Clown Racing Engine Requirements for BRODAK 2009

[Phil Spillman]

A typo slipped through the edit process on the announcement and invitations for this years Clown Racing Event at the Brodak FlyIn. The only engine permitted in Clown Racing is, as was the case last year, the LA .15. I am the Co-Event Director for the racing events and wanted this announcement to get posted before any misunderstanding got a foot hold.

Phil Spillman

[john e. holliday]

Too bad you outlawed the Fox .15 Schnurle.  DOC Holliday

[Phil Spillman]

Hi John, If the Fox had been used I am sure we'd have left it run, if you are referring to the old iron sleeved model! What happened here was the introduction of model car racing engines which just spoiled an entry level event. This event along with the Foxberg Racing event is strictly for non-accomplished racing types. At speeds approaching 115 mph some of our senior entrants just couldn't keep up physically with the pace. I was NOT the only person involved with this decision there were no less than 5 concerned participants who voiced concerns about the speeds being reached.

Phil Spillman

[John Paris]

Phil,
I noticed you left off the word stock for this one.  Can I safely assume that if I can stuff my Nelson in the case I am good to go???     Actually having seen the races that prompted this change I think that it was a good call.
John

PS:  I am joking about doing something like this.  I know that Phil will get it, but need to be clear to the general public.

[peabody]

So that's how you did so well last year?

[don Burke]

In general 15LA only is a good idea to keep an "entry level" event at that level.  Though the car and F2D engines are impressive, it sure takes a lot of fun out of the event.

And when the 15LA becomes no longer available, as is almost certain to happen, there should be plenty of others to pick from.

[Robert Zambelli]

Like a Brodak 15, maybe!!!???!!!   

            Bob Z.

[Ralph Wenzel (d)]

And a whole slew of 2.5cc diesels . . .

[BillLee]

At speeds approaching 115 mph some of our senior entrants just couldn't keep up physically with the pace.

I have no problem with limiting the event to a single engine, but want to fuss about the reason given.

There's not a Clown Racer in the world that will run "At speeds approaching 115 mph" unless 100mph is within your definition of "approaching". If there are, they have been well hidden, or whoever was running the clock only timed for seven laps. (Timing for models on 52' lines is for 8 laps, or for 10 if you're flying F2C.)

18 seconds for 8 laps is right at the fastest they will go. That's 100mph. I pit one of those on a regular basis. And it wins "real" Clown Race quite frequently. And ALWAYS gets beat when the pitman screws it up! 

Regards,

Bill Lee

[John Stiles]

Let's see some pics of these "clown racers" please!

[don Burke]

Seen one clown you've seen them all.  Go to the "rat and team racing" category, then pick the Cabin Fever pics link.  There's a pic of Greens winner in the "clown racing" folder.  Pretty typical of stuff around these parts.  Too bad there's rag over the engine, it's a FORA F2D.

[John Stiles]

Thanks Don!