Carrera News Update

Technical difficulties delayed until Friday, February 10 getting an entry page "up" on the official Mexican web site www.lacarrerapanamericana.com.mx.

Based on early reports, the entry page and format is working fine as long as the size limit on photos is followed.

At this point, we are not sure about the enty fee, route, or rule changes. Expect the entry fee to be $500 USD more than last year. Some speculation about the route follows below.

Also nothing has been announced about how and when the Organizing Committee will begin selecting entries. Over 70 entries from Mexico are expected, plus a good turnout from Europe. Already 28 North Americans have plunked down a deposit to show good faith.

It is likely that the Organizing Committee will pick old friends of the race, past champions, and the politically connected, while will staying away from new guys and gals offering to bring Mustangs and Porsche 911/912s. Go for the more exotic like a Renault Alpine, Datsun Z car, TVR, Cosworth Vega, etc.

It is rumored that the starting city will not be the pacific resort area of Huatulco, as it was last year, but the colonial city of Oaxaca. The race will end in Zacatecas in all probability, maybe passing through San Luis de Potosi on the way north, and not the colonial gems of Morelia, San Miguel de Allende, or Guanajuato.

Although the dates have not been posted on the web site, I have it on good authority that the race will be October 19-25, a week earlier than usual. This will disappoint some people, even old friends, who were planning on the last week in October.

Additonal information is expected next week. Stayed tuned.

Gerie Bledsoe
North American Coordinator

La Carrera 2011 -- Final Report

CARRERA NEWS
December 2011 Final Report

**La Carrera 2011 – The “Great War of Attrition”
**The First Day – A Two-Pony Race?
**The Final Results – Still a Two-Pony Race
**Other Honorable Mentions
**Cure PCSD – Sign Up for the Chihuahua Express!
**Plans for LCP 2012 – Speak Up
**Contributions for Lupita
**Classifieds
**Legal
**Contact Information

**La Carrera 2011 – The “Great War of Attrition”

It is truly a romantic notion: a middle-aged male leasing a white ’65 Ford Mustang painted with vivid Mexican colors to participate in La Carrera Panamericana, the Mexican Road Race. Then the rookie convinces his spouse or partner that:

“Heck, the Pan Am is just a rally around the old colonial Mexican towns, with good food and fine tequila at every stop. After all, before the race we can work on our tans, basking on the pristine beaches of Huatulco. What’s not to like? Besides it’s been on my bucket list for several years now.”

By the time our hero manages to roll his rented Mustang over on its roof during the second day of the Pan Am, his partner probably has some notion that this race is not just another wine and cheese rally around the chateau of the Loire Valley.

Truth or fiction? Sadly, this romantic story was mostly true this year, but certain details have been changed to protect the not-so-innocent!

Yes, the revival of Pan Am, like the original in1950-1954, could be considered an automotive war of attrition fought out across the mountains of Mexico, one of the few countries in the world that still allows major highways to be closed so the more fortunate may race vintage hot rods from one end of the country to another.

The “Pana” may not be good for the local bus and truck drivers on tight schedules, but the race is considered an excellent way to promote tourism, a major commitment of the current administration in the nation’s capitol.

Looking down the carnage along the route, the High Command generals on both sides in WW I would have understood. “You get it together, you keep it going regardless, and let the last car running claim victory! “

On the first day of competition, for example, of the 114 cars that should have stated the race, thirty-four had no times posted at the end of the day. This group included (1) those cars that simply did not start the race, several for mechanical reasons, (2) those cars wrecked or disabled that did not finish the day, and (3) those that had malfunctioning timing “chips.” The largest group was clearly #2.

So it was in the 24th revival of LCP, October 21-27, 2011.

¡Viva Mexico! ¡Viva La Carrera!


**The First Day: A Two-Pony Race?

It is difficult to review the results of the race because the complete and final results have not been posted on the official website. What follows is therefore unofficial and incomplete.

The pre-race favorites for the overall championship were two: Michel Jourdain, Jr. (MEX) and Doug Mockett (USA). Jourdain, a recent Indy Car driver, has impressive racing credentials, and was made the pre-race favorite. Mockett won the race in 2002 and has been close a couple of years since, aided by his talented Mexican navigator, Angelica Fuentes.

Other contenders, all from Mexico, were: Gabriel Perez, Carlos Castillo, Ricardo Triviño, and Franco Márquez, soldiering along in his underdog Hudson. Marc Devis (Belg.) was considered an outside threat. But the handicappers thought it was really a two-horse race, between Jourdain and Mockett. After all, Jourdain had defeated Mockett at the Chihuahua Express last spring and was sponsored by the Mexican media giant Televisa. All cameras were focused on Señor Jourdain.

Within the first few speed stages of the morning of Day #1, the number of leading contenders was suddenly reduced when the engine in Jourdain’s Studebaker “let go.” Jourdain would return to the race the next day with a fresh engine, but with no real prospects of winning.

During the morning of the first day, the race headed south along the Pacific to Salina Cruz, a petroleum refining center on the Pacific about 95 miles from Huatulco. As is usual, the winding route along the coast was soon littered with wrecked and disabled vintage autos.

In addition to Jourdain’s Studebaker, a beautiful BMW 2002 and a faux “Grand Sport” Corvette suffered severe body damage in separate one-car accidents, but reportedly, there were no serious injuries. All of the wrecked cars returned to the race in a day or two, even the Corvette, which had rolled over in a ditch.

After an hour of service at a big PEMEX gas station in Salina Cruz, the race continued north on the old Pan Am Highway to the city of Oaxaca, about 155 miles away. Again, the route across the mountains was littered with wrecked and disabled cars. Not only were race cars dropping like flies, but three race officials’ cars were spotted “on the hook,” as well as several service trucks. Trailer and tow truck space was at a premium.

The combination of the heat, fast pace, and the mountain roads was taking its toll. In one small village, a local car clipped the front of a Land Rover carrying press people, forcing it to hitch a ride on a race car’s trailer.

The two-horse race concept was unexpectedly renewed when Ricardo Triviño, a Mexican rally champion, nursing a car with transmission problems, finished the day in first place, 16 seconds ahead of Mockett. From this point on, Triviño, not Jourdain, became Mexico’s best hope to reclaim the overall Pan Am championship. It’s too bad that Televisa’s cameras were not installed in Triviño’s car.

**The Final Results – Still a Two-Pony Race

How did the race end seven days later? As it began, with Triviño squeezing out a controversial win over Mockett by only 4.5 seconds—after seven days and 3000 KM of racing.

Why “controversial”? Mockett’s navigator, Fuentes, filed a protest against Triviño for blocking her car for several miles in one of the last two speed stages during the second day. It is clear from the daily results that Triviño’s car was suffing mechanical problems and was slowing down dramatically at the end of the day. Video shot of the car by a spectator suggests that the carburetor was not adjusted properly (too rich). The transmission linkage was also out of adjustment, according to one source in a position to know.

The protest by Fuentes, virtually unheard of in the annals of the Pan Am, reportedly failed because she had no proof of the violation. Neither car had a video camera, so it was her word against his. If Triviño had been found guilty, under the rules the penalty would have been disqualification. Defenders of Triviño claim that he pulled over to let Mockett pass, but that Mockett did not seize the opportunity.

In addition, on Day #4, entering Queretaro, Triviño received aid from a third party, when a timing official left his post to return the car’s time card, which they left at Control “C” at the end of the last speed stage. Furthermore, Triviño did not follow the prescribed course in the route book. Instead, he missed the Control T at the race track in Queretaro (where the laps had been canceled) and went directly downtown to the finishing arch. For these transgressions, Triviño was penalized one minute, according to unnamed sources not authorized to speak on his behalf.

To underscore the two-pony aspect of this race, the overall third-place finishers at the end of the race, Hilaire Damiron and Horacio Chousal (Mex), lagged more than ten minutes behind Mockett and Triviño! That is a bunch.

The surprise fourth place car overall and 1st in Historic C, a Historic C Mustang, was driven by Ignacio Izaurieta, a Mexican WRC rally driver. Mexicans Carlos Castillo, Francisco Márquez and Gabriel Pérez followed.

Mats Linden, driving what was reported to be a legitimate FIA Mustang with a 289 engine, finished 8th overall and 2d in Historic C. On the first day of the event, Linden had finished an impressive third overall.

Stewart and Linda Robertson notched a highly respectable 9th place finish in their beautiful Turismo Mayor Studebaker. Unlike most of those who finished ahead of them, the Robertson’s normally race only one event each year – LCP.

Jochen Mass, former F1 driver, who was running on only seven cylinders for most of the event, finished 11th, while pre-race favorite Michel Jourdain roared back to finish 13th, even after suffering a serious off-road excursion on Day #6 and problems on Mil Cumbres.

The anticipated re-match in Historic A Plus -- between Martin Lauber and Conrad Stevenson in their Alfa, the “Taxi Perdido,” and Taz Harvey and Rudy Vajdak in a Datsun 510 -- lived up to expectations when Lauder finished only 0.82 seconds ahead of Harvey at the end of the first day.

On Day# 5, Harvey finished fifth overall, the best showing for both drivers. However, pushing the cars so hard resulted in more mechanicals for each, and at least one “off” by the Taxi. Ironically, they finished next to each other, Harvey in 29th by 27 seconds over Lauber in 30th, and fourth and fifth in Historic A Plus. Mechanical problems probably kept both cars from finishing in the top ten.

The top U.S. drivers in Historic C were John and Ben Greenwood -- in one of Todd Landon’s Mustangs -- in 19th place overall.

John Gregory finished 45th and first in OPA despite the fact he was missing his regular navigator and spirited spouse, Chrislana.

Carson Scheller, a prior OPA Champion, and his daughter Lauren struggled with mechanical problems and fell back to 78th yet stayed on the podium in this small class. It was also good to see David Buchanan show up in his beautiful Chrysler in this class, which needs more entries.

**Other Honorable Mentions

Each crew in the Pan Am has a story to tell of their trails and tribulation. Here’s just a few of the participants who deserve special notice.

René Rodriguez and Vance Stewart (II and III) finished third in their car, ”El Jefe,” in Turismo Production while running against cars that some believe exceed the specifications of this class.

Paul Hladky finished his first LCP in 31st place in his green and white ’64 Corvette. Paul lost his father in an aviation accident on October 1, but decided to participate in the race. He was my pre-race candidate for the “Spirit of Carrera” award.

Steve Waldman and Felipe Arguelles not only finished in the top third, but did not suffer a serious mechanical problem the whole way. Felipe thus lost his bet with his mechanics and shaved his head in Zacatecas.

Pedro Vidal, whose Mini rolled on Day #5 while trying to pass another car, pledges like that famous general, “I shall return.” Pedro is nursing four broken ribs. His navigator, Dr. José Abreu, who was not injured, has warned him not to sneeze for six months.

Daniela Wagner and Silvia Linder from Germany, the only all-woman crew in the race, finished 43d in their Porsche 911.

LCP book author Johnny Tipler and his handsome partners Sara Baggs-Bennett and driver-wrench Bill Hemmer carried on in the best English tradition-- stiff upper lip and all--in their Porsche 914.

The only crew to actually drive their car from Texas to the start of the race in the Coyote Convoy and then race it back to Zacatecas, Thomas Ledergerber and Tino Schmidt (GER), even after bouncing off a guardrail, finished 44th in their V8 Mercedes. They too were also deserving candidates for the”Spirit of Carrera” award.

The ”Spirit of Carrera” award, however, was given to Joe Ramirez – the first Mexican F1 crew chief. Ramirez is listed as finishing third in Historic A, but reportedly the officials have upheld a protest by Pedro Vidal, Roger Sullivan, and John Herzler (USA ) that may bump him off the podium. Apparently when Ramirez’s Volvo’s engine pooped out on Day #1, he switched to another car, a similar Volvo, initially registered in Historic A Plus.

Roger Sullivan and John Herzler’s Volvo finished all the stages and, as noted above, could be soon listed as finishing in third place in Historic A. Not bad for their first trip to Mexico.

Predator Racing (David Hinton) deserves recognition because of its podium finishes in Sports Mayor but also because of the quality and beauty of their classic entries: two beautiful Jaguar 150s and one all-aluminum ‘58 Maserati.

Kevin Kelly and his ’55 Chrysler 300 – one of three identical NASCAR replicas – deserves mention as well. His car looked great and finished well. Too bad one of his partners reneged on driving the second car and another partner’s wife had emergency surgery. Next year perhaps all three of these magnificent automobiles will be in the race.

Walt Sikes and Gordon Walton drove a conservative race in their beautiful teo-liter Porsche 911, finished well, and will be back next year, probably with more engine and brakes.

As ever, Hayden Groendyke thrilled all with his glorious, supercharged ’49 Caddy-Vette racing in Exhibition.

After a few frustrating years, old friend Jake Shuttlesworth and young friend Tony Bogovich finished in their Ford—not a “Stang or “Falcoon”—but a red Fairlane.

Several of these racers have already signed up for the Chihuahua Express in March.

The BIG OOPS! Award must go the crew of the “new” white Mustang fastback that collided head-on with a civilian car going around a corner after a speed stage had been canceled. From the photos, it was clear that the Mustang was going too fast -- in the wrong lane. It was fortunate that the people in the front seat of the civilian car were belted in and had airbags. Some of the injuries in both cars, while not life-threatening, were serious. Both vehicles looked like total losses. This will be a huge hit for the event’s insurance carrier.

For the unofficial, final results go to http://lacarrerapanamericana.com.mx/resultados, and look for the results for Day #7 (bottom right of chart).

**Cure PCSD – Sign Up for the Chihuahua Express!

Pilotos and co-pilotos suffering from PCSD (Post-Carrera Stress Disorder) should take the cure by signing up for the 6th Annual Chihuahua Express, March 23-25, 2012. Why wander around aimlessly, mumbling about Mil Cumbres and La Bufa? Send in your Express entry, get that race car into the shop, and ready for the Express!

The Express is around 330 miles of speed stages in a 1000 mile event. The early entry fee is only $2000 USD. Hotels are extra.

Both modern and classic (Pan Am) cars may race, and the rules are basically the same as LCP. And the best part is returning to the same luxury hotel room each night and having the driver’s meeting downstairs – on time and with the results.

An application will be sent upon request. Just hit reply on your email.


**Plans for LCP 2012 – Speak Up!

The LCP Organizing committee is considering a major change in the route next year: starting the event in Zacatecas and ending in Huatulco -- in effect, reversing the course. Since 1951, the original Pan Am ran from the south of Mexico towards the north, so has the revival since 1988.

Critics of this proposal point out that the south to north route was implemented in 1951 to keep more cars with the event, running or not. For example, a North American crew with engine problems will be more willing stay with the race if it is headed toward Zacatecas, 426 miles from the border, than Huatulco which is four times that far from the border.

Send your comments about the proposed route and the event to: lalo@lacarrerapanamericana.com.mx

**Contributions for Lupita

More than $2700 USD dollars were contributed during LCP 2011 to help support the Mexican nurse, Guadalupe Hernandez, who lost both legs at the hip when pinned against the ambulance by a Carrera race car in 2003. A special thanks to Stewart and Linda Robertson, Dr. Ralph Carungi, and Todd Landon for their generous support. Additional contributions may be sent to:

Doug Mockett and Co., Inc.
1915 Abalone Ave
Torrance, CA 90501

Please make the check out to “Carrera Friends of Lupita Hernandez.”

**Signing Up for LCP 2012

As noted above, the route for the event in 2012 is being developed. The dates, route, and the entry fee also have not been announced. Applications will not be considered by the Organizing Committee until February 1. The Organizing Committee will make the decision about which cars will be allowed to participate.

Given the popularity of the event in Mexico, even with continuing problems with timing and scoring, the event will probably be a sell out for the fifth straight year, especially if the event’s Silver Anniversary is celebrated.

If you are considering running the event next year, be prepared to present your entry early. If you have not run the Pan Am before, you also should be able to provide the Organizers with a technical description of your car, plus a complete set of plans and diagram for the roll cage. Photos of the finished car may be more important than ever.

As reported in CARRERA NEWS before, the Organizers are looking for more diversity among the cars. According to Mr. Leon, as recently as this week, the event seems to have exceeded its quota of Ford Mustangs, faux Shelbys, Falcons, and Porsche 911/912s.

The Organizers are known to be partial to four-cylinder sports cars and sedans made up until 1972 or thereabouts. Classics from the ‘50s, and exotics, specials, and certified replicas are also invited warmly.

The under-subscribed classes are: Turismo Production, Sports Mayor (over 2000 cc), and Sports Menor (under 2000 cc). Also, the Original Pan Am class needs an infusion of entries. Where are all those ’54 “Hot Rod” Lincolns hiding?

Additional information about entering the event in 2012 and the preparation of cars will be provided upon request.

**Classifieds

Advertize your car for sale or lease here for a $50 contribution, which is used to support www.PanAmRace.com . The car will be listed there for the entire year, too.

**Legal

LCP, like other forms of auto racing, is very dangerous, and potentially addictive.

**Contact Information

Gerie Bledsoe, Coordinator
La Carrera Panamericana and Chihuahua Express
USPO address: 220 N. Zapata Hwy Ste 11
PMB 68B
Laredo, TX 78043
1-650-525-9190 (Home office)
1-650-867-9488 (mobile, only in US)
Number in Mexico +52-415-185-8470
Email: gbledso@aol.com
www.panamrace.com
www.lacarrerapanamericana.com.mx
www.chihuahuaexpress.com

Carrera car number: Chevy II, Nova, #395, Historic C (1999-2011)

Carrera Office, Mexico City 1-310-6959 (U.S. number)
Email info@lacarrerapanamericana.com.mx

© Gerie Bledsoe 2011

CARRERA NEWS

CARRERA NEWS
JUNE 6, 2011 D-Day Edition

**CARRERA CITY: GUANAJUATO
**JOIN THE PRE-RACE TOUR
**COYOTE CONVOY
**PAN AM CARS AT PIKES PEAK, JUNE 26
**LCP RULES – SLOW DOWN!
**TWO SLOTS OPEN FOR LCP 2011
**CLASSIFIEDS
**LEGAL
**CONTACT INFORMATION


**CARRERA CITY: GUANAJUATO

The new city on the Carrera route for 2011 is Guanajuato (gwah-nah-HWAH-toh). Guanajuato is the capital of the Mexican state of the same name, which means “a place of frogs.” The city’s population is 76,900.

Founded in 1548, the city of Guanajuato was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988. The wealth of the city was based on extensive silver mines found under and around the city.

In 1732, the Jesuits established a university in Guanjuato, thus establishing the city as a place of learning and culture.

This area is known as the “cradle of Mexican Independence,” because the revolution against Spanish monarchy started here in 1810 in Delores Hidalgo, San Miguel de Allende, and Guanajuato.

Guanajuato will be a challenge to Pan Am drivers because it is located in a steep valley. The streets follow the terrain rather than the normal Spanish grid pattern. In fact, the city features a maze of streets underneath the city that were built in old river beds.

Reportedly, the Pan Am will stop one night in the city, and the race cars will be serviced in the parking lot of the Convention Center. Finding our way around this unique city will be a challenge. Yet, most Pan Am vets were pleased to see Guanajuato replace Guadalajara as a stop on the route. Who can forget last year’s “Day of 1000 Topes?”
 
**JOIN THE PRE-RACE TOUR

Participants in the first “Pan-Am Pre-Race Tour” will tour Guanajuato and nearby speed stages on Sunday, September 11. The Tour will focus on the entrance and exits to the city, and provide participants with an opportunity to check out the service area and learn how to get from the service area to the hotels after two or three margaritas.

The Tour will also visit the famous speed stages on Mil Cumbres, have lunch in the Zocalo in Morelia, and be introduced to Queretaro, another city on the route. In addition to visiting Morelia, Guanajuato, and Queretaro, the Tour will include a relaxed introduction to San Miguel de Allende, and some of its race-car shops.

The Pre-Race Tour is planned for September 8-12. The registration fee is $450 per person.

Participants are expected to select their own airline flights, hotels, and airport transfers.

Registration is open to anyone with an interest in La Carrera Panamericana or San Miguel de Allende and the surrounding area. Special training in Mexican stage-rally timing and rules will be offered on Friday, September 9.

A detailed schedule and brochure is available upon request. gbledso@aol.com

**COYOTE CONVOY

Competitors towing their cars or having them transported to Huatulco in October and other interested parties are invited to participate in the 10th Annual Coyote Convoy. The Convoy will leave Nuevo Laredo on Friday, October 14. It will stop for two nights in San Miguel de Allende, and will go on to Oaxaca for one night, before arriving in Huatulco on Monday, October 17.

Each competitor will be asked to fill out the papers to have their race car and tow rig brokered across the border, instead of using temporary tourist permits. A procedure and forms for obtaining the necessary permits will be sent to all competitors soon.

Following the end of the race in Zacatecas, the convoy will return to Nuevo Laredo to be brokered back across the border to the U.S.

** PAN-AM CARS AT PIKES PEAK, JUNE 26

Doug Mockett and Angelica Fuentes will return to Pikes Peak outside of Colorado Springs to defend their championship on June 26 in the famous “Race to the Clouds.” They will resume their friendly rivalry with local favorite Keith Davidson in his Falcon. Todd Landon and father-in-law, Vance Stewart, will also challenge the mountain in “Phatt Man,” a new purpose-built GT-350 Mustang. Pan Am/Chihuahua vets Jake Shuttlesworth and Tony Bogovitch will make the 12.4 mile run in their ’65 Ford Fairlane, while Jack Rogers, a Chihuahua and Bonneville vet will also have a run in a Mustang GT-350. Last but not least will be Hayden Groendyke in his fantastic ’49 Caddy sporting a FI 427 engine and modern running gear in the modified vintage class.

Only a short stretch of the course is gravel. Suerte, y’all!

**LCP RULES – SLOW DOWN!

The Organizing Committee issued the rules governing the race cars last week. The rules remain mostly the same as 2010, except that the fast classes will have their top speeds limited by requiring a combination of tires, transmissions, and rear-end (differential) gear.

The limitations apply to these classes: Turismo Production (144.6 MPH), Turismo Mayor (146.6 MPH), Sports Mayor (142.8 MPH), and Historic C (142.8 MPH). 144.6 MPH=232.6 KPH, and 142.8 MPH=229.8 KPH, according to the information provided by the committee.

These restrictions seem to favor classes whose top speed is not limited, such as Historic “B.” However, since the Pan Am is more about using torque to climb the mountains rather than top speed, the new limits are not expect to alter the overall outcome of the event. As few people know, the cars in the Historic classes have not been deemed eligible to win the overall trophy, since that honor has been reserved by convention, if not rule, to the “Grupo Automobiles Panamericanos,” that includes TP, TM, Sports Mayor and Sport Menor. (See Rules 10.2-3.)

**TWO SLOTS OPEN FOR 2011 LCP

Two slots have opened up for the 2011 event. These slots entailed renting a car from a shop in San Miguel de Allende. Full service is also provided. If interested let me know soon. gbledso@aol.com


**CLASSIFIEDS: CARS FOR SALE

Bag O Nails, 1966 Mustang GT 350 R
“Bag O Nails” is a 1966 Mustang GT 350 R clone maintained by Mustang guru Todd Landon with the intention of winning the Historic class on La Carrera and other events.

The car was built from a bare shell in 2007 utilizing the very best of everything, and with the possibility of reverting to FIA homologation spec after the event.

This car is simply the best prepared, fastest (420BHP) and most reliable Historic C Mustang alive, and is now for sale to a serious competitor.

A lot of work has been done (weight reduction operation) to bring it to the highest standards.
Results:
2007: La Carrera Panamericana : 6th overall and 2nd in Historic C
2008: La Carrera Panamericana: 6th overall and 1st in Historic C
2010: Chihuahua Express: 5th overall and 1st in Historic C
Pikes peak: 2nd in Historic class (just beyond Doug Mockett)
La Carrera Panamericana: 4 times on the daily podium with at the end the 4th place in Historic C. Despite the very high level of competition this year, most of the time we finished in the top 15 overall

For more detailed info please phone or email.
Phone : +32497495495 or email tdl@panini.be

’53 Studebaker Commander. $120,000. Finished to your specifications: color and FIA seats and racing harness fitment. This car won the La Carrera Panamericana championship in 2008 and qualified first in 2010. Finish will be as good/better than 2010.
The car has been re-bodied and completely rebuilt since the 2010 event. It is now even faster and safer. The price includes a spares package and delivery/service is available. A build sheet is available. Completely Carrera-legal in all respects and guaranteed to pass all tech inspections. Needs nothing but you to win again. A rental arrangement for 2011 is a possibility. Contact Bill Beilharz, bbeilharz@aol.com or 602-320-5173 (Phoenix).


’68 Porsche 911. Guards Red 2.0L. Full Cage, Fire System, Kirkey Seats, 5 Point Belts, 27 gal Fuel Cell, MSD, Fender Mounted Extra Oil Cooler, Smart Racing and Elephant Suspension. Fully sorted – Porsche Racing Ready. Built 2 cars at once, the sister car to this one in 2003 finished 9th overall. Call 512-346-1880 or email alg@texcpa.com
Over $55,000 invested– asking $26,500.

‘66 Sunbeam Tiger. Ford 302 .060 over. High flow head . Roller rockers. Heavy-duty valve springs. Racing pistons, 10.5 to 1 compression. Racing cam. Heavy-duty oil pump . Edelbrock F4B manifold . Single wire chrome alternator. MSD distributor, coil, and ignition. High flow water pump. Fluidyne aluminum radiator. Aluminum oil cooler. Braded stainless steel fuel and oil lines with Aeroquip fittings. Holley 650 cfm Double pumper with regulator. Headers from Sunbeam Specialties. Remote oil filter. Heavy duty racing clutch lightened flywheel. Engine was totally rebuilt and computer balanced with the flywheel and harmonic balancer, approximately 8 hours on the engine. Ford top loader transmission, Rebuilt by "Toploader Heaven". Custom made heavy-duty drive shaft . Welded rear end. Custom made Mark Williams one-piece solid rear axles. Dual Holley Blue fuel pumps with relays. ATL 15 gal. fuel cell. Dual inline filter screens, Summit racing canister type fuel filter. Stainless steel fuel flex lines with Aeroquip fitting. $33,000 or b/o. Contact: Ed (415) 341-4965; ehugo@bhplaw.com

Photos and additional information are available at www.panamrace.com. Click on Classifieds. The advertisers assume all responsibility for their ads.


 
**LEGAL

The views expressed in CARRERA NEWS are those of the author and may not (probably don’t) represent the views of the Organizing Committee. The author is a competitor and any advice he offers may constitute a conflict of interest.

All forms of motor sports are inherently dangerous, and La Carrera Panamericana is no exception. It is a long, hard endurance race at high speeds along mountain roads. Mechanical failures are common, accidents not uncommon, and serious injury and even death are quite possible.

Cars should be carefully prepared, with an emphasis on safety (brakes, seat belts, roll cage, etc.), and driven prudently. Drivers and navigators should remember that the most important goal of this event is to finish. Unless you finish, nothing else counts.

**CONTACT INFORMATION

Gerie Bledsoe, Coordinator
La Carrera Panamericana and Chihuahua Express
USPO address: 220 N. Zapata Hwy Ste 11
PMB 68B
Laredo, TX 78043
1-650-525-9190 (Home office)
Number in Mexico +52-415-185-8470
Mailing Address in Mexico (FedEx, UPS only):
La Quinta Prolong. 5-A
Centro-Ojo de Agua
San Miguel de Allende
37700 GTO
Mexico
Phone: 415-185-8470
Email: gbledso@aol.com
Skype: gerie.bledsoe
www.panamrace.com
www.lacarrerapanamericana.com.mx
www.chihuahuaexpress.com

Carrera car number: Chevy II, Nova, #395, Historic C (1999-2011)

CARRERA NEWS -- Post Race Re-Cap

2010 Winner Harri Rovanpera (right)and fiend Marc Devis

CARRERA NEWS
November 2010 Veterans’ Day Edition



**ACT FAST, 2011 PAN AM WILL SELL OUT QUICKLY

Based on the past two years’ registration, the thirty slots allocated to Canada and the USA will sell out quickly. If you want to nail down a spot, send in an entry form and non-refundable deposit of $500 by December 14. This will hold your place until the early entry period closes. Fees and discounts have not been announced yet, nor the route. That news is not expected until January. The dates for 2011 are posted on the web site as October 21-27, 2011. The Organizers reserve the right to approve all entries.

**2010 PAN AM RE-CAP

One hundred and fifteen cars started the 2010 Carrera Panamericana in Tuxtla Gutierrez on October 22 for the 335 mile leg to Oaxaca, across roads damaged by hurricanes and tropical storms.

Twenty-seven of these cars did not finish the first day. Early casualties included Brad Kaplan and Derek Dwyer in their beautiful ’54 Lincoln. Doug Mockett and Angelica Fuentes, among the pre-race favorites, suffered a broken differential on the way to the starting line. They would return to the race the following date, only to suffer an “off” on the fifth day, ironically at the same place Mockett lost it last year! Thus Doug now has the dubious distinction of having a corner named after him.

On the third day, the long run around Mexico City from Puebla to Queretaro, four cars were wrecked on the second planned speed stage due to slick pavement. Even a former Pan Am champion did not appreciate the treacherous pavement until it was too late. In an unusual event, an Opel from Germany burned to a crisp in the middle of the tarmac because of an engine fire.

On the fourth day, the beautiful ’53 Corvette of John Schantz and Bill Peter wrecked on Mil Cumbres, when the car’s brakes locked up on one side, spinning it into a guard rail. Both ends impacted and were shattered. After some fiberglass repairs, the ‘Vette should return next year.

Few crashes were as spectacular as the end-over-end crash of Pam Am Champion (2008) Bill Beilharz. Bill lost his brakes on another treacherous stage near Morelia the fourth day and left the road at high speed. The event can be witnessed on YouTube.com. Not a body panel on the Studebaker is straight. This crash was especially unfortunate because the car, suffering prior mechanical problems, was no longer in serious competition.

After Morelia, the event paid a public relations visit to Guadalajara, and then moved on to Aguascalientes. In Aguas, the cars raced on the new NASCAR track south of town, giving many drivers (like me)their first experience on a banked oval. Sadly, no one warned the cars that a gravel pit could be found at the end of the acceleration lane and several cars spun at that point, causing body damage to one.

By the fourth day, the race had turned into a two-pony event, with the Finnish WRC driver, Harri Rovanpera barely edging out Mexican racing champion Michel Jourdain. At the end of the event the drivers finished only 12 seconds apart, and surprisingly, they were 13 minutes ahead of the TP car in third place, driven by Jorge Pedrero, who is no slouch. In fact, Jourdain had the fastest times the last three days, but his margins were not great enough to overcome Harri’s modest lead.

It was reported that Harri and Michel, whose cars were built and supported by Mats Hammarlund Racing, had a great relationship throughout the event.

In Historic C, the largest class by far (31 cars), three pre-race favorites fell behind because of crashes and mechanicals: Thierry de Bosque (transmission), Bill Shanahan (engine), and Jochen Mass (crash). Tomas Lopez Rocha and Carols Martinez Campos, drove Hammarlund Falcons to the top two spots, while John Nielsen (Canada) recovered from some mechanicals to place third. This was the first time in some years that a Historic C car or two did not finish in the top ten overall.

Car #395. a cute little baby blue and white Chevy II Nova, finished 11th in Historic C (of 31) and 46th overall (of 115) because of a wild series of spins and navigation problems. It went from 13th fastest overall on the first speed run of the event to taking a four minute penalty for not being ready to start a speed stage. Both driver and rookie navigator have declined further comment.

For the first time in recent memory the Pan Am ended in Zacatecas, with two runs on the famous mountain road La Bufa. What followed was a great party in the old bull ring at the Quinta Real Hotel. It was windy and chilly but most guests had sufficient antifreeze in their systems to prevent icing.

Special notice should go to the team of Martin Lauber and Conrad Stevenson (CA-USA) who finished first in Historic A+ and eight overall in their Alfa Romero sedan, the Lost Taxi. Taz Harvey and Rudy Vajdak (USA) finished in third in this class, in a Datsun 510, an outstanding accomplishment for their first time south of the border. Both crews have had significant experience in other forms of racing in the US.

An unofficial “Spirit of La Carrera” award must go to John and Chrislana Gregory (Canada), who after a bad “off” on the morning of the third day, returned to win the Original Pan Am class. John reported that the frame was probably bent in the crash, so the car turned left a lot better than right! John and Chrislana also spun and hit the wall in the famous gravel pit on the track at Aguascalientes, but their resolve remained unshaken. Pre-race favorite Carson Scheller (CA-USA) finished second. Tom Overbaugh (NY-USA), aided by guest co-piloto, Michael Emery (CA-USA) of Fortelesa fame, were third.

Honorable mention also goes to Helge Nyland (CA-USA) who not only finished the race but also managed to bring his car, a beautiful TM ’54 Studebaker, home unscathed for the first time in some years! Well done!

A “most outrageous” award must go to Carlos Anaya, our jovial baker and Mexican NASCAR driver, for his so-called LT-Special. Any resemblance between a car made in 1954 and this beast was purely coincidental. What an interpretation of the rules! Too bad he lost it momentarily in a ravine on day three. Even so, he finished in 7th overall. Bravo!

**2010 IMPRESSIONS

1) The Pan Am has become a major media event, largely because of the participation of Televisa, which entered 10-11 cars and has already broadcast a 1.5 hour documentary on the event in Mexico. Unhappily for Televisa, their featured driver, Michel Jourdain, did not win.

2) The event was marred again by timing and scoring problems. Results were not available at the nightly drivers’ meetings, and sometimes they were not even available at the starting arch. Competitors also complained about the accuracy of the printed results, which were not checked for even obvious anomalies .

3) The crowds in most cities, except Guadalajara, were large and enthusiastic.

4) The level of competition continues to increase with faster cars and more professional drivers.

5) Safety and security were not an issue, as police and army protection was more than adequate.

6) The driving meetings were held in beautiful locations, but again they tended to run late, without published results.

7) Lines at registration were too long, and really, someone needs to sweep up the rusty nails in the parc fermé before the race cars and service trucks arrive.

8) The route was a mix of mostly well-known rally roads, with a few new ones that should remain unknown. Thankfully, two speed stages were canceled because of the condition of the roads.

9) Hotel accommodations seemed overall adequate, with only a few crews showing up to find “no room at the inn.”

10) It was great to see the two Mercedes Benz 300 SL “Gull Wings” back in La Carrera (with MB engines this time). They were classic, beautiful, and well driven by Pierre de Thoisy (7 time LCP Champ) and Phillipe Vandromme.

11) Some people are still wondering how Datsun Z cars were allowed to compete, but such is the nature of this event.

12) The weather was beautiful. Sunny, dry, and on the warm side.

13) Wow! Beautiful crop of navigators this year!

**CHIHUAHUA EXPRESS ENTRIES BEING ACCEPTED

The first eight North American entries for the Chihuahua Express, April 8-10, 2011 have been received. The discounted entry fee is $2200. That covers the car and the driver and co-driver(s). It does not include rooms at the luxury Soberano Hotel, which are $165 a night.

The Express includes about 325 miles of stage racing over three days, and a total distance traveled of around 1000 miles. Chihuahua City is only 145 miles west of Presidio and 240 miles south of El Paso, Texas.

Cars of any age with a six-point roll cage and the usual safety equipment, including HANS devices, are eligible. The Express operates under the same rules as the Carrera Panamericana, and offers an excellent way to tune and test for the Pan AM.

There is no doubt: the Express is one of the premier motor sports events in the world. It’s a racer’s race! Ask me for an entry form via email gbledso@aol.com.

**PIKES PEAK JUNE 26, 2011

Several Carrera race cars will return to run the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb next June. Turismo Mayor and Turismo Production cars run together in a “modified” vintage class, while Pan Am Historic and Original Pan Am cars will run with the local RMVR vintage cars. This year the entire 12.4 mile course will be paved, so those who are worried about the gravel should relax and enjoy this magnificent event. (The view from the top is good, too!)

**COYOTE CONVOY – UN GRAN EXITO!

For the ninth year, the Coyote Convoy made it across the border in Nuevo Laredo and down to the start of the event without losing anyone—for long. This year, however, Mexican Custom officials checked the temporary tourist stickers and VINs on all the cars and tow vehicles at the border, causing an hour delay. All vehicles were found to be properly imported. After an uneventful 10 hour drive to San Miguel de Allende that Saturday, most of the racecars were displayed in the main square on Sunday, and afterwards everyone gathered for a soiree at the new home of Gerie Bledsoe and Diane Ruszczyk. Funds were raised for local children’s charities.

**MATS HAMMARLUND RACING

Hammarlund Racing is celebrating its second consecutive championship victory in La Carrera Panamericana. In fact, Mats’ cars came in first and second overall. In Historic C, Hammarlund Falcons also finished first and second.

Hammarlund reports that his cars are completely booked for the Carrera nexr year, but he has the two Falcons available for the Chihuahua Express in April. Contact him at mats@mhracing.com.mx.

**TODD LANDON (TAL RACING)

TAL Racing has cars (Mustangs and Falcons) available for the Chihuahua Express, Pikes Peak, or La Carrera 2011. Drop him a line at TALandon@landolakes.com.

**CLASSIFIEDS

Got a car for sale? Advertise it here and on the www.panamrace.com web site for only $35.

In search of a partner, navigator, crew? (Car racing only!) Advertise here for free.

**LEGAL WARNING

Always remember that motor sports, including the Pan Am, Chihuahua and PPIHC, are dangerous, and also addictive.

Thanks again to Gary Faules and his string of reporters for the great coverage of the events. Make sure you check out YouTube.com for Pan Am videos.

Also, I would appreciate receiving copies of your photos and videos on DVD for the Carrera Archives. And thanks to Hauke Fischer, Michel Emery, and the many other photographers for the most excellent collection of Pan Am images this year!



**CONTACT INFO

Gerie Bledsoe
North American Coordinator
La Carrera Panamericana and Chihuahua Express

Postal Address until December 15:


1288 East Hillsdale Blvd. A-204
Foster City, CA 94404

Telephones: 650-525-9190 (home office)
650-867-9488 (mobile)

Email: gbledso@aol.com

Postal Address after Dec 15:


PMB No. 68B
220 N Zapata Hwy, #11
Laredo, TX 78043-4464

Phone Number: TBA


Web sites:
www.panamrace.com
www.lacarrerapanamericana.com.mx
www.chihuahuaexpress.com
CarreraCoyote (Twitter.com)

Car #395, ’63 Chevy II Nova, 13th Year

CARRERA NEWS - AUGUSTO

Carrera News

August 22, 2010


**PAN AM FOR 2010 OVERBOOKED?

**INSIGHTS INTO PAN AM ROUTE FOR 2010

**COYOTE CONVOY PLANS

**CARRERA FIESTA IN MONTEREY – A SMASHING SUCCESS!

**NEED HELP NAVIGATING IN MEXICO?

**ORGANIZING COMMITTEE MOVES TO PROTECT TRADEMARK

**CLASSIFIEDS

**BUY MEXICAN AUTO INSURANCE

**COMING EDITIONS

**CONTACT INFORMATION


**PAN AM FOR 2010 OVERBOOKED?

Eduardo Leon, the Honorary President of La Carrera Panamericana, announced that the event has 118 paid entries and 27 competitors “on the waiting list.” Normally, the race is limited to 100 competitors because of the time limit on closing the roads for rallies in Mexico.

Entries from North America were cut off, in effect, at 33 this year, despite an earlier allocation of 40. Thus a few norteamericanos, including some veterans, were precluded from signing up. The new entries are mostly from Europe, primarily Western Europe, Sweden, and Finland. By far, the largest class will be Historic C, which comprises American sedans (Mustangs and Falcons mostly) with V8 engines. Historic A+ (four cylinder cars, 1965-1972) is also growing rapidly.

The organizers apparently expect attrition over the first day or two to reduce the number of competitors significantly. Normally 1/3 of the serious mechanical failures (blown engines and transmissions) and accidents occur the first day when testosterone levels are amped up.

**INSIGHTS INTO PAN AM ROUTE FOR 2010

The route book, detailing the exact route for the Carrera this year, has not been posted on the official web site yet, but details of the route are being made available in various forums. Here are some gleanings and persistent rumors:

1. The Pan Am race will NOT venture into Mexico City this year, but will go around the city on the new by-pass, the Arco Norte. Apparently, traffic in the nation's capital of 22 million souls is worst than ever because of long-term construction on the main freeway into and out of town.

2. Reportedly, the Carrera cars will run speed stages to the east of Mexico City, perhaps in the Pachuca area, before going on to Queretaro.


3. The event will also return to the beautiful but potentially lethal mountain road called “Mil Cumbres, which means a thousand peaks, outside of Morelia. One report, cited on the Carrera's official web site, said the road was in the best condition ever. Others report it has been re-surfaced recently.

From of the top of the mountain to the bottom there are approximately 330 corners, with many hairpins lined with boulders, big trees, and ravines. Around each corner can lurk some dangerous obstacle—from slippery pine needles to wrecked cars, from felled trees to water hazards.

4. Reportedly, Carrera 2010 will NOT visit the town of Tequila in Jalisco, like it did last year. Instead, the race will end that day's run in a shopping center in Guadalajara.

5. As announced in CARRERA NEWS, the Pan Am will terminate this year in Zacatecas, not Nuevo Laredo. The final awards ceremony will probably be held in the Quinta Real Hotel, the famous "bullring hotel."

We assume, of course, that the racecars will run one or two speed stages on the road called “La Bufa,” which is on the mountain by the same name high above the city, before they finish in the main square by the cathedral.

Spectators should not miss the end of the race and the ceremonies in Zacatecas, a spectacular city by any measure.

**COYOTE CONVOY PLANS

Troubles among drug gangs along the Mexican border and the Federal government makes most tourists reluctant to drive into Mexico. That's a pity, because Mexico is a lovely country, and peaceful for the most part. The solution is the Coyote Convoy. The convoy, made up of 20 or so tow trucks, trailers, and colorful racecars will cross the border and travel the 540 miles into the peaceful interior of Mexico together. Anyone is invited to ride along with the convoy. There’s no charge. This is the ninth year of the convoy and we haven't lost a soul (or car) yet.

Here's the basic plan for the convoy:

Oct. 15, 8:00 PM. Meeting at Residence Inn del Mar, Laredo, Texas to discuss the route. Afterwards a shuttle will take anyone to the border who needs a visa or temporary vehicle importation permit.

Oct. 16, 6:00 AM. Line up in front of the hotel and head for the border.

6:00 PM. Arrive in San Miguel de Allende -- just picked by Travel and Leisure Magazine as the fourth top city to visit IN THE WORLD! It’s 540 miles away.

Oct. 17, 10:00 AM. Display racecars in the central square of San Miguel until 3 AM

6 PM. Fiesta

Oct. 18, 7:00 AM. Depart for Tuxtla Gutiérrez, going around Mexico City.

10 PM. Arrive Tuxtla Gutiérrez (pending weather and travel reports).

The race starts on Friday, October 22 and ends on Thursday, October 28. A qualification run is schedule for the afternoon of October 21.

Spectators are invited to watch the preparation of the cars at the fairgrounds (La Fería) in Tuxtla Gutiérrez (Chiapas), October 19-21.

**CARRERA FIESTA IN MONTEREY – A SMASHING SUCCESS!

More than 60 Carreraistas attended the Fourth Annual La Carrera Fiesta in Monterey, California in conjunction with the Monterey historic races on August 14. This year the fiesta was held at the Baja Cantina and Café on Carmel Valley Road, next to The Quail Lodge. Our wonderful host again was Bill Hemmer, a local contractor and Porsche guy, who has been a competitor twice in LCP.

The highlight of the evening, in addition to the six or seven Carrera cars on display, was the screening of 52 minutes of 16 mm color film from the original Pan Am race in 1951. It was the first segment of a film collection, recently discovered, that totals 17 hours on the races in 1951-1954.

The film was taken by the crew of Ray Crawford, a war hero and super market chain owner in L.A., who finally won the event in 1954 in a Lincoln. The film was discovered by Crawford’s family in cardboard boxes in a garage in L.A. in excellent condition. The Kellogg Auto Archives in Los Angeles has been restoring the film and kindly allowed the first segment (in DVD format) to be shown at the fiesta.

The owner of the archives, Ron Kellogg, is looking for investors and producers who would like to see the film prepared and edited for TV. This film may be the most important single collection of early Carrera film extant. Visit the archives web site at www.kelloggautoarchives.com.

Something must be done to make this important film available to the racing community.

**NEED HELP NAVIGATING IN MEXICO?

There is an unconfirmed report that Pan Am cars this year will have a German GPS transmitter installed. Last year was the first in several that the cars did not carry GlobalStar transmitters. The problem with these systems is: someone must monitor a web site while the cars are in competition and have a phone number to call in the case of an emergency. Unfortunately, the web site cannot distinguish between a crash and a flat tire.

Some competitors are considering using a “Spot-2” GPS device, which allows a car to be tracked via computer or cell phone. It costs $149.00, plus a $99 annual subscription. This device allows the car’s crew ro send a SOS message to two cell phones.

Cells phones now work along most of the race route, but there are still places that require a Iridium satellite phone to ensure immediate communications.

Most cars and service trucks will also find it important to carry a Garmin GPS unit loaded with the latest maps of Mexican roads and cities. Buy your Garmin from any store and then contact Mark Walker at mwalker@mexicomaps.com in Santa Barbara, CA for the 2011 Mexican map software ($104.00). I’ve used this software for three years now and have seen vast improvements. The software is most useful when trying to find the starting and finishing arch, plus the nightly driver’s meetings, in the cities along the route. The Garmin will also help in the transit sections.

Mark also sells the best book of maps of Mexico, the Guia Roji, which is supposed to be out in a new edition soon. The old edition does not even show the Arco Norte being complete around Mexico City.

You can also call Mark at 805-687-1011.

**ORGANIZING COMMITTEE MOVES TO PROTECT TRADEMARK

The Organizing Committee for the Pan Am, which is essentially the family of Eduardo Leon, has moved aggressively recently to protect the event’s trademark. The attorney representing the Committee, Luís Baron, has sent “cease and desist” letters to individuals in Germany and the United States demanding that they stop using the official trade mark “La Carrera Panamericana” on web sites.

Competitors and others should understand that this trademark is registered and thus protected by international treaty. A violation would normally mean someone is engaging in a business where money is being made using the trademark. Of course, it would be an exceptional race team that actually made any money from competing in the Pan Am, since there are no cash prizes or other financial incentives. Regardless, if your team plans to use the official logo, you should ask for permission from the Organizing Committee. Contact monica.grossmann@yahoo.com.mx.

**CLASSIFIEDS

CREW MEMBERS NEEDED. Some teams need mechanics and tow truck drivers. If you or a friend would like to be a volunteer for a team, please let me know immediately. gbledso@aol.com Normally, the team only provides a hotel room, occasional meals, limited visits to the “hoochimamas,” and unlimited fun in the hotel parking lot at midnight prepping the racecar for the next day’s competition.

DRIVING SUITS FOR SALE. Tired off driving suits that make you look like the Pillsbury Dough Boy? Tired of suits that don’t show off your girlish figure, bodacious tatas, and great legs? There is a solution--have a suit tailored for your supple body at a very reasonable price in the USA. Imagine that, something stitched in the USA!

Ace Driving Gear has designed a suit with the rally driver and navigator in mind, too. It offers nine pockets and even pen-pencil holders in the sleeve for navigators. Most importantly, the suits are Nomex and SFI 3.2A/1 rated. (I’ve got to have one!)

For a photo an more information go to http://www.acedrivinggear.com/SearchResults.asp?Cat=4

PAM AM TOUR – do you or a friend want to watch the Pan Am this year? The best bet is to take the Tour operated by Rosa Maria Mondragon. She may be full already but you can email her at racecarmedia@yahoo.com.mx.

**EAST COAST CARRERA GATHERING -- SEPTEMBER 1

East Coast Carreraistas are gathering on September 1 to watch the director's cut of the GT Racer segment on the Carrera 2009. For more information, go to http://www.gpny.com/node/663.

**BUY MEXICAN AUTO INSURANCE

You must buy Mexico auto insurance to drive into Mexico. Canadian and U.S. insurance is no good below the border. The race organizers will require proof of liability insurance on all tow trucks (servicio) at registration in Tuxtla. The organizers provide third-party liability insurance on the racecars while racing, but you might want the racecar covered at other times as well.

To buy insurance on line, especially on older cars, go to “Baja Bound,” an insurance broker in San Diego. Their web site will offer you a variety of insurance companies and optional coverages, and you can pay by credit card. They understand La Carrera.

To shop or buy Mexican insurance through Baja Bound go to http://www.bajabound.com/?r=panamrace

If you do not have insurance and have a wreck in Mexico, you may be “detained” by authorities until the wreck is investigated and damages determined. This is especially true if anyone is hurt or killed, or there is extensive physical damage.

**FAIR WARNING

Please note that La Carrera Panamericana is a long, difficult endurance rally. Like all motor sports events, it is dangerous and can result in serious injury and even death. Prepare your car well and drive it carefully, especially the first two days of the event.


**COMING ISSUES

There will be one issue of CARRERA NEWS—the infamous handicapper’s edition-- before the event, in addition to CARRERA DRIVER and any necessary SPECIAL BULLETINS. Those interested in the Coyote Convoy should be on that mailing list, too.

**CONTACT INFORMATION

Gerie Bledsoe
North American Coordinator

La Carrera Panamericana and Chihuahua Express
1288 East Hillsdale Blvd. A-204
Foster City, CA 94404
650-525-9190 (home office)
650-867-9488 (mobile)

Email: gbledso@aol.com
www.panamrace.com -- check the blog on the “News” page
www.lacarrerapanamericana.com.mx
www.chihuahuaexpress.com
CarreraCoyote (Twitter.com)
Car #395, ’63 Chevy II Nova, the 12th Year

Reports and Rumors about the 2010 Pan Am Route

**THE ROUTE FOR 2010

The route book, detailing the exact route for the Carrera this year, has not been published on the official web site yet, but details of the route are being made available in various forums. Here are some gleanings and persistent rumors:

1. The Pan Am will NOT venture into Mexico City this year, but will go around the city on the new by-pass, the Arco Norte. Apparently, traffic in the nation's capital of 22 million souls is worst than ever because of major construction on the main freeway into and out of town.

2. Reportedly, the Carrera cars will run speed stages to the east of Mexico City, maybe in the Pachuca area. The racecars will go around Mexico City on the Arco Norte; however, they may leave this road to visit the area around Pachuca, to the east of the capital.

3. The event will also return to the beautiful but deadly mountain road called Mil Cumbres ("a thousand peaks"), outside of Morelia, which has been completely re-surfaced. One report, cited on the Carrera's official web site, said the road was in the best conditon ever. From of the top of the mountain to the bottom there are approximately 330 corners, many are hairpins.

4. Reportedly, the Carrera will NOT go to the town of Tequila in Jalisco, but will end that day's run in a shopping center in Guadalajara. Where, I am not sure.

5. The Pan Am for 2010 will terminate in Zacatecas, so the final awards ceremony will probably be in the Quinta Real Hotel, the famous "bullring hotel." We assume, of course, that the racecars will run one or two speed stages on the road called La Bufa, which on the mountain by the same name above the city.

**COYOTE CONVOY PLANS

Troubles among drug gangs along the Mexican border makes most tourists reluctant to drive into Mexico. That's a pity, because it's a lovely country, and peaceful for the most part. The solution is the Coyote Convoy. The convoy, made up of 20 or so tow trucks, trailers, and colorful racecars will cross the border and travel the 540 miles into the safe interior of Mexico together. Anyone is invited to ride along with the convoy. This is the ninth year of the convoy and we haven't lost a soul (or car) yet.

Here's the basic plan for the convoy:

Oct. 15, 8 PM. Meet at Residence Inn del Mar, Laredo, Texas for an orientation, afterwards a shuttle will take anyone to the border who needs a visa or temporary vehicle importation permit.

Oct. 16, 6 AM. Line up and cross the border.
6 PM. Arrive in San Miguel de Allende -- just picked by Travel and Leisure Magazine as the fourth top city to visit IN THE WORLD!

Oct. 17, 10 AM. Display racecars in central square of San Miguel until 3 AM
6 PM. Fiesta

Oct. 18, 7 AM. Depart for Tuxtla Gutierrez, going around Mexico City.
10 PM. Arrive T.G. (pending weather reports)

The race officially starts on Friday, October 22 and ends on October 28.
Spectators are invited to watch the preparation of the cars at the fairgrounds (la feria) in Tuxta Gutierrez (Chiapas).

For information about watching the race, see prior issues of CARRERA NEWS.

Report from Mexico

Greetings!

We arrived in San Miguel de Allende last Sunday after a five day, 2500 mile trip from San Francisco. The journey, which included pulling a 18 foot trailer across the great desert--was fortunately uneventful.

At the border in Santa Teresa, New Mexico (near El Paso and Juarez), we passed through five checkpoints in this order:

1. US border patrol (checked my truckand its contents leaving the USA for the first time)
2. Mexican customs officials--at border
3. Mexican army--at border
4. Mexican army--ten miles from border
5. Mexican customs officials--30 miles from border

The only ones who actually looked in the back of our truck were the US border patrol. We were stopped and questioned by the Mexican army and customs officials, and at the last checkpoint, they checked the temporary import permit for the truck and trailer. But it never took more than 5 minutes at each checkpoint. So, given all, it went well.

I was worried about someone pulling the 1500 pounds of personal stuff (including engine parts) out of my truck, but none of them did. Having La Carrera Panamericana stickers all over the vehicle helped, I think.

I can only hope that the passage of the Coyote Convoy across the border in Nuevo Laredo in October will go so smoothly.

From Juarez, we pulled into Chihuahua City at 1100 hours and saw nothing unusual on that 230 mile stretch of road, except one army troop convoy. The next day, accompanied by my friend and co-piloto, Fernando Garcia, who lives in Chihuahua City, we drove another 11 hours into Aguascalientes, passing through Zacatecas (near La Bufa), again without seeing anything unusual. (The Carrera will return to Aguascalientes for the night next year.)

For most Mexicans, at least those living away from the border, life goes on pretty much like it did before the Mexican government's war on drugs started two years ago. Overall, the country seems busy and not suffering that much from the economic problems of the US and Europe.

The Mexican people, however, seem to be tired of the drug war and the constant reports of killings. The great bulk of those being killed, however, are drug cartel members' low-level enforcers. The cartels' gunmen have also killed soldiers, Federales, and local politicians in retribution.

Few believe that the current party in power (PAN) will continue in office after the elections in the fall. But PAN, a right-of-center group, is trying to form an alliance with a left-of-center group to stop the return of the old PRD party.

September is also the 200 anniversary year of the independence of Mexico from Spain, so there will be a lot of stuff happening this fall.

Here in central Mexico, a lot of people are largely unaware of the details of the war on drugs. It seems the details are more widely reported in the U.S. media, especially in the states along the border with Mexico.

With each trip into Mexico, I am impressed by the constant improvement of the roads and support services, such as the building of new Pemex gasoline stations. However, it is unfortunate that the surface of some of the new toll roads, mostly with concrete surfaces, are already in need of repairs after only 3-5 years of service. This suggests a certain level of corruption and/or a failure to provide an adequate base for the road surface. Even the roads in some of the smaller towns have been improved, but the bane of the rally car crew--those damn "topes" (speed bumps)--continue to spring up everywhere.

For those of you in California or coming to the Monterey Historics, remember the Carrera Fiesta in Monterey on August 14 at the Baja Cantina in Carmel, 5-8 PM. I hope to see some of you there, on my trip back from Mexico. Reservations should go to Bill Hemmer at bekgroup@gmail.com.

On the way down to San Miguel de Allende, I used a GPS tracking device know as Spot-2. You can report your location along the way, and send pre-programmed messages to up to 50 people. Also, you may send SOS or emergency messages to two people, who are tracking yur progress. I am testing the Spot-2 to see if it will be useful for Carrera cars this year. Remember, the cars had no GPS transmitters last year, for the first time in several years. I will make a full report on our experience with the Spot-2 when I return to San Francisco on August 15. The small, rugged device costs $149 or less, plus $99 for a year of service. The device can be monitored by cell phone and computer. For more info go to www.findmespot.com.

Saludos amigos,

Gerie

Racing on Mexican Time

**RACING ON MEXICAN TIME**

Mexico is a wonderful country. The people are warm, friendly, curious, and generous. They love our racecars, exhaust noise, and the celebration of La Carrera Panamericana.

Their countryside -- mountains and ravines, forest and deserts --- is beautiful. In fact, the first day we will race across some of the most beautiful mountain roads in the world--from Tuxtla Gutierrez to Oaxaca on the old Pan American Highway. It’s the longest original stretch of the highway left -- 326 miles.

Try to relax and enjoy the racing and the celebration. This is not just a serious car race, but a profound cultural experience. We are about to experience the heart and soul of Mexico, as reflected in the faces and eyes of the people, especially the children, who come to see our cars and tug at the sleeves of the brave “pilotos” and “co-pilotos.” Bring your pen, because they will want your autograph.

Never forget that this is their country and their race. We are their guests, and we should consider ourselves honored and lucky to be allowed to race across their country at top speed. Just because we paid a hefty entry fee gives us no other special privilege or expectation.

Never forget that the event operates on Mexican time and without the efficiency of the SCA or most vintage organizations. Meetings start late. Printed material, like the daily results, typically arrives late, and the medical exams during registration may or may not happen at the announced time. Instead of handing out important items like time cards at one pre-designated place, the young official will usually wander through the crowd looking for navigators.

There are values in Mexico that transcend punctuality and efficiency. Frankly, it will do you no good to show up for a meeting on time and sit there frustrated until it starts. Be fashionably late. Relax, and go with the flow!

Carrera veterans know that the race will start sometime shortly after 8 AM on October 22. They know we will race 325 miles through the mountains that day, and they expect to be timed with a fair degree of accuracy, especially now that the organizers use electronic timers. If you catch a mistake, however, it is perfectly OK to point it out -- politely. But do not expect an immediate or timely response.

We will stop for lunch each day, and after an hour later or so, we’ll continue racing in the afternoon. Normally, we arrive in the destination city around 4:30-5:30, depending on where you are in the pack. Later on that evening, at least 30 minutes later than the announced time, the drivers’ meeting will start. One person from each team should attend. Maybe the daily results and starting order will be announced and/or distributed. Maybe not. Let’s just hope that the site of the meeting is announced before we get to that city, and count ourselves doubly lucky if they give us decent directions to the place. It’s all part of the challenge of an endurance rally. In a day or two, you will get into the rhythm of the event. Picking up on the Mexican rhythm is important, while you are driving their roads and will you are dealing with the event organization.

Even on Mexican time, it’s always fun, but it will be more fun when you understand and accept the cultural situation, even before you get there.

Viva La Carrera Panamericana!

CARRERA NEWS -- REGISTRATION CLOSED

Carrera News
May 1, 2010



May Day! May Day!



**CARRERA 2010 REGISTRATION CLOSED!

**ROUTE

**CARS

**DRIVERS -- RETURN OF PIERRE DE THOISY

**HOTELS

**COYOTE CONVOY

**CLASSIFIEDS

--PAN AM TOUR

-- CARS FOR RENT

-- CO-DRIVERS AND NAVIGATORS

-- CAR HAULERS

**CONTACT INFORMATION



**CARRERA 2010 REGISTRATION CLOSED



Eduardo “Lalo” Leon, President of La Carrera Panamericana, announced yesterday from Mexico City that the event is full, and that no more than 35 North American entrants may be registered. Mr. Leon indicated that he has already signed up 41 Europeans, including a recent WRC champion, and 27 Mexican entries, including 11 cars sponsored by Televisa, the largest media conglomerate in the Spanish-speaking world. Only three slots remained unfilled for North Americans.



Last year, the Organizing Committee signed up 107 entrants. Of those, 100 actually started the event. Sadly, one crashed out the day before the race began, only one block from the parc fermé.



Because the permits issued by the Mexican government to close the highways for a rally are only for a finite period of time, the event is (theoretically) limited to a total of 100 racecars and rescue vehicles.



**THE ROUTE



As announced last month, the start of the event will be Tuxtla Gutíerrez, the capital of the state of Chíapas. Tuxtla has been the traditional starting point of the original race (1951-1954) race and this, the revival event. Popular with the veteran racers, it’s a modern city of over 600,000 friendly folks, mostly of Mayan descent. It is also close to the old colonial capital of San Cristóbol de las Casas, a real gem, and some nice jungle rivers to explore.



Day 1: After the ceremonial start in Tuxtla, at 8:00 AM on Friday, October 22, the cars will race three hundred and twenty-five miles up the last lengthy, original stretch of the original Pan-American Highway to the first overnight stop. Oaxaca is a beautiful colonial city known for its Indian arts and crafts, plus the pre-Columbian ruins of Monte Albán. Hernán Córtez de Monroy y Pizarro founded Oaxaca in 1517. The main square, the Zócalo, and cathedral, is the usual ending and starting point for the event Day 1 and 2. Do not expect, however, to find a statue of Córtez here or elsewhere in Mexico.



Day 2: After Oaxaca, the race will stop for the night in Puebla, one of the largest and most impressive cities in Mexico. The colonial “centro,” Zocálo, and cathedral are monumental. On the way to Puebla, however, the race will pay a brief visit to Tehuacán, where thousands of locals will crowd the main square to welcome the racers. If you have never had your fifteen minutes of fame, this is it!



Day 3: From Puebla, it is expected that the Carrera will circumvent Mexíco City on the new bypass around the capital. After running speed stages outside of San Juan del Rio, it will stop for the night in nearby Querétaro, about 130 miles north of Mexico. Querétaro is another impressive colonial city with a thriving manufacturing base. The Carrera cars will run laps on the sports car track just outside of town, before stopping to “meet and greet” in the handsome main square.



Day 4: The beautiful capital of the Mexican state of Michoacán, Morelia, is the next overnight stop for the event. This the first time in several years the event has visited Morelia. To enter this city, the competitors will likely race down the 330 curves from the top of the mountains on the famous road called Mil Cumbres (one thousand mountain peaks). This must be one of the great tarmac rally roads in the world.



The president of Mexico hails from this neck of the woods, and his brother may be running the event again this year. Everyone, regardless of religious inclination, should check out the interior of the cathedral in Morelia. It’s a true masterpiece.



Day 5: The famous village of Tequila and the second city of Mexico, Guadalajara, will are this day’s destinations. Apparently, the race organizers have a multi-year deal with the distillers and purveyors of the agave version of white lightning.



Day 6: From Guadalajara it’s on to Aguascalientes, the railroad capital of Mexico, for the night. Maybe the racers will be treated to another visit to the railroad museum and the impressive locomotive factory and some regional folk dancing.



Day 7: The seventh and last night will be spent only a few more miles up the road in Zacatecas, one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Zacatecas, which boasted the largest silver mine in the Americans for many decades, is a fitting place to end the event.



Did you know that there are more people from the state of Zacatecas living in the United States than live in the city of Zacatecas, population around 120,000? Thanks for that factoid, Wiki.



Missing from this year’s route is Mexico City and the traditional finish line (“meta”) in Nuevo Laredo. Running a speed stage on the main freeway in the capital city of twenty-two million was pretty cool, but it’s just about impossible to find suitable hotels, plus parking and paddock space for 100 racecars and an equal number of service trucks, car haulers, and official vehicles in the nation’s capital.



Nuevo Laredo, across the Rio Bravo river from Texas, may have been dropped from the route for concerns about public safety. It’s a border town in an area suffering a serious surge in conflict among the drug cartels. Veteran racers will miss, however, the warm welcome and hospitality they always receive in Nuevo Laredo. From Zacatecas, the band of norteamericanos must drive another 426 miles across the arid plateaus to return to the border and Uncle Sugar.



Returning racers may also miss the spectacular route to Jalpan and the warm welcome in San Luís de Potosí. Maybe next year?



**CARS OF LA CARRERA



The list of competitors, with photos of their cars, is available on the official web site www.lacarrerapanamericana.com.mx.



The most popular class is Historic “C” – American V8s manufactured from 1955 through 1965. Even our European cousins recognize there is no substitute for the low-end torque of a V8 engine in the mountains of Mexico.



Within the Historic C class, the hot car is a ’63/’64 Falcon. “A lowly Falcon,” you ask incredulously? Yes, but a special Falcon. Ford Motor Company made a few “Rally” or “Monte Carlo” Falcons back in the mid-‘60s to compete in Europe. The ‘64 version featured the new 289 c.i. high performance V8 generating 305 HP, aided by two small four-barrel carburetors. In rally trim this Falcon Sprint weighed only 2156 pounds because it was clad mostly in fiberglass body panels. The car was homolgated by the FIA, so it may compete in the modern Pan Am.



However, the version of the Falcon seen in the Pan Am these days sports not only fiberglass body panels, but a modern 302+ engine, a large four-barrel carb, and updated suspension and drive train parts that would never pass FIA inspection. But, hey, that’s the Pan Am, where we can have our cake and eat it, too! At the same time the Rally Falcons appeared, the race Organizers inexplicably lowered the minimum weight for Historic C cars to carry a four-barrel from 3100 to 2800 pounds. Humm, was this just a coincidence? In 2006, one of these cars, but FIA compliant and carrying a two barrel, driven by a Swedish team, finished first in class and second overall, missing the overall championship by a few seconds. And the rush to Dearborn was on!



Where is Chevrolet in all of this? Except maybe for the Corvette, GM did not make a good candidate for road racing in the ‘60s until the Camaro came along. It is always possible that a ’65 Chevelle (or Corvette) with a 396 engine or a 2820 pound Trans-Am Camaro will pull up the starting line to race against the plethora of Mustangs and Falcons. Heck, this year it seems we have a (faux?) Cobra racing in Historic C. (Wonder how long it will last?)



Another class growing in popularity is Historic A+. (Apparently, these cars did very well in school, and were awarded the “+”!) This class was created three or four years ago for four-cylinder cars, with 2000 cc engines or less, made from 1966 through 1972. Owners may also run modern replacement engines of up to 1600 cc’s. Volvos seemed to be a popular choice, along with BMW 2002s, Datsun 510s, and Alfas. A Porsche 914 even showed up last year.



Readers should also note that the same model car made after 1965, or in the case of A+ after 1972, that is basically the same as the 1965, or 1972, model may participate in this event. Examples are: ‘66 Mustang, ‘66-67 Corvette, and ‘66-68 Porsche 911/912, or ’73 BMW 2002.



Under-enrolled classes are Sports Mayor and Sports Menor, large and small sports cars made before 1955 or a rough “replicant” of one. Just about any reliable car in these two classes, assuming a mildly competent driver, that finishes the event, will be on or near the podium. Any resemblance between these highly modified classes and the cars that ran in the original Pan Am is purely coincidental. In fact, a Mercedes from this era may use a modern BMW racing engine, as long as it is an inline six. Since few people are willing to risk a original car from this period, so LCP has cars may look old but run more modern components.



The Original Pan Am class enjoyed a welcome rebirth a few years ago. It’s great to see the big ’54 Lincolns and Oldsmobiles run the Pan Am Highway looking much like they did in 1954. However, much to the chagrin of the purists, they too are evolving into highly modified racecars. But the Organizers want all cars to be safe, dependable, and fast enough to keep up with the pace. As a result, these cars get a wink and a nod in tech. After all, this is not a vintage race, and who can keep a Hyrdramatic transmission in those old Lincolns and Olds running for 2000 tough miles through the mountains?



Historic B – six cylinders cars, 1955-1965 – is dominated by Porsche 911s, of course even if E-type Jags and their co-pilotos are sexier. In Historic A, several Porsche 365s normally join the fray, and surprisingly, 912s are not to be seen.



The fastest classes, Turismo Mayor and Turismo Production, especially the latter, are being pressed to stay ahead of some Historic C and B cars, especially the Rally Falcons, and occasionally a 911. The Mayor cars, like the popular ’53-’54 Studebaker Commanders use 355 c.i. 500 HP Chevy engines, while the Production cars are limited to 305 c.i.. engines. To keep this class competitive with Historic C, these cars were allowed additional modifications a few years ago.



Why are ’63-‘64 Studebakers so popular? Low wind resistance, compared to the flying bricks of this era, is the primary reason, plus now, it’s the aura of winning. But because the Organizers have reduced the wide-open straight stages to a few miles on the freeway, a low drag coefficient is less important now than it was in the early years.



Actually, the original Studebaker V8 232 engine (1952-54) was a heavy, low compression unit, and the car’s frame had a reputation for being weak. Thus the car was vastly underpowered compared to the Lincolns, Olds, and Cadillacs of that era. Now, however, with Chevy power and modern race suspensions, steering, and chassis, the Lowery-designed Studes are the marque to beat.



The Studes and the other cars in Turismo Mayor are 100% racecars, not unlike NASCAR, with modern front clips and truck trailing arms or better in the back. Some have trouble making the 3300 pound minimum weight limit and end up carrying ballast.





Should future competitors anticipate changes in the classification system? Probably not. With the advent of the A+ class for cars made between 1966-1972, we may see the other historic classes expanded to include cars like the “first gen” Camaro, but steps will be taken, one presumes, to limit engine size.



Some observers have suggested creating classes for real, authentic vintage racecars, which are so popular in the States and Europe. But for the time being, hot-rod Lincolns, Fiberglass Falcons, faux Shelbys, dependable Porsches, and Lowery Studes and the like will continue to be the most popular choices and the rolling stock of the event.



Ed. Note: this review, which surely left some classes out, causing the proud owners to be agitated and perhaps even despondent, was written by a frustrated Chevy guy, with a filed sense of humor, who is not willing to concede the field to the “Fal’coons” and “Mules.” The Bow-Ties will return! Never make the mistake, however, of assuming that the author has any privileged insight into the rationale and machinations, past and future, of the Organizing Committee. :)





**THE DRIVERS -- PIERRE DE THOISY RETURNS



Rumors about the retirement of Pierre de Thoisy, like Mark Twain’s demise, were greatly exaggerated. Pierre will return to the Carrera this year in a Mercedes 300SL, aiming to win yet another Pan Am championship. The last time he tried this particular car was 2002, when he suffered an off-road excursion in his BMW (!) powered 300SL Gullwing the very first day and narrowly failed to make up all the lost time before the race ended. With over 400 endurance races under his belt, Pierre is probably the most experienced racer to tackle the Carrera – winning the championship six or seven times since 1996 in a Studebaker Commander.



Pierre will be challenged by everyone’s favorites, Doug Mockett and the queen of the prom, Angélica Fuentes, in their ’54 Olds. Mr. Leon has indicated that the WRC champion from three years or four years ago may be driving one of Mats Hammarlund’s cars. Apparently, “the Stig” may not be returning to defend his championship this year. Mexican challengers may include a Mexican NASCAR driver or two. Rumor also has it that Bill Beilharz, who won the championship in 2008, is also planning a return.



**HOTELS



Racers and spectators who need rooms for La Carrera should contact Monica Grossmann at monica.grossmann@yahoo.com.mx or her daughter Karen at info@lacarrerapanamericana.com.mx. Rooms are $150 per night. Each entry receives one double room for the eight nights of the race: 22-28 October. If a competitor arrives earlier in Tuxtla Gutierrez, like with the Coyote Convoy; needs an extra room for the service crew, or even decides to stay longer in Zacatecas, the extra rooms should be booked with Ms. Grossmann. The office in Mexico City also has a U.S. phone number: +1-310-360-6959.



**THE COYOTE CONVOY



Each year many of the competitors driving and towing down to the race from the U.S. and Canada gather in Laredo, Texas, to cross the border together as the Coyote Convoy. For the past four years, the convoy has stopped for two nights in the pristine colonial city of San Miguel de Allende to relax and raise money for local children’s charities, before heading down to Tuxtla Gutierrez.





San Miguel 2009, featuring a Nova, Mini, and a beautiful Rally Falcon, and an old gringo.



This year the convoy will gather in Laredo, Texas on the evening of Friday, October 15. However, if a rig must be brokered across the border using the services of a Mexican Customs Agent, then the crew should arrive early on October 14 to complete the necessary paperwork. The importation process starts by the filing of a form with the Mexican Federation of Auto Sports (F.M.A.D. or a.k.a. FEMADAC). Go to www.femadac.org.mx and click on “tramites,” temporary import rally permits. Or try: http://www.femadac.org.mx/pdf/FORMA_IMPORTACION_RALLIES_ingles.pdf



Participation in the convoy is also open to Europeans, Pan Am spectators, and even tourists who want to drive down to San Miguel, Tuxtla Gutierrez, or other locations along the route. There is no charge to tag along, but participants are expected to stay in the same hotels in Laredo and along the route to keep the caravan organized. Hotel reservations from Laredo to Tuxtla will be made during the summer.



Interested? Please let me know: gbledso@aol.com.



**CLASSIFIEDS



THE PAN AM TOUR



Because of the nature of the event—racing on public highways all day for hundreds of miles—the event is difficult for spectators. The best option is to rent a car and experienced driver, or take the Pan Am Tour, with Rosa Mondragón. Rosa, the former PR director for the race, takes 4-6 spectators with her for an exclusive insider view of the event. Hang on, because she is also an experienced rally car driver and Pan Am navigator. She will get you close to the action and to important people. Contact her at racecarmedia@yahoo.com.mx.



CARS FOR RENT



Todd Landon (Minnesota) has a Mustang, Falcon, or two to rent for La Carrera and the Chihuahua Express. Todd has twelve years of Carrera experience as a racer and car builder. One of his cars finished first in class and fifth overall in the Historic C class in the Express last month, and in 2008 the same car won the Historic C class in la Carrera. Todd also offers an “arrive and drive” arrangement, with full mechanical support. Ask about the “Gypsy Wind.” He also regularly attends the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb (June 27, 2010) and provides cars for that event. Contact him at TALandon@landolakes.com or 1-952-250-7948.



Mats Hammarlund Racing, Inc., down in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, has a variety of cars for rent and for sale. In fact, the recent, aforementioned WRC champion, may be driving one of Mat’s magnificent Studebakers. Mats will also store and prep cars from Europe and North America for the Carrera and Chihuahua Express. Contact Mats at mats@mhracing.com.mx or 011-52-415-101-0308.



CO-DRIVERS AND NAVIGATORS



Got some dough and want an experience of a lifetime? Rent the co-pilotos seat in a Carrera car. The normal arrangement is for the co-driver to pay the entry fee, and the driver/owner to supply the car and support it, but everyone is free to negotiate their own deal. Much depends on the aspirations of the driver and co-driver, plus the category of the car.



Interested? Please write: gbledso@aol.com.



CAR HAULERS



Want someone to tow your racecar to Mexico? Let me know and I will hook you up with a hauler, like Mike Mefford from Auburn, California, or Duane Wilcoxon from Washington State. It is far more challenging to arrange this service from the East Coast, however.



**CONTACT INFO



Gerie Bledsoe, Chevy II Nova, Car #395

North American Coordinator

La Carrera Panamericana and Chihuahua Express

677 Highland Ave., Half Moon Bay, CA 94019

650-726-9890 (home office)

650-726-9599 (fax)

650-867-9488 (mobile)

www.panamrace.com

www.lacarrerapanamericana.com.mx

www.chihuahuaexpress.com

Carrera Route for 2010 Announced

Old Acqueduct in Zacatecas

The route of the 2010 La Carrera Panamericana has been announced. Here are the cities where the event will start, finish, and stop for the night:

Tuxtla Gutierrez (start), Oct. 22
Oaxaca
Puebla
Queretaro
Morelia
Guadalajara
Aguascalientes
Zacatecas (finish), Oct. 28

This will be first time, at least in 13 years, the race has ended in Zacatecas, which is 426 miles from Nuevo Laredo, the traditional end of the event.

By returning to Morelia, the comeptitors will be treated to a run down the famous mountain road, Mil Cumbres ("one thousand peaks").

Unfortunately, the race returns to Guadalajara and maybe the village of Tequila, which is a long drive just for a fancy dinner. 99% of the people in Guadalajara, Mexico's second city, do not know La Carrera.

Puebla and Aguascalientes are old Pan Am stops. Both are big, industrial cities, but with interesting old colonial downtown areas. Aguascalientes ("hot waters") was also the railroad center of Mexico--with a magnificant museum in a locomotive factory devoted to this history.

The race will finish and spend the last night in the beautiful old silver city of Zacatecas, one of the undiscovered wonders of Mexico. At 8000 feet in elevation, it tends to be cool and windy, but it's a magnificant city. All competitors are encouraged to spend at least on exta night in Zac to explore and enjoy the city before heading home. There is parking for trailers at the Don Miguel Hotel, on the main highway through town.

All of the cities on the route have airports which have direct flights to the U.S. or connecting flights through Mexico City. Another good option is the airport in Leon-Guanajuato (BJX) that serves the Queretaro and Aguascalientes area as well. The race will go by the Leon airport on its way to Aguascalientes.

European interest in the event is high again this year, and the organizer expects another sellout. Entries from the U.S. are coming in more slowly. The entry fee goes up $500 on May 1, so it's time to fish or cut bait for "los norteamericanos."

Chihuahua Express -- There is still time!

On the rim of the Copper Canyon, a major tourist attraction
Chihuahua, Mexico


The fourth annual Chihuahua Express is scheduled for March 19-21, 2010.

There is still time to sign up.

The Express is open to cars of all ages -- with or without roll cages. You may sign up for one of three types of competition, or simply come down to run the course at moderate speeds in your daily driver, pickup, or rental car. It's a great way to learn about Mexico and how to participate in a stage rally.

You do NOT need a competition license from the U.S. or Canada to participate. A special orientation on stage rallying will be provided to all participants, plus follow-up sessions each night. You may also participate on a daily basis (one, two, or thee days). The fun will be over on Sunday afternoon, so you can head back home. Trophies or medals are awarded on a daily basis and at the end of the event.

The event entails 1000 miles of beautiful scenery and nearly 325 miles of wide open, timed speed runs in the countryside on excellent paved roads around the city of Chihuahua, which is only 145 miles from Texas. We will visit the famous Copper Canyon and at one point come within a mile of the Texas border.

On March 16 participants from the U.S. and Canada with gather in El Paso and go across the border the next day at 9 AM as part of the Express Convoy. The convoy will actually cross the border at Santa Teresa, New Mexico, and will avoid Mexican border towns completely.

If you are interested, please request a copy of the latest Express FAQ, entry form, or email me. Go to www.chihuahuaexpress.com for additional information/

The Express is fun, exciting, safe, and relatively inexpensive. Please join us this year as a participant or as a spectator. It is beautiful country!

Security and Safety in Mexico

Racing into the famous Copper Canyon


SECURITY FOR RALLY MEXICO

The constant reports of violent crime in Mexico are a concern for anyone traveling across the border. However, competitors in the Chihuahua Express and Carrera Panamericana should be assured that every precaution is being taken to protect them from this violence.

The purpose of this post is to discuss this situation and to outline what steps are being taken to protect the competitors and spectators in the Chihuahua Express in March. The plans for the Carrera in October are comparable.

1. Understanding the nature of the violence in Mexico.

Almost all the violence reported in the U.S. media is a result of conflict among Mexican drug gangs who are battling for control of the drug traffic across the border and for distribution rights in border towns.

Apart from this violence, which is spawned by the demand in the U.S. for illegal drugs, the Mexican people are among the most law-abiding people in the world.

In the past seven years of the Chihuahua Express and its precursor, the Border Challenge, we have witnessed not one act of violence, even a minor incident. In fact, in the past twenty-two years of its companion race, La Carrera Panamericana, we have not had one incident of violence against a competitor or spectator.

2. The Federal and State Governments of Mexico and Chihuahua are dedicated to protecting those who travel to Mexico.

As in past years, thirty-six Federal Highway Patrol Officers will be assigned to protect the Chihuahua Express. In addition, there will be sixty-eight police from the State of Chihuahua, along with seventy-seven municipal police officers. A total of 163 police officers will be assigned to this event.

Furthermore, in the countryside another fifty-two auxiliary police will be assigned to monitor minor intersections and even the access roads to larger ranch and farms communities. These figures do not include the paramiltary police who regularly patrol this area.

3. Our route into Mexico avoids the major trouble area, Ciudad Juarez.

Each year the Express Convoy gathers in El Paso, Texas for the trip across the border and the 220 miles down to Chihuahua City.

Instead of crossing the border in Ciudad Juarez, the Express Convoy enters through Santa Teresa, New Mexico, (Jerónimo, Mexico), which is twenty-two miles west of Juarez. The convoy will also exit Mexico by the same route on Monday, March 22.

Mexican friends of the Chihuahua Express and police officers will escort the convoy to Chihuahua City, which is 220 miles or three hours and a half from the border.

4. The Express Convoy affords support and protection.

The North American competitors will gather Tuesday, March 16 at the Sunland Park Holiday Inn, west of El Paso, to enjoy a welcome cocktail and meeting to discuss the trip to Chihuahua City. The convoy will cross the border the next day (Wednesday) at 8:00 AM through Santa Teresa , NM (into San Jerónimo, Mexico), and arrive at the luxurious Soberano Hotel around 13:00 hours the same day.

The highway to Chihuahua is an excellent four-lane highway, with only one small town along the way. The route is patrolled by the Mexican army, which has checkpoints along the way. The convoy will not leave anyone behind.

Other competitors, from Texas and Oklahoma may enter Mexico through Ojinga (across from Presidio, TX), only 145 miles (two and a half hours) from Chihuahua City. There are no cities along this stretch of desert.

5. Medical services, support, and secure accommodations provided while racing.

In addition to the police officers assigned to the event, intensive-care ambulances, rescue teams, and doctors, for each twelve cars, will accompany the competitors during the three days of the race. In the event of a serious accident, the hospitals in Chihuahua City are considered first-rate, and evacuation to the U.S. is relatively quick and easy.

The competitors will return to the Soberano Hotel each night, which is located on a secure hill overlooking the city. The hotel provides security to its grounds, including the parking lot at night.

Conclusion

The violence in Mexico is drug related. It is largely confined to border towns, or to certain areas of towns along the drug routes. There is no reason--economic or political-- for drug gangs to target competitors in the Chihuahua Express or any other sporting event. By staying out of Juarez and the marginal areas of town, we reduce the chances of random or accidental violence.

The actual route of the Express -- across the vast, open expanses of northern Mexico -- also greatly reduces the changes of accidental contact with those who are responsible for violence in places like Juarez and other border towns. (Check out the videos and photos of the route on YouTube. It's sparsely populated country.)

In twenty-two years or more of rallying and road racing in Mexico, the Mexican people have treated the competitors only with warm and kindness.

By taking all prudent and necessary precautions, the organizers are confident that the personal security of the competitors will be protected.