An Excellent Start
by John Mansfield and Fred Beckphotos by Ron Sisco
This year's BMW of Peabody Autocross Series at Rockingham Park, New Hampshire, on May 4, got off to a great start with 44 registrants. Although the first car started later than we had hoped, each participant enjoyed six runs and several participated in the fun runs at the end of the day. This year's new members-only policy was well received, with six new members joining on the spot and many other interested onlookers taking home applications.
This year's more open course was a hit, competition was fierce, people were exuberant, checking tire pressures, and a renewed spirit of BMW camaraderie was felt by all. We would like to thank all those who came early to lend a hand setting up the course, and those members who gave valuable assistance performing tech inspections first thing in the morning, and those who helped throughout the day.
A full listing of all 1997 Autocross Series results is available online.
Similar to last year, this series will consist of eight events. Trophies will be awarded at the November meeting for the top points finishers in each class. To qualify for a trophy you must compete in a minimum of four events in the same car in the same class. If you come with a friend and want to drive their car and your car you may double register by paying two admission fees.
The classes have been modified from those used in the first event in order to heighten competition. The new classes are given below. If you were in class C for the first autocross, you are now in class B.
The points system for awarding trophies is the same as last year. It eliminates the weather factor because points are based on your finish place and not your actual times. You could earn as many points on a rainy day as you could on a sunny day, maybe even more. The points system is as follows:
- Showing up: 1 point
- Finish 1st in class: 6 points
- Finish 2nd in class: 4 points
- Finish 3rd in class: 2 points
- For each car you finish ahead of: 1/2 point
- Single run FTD in your class: 1 point
Your class finish place for each event will be determined by averaging your two fastest runs. Season class winners will be those who have the highest total number of points from their best four events.
To get to Rockingham Park, take Route 93 North to the first exit in New Hampshire, bear right onto the over pass, which takes you directly over the autocross course. Take a right at the first light, then take a right at the second light into the Rockingham Horse Racetrack parking lot, and a third right as you reach the club house. Proceed straight to the far end of the large parking lot.
Events are scheduled on May 4, June 1, June 29, July 13, August 10, August 24, September 7, and October 5.
The registration fee is $15 per driver. Remember that you must have a Snell approved 1985 or newer helmet, and please arrive no later than 8:30 am. Technical inspection closes at 9 am. If you want to bring a minor as a passenger, be sure to sign the special insurance waiver that will be available at the event.
The autocross will run rain or shine - please check the hotline in case of an unexpected schedule change.
Call John Mansfield at (617) 782-0911 if you have any questions. See you there!
- June 1997 BIMMER
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- June 1997 New Members
- 1997 Boston Chapter Autocross Series: An Excellent Start
- Schneller Performance Tech Session
- Second Quarter General Meeting: Satch Speaks
- The Driveway Mechanic: E30 Wheel Bearing Replacement
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