CARRERAS NEWS -- LCP 2014 RECAP

Carreras News

December 2014

For photos go to www.lacarrerapanamericana.com.mx

**CHIHUAHUA EXPRESS REGISTRATION OPEN

**RECAP:  PAN AM 2014

**LCP NORTH AMERICAN RESULTS

**MORE PANAMERICANA NOTES

**ORIGINAL PAN AM CARS NEEDED!

**PAN AM-CHIHUAHUA CARS FOR SALE

**LEGAL NOTICES

**CONTACT INFO

**CHIHUAHUA EXPRESS REGISTRATION OPEN

It’s time to sign up for the Chihuahua Express, April 23-26.  Hit reply to ask for an entry form and FAQ.

The Express is open to any car, vintage or modern, with the required safety equipment.  Turbo, super-charged and four-wheel drive vehicles are welcome.  Pan Am cars run in their Pan Am class, but compete for overall standing with modern cars.  Save $250 by registering before the end of the year.

It is three days of racing….almost 1000 miles, including about 300 miles of speed stages, and each night the racers return to the same luxury hotel.  Driver’s meetings are at 6:30 and last about 30 minutes.

Don’t have a race car ready to race?  Try the ” Express Tour,” a time-to-distance rally along the same scenic route run by the race cars, but at legal speeds.  No experience is needed, and it is an excellent introduction to all Mexican rallies, timing and scoring, including the Pan Am. 

Chihuahua City, the headquarters of the race, is an easy 145 miles from Presidio, Texas and 240 from El Paso.  This is the 10^th anniversary of the Express, which began as the Border Challenge.  The organizer is Chacho Medina, who is an architect by profession, a university lecturer, and Formula One commentator on Mexican TV.

The Chihuahua Express is affiliated with the Silver State Classic Challenge.  www.sscc.us

**RECAP:  PAN AM 2014

In his post-race interview with the New York Times the overall winner of LCP 2014, Erik Comas (FR), admitted that he did not understand how long and difficult this epic Pan Am would be.  Comas, a former Formula One driver and vintage rally driver, won the Pan Am on the last day when the leading Studebaker went off the road, into a ditch (see photos).  Reportedly, Comas had been gaining on the lead car in the morning speed stages and the constant pressure probably was ultimately too much for the leader Emilio Velasquez.

The Studebaker driven by Comas was built and supported by Mats Hammarlund Racingin San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, that shops third or fourth overall win.

Comas said that most of his rally events in Europe are much shorter and usually one day long, not seven long hard days.  For example, on Day 2 of LCP 2014, the last two transit stages of 207 miles (339 KM) took the cars in heavy rain and diminishing daylight into the ancient city of Tlaxcala and then into the center of Mexico City.  And on Day 7, the day began with a transit of almost 185 miles (300 KM) and a total distance for the day of 420 miles (690 KM).  The race cars must average more than 73 MPH (120 KM) in these long transits.   Some of the drivers were behind the steering wheel for up to 13 hours on some days.

Attrition was extremely high.  Of the 75 cars that started the race, only 45 crossed the finish line in Durango.  Of these five were Exhibition cars, including two modern BMWs.   

On Day 2, the leg from Oaxaca to Mexico City, thirty cars were marked as “DNF” (Did Not Finish) at the end of the day.  Most got lost along the way, while some had mechanical problems.  On Day 5, 25 cars were listed as DNF.  In one class, Turismo Production, only three out of the seven cars that started the race actually crossed the finish line seven days later.   Those North Americans fighting serious engine problems in the last days of the event were North Americans included:  Paul Hladky, John Rogers, Vance Stewart, Pedro Vidal, John “Chip” Fudge, Walt Sikes, Art Morgan, and Jake Shuttlesworth.  Only Sikes and co-driver Paul Frame were able to repair the engine in their 911 and finish.

Fortunately, especially given the rainy weather, there were no serious crashes or injuries reported.  One driver, paraphrasing the title of a recent movie about life along the Mexican border, opined:  this is “No Race for Old Men!”

**NORTH AMERICAN RESULTS

Those standing on the podium included:

     Doug Mockett and Angelica Fuentes (MX), 2d in Turismo Mayor and 2d overall. 

     Taz Harvey and Rudy Vajdak, 1st in Historic B and 6^th overall

     Renée Brinkerhoff and Roberto Mendoza (MX) finished 2d in Sports Menor and 16^th overall

     Paul Fruchbom and Ray Stephens, 2d in Historic B and 8^th overall

    Christian Reichardt and Dan Roche (Canada), 1^st in Original Pan Am and 33^th overall

     Gerie Bledsoe and “El Fer” Garcia (MX), 3d in Turismo Production and 40^th overall

Other North American results:

   *Michael and Kristi Shoemaker, 4^th in Historic A Plus and 37^st overall

    Walt Sikes and Paul Frame, 7^th in Historic B and 22d overall

     John and Ben Greenwood, 6^th in Historic C and 23d overall

   *Jean-Marc Taboulet and Francoise Lecaille (France and Florida), 11^th in Historic C and 31^st overall

     *Denotes rookies. Exhibition cars are not counted in the final, overall standings.

**MORE PANAMERICANA NOTES

The dates of the event next year and the entry fee will not be announced until February.  The dates will probably fall within the last two weeks of October, which is the traditional period for the race.

(Above)  The first Camaro entered in the Pan Am, driven by a European crew, finished second in Historic C running a 302 c.i. (5 liter) engine.  It was also fabricated and serviced by Mats Hammarlund Racing. 

A Porsche 356, running in Sports Menor (under 2000 cc), finished fifth overall.

The top North American finishers in Historic C (V8s) were John and Ben Greenwood in 6^th.  This class had been dominated by Americans until recently.  Nine of the twelve cars in this class that finished were Mustangs/Falcons.

The only FIA legal car in the event, a beautiful Triumph driven by Roger Furrrer (Swiss), finished first in class and 27^th overall (photo below).  Only two cars finished in Historic A.

Three of the four cars from the Czech Republic finished.  The highest finisher, a ’72 Subaru (below), won 1^st in Historic A Plus and 12^th overall.  Reportedly, the creation of this expedition was inspired by an article in a Czech auto magazine on the Pan Am written by another Czech, Rudy Vajak, Taz Harvey’s co-piloto. 

Car #283, a Volvo P122 driven by Michael and Christi Shoemaker (USA), became the first known victim of a large piece of a building facade falling on the rear of their car in Guanajuato.  Both crew members took the incident in stride. 

Large crowds greeted the Pan Am in every city along the route. 

**ORIGINAL PAN AM CARS NEEDED!

Only one Original Pan Am (OPA) car was entered in the event this year, the beautiful ’54 Lincoln of Christian Reichardt and Dan Roche (photo below).  A few years ago, there were seven entries in this class.  Where did all the flowers go?

The rules for this class are somewhat vague, but it a class for cars were eligible to run in the Original Pan Am back in 1950-1954, thus the car must have been made between 1940 and 1954.  Although the car must run an engine from the period, it may also use a more modern transmission (manual or automatic), disc brakes, 12 volt electrical system, modern ignition, aluminum radiator, and other improvements to make them dependable and safe.     Externally, the cars should look as they did during the original event.

If you are looking for a class to enter, this is it.  Lots of fun, without spending mega bucks.

**CARRERA-CHIHUAHUA CARS FOR SALE

‘54 Lincoln Capri.  Ready to race in the Chihuahua Express IN Turismo Mayor. A famous competitor in La Carrera, Chihuahua Express and Pikes Peak. 360 cu.in. Ford Racing engine with 650 cfm. Holley, remote oil cooler, aluminum radiator, H.D. T-5 5 speed close ratio trans., Ford 9" rear axle, 4:10 Detroit locker diff.
coil-overs,  torque arm 3 link with panhard bar rear suspension, coil over front suspension,
NASCAR power steering, 6 piston Wilwood front calipers, 4 piston Wilwood rears,
Tilton pedal box assy with adj. brake bias. 28 gallon fuel cell, FIA approved Racetech seats
Monit Rally computer, Peltor intercom, Fast A/F meter, 2 on board fire systems.
fiberglass bumpers and inner fenders, Lexan windows, skid plate, rear difuser
extensive spares package, including molds, jigs and spare rolling body with frame
contact Bill Richert $60,0000. Cannot be duplicated for twice that amount.  Located in Phoenix.

E-mail:brichert@cox.net Tel. 602-548-9368

Advertise your car here (Pan Am or not) for $40 donation to “Los Amigos de Lupita Hernandez.”

**LEGAL NOTICES

CARRERAS NEWS is a publication of La Carrera USA.  It does not represent the views of the organizers of any event.

All forms of motor racing, including stage rallies in Mexico, are dangerous and addictive.

**CONTACT INFORMATION

Gerie Bledsoe, North American Coordinator

gbledso@aol.com

Evanston, Illinois

Santa Rosa Beach, Fl

San Miguel de Allende, GTO, Mexico

Chihuahua Express

www.chihuahuaexpress.com

La Carrera Panamericana

www.lacarrerapanamericana.com.mx

A Summary of Pan Am Classifications (Draft)

A SUMMARY OF CLASSES OF CARS

IN LA CARRERA PANAMERICANA

(DRAFT)

General Rules: no turbos or blowers, no fuel injection, original body work and frame. 600 CFM carbs for V8s, multiple carbs for European sports cars.  0.040 overbore allowed in most classes. Headers and modern disc brakes allowed in all classes. DOT tires, minimum tread wear 60, no shaved tires.  Six-point roll cages and other safety measures comparable to FIA Group N rally cars (not vintage cars). Fiberglass parts or bodies allowed on some cars with permission.  No station wagons or pick-ups.

There are six major classes of cars:  Competition, Historics, Original Pan Am, Exhibition, Hot Rods, and Concept cars.  Please note that this event is less about period correctness than safety and speed.

1.     Competition Cars, 1940-1954 – highly modified cars that just look old

A.    Turismo Mayor -- sedans, up to 360 c.i. engines, iron block, alloy heads, Jerico transmissions, five speed,    coil-over suspensions front and rear, min 3300 lbs, 16” rims  

B.    Turismo Production -- sedans, same as Mayor, except 305 c.i., iron heads on V8s, four-speed

C.    Sports Mayor – two seaters over 2000 c.c., coil-overs, replicas allowed with permission

D.    Sports Menor -- under 2000 c.c., two seaters, coil-overs, replicas allowed with permission   

2.       Historics, 1955-1965 or later, 1972  -- these cars must be more stock than Competition cars   

A.    Historic A -- four cylinder sports cars and sedans to 1965 or later in some cases

B.    Historic A Plus – four cylinders sports cars and sedans to 1972 or later

C.    Historic B -- six cylinders sports cars and sedans, 2400 c.c. limit for Porsches, 4.2 liter for American six cylinders.  

D.    Historic C -- eight and twelve cylinders, limited to largest engine generally available in 1965 model, some models up to 1972 are allowed; must weigh minimum 2800 lbs to carry a four-barrel carb.  See “continuation rule” below in Notes.

3.     Original Pan Am – sedans and sports cars that were eligible to run the event in 1950-1954.  These cars must look like the originals (body and trim) but are allowed:  headers, aluminum radiators, disc brakes at all four wheels, 12 volt, modern ignitions, etc. Four speed transmissions in models of cars that were not available with manual transmissions in 1950-1954.

4.     Exhibition – if a car does not qualify for any of the classes above, it may run in Exhibition with the prior approval of the Organizers.  These cars are listed in the daily results but not in the final results.

5.     Hot Rods – in 2014 the Organizers created this class.  These are hot rods that were common in the years of the original race.  They may be prepared like a Turismo Mayor car, but are limited to 306 c.i. and must weigh at least 2800 lbs.

6.     Concepts – in 2014 the Organizers created this class.  These are one-off cars, often displayed in car shows as a future design.

Notes

This summary is just that.  Read the published rules of the event for the details.  For just about every rule, there is an exception, and the Organizers can waive just about any rule since they decide which cars are allowed to enter.

The “Continuation Rule”:  In the Historic classes, later model cars may be allowed to compete if its chassis and engine are essentially the same as the model of that car manufactured in 1965, or in the case of Historic A Plus, 1972 models.  In other words, the later model car should not have a mechanical advantage over the 1965 model of the same car and look about the same.  And in Historic A Plus it is possible to run a modern engine of up to 1600 c.c.

Limits on Speed:  the following classes are limited to 144 MPH by use of a MSD rev limiter: Turismo Mayor, Turismo Production, Sports Mayor, and Historic C.  See rules for the chart of variables:  rear-end gear, tire size, and other factors.  It assumes a top gear of 1:1 ratio.

 .

    

    

    

Carreras News

August 12, 2012

**PAN AM CREATES TWO NEW CLASSES

**PAN AM ROUTE 2014: STAY TUNED

**10^TH CHIHUAHUA EXPRESS,  APRIL 23-25, 2015

**COYOTE CONVOY PLANS

**CLASSIFIEDS – ISO DRIVERS, CO-DRIVERS, AND CREW

**CARS FOR SALE

**LEGAL

**CONTACT INFO

**PAN AM CREATES TWO NEW CLASSES

According to a special bulletin, the Organizing Committee has created two more competition classes for 2014:  Concept Cars and Hot Rods. 

http://lacarrerapanamericana.com.mx/images/contenidos/documentos/boletines/2014/boletin-regulatorio-1-pana.pdf 

The rules for the Hot Rod class are a bit vague in places, but the cars are to be prepared like Turismo Mayor cars, except V8s are limited to 306 c.i. engines, and the cars must meet a minimum weight of 2800 lbs. (Turismo Mayor cars must weigh at least 3300 lbs,)

**PAN AM ROUTE 2014: STAY TUNED

Thus far the details of the Pan Am’s 2014 route have not been posted on the official website.  Check out the basic map at:

http://lacarrerapanamericana.com.mx/index.php/la-ruta

Also check out this short video on Durango, the event’s final destination.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xc-S_M_3zaU&feature=youtu.be

**10^TH CHIHUAHUA EXPRESS, APRIL 23-25, 2015

It’s time to make a commitment to the Express next spring.  Just about any car is eligible.  The entry fee is $2750 until December 31.   1000 miles of stage rally racing. 300 at high speed.  A great introduction to road racing in Mexico.  If you just want to come down and check it out a more modest speeds, try the Tour for $1250.  It is a time-to-distance rally at regular highway speeds. www.chihuahuaexpress.com

**COYOTE CONVOY PLANS

On Saturday, October 11, 2014 the 13^th annual Coyote Convoy will cross into Mexico from Laredo, Texas for the trip to the start of La Carrera Panamericana.  That evening and the next night, it will stop in San Miguel de Allende, a major tourist attraction, for a little R & R.  It will arrive in Veracruz on Monday afternoon, Oct. 13, around 5 PM.  Registration begins the next morning.

After the race ends in Durango, some of the cars and tow vehicles will convoy the 500 miles back to Laredo.  An over-night stop along the way is planned.

**CLASSIFIEDS – ISO DRIVERS, CO-DRIVERS, AND CREW

Texas.  A car owner-driver is in search of a navigator for the Pan Am in October.  The driver speaks Spanish and has competed in the event, as well as the Chihuahua Express, several times.  Some experience as a rally navigator and a competitive spirit are desired, as well as some level of financial commitment.

Arizona.  An experience Pan Am and Chihuahua driver is interested in renting a solid car for the Pan Am in October.  The car should be turn-key ready.

Arizona.  A highly experienced co-piloto and mechanic is looking for a ride in October.

California.  An experienced Pan Am driver and vintage racer, a younger fellow, is interested in being a co-driver or navigator in October.

Colorado.  An experience Pan Am navigator is interested in joining a crew in October and will navigate with a sensible driver.

Colorado.  A car owner-driver is looking for a qualified driver to handle her tow truck and trailer.

If you want to pursue any of these opportunities, please ask the editor for the contact info.

WARNING:  The editor of CARRERAS NEWS is pleased to hook up competitors for the event, but he does not handle marriage counseling or “divorces.”  When you find Mr. or Ms. Right, just make sure you have a firm understanding about the financial terms, sleeping arrangements, affectional preferences, etc. before you head to Mexico.  In some cases, a written contract might prove useful.

**CARS FOR SALE

’54 Lincoln Capri.  One-owner, all original Southern California car. Restored in 2008.  New brakes. Power steering, brakes, windows and seats.  An original “Hot Rod Lincoln.”  Maybe too nice to race in Mexico.  Call Bill at 415.465.9100.  $25,000/B.O.

‘54 Lincoln Capri.  Ready to race in October.  A famous competitor in La Carrera, Chihuahua Express and Pikes Peak. 360 cu.in. Ford Racing engine with 650 cfm. Holley, remote oil cooler, aluminum radiator
H.D. T-5 5 speed close ratio trans., Ford 9" rear axle, 4:10 Detroit locker diff.
coil-overs,  torque arm 3 link with panhard bar rear suspension, coil over front suspension,
NASCAR power steering, 6 piston Wilwood front calipers, 4 piston Wilwood rears,
Tilton pedal box assy with adj. brake bias. 28 gallon fuel cell, FIA approved Racetech seats
Monit Rally computer, Peltor intercom, Fast A/F meter, 2 on board fire systems.
fiberglass bumpers and inner fenders, Lexan windows, skid plate, rear difuser
extensive spares package, including molds, jigs and spare rolling body with frame
contact Bill Richert tel. 602-548-9368 e-m brichert@cox.net

Coca-Cola Pan Am Buick.  This is a replica of the three ‘54 Buicks from Mexico that ran in the Original Pan Am.  It is reported to be a good driver, four-speed and easy to update for the Pan Am, Original Pan Am class.  Located in Monterey, California.  Reduced to $19,900 USD/BO. Contact Steve Dole at cashblankets@gmail.com.  NB:  this car needs to run LCP again.

In addition to these three cars, we know of several more that are available at different prices. Including a two-time champion of the event.  Why build from scratch when so many nice cars are available?

**LEGAL

Auto racing in any form is dangerous; rallying in Mexico is no exception.

**CONTACT INFORMATION

Gerie Bledsoe, North American Coordinator and Editor

La Carrera Panamericana and Chihuahua Express

224.999.7292 (Chicago) until August 17

850.660.1784 (North West Florida) after August 20

LCP Main Office, Mexico City +52-55-5586-6898

US Number 1-310-860-6959

www.lacarrerapanamericana.com.mx

team@lacarrerapanamericana.com.mx (entries, general info)

monica@lacarrerapanamericana.com.mx  (hotels and entry fees)

Chihuahua Express

www.chihuahuaexpress.com

Chacho Medina, President

Carrera News

July 9, 2014

**PAN AM CARS AT PIKES PEAK

Ralf Christensson, a Pan Am and Chihuahua Express veteran, won the Vintage Class at the 92d running of the PPIHC on June 29 with a blazing time, a new record  of 10:46.  Ralf, who is sedish, was driving a specially prepared ’67 Mustang provided by Todd Landon.  He also finished 27^th overall.

Second place in Vintage went to Chris Lennon in a ’73 Porsche 911 with a time of 11:01.  Lennon had been a bit faster than Christensson in the qualifying runs, but could not keep up the pace in the final “Race to the Clouds” on Sunday.

Another Swede, Magnus Widen, driving another Todd Landon Pan Am Mustang, finished third in class with a time of 11:56.  The third vintage Mustang in the class, driven by Gerie Bledsoe, developed transmission problems and was DNF.  The car and driver did manage to finish, however, practice and qualifying runs on all three sections of the 12.6 mile course, including three runs to the summit.

The overall PPIHC champion this year was Romain Dumas in 9:05.8, far off the spectacular record of 8:13.8 set by Sebastian Loeb last year.  Six-time champion and former record-holder Tajima finished 4^th (9:43:9), driving his all-electric “monster” car.  The electric cars practices with the Vintage Class, which was more than interesting.

A video of Ralf’s run is available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jWgO5iXRdt8

**CARRERAS FIESTA – MONTEREY-CARMEL-- AUGUST 16 – 5-8:30 pm

Attached is the official poster for the 8^th Annual Carreras Festival in conjunction with the Monterrey historic races at the Baja Cantina, 7166 Carmel Valley Rod (just past The Quail Lodge).  The Fiesta is an opportunity for veterans and fans of rallying in Mexico to get together, kick tires, tell old stories, and raise some money for “Los Amigos de Lupita Hernandez.”  

Lupita is the Mexican nurse who lost both legs at the hit when a Pan Am car went off the road near Tuxtla Gutierrez and pinned her against an ambulance.  “Los Amigos” have supported her for 12 years now, providing her a house, wheel chair, computer, vocational training, start-up funds for a micro-business, and a modest monthly stipend.

Tickets are $30 ahead of time and $35 at the door.  An excellent Mexican buffet will be served at 5:30.  Family and friends are invited, of course.  Proceeds go to “Los Amigos de Lupita Hernandez.”  Contributions in cash or check will be greatly appreciated.

You are encouraged to bring your Pan Am or other exotic automobile to the Cantina, but we can guarantee only 6 parking spots up close, so if you want to reserve a spot, contact our gracious host Bill Hemmer at bekgroup@gmail.com.  Bill is a real estate broker in Carmel.

**LA CARRERA PAN AM ENTRIES

At last count there were 59 entries posted on the official Pan Am web site, a number that lags last year’s somewhat.  The organizers report having over seventy entries in the pipeline, but they are having trouble getting the entries posted on the web site. 

Popular classes include:  Historic B (16 signed up, mostly Porsche 911s), Historic C (15, of course, Mustangs rule!), Historic A Plus (7), Turismo Mayor (8), and Turismo Production (7).  Entries are needed in Turismo Mayor (0), Turismo Menor (1), Historic A (3), Original Pan Am (2).  Heck, if you just finish the race in some of these classes, you will celebrate on the podium.

After two or three years of over-subscription, LCP entries fell last year to 85.  At this year’s current rate, it seems like the final number will be about the same.  This is good news, perhaps, for competitors because it means less traffic jams at the timing check-points, but it also means that we will miss seeing old friends and meeting  new ones.

So, pull that Gullwing out of the barn, clean off the bird poop, change the oil, and bring it down to race this year.  Remember, this race is about having epic fun.  Most cars, even reproductions, are welcome up to 1972 models, in some classes.  Rumor has it that we will see our first Trans-Am Camaro this year in Historic C (watch out Mules).   

Remember, too, that the technical inspectors are more concerned with safety than originality, so make sure the Organizers approve your roll cage design, in particular, before you sign up.

Remember, too, there is an Exhibition Class for cars that do not fit into a regular class.  A certain ’49 Caddy with a blown LS7 Corvette engine has been known to enroll in this class.

Need help signing up?  Give me a call in Chicago at 224.999.seven two 92.

**CHIHUAHUA EXPRESS DATES – APRIL 23-26, 2015

Clearly and without a doubt, this is one of the best road races in the world, maybe the best, but for some reason it is under-subscribed.   Why so good?  It’s Close to the US.  1000 miles in three days.  Beautiful mountain roads.  Excellent, dry weather.  Lunch over the famous Copper Canyon.  Great organization.  Generous local support.  Police and ambulance resources the entire route.  Same hotel and paddock each night. Reasonably priced. 

Not up to driving at full speed just yet?  Try the Express out at 70 MPH in the Chihuahua Tour, a time-to-distance rally for half the competition price.  Is there a down side?  It’s only three days, I suppose.

Come down next year and check it out.  It’s also a great warm up for the Pan Am.

**ORIGINAL PAN AM LICENSE PLATE UP FOR AUCTION

Lauri Menditto, a license plate artist from Washington, DC, has contacted CARRERA NEWS to announce that she recently purchased a bunch of license plates, including a plate from the fifth and final Pan Am race in 1954.  The plate is from the car driven by Alfonso de Portago of Spain.   

The plate is too valuable to use in her artwork, so Lauri would like to sell the plate to a Pan Am collector and make a donation to our non-profit, Los Amigos de Lupita, upon completion of the sale. 

Alfonso de Portago led an adventurous life.  He twice was a jockey on horses at The Grand National Steeplechase in England, won a bronze medal in the two-man bobsled, and at the age of 17 flew a plane under a bridge to win a $500 bet!  The plate appears to be authentic, but CARRERA NEWS has no way to establish that as a fact.

The plate will go to the highest bidder.  The minimum starting bid is $1250 USD.  Bidding will be open for 10 days from the date of this email and end at 5 PM, Eastern time.  Plates like this have gone for over $3000 on eBay.

You can send your bids or questions to Lauri at license2t@gmail.com. 

**CLASSIFIEDS

Want to find or rent a Pan Am race car?   Need a co-driver, navigator, truck driver, or mechanic?  Want to fill one of these positions?  Please let me know immediately, as I am receiving calls about filling spots on teams more frequently, as October approaches.  I have one driver who needs a co-driver, and one experience driver who is looking for a car or a team to join.

There are four shops in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico that rent and/or support Pan Am and Chihuahua Express cars.  Todd Landon up in Minnesota provides the  “Mustangs to Go” now of Pikes Peak fame.

Got a Carrera car for sale?  Advertise here, two NEWS editions for a $40 contribution to “Los Amigos de Lupita Hernandez” c/o Doug Mockett in Los Angeles.  We have sold three cars advertised here already this year.

**LEGAL WARNING

Like most forms of motor sports, La Carrera Panamericana is dangerous.  Make sure that your car is properly prepared, especially for safety, and driven prudently.

Worried about public safety in Mexico?  Not so much.  In my sixteen years racing and living in Mexico, I have never seen or heard of an act of violence or crime against a rally competitor.  Don’t let the US media keep LCP and the Express off your bucket list.  Come on down.  You will never forget it.

**CONTACT INFORMATION

Gerie Bledsoe, North American Coordinator

La Carrera Panamericana and Chihuahua Express

Chicago(Evanston)  224.999.seven two 92.

San Miguel de Allende, Mexico 650-525-nine one 90

LCP Main Office

Mexico City +52-55-5586-6898

US Number 1-310-860-6959

www.lacarrerapanamericana.com.mx

team@lacarrerapanamericana.com.mx (entries, general info)

monica@lacarrerapanamericana.com.mx  (hotels and entry fees)

Chihuahua Express

www.chihuahuaexpress.com

Chacho Medina, President

CARRERAS NEWS -- 2014 CHIHUAHUA DATE SET

Carreras News

June 2014

**LCP ENTRIES

**CHIHUAHUA EXPRESS DATES 2015

**CARRERAS MUSTANGS AT “THE HAWK” JULY 17-20

**PIKES PEAK JUNE 29 – One Week for 12 Minutes

**CARRERAS FIESTA -- MONTEREY-CARMEL, AUGUST 16

**YVES JUNNE -- RIP

**CARS FOR SALE

**CHEVY RACE ENGINES FOR SALE –“Lightly Used”

**LEGAL DEPT.

**CONTACT INFO

**LCP ENTRIES – Slowly Picking Up Steam

Thirty-seven entries are listed on the official website.  Several others are being processed and should be posted soon.  Entries by class are noted below, while the number of US entries is in parentheses.  LCP rookies are denoted with (*).  There is also a good showing of Europeans, including entries from the Czech Republic.

Turismo Production – 4 (3) Stewart, Reichardt, Bledsoe

Turismo Mayor – 3 (2) Mockett, Hladky

Sports Mayor – 0

Sports Menor – 1 (1) Brinkerhoff

Historic A – 3 (1) Shoemaker*

Historic B – 7 (4) Sikes, Gold, Harvey, Morgan*

Historic C – 11 (4) Fudge, Rogers,Greenwoods, Taboulet*

OPA – 1 (1) Buchanan

Exhibition – 1

Registration will be open until late September.

**CHIHUAHUA EXPRESS DATES 2015

Chacho Medina has tentatively set the dates of next year’s Express for April 23-26, 2015.  If you know of any serious schedule conflicts, please advise.  The date for this event must be adjusted annually to not interfere with Easter, a huge holiday in Mexico.

Veterans of this race know what a special event the Express really is and have committed to bringing a friend next year—“each one bring one.”   Those who are unsure about rallying or open-road racing like this should come down and participate in the Express Tour, which is a fun rally at normal highway speeds along the same route used by the competition cars.  The roads, race organization, weather, and countryside are great in April, and we get to sleep in the same hotel bed every night!

For more info visit www.chihuahuaexpress.com

**CARRERAS MUSTANGS AT “THE HAWK” JULY 17-20

All vintage Carrera/Express cars, especially Mustangs, are invited to “The Hawk with Brian Redman” on July 17-20 at Road America, Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin.  Since this is the 50^th anniversary of the original pony car, it will be the featured marque.  (Chevy guys will get over it when the Camaro is featured.)

Those who have not raced at Road America have missed one of the most beautiful tracks in the country.  RA has it all: 4.2 miles in length, plenty of room for passing, elevation changes, challenging corners, great racing infrastructure, and a national park setting.  The small, quaint village of Elkhart Lake is nearby, and it is possible to drive around the original road course that ran through the village and farmland around the village.  Bring your spousal unit, for there are other quaint villages, with plenty of “chick stuff” and spas in this area of the state. 

On Friday night, the race cars are invited into the village for a car show, and veterans say it quite a display.

**PIKES PEAK JUNE 29—One Week for 12 Minutes

Several Carrera/Express cars are entered in the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb schedule for Sunday, June 29.  To be able to climb the mountain in your vintage Mustang or modern electric racecar, one must not only pay the entry fee but must also qualify during four practice sessions in the wee hours of the morning during the week before.  All told, it’s eight days in Colorado Springs or Manitou Springs.  Because the 12 mile route is completely paved, the speed and danger have increased significantly. Mustang builder Todd Landon is renting and support a small heard of this vehicles for the event one will win the Vintage Division Championship, while another will be lucky to qualify.

**8^th ANNUAL CARRERA FIESTA -- MONTEREY-CARMEL AUGUST 16

Aficionados of open-road racing (stage rallying) in Mexico will gather during the Monterey Motorsports Reunion at the same watering hole:  The Baja Cantina in Carmel on Saturday, August 16, 5:30-8:30 PM.

Carrera cars, exotics, and cars for sale are invited, but parking is limited, so make a reservation with gracious host Bill Hemmer bekgroup@gmail.com.  Please let Bill or me know if you plan to attend.

**YVES JUNNE – RIP

The Carrera and French racing community were sadden to hear of the passing of Yves Junne, who was registered as co-piloto with his good friend Stanley Gold in this year’s Pan Am.  Stanley and Yves participated in the Pan Am several years ago and had planned to return for the past year or two.  Stanley also campaigned his 911 in racing in Europe during the summer.

**CARS FOR SALE

’53 Oldsmobile Super 88 $10,000 Completed four La Carrera races, finishing as high as 10th overall and 3^rd in Turisimo Mayor.   Street legal with clear title.  Strong runner and great handling car; has to be to compete in La Carrera.  All mechanicals updated.  Located in Chicago area.

·         GM 350 ci ZZ3, only run with Mobil 1, Holley carb with vacuum secondaries

·         Fuel pump with fuel return to fuel cell to prevent vapor lock

·         Oil cooler, four-core radiator, two electric fans, two adjustable electronic controllers.

·         Alternator, dual exhaust, K&N air cleaner, full gauge package, tach

·         GM Turbo 400, firm shift kit, oil cooler

·         Rust free body, some surface rust on body and front bumper; Las Vegas car

·         Power front disc brakes, power steering, right front fender has a few wrinkles

·         Front and rear sway bars, Koni adjustable shocks

·         3.23 differential ratio, six 235/60R15 tires on heavy duty wheels

·         Six point roll cage, two bucket seats with five point Simpson harnesses

·         Working, crank window, working heater core and windshield defogger

·         Emergency electrical shutoff switch on front fender

·         Questions gladly answered and detailed pictures provided.

·         Contact Ed Gut. ed.gut@juno.com

NOTE:  Both the ’63 Chevy Nova and the white ’53 Studebaker advertised in this space have been sold. If you have a car for sale, you may advertise it here for $40 for one insertion or $80 for three.  Proceeds go to Lupita Hernandez, the Mexican nurse who lost both legs in a Carrera accident. 

What to advertise your classic car in Great Britain and Europe?  Go to http://autoaddicts.co.uk/  It’s a on line car magazine and listing service brought to my attention by Sarah Bennett-Baggs, who competed in the Pan Am two years ago with Bill Hemmer and Johnny Tipler.

**CHEVY RACE ENGINES FOR SALE

Two lightly used, ready to go Carrera/Chihuahua engines available. One 359ci, 10.5-1 compression, 551hp/460 torque, Dart 18 degree aluminum heads, Crower roller cam. One 352ci, 9.6-1 compression, 490hp/427 torque, Edelbrock Victor Jr aluminum heads, Crane roller cam. Both have Holley 600cfm carb, Dart steel block, wet sump with custom oil pan. Plus all the other goodies. Contact me for complete build sheet. $ 15,000 each or $ 22,500 for both. Doug Mockett 310.503.6909 or doug@mockett.com

**CLASSIFIEDS – SPECIAL HOUSE IN MEXICO FOR SALE

Spectacular home in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico.  Only three years young.  Two master suites. 3.5 baths. Terraces all over.  Three-car garage, plus parking for service truck or trailer next to the garden, and many nice Carrera memories.  Great garden (a separate lot), pool, and views of the city and the setting sun.  Check it out on Sotheby’s web site  http://www.sothebysrealty.com/eng/sales/detail/180-l-1978-4000043390/prolongacion-la-quinta-ojo-de-agua-san-miguel-de-allende-gu-37777

Yes, that’s my lovely house; built to US standards my Mats Hammarlund and Eva Hellstrom.  Additions to our family -- the first grandchildren – have forced a major change in our life style.  The price has been reduced by a bunch recently, but has not been changed on Sotheby’s web site.

Let me know if you have questions about it.  I do not think there’s another one like it in San Miguel, rated by Conde Naste as the best place to live…anywhere.

**LEGAL

Yes, road racing like most forms of motorsports is dangerous.  Competitors should be in good health and have a properly prepared vehicle.  A medical exam is given before each event.

**CONTACT INFO

Gerie Bledsoe

North American Coordinator

Chihuahua Express and La Carrera Panamericana

Chicago ( Evanston)

 224.999.7292 (until late  September)

CARRERAS NEWS -- EXPRESS RESULTS

Carreras News

April 2014

**BMW 1 M WINS CHIHUAHUA EXPRESS

**PAN AM 2014 TO END IN DURANGO

**ENTERING THE PAN AM

**CZECH TEAM SIGNS UP

**RIP -- BRET HALLER

** ‘53 STUDEBAKER FOR SALE

**LEGAL NOTICE

**CONTACT INFO

**BMW 1 M WINS CHIHUAHUA EXPRESS

Modern BMW’s took the top two places in the Express, April 3-6, gaining sweet revenge for the upset last year.   The overall winners were EDuardo "Lalo" Henkel and Sergio Puente in their “1 M.”  A M3 in the hands of Manuel Chico and Rodolfo Gonzalez finished 2d overall.

Four Turismo Mayor Pan Am cars from the U.S. dropped out of contention quickly. Doug Mockett and Angelica Fuentes, who surprised Henkl last year to win overall, lost their alternator on Day 1.  Paul Hladky and Adrian Gerrit had heating and fueling issues.  Mockett finished in 15^th place; Hladky in 9^th.  

The silver Turismo Mayor Studebaker of Gerie Bledsoe and Kristin Stewart lost its water pump10 KM into the first speed stage on Day 1.  Another favorite for a top spot, Stewart Robertson, crashed during the pre-qualification run and was out of the event.  It was a bad year for Studebakers!

The top North American finishers were: 5^th Paul Fruchbom* and Ray Stephens in a Porsche 911; 6^th Tony and Lee-Ann Strelzow in a ’66 Corvette, followed by 7^th Ralph Carungi* and Bill Richert, just cruising in their hot rod ’54 Lincoln.  Ralph Christensson,* from Sweden, finished 3d overall and first in Pan Am Historic “C” in a Todd Landon ’65 Mustang. 

Newcomers Bassam Haddad and Marisa Marroquin from Texas finished a very respectable11th their first time out, and were followed by Jake Shuttlesworth and Gil Stewart in 12^th.  Chip Fudge and Ray von Schlagter had a fuel problem the second day but managed to finish 14^th overall. (*Indicates who should have received a trophy for first in class.)

Bobby Unser, Jr. and Jack Rogers had to retire because of health reasons. And mechanical problems ended the event for three more North American entries:  Michael Sharp and Jon LeCarner; Kaming Ko and Stafford Galen, plus Richard Tomlin and Scott Butler in their Barracuda.  Bledsoe replaced Unser on Day 3, finishing 10^th overall for the day in Todd Landon’s ‘89 supercharged Mustang.

Again, the Express was well-managed.  The weather, roads, police, and emergency services were great, as usual.  Above all, there was only one serious crash but no injuries.  Once again, the results demonstrate that quite often the tortoise, not the hare, wins a rally--where finishing is essential.

**PAN AM 2014 TO END IN DURANGO

According to Eduardo “Lalo” Leon, the President Emeritus of La Carrera Panamericana, the event this year will end in the city of Durango, which is around 200 miles northwest of Zacatecas.

The tentative route includes:  Veracruz, Oaxaca, Mexico City/State of Mexico, Morelia, Guanajuato, Zacatecas, and Durango.   Queretaro may or may not be added later.

By ending in Durango, the race will follow more of the route of the original Pan Am, 1950-1954, which went from Zacatecas to the city of Durango and then up to Chihuahua City before ending in Cd. Juarez.  (Zacatecas and Durango are the capitals of Mexican states by the same name.).

Durango is a city of over 500,000 inhabitants, located in a valley (1880 meters or 6170 feet high) on the western side of the country.  It is separated from the Sea of Cortes by a mountain range.  The road over the mountains, known as the Backbone of the Devil, is infamous in Mexico.  Whether or not the Pan Am cars will tackle it is yet to be decided.

The climate is semi-arid.  In October, the days should be warm (80 F.) and sunny, while the nights will be cool (48 F.)  There is always the possibility of a little rain in October, too.

The city is known for its cathedral, iron ore, basketball, baseball, and bull fights.  Perhaps the city has a burro to carry around a big jug of mezcal…..after the race ends.

Horacio Chousal has been appointed to handle the route book and timing, while Carlos Cordero will be back as Race Director.  Both managed the Chihuahua Express in April.

Tech and registration for the event will take place in the convention center in Veracruz once again, October 14-16.  It is also possible that one or two speed stages will be planned for the state of Veracruz on Friday morning, October 17, Day 1 of the event.

**ENTERING THE PAN AM

The list of early entries should be posted soon on the official web site, www.lacarrerapanamericana.com.mx.  May 1 is the end of the discounted or early entry period.  Entries will be considered until late September.

The Pan Office has indicated that the rules for the race cars will be out in May, and there should be few, if any, changes.  Last year, the Organizers approved manual transmissions in models of cars, like Lincolns, Oldsmobiles, and Chryslers, in the Original Pan Am class, that were not available with manual boxes.  The organizers also invited hot rods from the 1930’s to enter in a new class.

If you plan to bring a new car to the event make sure that (1) you understand the rules for the various classes of cars, especially the class you intend to enter, and (2) the car’s roll cage and safety equipment comply with Pan Am rules.  This is especially important if the car ran the Pan Am back in the 1990s.  The safety standards are must higher today.

**CZECH TEAM SIGNS UP

Four cars from the Czech Republic will be signing up for the event, according to Lalo Leon.  Mr. Leon plans to attend the formal introduction of the team in Prague on June 14.  Some of the drivers will be from the famous Czech crews that campaigned Subarus in the World Rally Championship.

**RIP -- BRET HALLER

Mr. Haller, 45, the young man from Venice (L.A.), who organized the Unlimited Class for the 2006 Carrera, passed away two weeks ago.  Just before he died, he emailed me about rounding up some Pan Am cars for friends of his.  He was a good friend of the event, an exceptionally nice guy, and friend to many.  A notice was posted on the official LCP web site, as well.

**LEGAL NOTICE

Like other forms of auto sports, open-road rallying in Mexico is dangerous and addictive.

**’CAR FOR SALE

’53 Studebaker. $24,900.  The car is eligible to run in the Original Pan Am class and in vintage events in the U.S.  It has the original (rebuilt) suspension and steering systems, a (fresh) Studebaker engine, Edelbrock carb, fuel cell, twin fuel pumps, plus improvements allowed by the rules:  disk brakes front and rear, aluminum radiator, oil cooler, and electronic ignition.  New Basset rims and Toyo tires.  New OEM frame, eight-point roll cage, current belts, roll-up windows, rally computer, and rust free body.   It needs approved (Kirkey) racing seats and a larger fire bottle.  Titled and located in Wisconsin.  Contact:  Gerie Bledsoe.  More photos are available.

**CONTACT INFO

Gerie Bledsoe, North American Coordinator

La Carrera Panamericana and Chihuahua Express

USPS address:  608 Hinman Ave. Unit 1S

     Evanston, Illinois 60202

1-224-999-7292--Home office, Evanston, Illinois

1-650-867-9488 (mobile, only in US)

Email:  gbledso@aol.com

www.panamrace.com

www.lacarrerapanamericana.com.mx

www.chihuahuaexpress.com

Carrera HQ, Mexico City 1-310-860-6959 (dial as a U.S. number)

Email general info and registration:  team@lacarrerapanamericana.com.mx

          For entry fee and hotels:  monica@lacarrerapanamericana.com.mx