Motorsports Newsletter 9/02/23

By Richard Parks

1) I want to note the recent passing of west coast drag race legend, Buck Kinney. Many may remember Buck’s line of “Special” Chevrolets which he raced up and down the west coast beginning in the 1960’s and carrying on through the 1990’s. A lifelong resident of British Columbia, Buck called Mission Raceway home. He paid many visits to the Winternationals where he picked up a few Super Stock class wins, and a number of class records. A drag racing hall of famer, Buck gave all and will be missed by many. Doug Boyce

DOUG: Please send me an obituary or any other story on Buck Kinney. We need to remember the past.

AND: The high-revving legend of Buck Kinney: West Coast drag racing icon was the first Canadian inducted by the National Hot Rod Association Hall of Fame, written by Alyn Edwards.

Buck Kinney was a drag racing super stock record setter in a career that spanned six decades. He raced many of the cars that are now the most coveted by muscle car collectors. He got them new, prepped them for racing himself and was sponsored by the General Motors dealership where he worked as a mechanic. He stopped racing 10 years ago when he became an octogenarian. That’s 80 years old. Kinney grew up in the suburban communities of Pitt Meadows and Maple Ridge east of Vancouver. He just had to have wheels. His first set at the age of 14 was under a Cushman motor scooter. The following year, he bought his first car: a 1936 Ford, which he fixed up and began driving. A series of custom cars followed including a 1939 Mercury convertible, 1949 Ford coupe and a 1956 Mercury that was lowered to the ground and equipped with a continental spare tire. He joined the British Columbia Custom Car Association and, in the early Fifties, began drag racing on the decommissioned military airport in Abbotsford an hour east of Vancouver. For photos and complete story google https://nationalpost.com/column/collector-classics/the-high-revving-legend-of-buck-kinney.

 AND: The Buck Kinney Story, written by Doug Boyce, for Canadian Hot Rods Magazine.

Dean Kinney, better known in the drag racing community as Buck Kinney, or Uncle Buck entertained west coast tracks for close to five decades. The dedication he showed to the sport, the countless number of class wins and records that he accumulated over the years saw Buck inducted into the NHRA Hall of Fame, the only Canadian to be bestowed with the honor.

Buck was born back in 1933 in New Westminster, BC, and from an early age he showed an interest in automobiles. As he grew so did his desire to go fast. Thankfully he had the sense to do so safely and off the main roads, for the most part. At 18 Buck and a few buddies around his home in Pitt Meadows formed a car club and called themselves the Pitt Meadows Stompers. Within a few years they were joining the racing that was taking place on the decommissioned RCAF air strip at Abbotsford. The British Columbia Custom Car Association (BCCCA), which Buck was a member have been credited with bringing organized drag racing to Canada. Back in 1952 the association, with backing from the Junior Chamber of Commerce and the Vancouver Police, were given approval to make use of the air strip to hold their drag races.

READERS: For the full story write to the editor.

2) My idol, Mark Donohue, did not make the list? He drove in SCCA, Stock Car, Indy, Can-Am No? See https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mark_Donohue and www.aeroseminars.com/donohue.html. https://www.aeroseminars.com/images/donohue-article-1.pdf. Paul Glessner

PAUL: The only reason for leaving Mark Donohue out is…well…senility. Actually, this is what others have done so I put it to GROUP SENILITY. Mark is listed in Oscar Koveleski’s story, which I think was sent to you. This glaring omission will be rectified immediately. I will include the links. Your story on Mark is endearing.

3) Cars & Coffee Car Show sponsored by the Segerstrom Shelby Event Center and Hillbank Motor Corporation to be held Saturday, September 3, 2023, from 7:30-9:30 AM, open to all makes and models, registration not required. Coffee provided. The Segerstrom Shelby Event Center is located at 5 Whatney, Irvine CA 92618, and Hillbank Motors is at 1 Whatney, right next door. For information contact info@ssecoc.com.

READERS: I’ve been to both, and these are very special places. Bring your cars and families.

4) GETTING TO KNOW OUR READERS DEPARTMENT. Jon Asher is the former editor of five drag racing-related magazines. In 53 years of writing about and photographing the endeavor he’s received two Special Recognition Awards from the All-Star Drag Racing Team, the Founders Award from the International Drag Racing Hall of Fame and AARWBA’s Straight Shooter Award. Jon wrote the Motorsports Hall of Fame program when “Ohio George” Montgomery was inducted in 2019.

AND: “OHIO GEORGE” MONTGOMERY, written by Jon Asher

In the days before the dawn of fire-breathing Funny Cars, AA/Gas Supercharged cars ruled the center ring of drag racing’s circus. Competitors eschewed late model vehicles of the era, preferring the slippery-looking cars from days of yore. Visually stunning machines like Big John Mazmanian’s candy apple red ’41 Willys and the equally gorgeous candy blue Willys fielded by Stone, Woods & Cook ruled the roost on the West Coast, but they were far from alone in their quest for showmanship and performance honors. More than a thousand miles east the owner of a small speed shop in Dayton, Ohio named George Montgomery began earning a reputation for outstanding performances with a powder blue ’33 Willys that would garner him multiple honors – and a whole lot of impressive victories. (For the full article write to the editor of this newsletter and he will send it to you)

AND: George Montgomery was one of the nicest guys I ever met, and I have known him since 1958 at the World Series in Cordova Illinois. Sincerely, Don Garlits

AND: While I was at Hurst, we sponsored one of George’s race cars. The Hurst Gasser/Passer. The sponsorship didn’t last long but on one of George’s visits, he had a project that he wanted us to perform. Make him a detector that could read the Xmas tree intervals and send a signal to his race car, actuating a throttle control, so he had perfect reaction times. George Hurst had a great relationship going with NHRA and was afraid of losing it by doing what “Ohio George” wanted. Jim Kerr

AND: He came up to me at Indy, where I had my Hurst Performance Clinic, and asked me to stop at his shop on the way home. I did so and he disclosed that he needed help in selling the Tooling that he and “Sneaky” Pete Robinson had made making Magnesium blower cases. This venture was done prior to having Teflon inserts in the rotors. He claimed that the Aluminum rotors would not gall in a Magnesium case. I called a few people and got no further responses. Jim Kerr

AND: I was saddened to learn of George Montgomery’s passing. Saw him race at Lions & Pomona several times in his trips west. A fierce competitor. Joseph Stephan

5) Danny Ongais, Stirling Moss and Graham Hill all set World Land Speed Records at Bonneville. Moss was in the 1950’s fast enough to become a member of the 200 Club. The land speed community is having another tough season. Bolivia didn’t work out. BMST and World of Speed (WoS) cancelled. The first Record Meet in the Season is the Speedweek in August; due to rain they couldn’t start to run before Tuesday afternoon instead of Saturday, and then only on a very bad 3-mile course; most drivers/riders had to work hard to keep the car on track and straight. Bolivia, Salar de Uyuni, got an FIA/FIM meet, at first the container arrived with a delay and then the weather was so strange that support vehicles went out of order, the engines went down on power. Finally, an open record in bike, could be set and another record, set a couple years ago, was broken but only by a couple miles. BMST is the former BUB Meet which Manning starts, an AMA and FIM Meet, means only motorcycles. Couple years ago, the name changed to BMST, Bonneville Motorcycle Speed Trails, the meet is normally between Speedweek and World of Speed. After Speedweek there was still some rain and at first the BMST became a no go and on the weekend the USFRA checked the salt, the possible course still was in bad shape and the way from Lands’ End to the pits and course are too damaged from the Speedweek and could be damaged more if they run WoS, so on Sunday they said no go. World Finals is left over, we have to see what mother nature allows. Stay crazy, “Pork Pie” Thomas Graf.

AND: Richard Petty spent half a season driving in AHRA & match racing. I’ve never seen him or reference to his racing in NHRA. The driver who has won the most places & different kind of races hands down is AJ Foyt. That includes tear drop dragsters in the 1950’s before he became big time (pictures in Hot Rod Deluxe). Joe Stephan

 JOE: There are details in the WALLY & BARBARA PARKS: We Did It Our Way story on his life that Petty did race in the NHRA events.

6) NHRA YOUTH AND EDUCATION SERVICES PROGRAM is back at the 2023 In-N-Out Burger NHRA Finals, Thursday November 9, 2023. Deadline to Register and Receive a Free Race Ticket is Tuesday November 7th at 3PM PST. John Baadilla, NHRA Youth Program is at jbaadilla@nhra.com. 

7) Come join CAL-RODS Car Club on November 19th, at Irwindale Speedway, for the 1st Annual “Run with a Winner” Classic Car Show and Drag Race. CAL-RODS Car Club was founded in 1954 at Baldwin Park High School, and has, today, in excess of 200 members. CAL-RODS is one of the most active car clubs in SoCal, offering several club-sanctioned events each month. In partnership with Irwindale Speedway, CAL-RODS Car Club invites you to a fun-filled day featuring a Classic Car Show, Drag Racing, Vendors, Music, Raffles, and Trophies. For full information, visit: cal-rods.org. From Kelly Anderson

8) Dan Gurney also won the CANNONBALL BAKER SEA TO SHINING SEA MEMORIAL TROPHY RACE: NEW YORK TO SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA. Karen Nelson

READERS: If you want to read two stories about the Cannonball, write to me and I will send you the Oscar Koveleski Story that details the race. Cross country events, I believe, are still being conducted today. Anyone with information on these races please contact me.

9) Kelly Inman, Director of Racing invites you out to witness the most exciting LIVE show on two wheels. This nitro burning, lightning fast, 0 to 60 in 2 seconds, 500CC motorcycles with no brakes put on a show unlike anything you’ve seen. Meet the riders, check out their race bikes. Bring the family and enjoy big-screen viewing, vendor displays, and a variety of good food and beverage options. This is family entertainment at its best.

AND: Speedway California State Championship results from the races on August 26, 2023, at The Grand Arena.

1st Semi race (top two racers advance to the finals): Slater Lightcap (winner), Dillon Ruml (2nd place), Louie Mesaroli (3rd place), Tim Gomez (4th place).

2nd Semi race (top two racers advance to the finals): Max Ruml (winner), Broc Nicol (2nd place), Austin Novratil (3rd place), Russell Green (4th place).

In the Final heat the top two finishers from heat #1 and heat #2 compete: Broc Nicol (winner of the California State Championship), Max Ruml (2nd place), Slater Lightcap (3rd place), Dillon Ruml (4th place).

AND: The following is from Doug Nicol, whose son Broc Nicol just won the California Speedway Motorcycle State Championship: “I’ve helped market the Speedway apparel for 12 years. The Agajanians sponsored me and now they sponsor my son Broc. Do You have a brother in the Newport Beach area? We called him “pinner” Peter (a kinda wild guy)?” 

DOUG: Congratulations on your son’s victory. Please send in material on Speedway Bike, a fascinating sport that does not get the notice that it deserves. I used to cover a few Speedway races for DRIVE Magazine. Send a short bio of Broc’s exploits in 2023. My brother was David Parks, the youngest son of Wally Parks, but he passed away (without my permission) in 2016 at the too young age of only 63. He was noted for land speed racing and was a 3-time RED hat achiever for setting records over 200 MPH at Bonneville, Muroc and El Mirage. I’m not sure that he was wild, but I can tell you that he “hated” to have anyone pass him on the freeway.

10) I held the Super Stock record in my 409 Chevy until Don Nicholson blew it away. Don Smith

DON: Know how you feel. My brother (see above), set a record at Bonneville in the 90’s, only to have Jerry Kugel bring his Firebird to the salt and destroy Dave’s record by about 100mph. Kugel has been MY favorite ever since, but my brother’s bane. The RED hat is made super-large so a racer’s head can swell to fill it. Speaking of Don Nicholson here is my recent book review.

AND:

BOOK REVIEW: “Dyno Don…The Cars and Careers of Dyno Don Nicholson,” by Doug Boyce.

An iconic hot-rodder and drag racer was “Dyno” Don Nicholson who couldn’t be ignored on the drag strip. There was a zeal in his love of drag racing went far beyond simply making a living in the sport. He persevered and won in stock classes from the 1960’s to the 1980’s, winning nine National races in NHRA, eleven in AHRA, seven in the IHRA and one in NASCAR drag racing. He began in Stock, moved up to Funny Car for a while and then went back to the stock classes he loved so well: Factory Stock, Super Stock, and Pro Stock. Doug Boyce wrote a captivating story for CarTech Publishing, titled “Dyno Don…The Cars and Careers of Dyno Don Nicholson.” 

For the full review please write to me and request it and I will send it to you. Richard Parks RnParks1@juno.com.

11) SEMA Fest, Two-Day Celebration of Motorsports, Music and Car Culture Auto and racing enthusiasts who have long dreamed of being part of the SEMA experience can finally join the party, November 3-4. Discover how aftermarket consumers buy, sell and use specialty equipment parts with this detailed report available to all SEMA business members. Breaking: Aftermarket Defeat Devices Removed From EPA’s Top Enforcement Priorities List. Action Needed: Colorado Flip-Flops, Proposes Adoption of California’s Emissions Rules. Movers & Shakers: Wilwood Engineering Hires Robert Hemingway as Director of Engineering. All-Midwest Sales Celebrates 55 Years of Serving the Automotive Aftermarket. PRO Volunteer Spotlight: Neil Ferguson of SeatbeltPlanet.com. From Don Smith

12) GETTING TO KNOW OUR READERS DEPARTMENT. Kaylee Barnitt. “Seeing custom cars as a little girl, started my passion for cars, and led me to working at places like: Singer Vehicle Design and teaching classes at Gene Winfield’s. It was because growing up and seeing legends like: Ed Roth, George Barris, Bill Hines, Jessi Combs. They pioneered their legacy and passed it down through their builds. When you look at any of their cars you can see the passion and spirit. It’s kustom. This is what non-car people don’t understand. This is more than just an old car. This is our soul. It’s the beauty in the craftsmanship, hours, and devotion to create something you have never seen before. This the legacy I want to pass onto our next generation of Motor Kings and Queens.” Kaylee Barnitt Motor Queen

13) Don Smith sent the latest Dragzine.com news. Chris Holbrook readies new NHRA factory X Ford Mustang. The number of entries for the NHRA’s new factory X class keeps building. The Ford built by Jerry Bickel is powered by a Cobra Jet engine with a 3.0L Whipple. Callies drops new Compstar Xtreme Big-Block Chevy rods. One final building block: inside the last Ed Pink engine ever made. Taking a closer look at Edelbrock’s ‘Big Victor’ 12-Degree Heads. Is nitrous the easiest way to add power to a LS engine? Dakota Digital releases a pair of highly advanced control modules. This Aluminum drop hitch from Weigh Safe makes towing safer. Antron Brown suffers rare Top Fuel rear wing failure. Wild Horse Pass Motorsports Park to remain open. Season 6 of Real Garage ignites with Miller Welder giveaway. Heartland Motorsports Park closing, new Flying H Track saves the day.

14) Historic Sportscar Racing (HSR) Classic Stock Cars at NASCAR weekend last Saturday at Watkins Glen International.

The twilight race began with an opening 25-minute round before at stage break paved the way for a final 20-minute dash to the checkered flag. NASCAR star “Front Row” Joe Nemechek led the first six laps but dropped out with mechanical problems. Scott Holley in the ex-Penske Racing/Miller Lite 2004 #2 Dodge Charger took the lead on Lap 18 to win over Patrick Womack in second and Samuel LeComte who finished third. Adam Saal is at SaalGoodPR@Gmail.com

or 321-890-2848.

15) Drag Racing related books by Doug Boyce

Drag Racing’s Quarter Mile Warriors – Then & Now – Released 2014

This book takes a unique look at the most memorable, interesting, and successful cars from this golden age of drag racing. Chronicled are Dragsters, Funny Cars, Pro Stocks, Competition Eliminator, and Modified cars, as well as Stocks and Super Stocks. Vintage and modern photography in a unique “then and now” format cover the cars as they first competed, through their evolution (or inactivity) over the years, and how they look today. No clones or tributes in this book. Just real deals.

 AND: 

1001 Drag Racing Facts – Released 2015

This book spans the 1950s through the 1980s and is packed with well-researched drag racing facts that even some of the most hard-core drag racing fans might be surprised to learn. Covered are all the popular classes of racing of the era, including Top Fuelers, Funny Cars, Pro Stocks, Eliminators classes such as Gas and Altered, Stock, Super Stock, and more. I think the reader will appreciate the technical and entertaining information shared on each page.

16) The Science of Time Travel in Back to the Future; YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OZSm4shR-M4. On Location: Back to the Future (1985) Filming Locations, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2aAuyQjzOnA. Lenny and the Hidden Pioneers doing R & D Hidden Garages Final Trailer, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ismxNtJAAQY. Bill Montgomery

17) A proposal to America: From a survey there appears to be SIX schools in a normal high school district, plus three or more adult or continuation schools for various reasons. I propose a new vision for our American school system in which grades 1-8 teach the basic Liberal Arts plus the 3-R’s (reading, ‘riting and ‘rithmetic), basic psychology, English skills, history, etc. I propose that High Schools change their curriculum to vocational, engineering, science, technology, laboratory and minor research along with job skills, and remedial Liberal Arts. Most students will not attend college, nor does it benefit them skill-wise in most situations. College is expensive and wastes valuable time if all that it does is work on remedial skills best taught in lower grades. College is needed, but not for remedial work that should be done in High School or a continuation of Liberal Arts. Contact me for a list of job skills listed on the internet that I have researched. Richard Parks

18) Professional Racers Owners Organization (PRO) announced the Largest Purse in the history of Drag Racing for a race at Bradenton, Florida, February 8-10, 2024. $250,000 to win each for Top Fuel and Funny Car. To see a press release go to dragracecentral.com (https://www.dragracecentral.com/SeriesIndex.asp?Series=DRAG-SUMMIT) section. Invitation only; TF-FC-PS. Hal Canode

 HAL: I enjoyed looking at Dragracecentral.com. I see their writers every once in a while. They do a very commendable job. They have NHRA, LODRS, IHRA, PRESS, DRAGNEWS & PHOTOS on their site.

19) Racing Legends Earl B. Gilmore and Phil Walters join the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America’s Class of 2024 in the Historic Category. Gilmore and Walters will be announced on the Main Stage Saturday at the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. WWII Hero Walters, aka “Ted Tappett,” an All-Time Great in Midget Racing and Sports Cars, including Multiple Overall Victories at Sebring and Watkins Glen for fellow Inductee Briggs Cunningham. Gilmore Built his Eponymous Los Angeles Stadium and Supported fellow Inductees Wilbur Shaw, Mauri Rose, Ab Jenkins, John Cobb, Sir Malcolm Campbell, Rex Mays, Bill Vukovich and Roscoe Turner across Open Wheel, Stock Car, Land Speed Record and Air Racing Events. From Adam Saal at SaalGoodPR@gmail.com, 321-890-2848

20) Watkins Glen Library and Museum staff have been very helpful. Be sure to stop in and visit them when you are in New York State.

21) The URBAN AFTERMARKET COUNCIL OF AMERICA members, see: https://www.urbanaftermarket.org/team. From William (Hidden Pioneers Bill) Montgomery

22) Hot Rods at the Nugget Casino in Wendover, Utah for the 75th Annual Bonneville SCTA Speed Week 2023. See: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cl9CBqVz-rk. This video was from the very beginning of the 2023 75th Annual SCTA Bonneville Speed Week. In addition to streamliners and race cars running on the Bonneville salt flats setting land speed records, each night there is a very cool custom and hot rod show at the Nugget casino in Wendover, Utah. Join us for a lap to take a look at some of the cars on display at Bonneville in 2023. There are everything from gasser Corvettes, 1932 to 1934 Fords, Chevrolet Impalas, and all kinds of other hot rods and customs in this video. The Bonneville Salt Flats are home to the Southern California Timing Association SCTA Speed Week, and 2023 is the 75th year of the event. This video was from the very beginning of the 2023 75th Annual SCTA Bonneville Speed Week. Jim Dunn (Diesel Salt Toy)

23) Following schedule is courtesy of SHERM PORTER fuely32@sbcglobal.net.

NOVEMBER 9-11 Mecum Auction, Las Vegas 2023, www.mecum.com.

NOVEMBER 9-12 In-N-Out Burger NHRA Finals, Fairplex/Pomona, www.nhra.com.

NOVEMBER 11-12 GOODGUYS, 33rd Autumn Get-Together, Pleasanton Fairgrounds, All Years. 925-838-9876 or www.good-guys.com

NOVEMBER 11-12 El Mirage, www.scta-bni.org.

NOVEMBER 16-18 Formula 1 Heineken Silver Las Vegas Grand Prix 2023, tickets prices range from $500/general admission, standing room only, to $10,000/Skybox Shared Hospitality, www.f1lasvegasgp.com.

NOVEMBER 17-19 GOODGUYS 26th Speedway Motors Southwest Nationals, WestWorld/Scottsdale, AZ, ’72 and earlier, 925-838-9876 or www.good-guys.com.

NOVEMBER 17-26 Los Angeles, CA, Auto Show, LA Convention Center, https://laautoshow.com/.

24) DRAGSTRIPS in the USA and Canada. Courtesy of the National Speedway Directory, 2504 Lake Avenue, Wilmette, ILLINOIS, 60091

Bama Dragway Location: Jasper, Alabama Category: Dragstrips Length: 1/8-mile Surface: Paved.

Bandimere Speedway Location: Denver, Colorado Category: Dragstrips Length: 1/4-mile Surface: Paved. Mentioned in my father’s story.

Barona 1/8 Mile Drags Location: Ramona, California Category: Dragstrips Length: 1/8-mile Surface: Paved.

Battlefield Motorsports Park Location: Philadelphia, Mississippi Category: Dragstrips Length: 1/8-mile Surface: Paved.

25) I would appreciate you sending the story on Wally Parks who is a legendary figure in hot rodding. I write stories on how people relate to the special cars in their lives. I don’t cover any specific aspect of motorsport including racing. But I will send you stories that I think your readers may enjoy. Alyn Edwards Communicators Ltd.

READERS: Alyn Edwards is a writer from British Columbia, Canada. He shared a story with us on Buck Kinney.

26) Leicester, New York’s Empire Dragway August 18-19, 2023, 1/8-mile results: Maryland’s Derek Ward took the victory with a 3.591 ET, 203.71 mph posting over Melanie Salemi’s 3.617 second, 198.41 mph in the Pro Modified final. A new track record for Pro Modifieds was set by Ward, with his 3.591 second final run. He had already broken the record earlier in the day, during the third round of eliminations, with a 3.594 second, 211.37 mph run. Cody Reome of McGraw, NY took the win with a 4.475 second, 145.87 mph run over Rich Yacos of Cambria, NY losing 4.394 second, 160.89 mph pass. Dan Germano of Macedon, NY took top eliminator with a 4.245 second, 162.05 mph pass over runner-up Doug Lynden of Bergen, NY, who ran a 4.829 second, 141.64 mph final run. Bruce Mehlenbacher, Bruce@JAJentertainment 

27) GETTING TO KNOW OUR READERS DEPARTMENT. Michelle Day. “Hello everyone! My name is Michelle Day and I have been drag racing for just over 4 years. My husband and I both drag race. Now that you know what I do, let me tell you why I do it. I do it because there is nothing like hearing your turbos spool up, letting go of that trans brake and gapping the person in the lane next to YOU! Hahaa. Obviously, I am a little competitive (my husband would say more like extremely competitive, so racing gives me a way to fulfil that need. I currently have a small block, twin turbo 1986 Firebird that I drive and she (the Firebird) herself is quite the beast.”

28) Along with a strong Pro Modified presence, a full field of Top Sportsman and Top Dragster Quick 32 Sportsman Series teams from both sides of the US-Canada border, battled it out on Empire Dragway’s eighth-mile dragstrip on August 18-19th. The postponed Challenge IV Top Dragster and Top Sportsman finals and the Quick 32 Sportsman Series overall eliminator also was held. Free weekend camping is available. Visit the Northeast Outlaw Pro Mod Association at neoutlawpromods.com, the Pro Modified Racing Association at facebook.com/promodifiedracing and the Empire Dragway at EmpireDragway.com for more information and event updates. For more information write to Bruce Mehlenbacher at bruce@jajentertainment.com.

29) Enjoy some great videos below of a Legend Hidden Pioneer who will never be forgotten. It’s an honor to be related to this cool lady Katherine Johnson’s, 2018 Honorary Degree See https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ulneupo2H0. From Bill Montgomery.

30) Article by Andrew Wolf in Dragzine.com. Andy Marocco developed Street Legal Dragway, located next to the Perris Auto Speedway dirt oval and on the grounds of the Southern California Fair Grounds in Riverside County, features a shortened 330-foot dragstrip dedicated specifically to street cars and enthusiasts looking for a venue to safely conduct acceleration contests. The very basic track represents a lower-cost entry to providing a Dragway to get people off the street; less land, infrastructure, and material and labor cost. The World Drag Racing Alliance (WDRA), a new sanctioning group within the sport, saw an opportunity to address the illegal street racing issue head-on by partnering with Andy on the project. See: https://www.dragzine.com/news/socals-new-330-street-legal-dragway-could-mark-a-revolution/. Sent in by Don Smith

31) Upcoming shows and events supported by Hidden Pioneers: from Bill Montgomery.

September 9, 2023, EV show 12pm to 3pm San Saturday, San Marcos CA.

September 9, 2023, Cruisin for a Cure Car show Orange County- 10am to 4pm.

September 10, 2023, Long Beach car show/swap meet (Sunday AM).

September 20, 2023, Wednesday night in Burbank 6 to 10pm. CSI Bill to speak at LA Ford Car Club monthly event.

September 23, 2023.Los Angeles Jesse Owens Park 17th Annual Inner-City Marathon & Health Festival.

September 29, 2023, Columbia Memorial Space Center, Downey, CA, 6-8pm. Hidden Pioneers showcase CSI Bill.

October 7, 2023, Route 66 old school show Saturday from 9am to 9pm.

October 8, 2023, Apple Valley Air Show- Oct 8th Sunday 9 to 4pm.

October 8, 2023, (Sunday AM) Long Beach car show/swap meet.

October 22, 2023, In-N-Out Burger 75th Anniversary Festival (Pomona CA).

October 31-November 3, 2023, Las Vegas SEMA trade show.

November 9, 2023, Pomona, CA NHRA Yes Program-Hidden Pioneers will have Booth.

November 12, 2023, Long Beach car show/swap meet (Sunday AM).

November 18, 2023, Hidden Pioneers/Inglis Classics Supershow Fundraiser (High Desert)

32) PEOPLE ASK QUESTIONS DEPARTMENT: I’d love to have a copy of your Dad’s book, which I would gladly pay. 

READERS: I do all my writing on Word Doc. It’s free to anyone who wants to read it. It’s also a source for writers to use as it is all primary sourced. I will send it to you and feel free to share it with anyone you wish. Here is the first of eleven emails, each with several periods of time. The title is WALLY AND BARBARA PARKS: WE DID IT OUR WAY. The history of my father and stepmother was compiled from their records, statements and letters from other sources and people and my own archives. I’ve tried to include all the history that related to his life and the friends that he had. As I come across additional information, I will add it to the record. People ask why it is so long and the answer is that each reader looks for details that interest them. I do have plans to make a shorter version that is easier to read. There is no INDEX because that would take several volumes in itself but use the TABLE OF CONTENTS as a means to find what you might be looking for. I hope you enjoy it and let me know if you spot any errors. Richard Parks (EDITOR)

33) STEMMC & STEM1ON1, STEM Master Class (STEMMC). Our mission is to teach students in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics; our goal is to educate students via STEM online programs by teaching students the same STEM curriculum throughout the world. STEM 1 on 1 is tutoring for students that need help in the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics education curriculum. STEM Master Class (stemmasterclass.com/.org) and (stemmc.com/.org), STEM 1 on 1 (stem1on1.com /org). Contact spagnani@performanceracingtechtalk.com, Stefan Pagnani.

34) From: SHERM PORTER at fuely32@sbcglobal.net.

SEPTEMBER 2-3 www.UPcarparts.com C10 Intervention Truck Show, Woodland, CA, open to 1908-1998 GM trucks, lifted lowered, stock, custom, everything is welcome. For info: 415-823-4073 or www.c10intervention.com.

SEPTEMBER 1-3 19th Annual Ventura Nationals, Ventura County Fairgrounds, CA, 100’s of customs, hot rods & more, bands, vendors. For info: www.venturanationals.com.

SEPTEMBER 1-3 Nor-Cal Novas 9th Annual Family Reunion, Pleasanton, CA. For info: J.margarita2119@gmail.com.

SEPTEMBER 2 Run to The Pines Car Show, Pine Mountain Club, CA. For info: www.runtothepinedautoshow.com, Pete 805-540-0265 or info@runtothepinesautoshow.com.

SEPTEMBER 3 ELKS 3rd Annual Classic Car Show, San Luis Obispo, CA, 10am-4pm, open to 1973 and older vehicles, awards. For info: r.forxford@yahoo.com or www.tinyurl.com/bpoecarshow.

SEPTEMBER 3 15th Annual Cambria Pinedorado Car Show, Pinedorado Grounds, CA, 10am-3pm, Open show-all years & makes, cars & bikes, space limited, register early, Unique awards, T-Shirt, food, raffles, pub, music, games. For info: Marissa Powels 818-809-7910 or pinedoradocarshow23@gmail.com.

SEPTEMBER 8-9 Annual Gas Bash, Gas Pump Swap Meet, Opens at 7am-Vendor: $50 for both days. Free admission for public. For info: Fred Stoke 707-291-1666 or qtlowsto@yahoo.com.

SEPTEMBER 9 24th Annual Cruisin’ for a Cure, OC Fair & Event Center, Costa Mesa, CA. For info: 949-353-7353 or www.cruisinforacure.com.

SEPTEMBER 9 12th Annual South Shore Car & Bike Show, Miller’s Landing, South Shore, Bass Lake, CA. For info: Miller’s 559-642-3633.

SEPTEMBER 9 Roarin’ Redwoods, Roaring Camp, Felton, CA, 8am-3pm. Gary 408-309-5396 or John 831-234-7140.

SEPTEMBER 9 21st Annual All Ford Car Show & Swap Meet, The Santa Maria A’s, Old Town Orcutt, CA. 9am-3pm, Raffles, Trophies, 50/50 drawing. Info: Curt 805-478-1231 or Jay 805-598-8133, www.santamariamodelaclub.com.

SEPTEMBER 9 23rd Annual Antique Autos in History Park, San Jose, CA, 11am-4pm, 1945 and older vehicles only, must be period-correct, no registration cost, Live Music, Early Day Gas Engine and Tractors, antique crafts demonstrated, blacksmith Demonstrations, trolley rides, food available. For info: www.cvmtfc.org or www.historysanjose.org.

SEPTEMBER 10 9th Annual Classic Car Show, Monterey County Sheriff’s Posse, ‘A Day on the Green’ Monterey County Sheriff’s Posse Grounds, 8am-2pm, Awards.

SEPTEMBER 10 El Mirage Land Speed Time Trials. For info: www.scta-bni.org.

35) Rosco McGlashan wrote: Everything on this car has had to be designed and/or built by my team. There are no parts on this vehicle that you will find in any auto parts store. The wheels quad-bearing packs were designed and built as a one-off by SKF Bearings for us. The aerospace-grade aluminum billet for the wheels, rocket interface and air brakes was sponsored by Calm Aluminum in NSW. Some of the world’s cleverest engineers have volunteered their time and expertise to see this project come together. Special thanks to Dr Ian Sutherland, Dr Graham Doig, John Ackroyd and Paul Martin for their engineering design prowess. A huge thank you must go to Kentin Engineering and Newland Precision Engineering, both of whose machining capabilities are world-class. So, we have now completed stage one of our mission! The Aussie Invader Project is at rosco@aussieinvader.com. Our mailing address is: Aussie Invader, 5R 6 Karalundie Way, Mullaloo, Western Australia State, 6027, Australia.

36) John Hunt of the British Drag Racing Historians Association wrote in about their group. Here are some of the articles that they have on file for UK drag racers. Chris Pattison, part 2 (published 13th January 2023). Quote from Chris Pattison: “Nearly half a century gap, then I did put a lot of effort into building the Grim Reaper and running it in the wonderful family that is the Supercharged Outlaws. I’ve always been keen to acknowledge those that have helped along the way and am happy that the car will continue successfully in the hands of Team Tiki Racing. That said, I was there at the dawn of Drag Racing in this country and it has nicely bookended my life (not that I’m intending to meet the Reaper quite yet!).” John is at johnhunt.drn@googlemail.com.

37) 27th Annual Haltech World Cup Finals Import vs Domestic November 1-5, 2023, at Maryland International Raceways (MIR). Racers who are eligible for Stage 1 can now register & purchase their crew tickets at importvsdomestic.com/tickets. Stage 1 Registration will close August 25th at Midnight EDT. If you’re eligible for Stage 1 and miss this 12-hour registration window, then you will need to register when Stage 2 opens on August 30th at 12 PM EDT. importvsdomestic.com/tickets, Office: 240-349-2538, Fax: 240-901-2950, Miller Brothers Productions, LLC, PO Box 2388, La Plata, Maryland 20646-2388. Sent in by Don Redmon

38) Sent in by Don Smith: New Jersey’s Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has published a SEMA-opposed regulation that, if approved, would require the state to adopt California’s latest motor vehicle emissions laws and outlaw the sale of new gas-and-diesel-powered cars beginning in 2035. New Jersey has historically followed California’s tailpipe laws. SEMA believes that New Jersey’s residents, not the government, should decide what vehicles are best for them and their families. The automotive industry is embracing new technology to make cars cleaner and more efficient, which includes hydrogen, new synthetic fuels, alternative fuels and improvements to the internal combustion engine (ICE). The government should allow the market to continue to innovate all forms of technology that significantly reduce vehicle emissions, not just electric vehicles (EVs). For more information, contact Christian Robinson at christianr@sema.org.

39) I was playing around with the keyboard and learned a trick and it might work for you. I held down the control key (don’t release it as you roll) on my keyboard and then used the “roller” on the mouse and I could increase (roll it forward) or decrease (roll it backward) the size of the print. See if you can do that on your computer and if so then you can read any size print that is sent to you.

40) From: MEL BASHORE Subject: International Raceway Park in Ona, West Virginia.

Is there anything in your father’s files that might shed more light on a planned drag strip next to a speedway oval track in Ona, WV. Dick Clark, the old rock n’ roller, had a financial interest in the proposed strip as a co-owner. I’m attaching a couple of newspaper articles about the strip. A researcher previously wrote me that the drag strip was listed in the 1970 NHRA track guide. Another researcher recently said that his research in aerial photos shows no strip was ever built. Here is the entry I have written for this strip on Drag Strip List: According to “Old Timer,” a drag strip, adjacent to a stock car oval track, was purportedly opened in the mid-1960s and closed in the early 1970s. “Old Timer” said it is listed in the 1970 NHRA track guide. However, newspaper articles in 1969 state only that a drag strip was in the planning stages. (To be continued in the next newsletter)

MEL: It rings a bell, but I can’t recall. I’ve attached 1970-1972 for you to look through. If it’s there it will show up in the Table of Contents. It’s possible Division 1 or 3 Division Directors might have some old records. I’ve also included Greg Sharp and Steve Gibbs on this email. It’s possible they may know something. 1970 is about the time of the gas shortages and that killed a lot of projects for a time.

 READERS: does anyone know anything about Ona?