I started Competition Carburetion when I was still racing stock cars at Saugus Speedway in California. I visited with drivers at the track and enjoyed hearing their stories. I loved making improvements to their carburetors which translated into faster times out on the track.  

 

Thirty years later, I am one of the lucky few people who gets to make a living doing something they love. However, what I have missed is the fun of being out on the track, meeting with racers face-to-face, and hearing the roar of the engines on race night. I decided it was time to get out of the shop once in a while!

 

The concept of the Competition Carburetion Fast Lap Award was something I had been thinking about for several years. I wanted to recognize the driver who put together the fastest lap of the night. As racers, we all strive for that exhilarating feeling of being the fastest driver. Often times, the driver of the fastest lap doesn’t win the race. I thought it would be a nice way of awarding the accomplishment, whether or not the racer ends up with the checkered flag.

 

The Fast Lap Award finally came to fruition with my visit to American Valley in Quincy, California at the beginning of the 2017 racing season. I spoke with the track promoter and told him about my idea. He gave me a warm welcome and allowed me to hand out some cash. By the end of the season, I handed out cash to dozens of racers. I was able to see many of my customers, most of which I had never met in person.  

 

A special “thank you” goes out to the track promoters – without them, none of us would be able to enjoy the sport of racing.

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