Trackside-Brandy
04-02-2015, 11:52 PM
Goodguys 33rd All American Get-Together
Pleasanton, California
March 28-29, 2015
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_4196_zpsbbkw5f1b-1.jpg
Though the race season has just begun, it feels like the year is off to a very quick start. Three Goodguys events are in the books, with another right around the corner. It is crazy to watch just how fast these events are passing by and it’s only April.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_4367_zps6gyhc8bw-1.jpg
If you were in Pleasanton, California last weekend, then you might have seen me racing the C10R around the course. I start with this because this recap is going to be a little more on the personal/ motivational side. While many have their own views on Goodguys and the autocross, we are going to approach this recap from a positive outlook, dismissing anyone’s concerns or negativity for just a couple minutes.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_4509_zpsbb0lxkof-1.jpg
The Goodguys autocross has extended their hours from 8am-5pm Friday and Saturday during the event. Since the Goodguys 33rd All American Get-Together was only a two-day show, this greatly reduced the amount of laps each individual got. Furthermore, it was an all American event, increasing the car count in the pits. Though this may have been discouraging to some, just glancing at the pits made me realize just how much this sport has grown. That within itself is something to brag about.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_4054_zpsnakt1fnz-1.jpg
Now as some of you might remember, I worked my way into the Pro Class at the Scottsdale event last month by winning the truck class. Let me take a minute to explain to pros and cons of Pro Class. Let’s first approach the cons. Not only are you running against some of the best autocross drivers in the country, these vehicles are dialed in to these specific course, unlike most of our vehicles. All drivers who made their way into the shootout last November were required to continue their Pro status for 2015. For all those that take first in their class during the 2015 season, they will then be placed in Pro Class, running against these other drivers. This was the case for the C10R and myself during Pleasanton. Running against people like Brian Hobaugh in his ’65 Corvette, Mike Maier in his ’66 Mustang and Robby and Al Unser Jr. in the Speedway Nova can be pretty intimidating.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_4055_zps9pul9mwr-1.jpg
Driving against them is one obstacle, but representing the Pro Class sticker is a whole other factor. Trying to uphold the image that you belong in that group while thousands of spectators look on can make the situation even worse. Amplify that times ten when you don’t walk the course, realize just how slippery it is the first couple times out and that your vehicle barely fits between the cones; it’s a disaster waiting to happen. All that aside, if you can manage to put your pride aside for the first couple runs and just have fun, it starts to get better (I would know from experience).
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_3576_zpso56bvowq-1.jpg
The thing is competing with the Pros can be the some of the best motivation to improve you times. I guess what I am trying to say is that I too got wrapped up in the whole competition aspect at Pleasanton, but when it comes down to it, the whole concept is to just have fun.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_4607_zpsuo3k0uyj-1.jpg
Now after that depressing list of cons, let’s discuss the positive aspects of running in the Pro Class. While most of the drivers made 2-3 runs Saturday, each Pro Driver made ten laps around the course on Saturday and another 6 laps on Sunday. Pros run on the hour every hour. That’s quite a bit of seat time. Also, if you are trying to represent sponsors, the Pro Class is the best place to do just that. When spectators hear the announcement that Pro Class will be running next, hundreds if not thousands of people flock to the gates and in the stands. Sunday was standing room only around the entire autocross. People cheered each driver as they made their pass, regardless how they did.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_2930_zpsllsdqbyy-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_3720_zps2wmaz2t7-1.jpg
There was some tough competition in the Pro Class at Pleasanton. Well known SCCA drivers like Maier and Hobaugh fought to earn that first place spot.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_4076_zpsisflptzt-1.jpg
Bruce Cambern brought that infamous Cobra out, which Scott Fraser raced throughout the weekend.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_4176_zpsp8qutql0-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_3807_zpssyftjkny-1.jpg
Robby and Al Unser Jr. were the hit of the autocross, along with their crew from Speedway Motors. There was a crowd around them all weekend as people realized that Al Unser Jr. was driving a car at the Goodguys Autocross.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_4594_zpsh90cuum6-1.jpg
Hobaugh took the lead most of the weekend. He gained a big spread between first and second place, guaranteeing him the win in the Pro Class.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_3648_zps6a1vmmds-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_3579_zpsgcpqmpdm-1.jpg
Street Machine Class consisted of 66 vehicles throughout Saturday and Sunday. This number was slightly higher than usual because the late model cars were included in this class. There were some pretty cool cars running in this class. David Carroll was out with his ’75 Datsun 280Z. Carroll ran at Optima’s Search for the Ultimate Street Car, winning the K&N spirit of the event. That award got him a spot to compete at OUSCI in Vegas this November. Carroll now has seven months to dial in the 240Z and get some more seat time before he participates in possibly the biggest race of his life. Hopefully a couple more Goodguys events will help him get some more autocross practice before the big event.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_3534_zpshglyf7uy-1.jpg
Martin Pond was also out at Pleasanton in his ‘80 MERCURY ZEPHYR. When looking at the leader board, I questioned if the times were correct after seeing Pond’s name in second place. Nothing against Pond, but the wagon for crying out loud! Pond maintained second and third place almost all weekend. It wasn’t until the last couple runs Sunday that Mark Frazier in his ’71 Datsun 240Z bumped Pond into fourth place. Pond’s wagon has great potential and I can’t wait to see what he’ll do at the next Goodguys autocross.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_4310_zpsm1bruifw-1.jpg
Joe Escobar arrived late Saturday in his ’74 Ford Pinto. I couldn’t wait to see the Pinto in person after he swapped the motor out over winter break. Escobar took advantage of Pleasanton, continuing to dial in the car and adjusting to the added horsepower. The Pleasanton autocross course continued to challenge cars like Escobar’s Pinto and several others throughout the weekend. Driver’s pushed their cars while making small changes each run, but sometimes it wasn’t enough to catch the leaders.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_4604_zpsczujncq3-1.jpg
Sean Johnson dominated the Street Machine Class in his ’70 Camaro, winning first in his class. He was also fourth overall in fastest time. It was awesome to watch Johnson improve him times throughout the weekend and catch some of the Pro Class drivers. I think we will be seeing a lot more of Johnson and this Camaro in the near future.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_4338_zpsne3lcca6-1.jpg
Sean Berardi; a kid with a passion. Berardi was out with his ’67 Camaro at Pleasanton. The Camaro was also present at the Scottsdale event back in March. As Berardi gets this car dialed in, he is only going to get faster. The kid is getting plenty of seat time and has a great support group. His girlfriend was also in attendance during the Pleasanton event. Hopefully we will get a chance to see her behind the wheel at some point this year. It was awesome to see these younger generations out racing and hear about their passion for the hobby. I hope to see more of Berardi and his Camaro in 2015.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_3508_zpsd2r73o4t-1.jpg
El Caminos dominated the Truck Class at the Pleasanton Goodguys Autocross. Now some would debate if an El Camino should be in the Truck Class or the Street Machine Class. Having driven the Spectre Performance ’70 El Camino back in 2009 on the Goodguys Autocross Circuit, I can confirm it’s like driving a boat. We could debate the class categorization forever, but I think the El Camino drivers were quite content staying in the Truck Class. With only six competitors in the class, Erich Montieth took first in his ’66 El Camino. I spoke with Montieth at the award ceremony and he couldn’t have been happier. It was the first time he had ever won and he definitely deserved it. For all those that say El Camino’s are not trucks, I want to see you go drive one around that small course and then tell me what you think. Now that Montieth is in the Pro Class, all classes are set aside and he will be running against the big boys, regardless if he is a truck or a car.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_3480_zps2z6gluli-1.jpg
Craig Watts came out in his ’33 Ford as one of two participants in the Hot Rod Class. Once again this class continues to be unchallenged, but it’s drivers like Watts that will hopefully put this class back on the map. Watts took first and went home with a bunch of goodies including a cool trophy in honor of his first place finish.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_2666_zpsf7ykda3s-1.jpg
Overall there were just under 100 participants during the two-day event. It was reassuring to see how many new people came out to join in on the autocross fun. Though it was probably discouraging to many drivers because of the reduce track time, it had to be better than sitting beside your vehicle at a car show all weekend.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_2889_zpslt46ut8g-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_2713_zpsbudl2bxr-1.jpg
Intimidated on the fence about trying an autocross for the first time? My weekend at Pleasanton resulted in finishing dead last in Pro Class. Though it could have embarrassing or a little discouraging, honestly I had the time of my life. All but two of my runs were with passengers. I had spectators, fellow racers, family and friends all hop in the truck to take a ride around the course. All of my passengers had a blast. As each new passenger buckled up before our run, I explained what the Goodguys Autocross was all about; having fun. Anyone can come out and take their car around a track, but it’s what you make out of your experience that can turn a one-time deal into a lifetime hobby.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_2679_zpsmxkvzymd-1.jpg
In addition to this recap, I have a special story about Geon McKenzie’s weekend at the Goodguys 33rd All American Get-Together. Make sure to check out his story here at:
[/URL]
For complete results visit thread:
[URL]https://www.pro-touring.com/threads/114246-good-guys-at-Pleasanton (https://www.pro-touring.com/threads/114342-Geon-McKenzie-takes-Al-Unser-Jr-On-A-Memorable-Ride-in-his-73-Camaro)
Feel free to check out the rest of our photos at the slideshow below or on Photobucket:
<iframe width="480" height="360" src="http://s385.photobucket.com/user/protouringdotcom/embed/slideshow/Pro-Touring%20Events%202015/Goodguys%20Pleasanton%20CA%20March%202015"></iframe>
Pleasanton, California
March 28-29, 2015
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_4196_zpsbbkw5f1b-1.jpg
Though the race season has just begun, it feels like the year is off to a very quick start. Three Goodguys events are in the books, with another right around the corner. It is crazy to watch just how fast these events are passing by and it’s only April.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_4367_zps6gyhc8bw-1.jpg
If you were in Pleasanton, California last weekend, then you might have seen me racing the C10R around the course. I start with this because this recap is going to be a little more on the personal/ motivational side. While many have their own views on Goodguys and the autocross, we are going to approach this recap from a positive outlook, dismissing anyone’s concerns or negativity for just a couple minutes.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_4509_zpsbb0lxkof-1.jpg
The Goodguys autocross has extended their hours from 8am-5pm Friday and Saturday during the event. Since the Goodguys 33rd All American Get-Together was only a two-day show, this greatly reduced the amount of laps each individual got. Furthermore, it was an all American event, increasing the car count in the pits. Though this may have been discouraging to some, just glancing at the pits made me realize just how much this sport has grown. That within itself is something to brag about.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_4054_zpsnakt1fnz-1.jpg
Now as some of you might remember, I worked my way into the Pro Class at the Scottsdale event last month by winning the truck class. Let me take a minute to explain to pros and cons of Pro Class. Let’s first approach the cons. Not only are you running against some of the best autocross drivers in the country, these vehicles are dialed in to these specific course, unlike most of our vehicles. All drivers who made their way into the shootout last November were required to continue their Pro status for 2015. For all those that take first in their class during the 2015 season, they will then be placed in Pro Class, running against these other drivers. This was the case for the C10R and myself during Pleasanton. Running against people like Brian Hobaugh in his ’65 Corvette, Mike Maier in his ’66 Mustang and Robby and Al Unser Jr. in the Speedway Nova can be pretty intimidating.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_4055_zps9pul9mwr-1.jpg
Driving against them is one obstacle, but representing the Pro Class sticker is a whole other factor. Trying to uphold the image that you belong in that group while thousands of spectators look on can make the situation even worse. Amplify that times ten when you don’t walk the course, realize just how slippery it is the first couple times out and that your vehicle barely fits between the cones; it’s a disaster waiting to happen. All that aside, if you can manage to put your pride aside for the first couple runs and just have fun, it starts to get better (I would know from experience).
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_3576_zpso56bvowq-1.jpg
The thing is competing with the Pros can be the some of the best motivation to improve you times. I guess what I am trying to say is that I too got wrapped up in the whole competition aspect at Pleasanton, but when it comes down to it, the whole concept is to just have fun.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_4607_zpsuo3k0uyj-1.jpg
Now after that depressing list of cons, let’s discuss the positive aspects of running in the Pro Class. While most of the drivers made 2-3 runs Saturday, each Pro Driver made ten laps around the course on Saturday and another 6 laps on Sunday. Pros run on the hour every hour. That’s quite a bit of seat time. Also, if you are trying to represent sponsors, the Pro Class is the best place to do just that. When spectators hear the announcement that Pro Class will be running next, hundreds if not thousands of people flock to the gates and in the stands. Sunday was standing room only around the entire autocross. People cheered each driver as they made their pass, regardless how they did.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_2930_zpsllsdqbyy-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_3720_zps2wmaz2t7-1.jpg
There was some tough competition in the Pro Class at Pleasanton. Well known SCCA drivers like Maier and Hobaugh fought to earn that first place spot.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_4076_zpsisflptzt-1.jpg
Bruce Cambern brought that infamous Cobra out, which Scott Fraser raced throughout the weekend.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_4176_zpsp8qutql0-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_3807_zpssyftjkny-1.jpg
Robby and Al Unser Jr. were the hit of the autocross, along with their crew from Speedway Motors. There was a crowd around them all weekend as people realized that Al Unser Jr. was driving a car at the Goodguys Autocross.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_4594_zpsh90cuum6-1.jpg
Hobaugh took the lead most of the weekend. He gained a big spread between first and second place, guaranteeing him the win in the Pro Class.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_3648_zps6a1vmmds-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_3579_zpsgcpqmpdm-1.jpg
Street Machine Class consisted of 66 vehicles throughout Saturday and Sunday. This number was slightly higher than usual because the late model cars were included in this class. There were some pretty cool cars running in this class. David Carroll was out with his ’75 Datsun 280Z. Carroll ran at Optima’s Search for the Ultimate Street Car, winning the K&N spirit of the event. That award got him a spot to compete at OUSCI in Vegas this November. Carroll now has seven months to dial in the 240Z and get some more seat time before he participates in possibly the biggest race of his life. Hopefully a couple more Goodguys events will help him get some more autocross practice before the big event.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_3534_zpshglyf7uy-1.jpg
Martin Pond was also out at Pleasanton in his ‘80 MERCURY ZEPHYR. When looking at the leader board, I questioned if the times were correct after seeing Pond’s name in second place. Nothing against Pond, but the wagon for crying out loud! Pond maintained second and third place almost all weekend. It wasn’t until the last couple runs Sunday that Mark Frazier in his ’71 Datsun 240Z bumped Pond into fourth place. Pond’s wagon has great potential and I can’t wait to see what he’ll do at the next Goodguys autocross.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_4310_zpsm1bruifw-1.jpg
Joe Escobar arrived late Saturday in his ’74 Ford Pinto. I couldn’t wait to see the Pinto in person after he swapped the motor out over winter break. Escobar took advantage of Pleasanton, continuing to dial in the car and adjusting to the added horsepower. The Pleasanton autocross course continued to challenge cars like Escobar’s Pinto and several others throughout the weekend. Driver’s pushed their cars while making small changes each run, but sometimes it wasn’t enough to catch the leaders.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_4604_zpsczujncq3-1.jpg
Sean Johnson dominated the Street Machine Class in his ’70 Camaro, winning first in his class. He was also fourth overall in fastest time. It was awesome to watch Johnson improve him times throughout the weekend and catch some of the Pro Class drivers. I think we will be seeing a lot more of Johnson and this Camaro in the near future.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_4338_zpsne3lcca6-1.jpg
Sean Berardi; a kid with a passion. Berardi was out with his ’67 Camaro at Pleasanton. The Camaro was also present at the Scottsdale event back in March. As Berardi gets this car dialed in, he is only going to get faster. The kid is getting plenty of seat time and has a great support group. His girlfriend was also in attendance during the Pleasanton event. Hopefully we will get a chance to see her behind the wheel at some point this year. It was awesome to see these younger generations out racing and hear about their passion for the hobby. I hope to see more of Berardi and his Camaro in 2015.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_3508_zpsd2r73o4t-1.jpg
El Caminos dominated the Truck Class at the Pleasanton Goodguys Autocross. Now some would debate if an El Camino should be in the Truck Class or the Street Machine Class. Having driven the Spectre Performance ’70 El Camino back in 2009 on the Goodguys Autocross Circuit, I can confirm it’s like driving a boat. We could debate the class categorization forever, but I think the El Camino drivers were quite content staying in the Truck Class. With only six competitors in the class, Erich Montieth took first in his ’66 El Camino. I spoke with Montieth at the award ceremony and he couldn’t have been happier. It was the first time he had ever won and he definitely deserved it. For all those that say El Camino’s are not trucks, I want to see you go drive one around that small course and then tell me what you think. Now that Montieth is in the Pro Class, all classes are set aside and he will be running against the big boys, regardless if he is a truck or a car.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_3480_zps2z6gluli-1.jpg
Craig Watts came out in his ’33 Ford as one of two participants in the Hot Rod Class. Once again this class continues to be unchallenged, but it’s drivers like Watts that will hopefully put this class back on the map. Watts took first and went home with a bunch of goodies including a cool trophy in honor of his first place finish.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_2666_zpsf7ykda3s-1.jpg
Overall there were just under 100 participants during the two-day event. It was reassuring to see how many new people came out to join in on the autocross fun. Though it was probably discouraging to many drivers because of the reduce track time, it had to be better than sitting beside your vehicle at a car show all weekend.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_2889_zpslt46ut8g-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_2713_zpsbudl2bxr-1.jpg
Intimidated on the fence about trying an autocross for the first time? My weekend at Pleasanton resulted in finishing dead last in Pro Class. Though it could have embarrassing or a little discouraging, honestly I had the time of my life. All but two of my runs were with passengers. I had spectators, fellow racers, family and friends all hop in the truck to take a ride around the course. All of my passengers had a blast. As each new passenger buckled up before our run, I explained what the Goodguys Autocross was all about; having fun. Anyone can come out and take their car around a track, but it’s what you make out of your experience that can turn a one-time deal into a lifetime hobby.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMG_2679_zpsmxkvzymd-1.jpg
In addition to this recap, I have a special story about Geon McKenzie’s weekend at the Goodguys 33rd All American Get-Together. Make sure to check out his story here at:
[/URL]
For complete results visit thread:
[URL]https://www.pro-touring.com/threads/114246-good-guys-at-Pleasanton (https://www.pro-touring.com/threads/114342-Geon-McKenzie-takes-Al-Unser-Jr-On-A-Memorable-Ride-in-his-73-Camaro)
Feel free to check out the rest of our photos at the slideshow below or on Photobucket:
<iframe width="480" height="360" src="http://s385.photobucket.com/user/protouringdotcom/embed/slideshow/Pro-Touring%20Events%202015/Goodguys%20Pleasanton%20CA%20March%202015"></iframe>