> News

Mike McBride Report from the First Midwset Race (10/05/2010)

By:: Reporter-2

On May 1-2, the Mentor On-Road Racers kicked off the 41st edition of the Midwest Series, the world’s oldest! The race was held at the Lakeland Community College, and is always a pleasant return to grass-roots, parking lot racing. The host club did a fantastic job of hosting the event, overcoming just two brief interruptions for rain. The format for this race was 4 qualifying heats on Saturday, and an additional qualifying heat on Sunday. The 30 minute mains for all heats followed.

A little background about myself; I have participated in the Midwest Series for the last 3 years racing in the 200mm sedan class. This season, and this race in particular, is my first foray into the 1/8 class. Racing a 1/8 car has been something I’ve wanted to do since getting involved with racing over 20 years ago, and after “learning the ropes” in sedan, it was finally time to step up! Thanks to the good people at Serpent America, AB Charles Hobby Shop, Tri-State Hobbies, and Serpent teammates Paul Ciccarello, Doug Filo, and Mike Pulfer for all their help in getting my new 966 on the track.

Saturday started off with an open practice session. Serpent America’s Paul Ciccarello stopped by for the morning to make sure I had no problems getting the car on the track and getting it tuned in. Paul had some other family obligations that day and was unable to participate, but would return a day later. Teammate Mike Pulfer then helped me the rest of the day; in particular by helping me out with a pesky engine tune. Rain only briefly interrupted the days’ events during the first round of qualifying, and after 4 rounds Mike was Top Qualifier and I was in 3rd.

Sunday morning brought another rain interruption, but the sun came out and the track dried quickly. The good weather also brought Paul back to the track; he just couldn’t stay away from all the fun! With just a few practice sessions, Paul went out in round 5 and snatched the TQ away from his good buddy, Mike. I was unable to improve my time and was shuffled down to 4th qualifying position. Throughout qualifying, I was extremely happy with how easy it was to drive the 966. The speed and power may have been a little intimidating at first, but I was quickly able to become comfortable with the car. I only made a few minor changes throughout the weekend, as I was still figuring out how to drive the beast!

Following a break to prepare, it was time for the finals. As the race started, I found my way up into second place behind Paul by the first fuel stop. Shortly after, I lost a glow plug and then quickly flamed out again as I returned to the track. A slight engine adjustment and I was back underway. I managed to work my way back up to 3rd place by the 20 minute mark. Paul finished first, having led the race from wire-to-wire. Mike Pulfer overcame a last-minute engine rebuild to finish second, and myself finishing third. A 1-2-3 finish for the 966! Next stop for the Midwest Series - Joliet, IL. See you there!

Mike McBride