior Dragster has been fortunate enough to have had Lucas Oil's backing for more than 10 years, and 2021 is no different, Lucas Oil products can be found at Santa Pod Raceway or on the Lucas Oil website at www.lucasoil.co.uk.
Top Fuel Bike - Banks Night Club: The Name says it all really, if you find yourself in Maidstone, Bank Street is the place to head for your nights entertainment. Banks is an over twenty-ones venue situated in a Grade II listed building in the heart of historic Bank Street in Maidstone. With four beautifully refurbished & styled rooms, three bars & two dance floors to choose from. They boast the largest courtyard in the town with Alfie's Bar and the Garden Bar, fully seated & parasols to suit all weather. Familie are welcome to make day time bookings, contact details are: enquiries@banksmaidstone.co.uk, phone 01622 762872, address 76 Bank Street Maidstone Kent, ME14 1SJ. Please keep a check on their website www.banksmaidstone.com for future opening times and any restrictions that may apply.
Funny Bike - Leeks Landscapes: The Leeks Landscapes Group is a group of companies catering to all aspects of Landscaping, Waterscapes, ponds, lakes, civil engineering and more delivering projects to the commercial and domestic sector throughout the UK. Their web site is www.leekslandscapes.co.uk.
Comp Bike - Suzuki Performance Spares.co.uk: Suzuki Performance Spares are your premier source of quality guaranteed new and used parts for major motorcycle brands; they specialise in spare parts for modern, classic motorcycle, racing and Drag Race parts. Contact details are website www.suzukiperformancespares.co.uk or phone 07900 362 809.
Super Street Bike - Kathy Taylor: Kathy, a long-time supporter of all things Drag Bike, on this occasion taking the Super Street Bike Title Sponsorship as her way of putting something back in to the sport.
8.50 Bike - JKE Race Works: We welcome on board Jake Mechaell of JKE Race Works, who will be sponsoring the class title for 8.50 bike. Jake writes: I'm pleased to be the class sponsor for the 8.50 bike championship during the 2021 season. The class is perfect for racers to have a stepping stone between 9.50 bike and Super Street/Comp Bike. It's such a competitive class with a great bunch of riders. With the volume of bikes we have coming through the workshop in preparation for 8.50 bike, it's a class which is only going to grow as time goes on.
JKE Race Works offer a huge range of services including complete bike builds, bespoke fabrication, engine building, one off turbo kits specifically designed to suit your needs, bike setup, track support, engine tuning, suspension servicing, 1-1 tuition and much more.
We are located next door to Santa Pod Raceway which gives our customers the convenience of an accessible drop off and collection location. It also allows us to provide support to all racers if they have an unfortunate part failure which can be repaired during the meeting to keep them out there making the most of their race weekend.
Our dealership statuses are growing every month and we can offer great racer prices on the following brands so far: MTC Engineering, Racinglines, Putoline Oils, Antigravity Batteries, HEL Performance and Ramair Filters.
Our aim is to give the highest standard of work at a reasonable price and help our customers reach their goals with all the support and advice needed. Please follow JKE Race Works on Facebook and Instagram to see the work we produce and to keep up to date with future projects. Our contact details are 07841 389360 and jkeraceworks@gmail.com.
9.50 Bike - Atlantic Fluid Tech: Atlantic Fluid Tech Ltd has been trading since 2009 and is a major supplier of hydraulic valves to OEM companies in the UK and Ireland. It is the British subsidiary of an Italian Group that is based in Modena. The company has a warehouse in Coventry from where it distributes products to a wide variety of companies, particularly those involved in the manufacture of construction machinery. The Coventry building houses a hydraulic test facility and a CAD function for the design and supply of bespoke valve assemblies. Both UK Directors of the company have a long history of involvement in Motor Sport, and are very pleased to be associated with the Santa Pod Racers Club and sponsorship of 9.50 bike. Atlantic fluid Tech can be contacted at +44 (0)2476 617143 or uk@atlanticfluidtech.com.
Super Twin Top Gas - SM Performance: SM Performance are a Harley Davidson specialist and can carry out everything from an oil change to a complete performance engine build. Besides that, through their many contacts around Harley Davidson, Scorpion motors can basically get everything from a kick stand to a full race bike Harley chassis. Beside this they can also buy and sell bikes on request and ship or export bikes all over Europe and now have dyno facilities for your bike. The SM Performance website is smperformance.uk and the company can be found at 197 Penn Road, Wolverhampton WV3-0EQ.
ET Bike - Blood Cancer UK: Blood Cancer UK (formerly Bloodwise) will continue to be supported by all of our Racers as usual, and ET Bike will also continue to fly the Blood Cancer UK flag with the class title being used again in 2021, to make a donation to a charity close to many hearts please go to www.bloodcancer.org.uk.
Junior Drag Bike - Eurodragster.com:Eurodragster.com was created 23 years ago and provides comprehensive and timely reporting of European drag racing news. We are very excited about the forthcoming season, are attending over 30 races this year and will post in-depth live reports on 25 of them, including all championship rounds. Our news and race report pages are viewed by thousands of racers and fans across Europe. We are proud to be supporting Junior Drag Bike which has been shown to provide championship bike racers of the future, crucial for the continued expansion of the sport.
Julie's TAD win. 8th March:
Congratulations to expat Norwegian Julie Nataas, who took the Top Alcohol Dragster win at the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series Sixth annual Baby Gators race at Gainesville Raceway yesterday in her Oslo Tapet & Gulvbelegg (OTG) A/Fuel dragster.
Julie, driving for Randy Meyer Racing which won the 2019 and 2020 TAD championships with Megan Meyer driving, is hoping to get her team's third consecutive national championship this year. Her win at the Baby Gators is her fifth regional event win and she also has two national wins.
Julie qualified number four in the eight car field with a 5.226/277.49. In round one, held late on Saturday evening, her opponent Tom Fox Jr red lit as both cars lost traction off the line. Then yesterday Julie defeated Jackie Fricke in a close semi final with a margin of victory of 0.004s (approximately 20 inches), Julie running 5.208/274.00. In the final Julie left on Duane Shields who instantly went up in smoke and she ran 5.237/276.18 for the event win.
Julie's event schedule comprises ten National and eight regional NHRA events, the next event being this coming weekend's Gatornationals, also at Gainesville Raceway.
Pioneers' stories – Bill Haynes, part 2. 8th March:
The latest update in our weekly Pioneers of UK drag racing series, told in the original words of the racers, and accompanied by photos and images from their collections, covers the period 1973-76 for Surrey dragster racer Bill Haynes. During these years Bill had progressed from four cylinder Ford power to an injected V8 289ci engine.
Bill collaborated with, or raced alongside other Surrey based drag pioneers whose stories we will present in future weeks; we have so far presented Derek Metcalf's story. Many thanks to Bill for telling his story to Eurodragster.com and to John Hunt for transcribing it and arranging for delivery of Bill's photo collection.
You can see the second part of Bill Haynes' story by going to this link, or via the new index page for the pioneers' stories, which shows links to the UK drag racing history web sites that provide the wider story and context for the story of the sport. Eurodragster.com thanks racers for providing their stories, and John Hunt and drag racing historian Nick Pettitt for help with editing and proof reading the feature.
Swift snippets 8th March:
Wishes for a Happy Birthday today go to British Drag Racing Hall of Fame chair Lesley Wright. Have a lovely day Lesley.
Lesley shares her birthday with pioneer UK female Top Fuel racer Roz Prior, highly appropriate on International Women’s Day. We wish Roz a big Happy Birthday and hope you've had a great day.
Drag racing historian Nick Pettitt has uploaded another two drag racing videos from his Time Travel series to his Youtube channel, Time Travel 72 uses Simon Pocock's video from Santa Pod 1981 and 1982. Time Travel 74 features Marty Babb and Ken Sweeney’s cine films taken at Santa Pod, North Luffenham, Snetterton and Blackbushe from 1971–1978.
Purdie's SO. 7th March:
Eurodragster.com Perfect ET award sponsor Andy 'Fadster' Hadfield has revealed he has just started collecting the parts to build a supercharged altered for daughter Purdie Hadfield for when she comes out of her junior dragster in two years. Progress in the last two weeks has been fast, as hinted by the 'spy picture' submitted:
Purdie is currently running in the Junior Dragster group and is soon to reach 15 years of age. Team Twister are looking into the future for their youngest driver and have decided to move forward with a new build altered that will have safety as paramount but tip the hat to nostalgia. To this end, a nostalgia blown altered is being built and work has commence with huge progress in a short time, less than two weeks!
The chassis dates from the year 2000, was built by long time chassis builder Bill Felstead from chrome moly and is planned to be certified with a 6.0 tag. The body is a very early Pat Cuss Bantam from the early 1970s. The engine will be a 540 cubic inch BBC with a 14/71 supercharger and methanol injection. There's lots of work to do over the next two years before she moves out of the Juniors; Purdie is incredibly excited about the prospect, and looking forward to joining her dad in the Supercharged Outlaws and MSUK events with a fully certified race car.
Swift snippets. 7th March:
We would like to wish a huge Happy Birthday to honorary Eurodragster.com member, crew chief to the stars, online racing promoter and future race car importer Spencer Tramm. Have a great day Spencer from all of us at Eurodragster.com.
If you're in a nostalgic mood for the early 2000s at Santa Pod Raceway and Shakespeare County Raceway, Bob Valder's Youtube channel Bob's UK Drag Racing Archive is highly recommended: recent uploads include Santa Pod Raceway's 2002 Easter Thunderball and Shakespeare County's 2003 Halloween Showdown.
A significant addition to our Jeff Bull Race Engines-sponsored Swap Meet is the complete Pro Modified operation of Swiss racer Roland Boletter. The car is a Corvette C5 with Tim McAmis chassis, Pat Musi-built 903ci nitrous engine, and four speed Lenco with clutch. More details at the swap meet link.
After a break of a year from Covid related guideline rules, Perranporth's Spitfire Raceway returns with some quarter mile action and drifting behind closed doors on Saturday 3rd April. The Cornish venue will potentially have the biggest prize fund ever in the south west of £4800 on the no prep 1/4 mile with a eliminator style drag race and six categories to choose from.
There are sixteen places available in each category. Pairings will be determined by selection out of the hat. The process will start with eight pairs, then four pairs and down to two pairs and the final last pair is where the winner takes all the £800, based on 16 cars in each category. If category numbers are not reached, there will be a reduced prize fund in that category.
There are only 96 places available, but if you do get eliminated you can still run on the track so your day doesn't end there.
Categories:
Pro AWD: Modified, competition tyres , interior removed. Street AWD: Factory appearance, full interior. Pro Rear Wheel Drive: Modified, competition tyres , interior removed Street Rear Wheel Drive: Factory appearance, full interior Pro Front Wheel Drive: Modified, competition tyres , interior removed Street Front Wheel Drive: Factory appearance, full interior
This is a non public event; entry at £200 is for a driver and driver bubble member only.
This is also a pre entry event and you can enter here.
You can use the same entry form to drift, however there are only 15 spaces for drifting.
Tributes to Ton Pels. 6th March:
You can read a full obituary of the late Ton Pels by our good friend Remco Scheelings, with several photos on the Dutch language site Autosport.nl (auto translation to English is available for those using Chrome, Internet Explorer or Safari with the appropriate settings).
NitrOlympX announcer Benni Voss has sent his tribute to Ton:
Ton Pels has reached the finish line of his life, one of the true great Drag Racers and pioneers sadly is no longer with us.
Never meet your heroes? Not with Ton, I was asking him stupid questions and getting smart answers since the 1980s, when I was a greenhorn spectator and wanted to know what makes his bikes run so quick, and so loud.
I often ended my late night pit walks in the “Zodiac” gazebo, when Ton, Vincent and the team were repairing or preparing the bike. Over the years Ton knew that I understood a bit about tech, and explained in detail what went right, or wrong, this time. Ton was not taking the “easy” route with the blown Nitro V2, but he was convinced that there was a lot of potential in it, even if he and Vincent had to invent, construct, and build most of the engine parts capable to withstand the Nitro assault.
Ton was not only focussed on his own team, you don´t get the "Godfather of European Super Twin Racing" nickname for nothing, he was always willing and often able to help other racers, race tracks, racing series, and was a great promoter of Bike Drag Racing.
The “Dutch on tour” with eight bikes to Gainesville in 1996 is the stuff of legends, and just one example of Ton´s spirit and Godfathership. When work on the bike was done, Ton was often roaming the pits to see other racers, have a bench race, and pull pranks like a big boy.
He will surely be missed in the european Drag Racing community, I send my deep condolences for Monique, Vincent, the Pels family and the Zodiac Team. With this damn virus still doing rounds, I doubt that there will be a big farewell ceremony, so I can only show my respect here: R.I.P. Ton.
Position vacant at OCS Paint. 6th March:
Eurodragster.com sponsor OCS Paint have announced the following panel beater/fitter vacancy in their Northamptonshire workshops:
We are looking for an experienced individual to join the OCS Paint team. We will be looking for someone who has previous experience in the automotive industry, who takes absolute pride in the work they produce and that can work easily within a team. This is a chance for someone to join one of the best paint, restoration and repair shops in the UK.
Work will include: Panel beating, preparation for paint, filler work, stripping and refitting of vehicle parts, working to manufacturer and industry guidelines.
Benefits comprise: great rates of pay which will be discussed upon interest, 28 days paid holiday, negotiable hours. The role is a full time position with on site parking available.
Requirements: driving licence, previous experience in the industry, great pride taken in your work and working well within a team.
If you are interested in this position, please either phone 07572 096920 or 01327 220777 or email us at holley@ocs-group.co.uk.
Streaming video from over the Pond. 6th March:
This weekend has more individual streaming channels from the US than we can ever remember, so whilst racing in Europe is on pause, it would be rude not to carry a listing of the opportunities to see live drag racing over the next two days:
Top of the listing has to be the NHRA Top Fuel and Funny Car testing from Palm Beach International Raceway, carried by Competition Plus on Youtube. Friday's running can be seen here and the standings show nine Top Fuelers and ten Funny Cars.
Our friends at Bangshift.com are covering the free broadcast of the Southwest Showdown bracket races from Tucson Dragway, with Chad Reynolds hosting the Shootout.
Three races are being carried by new-to-drag-racing subscription carrier Flo Racing, who bought out Speed Video last year. The World Doorslammer Nationals from Orlando Speedworld is a must-see for Pro Stock and Pro Modified fans, the NMRA Spring Break Shootout is for eighth mile street racing aficionados and the Bounty Hunters No Prep Nationals is for Street Outlaws supporters.
Feature: The history of UK Pro Modified - part 3. 5th March:
Our latest historical feature, supported by Lucas Oil Products, focuses on the Pro Modified class in 1990 and 1991, following our previous two features on the class. We describe the numerous new cars that made their debut in those two years together with race results at both Santa Pod Raceway and Avon Park Raceway, incidents and championship standings. The feature includes over 85 photographs of the cars, stories of races and results for those years, together with car details from the period.
Thanks go to drag racing historian and British Drag Racing Hall of Fame director Jerry Cookson and PMRA founder Mick Harle for for supplying archive material and memories of back in the day. You can see our feature by clicking here or by clicking the features, interviews, tributes link from the main menu.
Swift snippets. 5th March:
Lucy Moore, Pro Modified colour commentator and crew member for her Dad, Funny Bike racer Roger Moore, has been in touch to wish her Roger a Happy Birthday for today (Friday).
Lucy says "A Big happy birthday to Roger, some say he's as mad as a box of frogs....." The image on the repainted frame of Roger's bike points in the same direction (see image, click for large version). Have a great day Roger from all of us at Eurodragster.com.
A belated Happy Birthday and Gratis to our good friend and Stock/Super Stock racer Rick McCann whose birthday fell yesterday, hope you had a great day Rick!
Hopefully now we are beginning to get some idea of when we can get back racing; please keep your eye on Santa Pod's updates for more detailed information, and, as such, Santa Pod will be looking for any used drag racing slicks racers may have for disposal for track preparation. As in past years, once we hear from those who have tyres, we will organise a route and date, and let you know when we will come and collect them from you. Please note that only drag racing slicks are needed please, and thank you for your help in advance. Please contact me at ir.marshall@btconnect.com and we will do the rest in terms of collection.
Also, could all recipients of the Covid Cup trophies and or hoodies please send Ian a picture of themselves with their trophy. The SPRC would like to have a gallery of 2020 winners on the SPRC website, so please send your pictures as soon as possible to the ir.marshall@btconnect.com address.
Ton Pels tribute from BDRHoF. 4th March:
Lesley Wright, Honorary Chair of the British Drag Racing Hall of Fame, writes:
We are saddened to learn of the death of our Member, Ton Pels. Ton was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2007 as our first Overseas Member following his distinguished riding career, while he continued as leader of the championship-winning Team Zodiac motorcycle team for several seasons more. On behalf of my fellow Hall of Fame directors and management, and of our Members, I wish to convey our condolences to Marianne and Vincent and to all Ton's family and team members.
Editor's note: please send your memories of Ton and tributes to simon@eurodragster.com and we will publish them here.
Flyin Fyfer NitrOlympX road trip. 3rd March:
Outlaw Anglia racer Colin Millar has, with the generous aid of our Kieran, created a two hour travelogue video based on his team's 2013 visit to Hockenheim which you can see by clicking here. Colin writes:
Hockenheim 2013, a full on boys weekend away from start to finish, a compilation of 350 small video clips made into one full length video with many thanks going out to Kieran Jenkins for jumping in and doing the technical bit, it follows the path of The Flyin Fyfer drag racing team with four daft Scottish lads, namely Gerry Treit, Mark Diamond, Scotty Crookston and myself for what was our very first trip to the Hockenheim Nitrolympx; you can clearly see the excitement on our faces and the anticipation, but also determination, to get there and race.
It starts form the Flyin Fyfer Headquarters in Sunny Kinross and takes you through to the port at Newcastle where we board the overnight ferry to Amsterdam through to the drive through Holland France and Germany until our epic arrival, getting the camp set up scrutineering drivers meeting and then onto the full on racing on Friday with all the social elements also on full display, onto Saturday with more racing until being knocked out then full-on to the stands with lots of footage from the excellent stands and then onto the fabulous Saturday night show and into the night, a big high for me was seeing Slamming Sammy’s car run, just wow!
A quieter Sunday but still lots of racing footage and other behind the scenes clips, some a tad messy, onto the fabulous drivers banquet and trophy presentation and on into the pits.
A wee tip don’t fall asleep In these guys company, then the final return leg back to catch the ferry at Amsterdam and home to Sunny Scotland.
A fantastic weekend away with great friends and very poignant for me after losing Gerry Treit at Christmas makes you realise that memories are a huge part of your life. Just a note - if you do decide to sit and watch this video please remember you will never get theses two hours back ever!
Street & Strip Times issue 7. 3rd March:
Thanks to Martin 'Drakie' Drake for sending us a link to his latest free pdf magazine, issue 7 of Street & Strip Times. Included in this edition are a selection of Martin's favourite drag racing photos over the years, a retrospective of Long Marston Raceway by Jerry Cookson with photos by Dave Derry, a feature on drag racing participation at the 2008 Classic Motor Show, and a report on Martin's attendance at the York Hot Rod Reunion 2016.
You can see the 36 page Street & Strip Times by going to
this link.
Ton Pels. 2nd March:
We were greatly saddened to hear of the death of drag bike racer and engineer Ton Pels who has passed away after a long illness. Being one of the pioneers in European Drag Bike Racing, he was the very first overseas inducted member of the British Drag Racing Hall of Fame.
Ton started racing on a variety of 250cc two-stroke bikes, soon changing to a 500cc Triumph on nitro. In 1977 he brought out a double-engined Triumph and this machine received the first-ever set of Puma cylinder heads in 1980, which were designed by Ton. Rebuilt in 1982 and renamed The Double Dutch Puma, in the next six years, this bike won Ton a string of National Championships. Then, having started the Zodiac business selling aftermarket and performance parts for Harley Davidson bikes, Ton went Pro Stock with a Harley and ran this machine until 1991, becoming the first ever Harley Pro Stock bike to run an eight.
In 1992, Ton and son and Crew Chief Vincent built their first Godfather Harley Drag bike and won the European Championship in the bike's first season. This bike also became the first European Harley (and third in the world) to break the 200 mph barrier, winning the 1996 European Championship in the process. In 2004 Ton repeated this feat and 2005 was the last year Ton as active as a drag bike pilot. In 2006 Roel Koedam ran the injected bike, but in the meantime a supercharged Top Fuel Harley-Davidson was being build, the bike that team Zodiac has run with Ronny Aasen as rider, The Godfather VII. The team again won the championship in 2013.
Our condolences go to Ton's wife Marianne, his son Vincent, his family and team members.
Ollie Burn tributes. 2nd March:
Thanks to those who sent tributes for the late Ollie Burn who passed away on Saturday 20th February.
Former Top Fuel Dragster and Top Alcohol racer, Ollie's racing partner and ex-wife Liz Rowland writes:
I was so shocked to hear of Ollie’s passing when Jez informed me on Saturday. Obviously I have many memories of Ollie, having known him since I was 14 and he was 17! This one is not racing related:
When we were married and still in our early 20s, before our drag racing days, Ollie decided he might look more distinguished - more the country gentleman if he smoked a pipe. Neither of us were smokers, so this was a bit of a challenge for him. There is quite an art form to packing and smoking a pipe and Ollie spent a fair bit of time trying to keep the damn thing alight, nearly turning his lungs inside out in the process! He was driving one day with his beloved pipe gripped between his teeth, stopped at a junction and looked to his right before pulling out...and smashed the pipe into the side window. He forgot about 'spatial awareness'. That was not the distinguished look he was working towards, so decided it wasn’t for him and knocked it on the head - thankfully!
He later found much enjoyment in another form of smoking...smoking tyres! Goodbye Ollie. You will always be in my heart.
Mike Pierse of The Mob Fuel Altered team writes:
I've been part of "the team" from 1978, helping out with Liz's dragster, right through to the last run of The Mob in September 2012, missing only a handful of meetings over all that time. It's been a fantastic experience for which I can't thank Ollie enough. Drag racing pits will be a quieter place without his laughter.
Former drag racing journalist and European Top Methanol Racers Association co-ordinator Dave Alexander writes:
I was shocked and deeply saddened at the news that Ollie Burn has died. My deepest condolences go to his family and close friends/team mates.
I was lucky enough to get to know him through Mickey Moore and he was a very nice guy, full of knowledge and always ready to answer my questions with a smile and the warts-and-all truth. Talking to him was a genuine pleasure and I'll miss him. Today is not a good day, drag racing is all the worse off without his presence.
Former promotions and marketing manager at Shakespeare County Raceway Jerry Cookson writes:
Although I never really got to know Ollie in his early years at Long Marston and Santa Pod he was a great racer who entertained me and the fans who flocked to the crowd barriers to see him run. Nothing was too much trouble. If we wanted a car to display to promote Long Marston he would do his upmost to get the car to the location.
In later years Ollie was always the life and soul of the after racing hours parties and always had some stories to tell of past experiences travelling to the tracks which is probably why The Mob always had a large following of fans supporting the teams colours and its drivers Mickey Moore, Jim Usher and Terri-Anne White.
To Ollie's family, Liz, his sons Jeremy and Richard, and all his friends at the tracks we send our deepest condolences.
NHRA Top Fuel and former Supercharged Outlaw racer Smax Smith writes:
Wow - what a shock to hear the news of Ollie's passing! We spent many a time racing and partying with him during our much loved Supercharged Outlaw days.
He was always friendly and helpful to us and enjoyed a pint or a bottle lol. We will raise a glass to him over here in Canada. Half revs, Smax and the Ant Hill Mob drag racing team.
As a result of the ongoing COVID pandemic restrictions, SFI will be providing the important annual safety inspections and recertifications of parts for European drag racers at local sites this year. Unfortunately, we will not be able to hold the usual full SFI Tour. For 2021, we are planning inspection services at two different sites in Europe.
One inspection site will be at ME Racing in Borlange, Sweden on April 26th-28th. Parts must be registered and sent to ME Racing prior to those dates to minimize contact. Further details may be found here.
We are currently working to schedule an inspection date and location in England as we monitor the local restrictions there. We will keep the racing community informed of any new dates that are scheduled or revised.
As we have all lived under these pandemic conditions for a year now, we all know how challenging it is to plan and schedule events under such dynamic circumstances. SFI’s goal is to provide inspections to those who need them in the most efficient and cost-effective way possible under these difficult conditions. We could not do it without our team of inspectors at ME Racing and Robinson Racecars, and we thank them very much for all their hard work.
We are hopeful that the 2021 racing season will happen in some form, and we look forward to perhaps returning to the typical SFI Tour next year to kick off the 2022 season.
Shorty's new generation. 1st March:
Many thanks to Jemma Bromley of Eurodragster.com sponsor Shorty's fabrication shop for sending the reveal of Outlaw Anglia racer Jedd Guy's new paint job:
Jedd hung up his race boots back in 2018 following engine issues and starting his own business but now they’re dusted off and we’re back and more determined than ever!
With massive thanks to Przym Paintwork, The Shortys Hotrod that we know and love has had a makeover for the new generation! The Guy family pop has progressed from ‘No Class’ back in the 80s, then Guy Bros which was Jedd's dad and uncle - Ray and Tony Guy's team in the 90s, then Shorty's Hotrod (due to Ray being vertically challenged) and now while its still Shorty's Hotrod it’s got a new paint job which represents Jedd's company and also highlights the beautiful curves and streamlined parts of the Pop (yes, that part's a joke) and has classic Pop features like the stunning airbrushed grill and Anglia badge done by Paul Przybyl.
The scalloping is a design which Jedd has always liked but also has a similar colour and pays homage to the flames Ray had on Shorty's Hotrod previously; we wouldn’t be where we are today without Ray’s hard work and passion for the Pop and letting Jedd carry on the family tradition.
We are also on the hunt for a Tough Ted Teddy bear which will be our new Parachute pin attachment as Ray’s Dad Ted, who sadly passed away back in November, used to have one in his Escort and started the family passion for cars by taking Ray and Tony to the race track and helping with their famous Pop and Model B.
Massive thanks go to Przym Paintworks for the stunning work and we can’t wait to see you all at the track hopefully in a few months' time when we will be joining the race for the 6 second OA record!
Pioneers' stories - Bill Haynes, part 1 1st March:
The latest update in our weekly Pioneers of UK drag racing series, told in the original words of the racers, and accompanied by photos and images from their collections, covers the period 1968 and 1969 for Surrey dragster racer Bill Haynes.
Bill Haynes raced at Santa Pod Raceway, Blackbushe and Wroughton between 1968 and 1977, running a series of dragsters, the first self-built and named Konkerer. It was followed by three dragsters all called Quarter Horse. During his racing years Bill collaborated with, or raced alongside other Surrey based drag pioneers whose stories we are presenting in future weeks; we have so far presented Derek Metcalf's story. Many thanks to Bill for telling his story to Eurodragster.com and to John Hunt for transcribing it and arranging for delivery of Bill's photo collection.
You can see the first part of Bill Haynes' story by going to this link, or via the new index page for the pioneers' stories, which shows links to the UK drag racing history web sites that provide the wider story and context for the story of the sport. Eurodragster.com thanks racers for providing their stories, and John Hunt and drag racing historian Nick Pettitt for help with editing and proof reading the feature.
Eurodragster.com sponsor Andy 'Fadster' Hadfield has announced the great news that Supercharged Outlaws UK, of which he is chairman, and Melbourne Raceway have reached a sponsorship agreement. The right hand lane of Melbourne Raceway will be sponsored by the Supercharged Outlaws for 2021 and 2022.
