2006 Season Autocross Newsletter

Hello, my name is Joe Zuramski, and Derek Schwarz and I are the regions
autoX co-chairs. Due to the lack of up-to-date autoX articles in the Patter (sorry!) we decided it was time to write a newsletter. In the next few pages I will provide you with a season overview, detail of upcoming events, point standings and the remaining season calendar. Pay special attention to the event schedule as we have some exciting events planned you won’t want to miss. We are committed to making Chesapeake region’s events safe and fun for everyone and we welcome ideas and comments.


Contents
- Season Overview
- Upcoming Events
- Sponsors
- Calendar
- Season Standings

Season Overview

This year we kicked off our season in February with an AutoX Primer at GT Performance. Over 40 people learned the in’s and out’s of AutoX’ing and our plans for a great season.
Our next event was the famous Chesapeake AutoX school in April. Friday evenings classroom session was led by expert instructor Miram Schottham. Through a very detailed and organized presentation and a compressive series of handouts Miram discussed vehicle dynamics, driver input and car control. The following day we broke into 7 groups of 10 and ran through a series of exercises; including threshold braking, skidpad, slalom, “the egg” and a mini-course. Our regions
hotshoes where there to assist every participant on each and every run through the exercises. Upon finishing the exercises we connected the dots and set up a full course challenging autoX. It was evident from the times and pace of many drivers that a new level of understanding and confidence was realized through the school. It’s very satisfying for us to see drivers become faster, better and most importantly safer drivers. Thanks to everyone that participated for your kind letters, emails and calls.
Our first official event in the Regions Points Series, Event #1, was in May and coincided with the Chesapeake Challenge – a historic, multi-day event in beautiful Monkton. On a very long and fast course replete with Sweepers and Slaloms, Derek ran his street-prepared (SP) 993 Turbo to a blistering FTD 68.8 second time.

Other hot times were yours truly with a 71.0 second run in my 996 SP and Larry Olson in his stock Boxser with a 73.8! Detailed class breakdowns and overall standings can be seen on the AutoX tab of www.pcachs.org.


Event #2 in June not only was part of the Chesapeake Point Series but was also the First Annual Chesapeake vs. Potomac AutoX Shootout. For those of you who don’t know, Potomac prides themselves on being the “racing region” and brought out their best drivers to protect that image. Bob Williams, who help design the days course and had the Fastest Potomac run with a smoking 66.4, that was just 7/10ths SLOWER than FTD Derek Schwarz. Once the regular AutoX event was finished the two region’s teams lined up for some serious racing. Tony Pagonis, Potomac’s team captain, and I agreed on a single elimination where the slowest car from each region would be eliminated until just one driver from each region would be left standing to vie for the honors. After some “Pinks” style negotiating (and fancy math by veteran Potomac driver Pete Kaufman) the Chesapeake team agreed to a Penalty of 1.5 seconds to be levied against the FTD driver Derek and his 993TT. Unfortunately for Derek Schwarz and Bob Williams, a day of flogging their high-strung hotrods left them out of the event due to minor mechanical issues after the second elimination round. The Chesapeake drivers dropped one by one, Derek Schwarz, Tim Eisel, Justin Howard, Adam Argenbright, Dennis “the godfather” Howard, and David Stroesser. The Potomac hotshoes also fell (in no particular order). Bob Williams, David Stoessa, Tony Pagonis, Darran McMahon, Gary Carr. The last two standing, ME and Mick Frankel. Mick ran his run (above pic)and had a nice time. In fairness the timers wouldn’t let me know the time. The Chesapeake boys rallied and cheered me on as I ripped out of the starting box. 60 odd seconds later the Chesapeake region with a lower combined time and I as “top Gun” were crowned the winners. Sorry Potomac, maybe you’ll have a chance to redeem yourselves on August 27th in Winchester. Chesapeake, new ‘Racing Region’ lets rally for the home team and come out to be part of & cheer your region on! PS- Thanks for the gift certificate for the _ price Toyos – compliments of Potomac and Radial Tire.

Event #3, in July was a very different course including a large skid pad and some fast offset sweeping turns. After 5 runs, Derek was edged out by Brian Hair in a SCCA prepared MCoupe for FTD, but retained the Fastest Porsche of the Day title. Notable class winners with significantly quick times were Adam Argenbright in 5S, and Dave Wruck in 5Sp. David O’brien came throught with the fastest stock time of the day as well. It was a great event that included practice runs after the day’s event.

Event #4 in our regions annual AutoX series was held at Ripken Stadium in Aberdeen, Maryland. Every inch of the available space of the huge parking lot at Ripken was used to construct a very exciting AutoX Course. The fast and flowing course was enjoyed by all. The Newman Brothers, Dave and Rick ran their 911RSR replica to some amazing times. Dave’s 64.077 earned him FTD, followed by Rick with a 64.366 . Notable class competition included David Critcher 1st, followed by Dave Argenbright in 7Stock.





Upcoming Events


Cumberland Events – see Calendar at the end of this page for dates. The National Road Rally www.nationalroadrally.com
Through a long and friendly association with the National Road Rally many Chesapeake members compete in the Airport autoX and enjoy the social events. A stay at the Rocky Gap Lodge makes it a nice family weekend get-away. See www.mdmountainside.com for local lodging and event info.


August 27th Regional Shootout Part 2
Potomac Region, Winchester VA
The day will begin with the normal AutoX event. After everyone completes their 4 runs each region will assemble their team of challengers. The 18 “Challengers” will then compete in a single elimination run-off, where the slowest car from each Region will be dropped after each set of runs. It will culminate with one Potomac driver competing against one Chesapeake driver for the overall crown. Potomac Region will host the second Challenge Event on August 27th at Millbrook HS in Winchester, VA. Registration. Come on out and show your support.


September 10th
Ripken Stadium, Event #5
Our fifth event of the year in Chesapeake Regions Point Series will also include a Corvette vs Porsche shootout. Expect more details to come in future Patters. We will be utilizing a format similar to the Potomac Chesapeake shootout. Come on out to see a wide selection of Porsches and American Fiberglass. It will be horse-power heaven. Should be a well attended and interesting event!

October 15th
Ripken Stadium, Event #6 and
Porsche vs. Corvette Shootout
The Regions final event in our regions annual AutoX series at Ripken Stadium in Aberdeen, Maryland. The mild fall weather makes this one of the most enjoyable events to participate in or spectate. Since Halloween is right around the corner, expect a few tricks and treats! Look forward to seeing you there!

The 2006 Chesapeake Region Point Series is well under way. With three events under our belt and a fantastic turnout this year the competition is hot. Several classes have close competition where a first place finish could take someone from 3-4 in class to first. 2 Events remain with a total of 24 Points available! Everybody’s still in the running for a trophy! Remember the final point score will be based upon 5 events. We are currently looking into the trophies for 2006, any ideas would be appreciated.






Sponsors

Finally, I’d like to thank the gracious sponsors of the Chesapeake Regions AutoX Program. They have provided funding that assists in equipping our region with the necessary items to have a safe and enjoyable event. Please take the time to review the list and whenever possible utilize their services. I have personally worked with everyone on the list and have found then to be outstanding.

Diamond Sponsor and Regional Sponsor
Porsche of Hunt Valley (Valley Motors) - www.ValleyMotors.com
Factory Authorized Dealer for Porsche, Mercedes, Audi, Subaru and VW
Stop in to check out the latest Porsche models.
9800 York Road Cockeysville, MD 21030 410-666-7777

Gold, Silver, and Bronze Sponsors
MotoModz www.motomodz.com
Specialize in European and Import Performance cars including, but not limited to Porsche, Audi, VW, Honda, and Acura. Offer everything from performance upgrades to paint renovation and detailing services. We are a diverse, one-stop shop for all things related to Vintage and Modern performance cars. GIAC / AWE Tuning Center
4432 North Point Blvd Baltimore, MD 21219 410-477-6639 (MODZ)

Mark Lee, Realtor Long and Foster Realestate www.markleehomes.com
Mark Lee is a multi-million dollar agent and has established a reputation for bringing the highest level of excellence and service to his clients with his warmth, professionalism, negotiation skills and ability to go above-and-beyond the ordinary, resulting in an incredibly loyal customer base. His experience in marketing and advertising has been an asset for his sellers, bringing unique and creative approaches to targeting buyers.
cell: 410-375-6114 office: 410-480-3369

Silver Screen & Sound, Inc. www.silverscrn.com and www.theaterrooms.com
Winner International Best Home Theater 2000 from CEDIA Winner International Best Home Theater 2001 from CEDIA Winner Top 10 Custom Installer in the Nation 2002 Winner Baltimore's Best Home Theater firm 2003 Showroom: 410-296-0202
Toll Free: 877-2CINEMA

Linda Bowyer, Realtor Coldwell Banker www.cbmove.com/linda.bowyer
Greenspring Office , Lutherville MD
Linda Bowyer is a Member of the National Association REALTORS and an Accredited Real Estate Professional. With a Masters Degree in Computer Science, Linda is able to utilizes her High Tech expertise to leverage the latest technologies ensuring timely and maximum exposure of your property and to search for properties that fit your needs.
Direct: 410-667-5503 Office: 410-821-0379

SSI Performance – www.ssiauto.com
SSI Performance in Towson Maryland is a great choice for scheduled maintenance and repairs on your German auto. Also supplying enthusiasts with performance upgrades as licensed distributor for the top names in aftermarket and automotive performance products. 410-668-1100


GT Performance - www.gtperfomanceinc.com
GT Performance Inc., is a high-performance business dedicated to servicing and tuning your vehicle to optimum performance. Gennady Soykher, founder of GT Performance Inc. has developed a great wealth of knowledge over the years with automobiles from all over the world. Established in 1996 GT Performance Inc, specializes in modification and preparation of high performance vehicles. Gennady's philosophy has always been to increase safety, power and reliability of the automobiles that leave the facility without altering the quality of the ride of your street car. As high performance tuners, we use nothing but the highest quality components and materials to ensure the best finished result. GT Performance Inc, has been internationally recognized for its honesty, quality, and stability with it's loyal customers. 410-538-3400

Darby Ashmore Photography & Design www.darbyashmore.com Pictures of Events 1&2, www.darby.smugmug.com Event #4 GREAT PHOTOGRAPHS!

First Horizon Home Loans –
First Horizon Home Loans is Maryland’s # 1 lender according to the Baltimore Business Journal. We are a direct lender and ensure our customers get the best rates, coupled with the lowest costs and the best service. Feel free to contact Derek Schwarz or Joe Zuramski anytime to discuss any of the potential programs for Purchases, Construction or Refinance. Office: 410-828-5200 Derek (ext.49) Joe (ext.54)


Special Thanks also goes out to:

- Cal Ripken Baseball and the Iron Birds for the use of the Parking lot
- Noel Wagner and Carol Irwin - Play by Play Announcer
- Dave O’Brien – Timing, Scoring and Registration
- Adam Argenbright – Tech
- Don Malson – Timing and Support
- Hank Schwarz – Starter
- Brian Hair and Jason Becker – Support
- Derek Schwarz - Co-chair
- Tim Eisel – Past AutoX chair
- The entire Chesapeake Region Board and Noel Hall, Dennis Howard, and Manny Alban for their continued support and guidance.
- YOU the enthusiasts, for making our events safe, fun and successful!




Calendar

Aug 19-20	Cumberland, MD
Aug 27	Chesapeake vs Potomac Shootout Winchester, VA
Sep 10	* Event #5, Ripken Stadium
Sep 16-17	Cumberland, MD
Oct 15	* Event #6 and Porsche Corvette Shootout
Oct 28-29	Cumberland, MD
* denotes part of Chesapeake Points Series

Points Standings


Points standings can be found by following this link.