Archive for November, 2004
Return to Workers and Marshalls
Why should you work Timing & Scoring? First of all, there are the many great benefits:
- Except for street races you will be inside. No need to be exposed to nasty sun or rain or (potential) rattlesnakes.
- The snacks are primo! We start each morning with sweet rolls - bring your own coffee. In the afternoon we often feature zesty trail mix and green grapes. At street races, canned soft drinks are also provided.
- There is never a dull moment.
- Free Excedrin is provided for every headache.
- The view of the track is dynamite! (Of course you’ll never actually see a race - just the little bit that goes by the start finish line in front of you.)
What kind of help do we need? As most of you know, our duties in Timing & Scoring have changed considerably since we?ve begun using the AMB transponder system. However, we still need people who are computer literate. We also need someone to copy and post results, and someone to rent transponders on Friday and collect them on Sunday after the races. So, if you enjoy lots of stress, mixed with lots of laughs, T & S is the place for you!
If you’d like to help with Timing & Scoring, contact Dennis and Eloise McIlree.
Return to Workers and Marshalls
Members of the Tech team are involved in two important areas of vintage racing. The first of these is the actual inspection of the race cars before each race event to verify that the necessary modifications pertaining to safety and fluid containment are present. This is not only a great way to meet other members of RMVR but it offers one the opportunity to see these cars up close. If you have ever wondered what it takes to restore and race prepare a car for vintage racing this is a great way to find out.
The other area of Tech that you can become involved in is the hot pit. The purpose of the hot pit is to inspect cars which have been involved in any type of track incident that may have compromised the integrity of that car. This also includes inspecting cars that appear to have some type of mechanical or safety problems. The hot pits provides an excellent opportunity to get into the real action of vintage racing.
Members of the Tech team come from a wide range of different backgrounds; many are automotive professionals. If you share an interest in these classic cars, the RMVR Tech team is an excellent way to put your talents to work and have fun doing it. If you can help, please talk to Andy Kitchens or Gene Bashor.
Tech Manual (PDF)
Return to Workers and Marshalls
Pit & Grid marshals are in charge of the pre-grid and releasing cars onto the track. The first advantage to working Pit & Grid is that you can wear shorts if you want to. (In La Junta you’ll want to!) Next, we’ll give you a snappy Pit & Grid shirt to wear. 
The third advantage is you don’t have to stand in one small area and wave different color flags around in the wind, so you don’t have to remember what the colors mean.
Pit & Grid workers also help ensure driver safety by checking each driver’s safety belts (are they tight?), gloves, eye protection, helmets, and arm restraints. Sometimes they forget (duh!). These are the first things to check for on each and every car prior to allowing cars on the track.
Pits & Grid offers a unique perspective and different view of the races and members of RMVR. If you can help, contact Chad McCabe.
Return to Workers and Marshalls
So, you think you may want to be a corner marshal. The first question you may ask yourself is, “What will I have to do and what do I need to know to work on a corner?”
The people on the corners serve several purposes, all very important to the safe conduct of a race. The first, and probably the most important, function is communicating to the drivers the condition of the race course through the use of flags. At least two people at each corner will be dedicated each race to flagging. 
One worker will be responsible for the yellow flag that warns the drivers of danger between this corner and the next. Another worker will be using the blue flag to warn the drivers that a faster car is approaching from behind. These two workers stand near each other, one facing on-coming traffic and one facing away. Since neither can see all that is happening around the corner, they must warn each other of danger coming from the direction they are facing. These two will also use other flags to warn drivers of debris or slippery conditions ahead, a slow moving or emergency vehicle ahead or that the race has been stopped.
A third worker, or sometimes the worker with the yellow flag, will be wearing the radio and will be in communication with race control. This is the second function of the corner workers. This worker will report all incidents or problems to race control and will inform the other workers on the corner of what is happening at other corners during the race.
Corner workers must also be ready to respond to any problems that occur with the race cars near their corners. If a car stops, for any reason, between their corner and the next, they will go to the car, with a fire extinguisher, to determine the problem. If the car cannot be restarted, the worker will assist in moving the car to a safe location and assist the driver back to the safety of the corner station. If the car can be restarted, the worker will direct the driver in safe re-entry of the racetrack.
During the race day the workers will also work to maintain a safe race surface by sweeping debris from the track and drying any oil or antifreeze that may be deposited on the track by a race car.
And finally, the corner marshals will watch the race cars to detect any possible mechanical problems that may be developing with the cars of which the drivers may not be aware. The workers report these problems to race control so that the race steward or the technical inspectors can determine whether to allow the car to continue.
Pauline Wilson or BJ Kellog will be happy to put you to work on a corner!
Return to Rules and Regulations
As a courtesy to Board members and to improve your odds of making timely progress on your suggested rules change, please keep in mind the following when contemplating any proposal.
First, it is always a good idea to have done your homework by exploring the issue, in advance, with fellow members, run group peers, eligibility and/or Board members. Also, on some issues, it is good to know what other vintage clubs do. In any case, it is helpful to have developed a consensus or have endorsement from other people prior to making any proposal to the Board. If nothing else the discussions will be helpful in formulating the proposal and understanding its pros and cons. Also, be sure to have a good understanding of the existing rules. Sometimes rules are already in place to deal with many problems. All too often proposals are made with a poor understanding of the current rules creating such nagging consequences as a rules conflict. In fact, the solution may already be available by simply enforcing an existing rule.
Once all this is done, the proposal to the Board should include the following formalities:
- Contact the President in advance of the Board meeting in order to have your item put on the NEW BUSINESS portion of the next Board meeting agenda.
- Prepare your written proposal and bring sufficient copies to the meeting. There are 12 Board members so bring at least that many copies, more if you wish other people attending to follow along. It is your responsibility to have these copies at the meeting. If possible, an additional advance copy mailed to the President and/or Board members would certainly help your cause. This write up should include the following elements:
- A very brief paragraph explaining the background of underlying problem, the reasoning behind the proposed change, and who else supports the idea.
- An accurate recitation of the rules (Section #’s etc.) as they currently exist prior to your proposed change.
- The suggested changes, precisely worded, showing exactly what will be altered, added, and/or deleted from the existing rules.
- Any other supporting information.
- Be prepared to discuss the proposal’s pros and cons.
Following these steps will greatly help the Board to consider your proposal. As you probably know, all rules change proposals must be considered by the Board. Their first step is to accept or reject the form and language of the proprosal, and that requires a motion, a second, and a vote. If that motion passes, the proposal is published in the minutes and then voted on at a subsequent meeting. After the initial vote, only minor changes may be made and the proposal must remain essentially the same or the process starts over. If approved on the second vote, the proposed rules change becomes effective immediately.
Return to How To Join, Participate, And Race
Remember how you were introduced to vintage racing? Remember your first time behind the wheel? Membership and race entries continue to decline. To meet the serious challenges facing us, our club must grow. Our goal is to increase participation at the Drivers’ School. We need to help people who want to try racing to go racing.
Share Your Experience. Share Your Car!
How do I become a mentor?
- Select someone you trust who would be a good candidate to join and participate in RMVR.
- Loan that person your race car for the Drivers’ School (the deal you make with the student is up to you).
- Guide the student through the process of joining the club, getting a medical, and entering the Drivers’ School. Help them borrow or otherwise obtain driver safety equipment.
- As a Mentor you will not be the student’s driving instructor. Your role is to provide the race car and help convince their spouse this is a great idea.
- Some may choose to continue to share their car during part of the season. However, no one expects you to. If you get the student to the Drivers’ School, then continue encouragement, you have done your part.
What does the student get?
Besides your kind assistance, the student gets entry into the Drivers’ School; a two year membership in RMVR; a one year subscription to Victory Lane Magazine; and your introduction to Pauline so they can work a corner or two. All for only $350!
When your protégé receives a competition license, you (the mentor) will have your entry fee waived for two events. More importantly, you have the satisfaction of knowing that you have helped RMVR remain viable so that you can continue to go racing.
Ready to be a mentor? Download the Mentor Program Application. Questions? Contact Arne McDaniels.
Return to How To Join, Participate, And Race
An Invitation
To race a car with us you will need to join RMVR. The first step is to fill out an Application For Membership. Please mail your completed application to:
RMVR
6745 West Third Place
Lakewood CO 80226
To race a car, in addition to joining the club, you will need to take other necessary steps to make sure your race car is eligible and registered with us. You will also need to have a current medical exam and competition license. Please be sure to also take care of these essential steps to complete the process. You can learn more by reading these “How To …” help sections:
Is this a great pace car, or what?
Photo Credit: Andy Gould
If you would like to be active in RMVR but it is not the time to own a race car, volunteering as a worker or marshal allows a great opportunity to participate. You will get an up-close view of the action as a Corner Worker, or you can assist with Timing and Scoring, or get the cars on the track working Pit & Grid or Tech inspection. Try it - volunteer for a day or weekend. Simply join as a member and pursue any of these varied, necessary, and exciting club functions.
Return to How To Join, Participate, And Race
You always promised yourself you’d go racing, right?
Well, it can be done!
Join us! Nearly all drivers in Rocky Mountain Vintage Racing, Ltd. (RMVR) had promised themselves they would one day go racing. Some figured out how to go racing early in adult life; most waited until their career allowed them the time and economic stability to fulfill the dream. Join our club. Start meeting the members and the service providers who support us. Become familiar with the workings of the club and eligibility requirements for the type of car you would like to race.
Hundreds of potential vintage racers learn about RMVR at the 2004 CART race in Denver.
Photo Credit: Bob Alder
RMVR is one of a number of vintage racing clubs across the country. We race the cars that you and we learned to love. Eligible small-engine production cars date prior to 1973. Most are European including MG, Triumph, Jaguar, Lotus, Porsche, Austin Healey, Alfa Romeo, Sunbeam, and the ever-popular Mini. Eligibility extends to 1972 for bigger engine production cars like Corvette, Mustang, and Camero. Open-wheel formula cars, 1972 and earlier, include Formula Vee, Formula Ford, Formula 5000, up to retired Indy racecars.
RMVR is a volunteer club. Members organize events; serve as Drivers’ Instructors, Stewards, and Chiefs of Specialties. Well-trained volunteer track workers look after you in the event of any track incident.
You could be racing by April
April is an important month. That is when RMVR holds its annual Drivers’ School. If you are completely new to race driving, or you have had experience with other clubs, venues, or vehicle types, the RMVR Drivers’ School is the starting point. You do not need a racecar to participate in Drivers’ School, a street car will do. You will need to be a member of RMVR, have a full set of safety equipment including drivers suit and helmet. These can be purchased locally, by catalog, or perhaps borrowed for Drivers’ School. You will need to have passed the mandatory medical examination.
You will work one-on-one with experienced driving instructors. Completing the Drivers’ School will allow you to participate in club race events as a driver. You will earn your RMVR competition license after several events under observation and guidance of your driving instructor.
RMVR and vintage racing are about fun
Our members, volunteer Stewards and Chiefs of Specialties take safety seriously. Rules strictly limiting dangerous driving are sternly enforced. The rest of this is all about fun. The joy of participation, the exhilaration of each successfully executed lap, and maintaining a reliable racecar is what RMVR is about. Finishing eighth for the very first time can make a weekend. The camaraderie with fellow members is truly rewarding. Race events are weekend outings with family and friends.
What can I win?
You can gain the respect and the confidence of other drivers and workers. There are no trophies or prize money for winning a race. There is no championship. A race session in which you and another competitor dice for position at the front, mid-pack, or to avoid finishing last is more fun than you have had in a very long time. We promise!
How do I find a racecar?
The monthly club newsletter has some classified ads for available cars. Or, the RMVR Bulletin Board has a classified section where users post ads for race cars. There are several good race preparation shops in Colorado. The Internet offers sites involved in the sale of racecars and parts. Victory Lane Magazine is dedicated to vintage racing and carries a broad classified advertising section. The price range for your choice is wide. There are cars available for as little as $2,500, or you could spend more than $100,000. Excellent choices exist between $5,000 and $20,000.
Announcing the Bill Temple Memorial Drivers’ School Scholarship
Through an extremely generous offer by Belinda Temple, the Vee drivers group is announcing the establishment of the Bill Temple Memorial Scholarship. A car, Bill?s RCA FV #18, will be provided for the annual Drivers’ School along with all supplies and mechanical support free of charge. This will be offered to an interested and qualified student each year for the next 4 years. All other Drivers’ School fees will be the responsibility of the student. Recipients will be selected from the application pool by a group of RMVR Vee drivers. Priority for selection will be based on hours of service to RMVR and the likelihood of the student becoming a regular driver. If a prospective driver needs a mentor for the weekend, one will be provided. For more information or for an application form, please contact Bill Fleming.
Not ready to buy a car?
If you would like to be active in RMVR but it is not the time to own a car and drive, volunteering as a track worker allows a great opportunity to participate. You might get an up-close view of the action as a corner worker, assist with timing and scoring, or get the cars on the track working pit and grid. Try it - volunteer for a day or weekend. We will buy lunch! Visit the Worker/Marshal section of this website to see the many great ways you can get involved before or even instead of racing a car.
As the popular advertising slogan says, “Just do it”. You’ll never regret it.
While the task may appear daunting at first, here are some pointers on things that you should do to become a part of this wonderful sport. Links below to get you to the appropriate sections on this website to help you with your journey.
- Join RMVR.
- Visit with our members and/or visit our races to get ideas.
- READ and understand the car eligibility rules.
- Decide on the type of race car you wish to race.
- Shop for a car. For a novice, it’s probably smarter to buy a “race ready” car rather than attempting to build your own. Make sure the car will be an eligible car before buying it.
- Apply for RMVR eligibility. Even if it was previously an RMVR car, the new owner (you) must submit it for eligibility to make sure it is still proper. (Note: You might get the seller’s affirmation of that before buying!)
- Get a medical exam. It will be required even as a novice, before attending Drivers’ School.
- Spend some time in the car doing “Test & Tune” on your own, before Drivers’ School. Get to know members racing similar cars. They’ll be happy to help you. You might even be able to test drive their car, or pre-drive cars for sale, or rent a race car to test.
- Sign up for our Spring Drivers’ School, and begin the process of applying for your competition license. If it is late in the year or if you have prior experience, there are alternatives.
- Ask questions of anybody. We all love to help.
- ENJOY the journey. We promise, it is exciting.
Return to How To Join, Participate, And Race
The RMVR Competition License
For the safety of all of its members, RMVR, like all other race organizations, has a rigorous licensing process. To participate in our races, you must have a current RMVR Competition License, an RMVR student log book, or a VMC license.
The Chief Driving Instructor (CDI) is responsible for issuing RMVR licenses and for conducting the annual RMVR Drivers’ School. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our Chief Driving Instructor (driving-instructor@rmvr.com) or consult the Contact Us section of this website for the CDI’s name and phone number.
Jerry Lynch’s elegant AC Bristol. Nothing neater.
Photo Credit: Andy Gould
For those without prior racing experience and just starting out in vintage racing, the Spring RMVR Drivers’ School is the best thing going. This 3-day School with a proven curriculum is one of the best racing schools in the country. After participating in the School and subsequent instructor-supervised race weekends, students will obtain their RMVR Competition License and be well equipped to safely enjoy this great sport. Basically our licensing requirements are:
- successful completion of RMVR Drivers’ School, or other approved school, and
- successful completion of at least two additional weekend events under the continued supervision and observation of an assigned driving instructor.
Drivers’ School is also always open to previously licensed drivers who have not raced for a while, who are moving up to a much faster race car, or who simply wish to brush up on their skills in a low pressure environment.
Complete license requirements are available on our Rules & Regulations page.
If you have prior racing experience, you may not need to attend our Spring School. “Prior racing experience” includes:
- a previous or current competition license from another racing body
- proof of successful completion of any of the recognized national race schools such as Jim Russell, Bonderant, Skip Barber or our local school, Go 4 It Racing Schools
If you have prior experience, you may apply directly for an RMVR Competition License by joining the club and filling out an Application For a Competition License, supplying the details and proof of your prior racing experience. Acceptance of prior experience in lieu of Drivers’ School is at the discretion of the Chief Driving instructor.
The VMC National License
Due to the stunning growth of vintage racing over the past decade, vintage events can now be found virtually year-round somewhere in North America. Because of the increasing national scope of vintage racing, RMVR was instrumental in the 1987 formation of the Vintage Motorsports Council (VMC). This confederation of clubs from across the country was formed to deal with our common issues.
One of the VMC functions is to issue a national vintage competition license which is accepted at other vintage clubs across the country. So, if you plan on racing a lot with other clubs, you may wish to also obtain a VMC license. Requirements are 1) a current RMVR Competition License, 2) a copy of your current medical exam, 3) a passport sized photo, and 4) $25.00
. This information is submitted along with the VMC License Application to our CDI for approval and forwarding to the VMC. Our Chief Driving Instructor can supply these forms.
Return to How To Join, Participate, And Race, Member Services
- Member accesses rules on rmvr.com and also reads the SCCA GCS and PCS rules applicable to the car.
- Member submits application to appropriate eligibility team member.
- Is the application complete with photos?
No - Request complete information from member, return to step 2.
Yes - Continue.
- Team member reviews car eligibility. Is car eligible?
No - Car found ineligible. Rejection letter sent.
Not sure - Team member works with car owner for approval. Continue.
Yes - Continue
- Number selected by chairman and applicant.
- Chairman issues car number and sends acceptance letter to applicant.
- If the car already has a Log Book, the number is transferred. If not, a new Log Book will be issued.
Eligibility application process flowchart.
Return to Run Groups
Sports Racers (SR) are yet another contingent of racecars we see at RMVR. These fairly unique and, more often than not, beautifully designed racecars were purpose built for one reason - to go racing - and were never really intended for street use. They are similar in construction to their close counterpart, the open wheel formula cars, except Sports Racers have full bodies covering their wheels.
A gaggle of RMVR’s finest Sports Racers.
Photo Credit: Wendell Young
Classes for Sports Racers range from A-SR (the big guns over 2.0 liters) thru D-SR (the smallest displacements, under 850cc). They cover a wide range of performance from cars competitive with small bore production cars up to the fearsome unlimited V-8 powered Can-Am race cars produced by McLaren or Chaparral, which are beholding to no one. Constructors range from well known companies like Lotus, Elva, or McLaren to one-off cars built in someone’s garage to such elite cars as the Cooper Monaco.
Since classification is determined solely by the car’s engine displacement, the engines can be tweaked to whatever degree the owner desires and still remain in its designated class (A thru D). The only construction restriction is that wheels must be covered with body work and the full width cockpits provide (at least in theory) for a second seat, a token reference to their “sport car” heritage.
Sports Racers may not always run in the same run group. Generally they run with the production cars, but in run groups commensurate with their speed. Unfortunately we seldom have enough Sports Racers to have an entire SR run group, but … there’s always hope! We’re seeing more and more of these lovely cars return to our events.
If you’d like more information on this eclectic group of cars, contact Bob Alder or Ellis Cahn.
Return to Run Groups
Somewhere in the DNA of every professional racecar driver, from the great, to those filling the “also ran” end of the grid, are lessons learned in a small low horsepower car. In RMVR we class these cars in the “Small Bore” run group, but the excitement and the passion is just as big as the V8 group.
A good small bore battle at LaJunta. Braking hard for Andy Gould’s Flamingos?
Photo Credit: Andy Gould
Most agree, however, that the keys to good lap times are found and developed in the small bore run groups. When the throttle doesn’t do much despite the dent in the floorboard from the force of the foot, one learns to carry speed wherever possible; one learns to brake as late and smoothly as possible; one learns to draft and pass while reading the air currents around the preceding car down the Pueblo straight, and one learns where the so called “power” band is when the green flag falls.
Small cars have somewhat smaller budgets as a rule. The tow vehicle and trailer can be smaller, less fuel needs to be hauled, tires are smaller and last longer than the big cars.
Thus, Small Bore racing is RMVR’s largest race group. So large, in fact, that on most all weekends it is necessary to have two run groups to accommodate all the cars. Generally one group contains the cars classified as EP, FP, and GP, and another race group is established for the faster CP and BP classes. It’s not uncommon for there to be 35-40 cars in each of the run groups. You may be assured that a good time will be had by all - always someone to race with, regardless of where you are in the pack.
For assistance and questions you may have regarding running cars in this group, you can email Greg Stanley, or John Brosseau (Austin-Healey Midgets), or Pete Myers (Mini-Cooper). Or, just come out to our events and look ‘em up. They’re more than willing to share their wisdom and enthusiasm for this fun-filled racing group.
Another great source of information is the RMVR Bulletin Board, specifically the Small Bore Forum. Here you can post your questions, and all readers will take a shot at getting you an answer ASAP.
Return to Run Groups
Real women wear fire proof underwear!
The RMVR Ladies Race Group (LRG) is a very unique conglomeration of women. It is the only group of its kind in the U.S.
The singularly unique Ladies Race Group
Photo Credit: Andy Gould Photography
In the Spring of 1986, sixteen adventurous, thrill-seeking women took Drivers’ School together at Second Creek Raceway, thus becoming the “Ladies Race Group” of RMVR. Many of the women from the original Group are still racing in RMVR and continuing to enjoy the excitement and camaraderie of the sport. The number of licensed women racers grows annually as new ladies racers are encouraged to join in the fun.
Besides social functions during the year, at least once a year the LRG will even have their own race grid, combining cars ranging from MGs to Corvettes to Sports Racers. It’s quite a sight to see.
The Ladies Race Group, past and present, at Hastings in September 2007
If you have any questions regarding joining and participating, please visit the Ladies Group Forum on the RMVR Bulletin Board, which is exclusively devoted to discussions relevant to this unique run group. The Bulletin Board Forums are a very nice way to quickly reach many members with your questions.
Return to Run Groups
Sexy, Sleek, Sensuous, Stock Style Sports Cars Sought
The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language: Fourth Edition:
sports car
Noun: An automobile equipped for racing, especially an aerodynamically shaped one-passenger or two-passenger vehicle having a low center of gravity and steering and suspension designed for precise control at high speeds.
The Wikipedia further expounds:
A sports car is a car designed for sporting performance. While opinions differ as to the exact definition, most sports cars have two seats and two doors, and are designed to excel at a combination of acceleration, top speed, braking, and maneuverability. Great emphasis is often placed on handling—the ability of the car to remain in the control of the driver under challenging condition such as when the car’s tires begin to lose their grip on corners.
Do YOU have what it takes for the NEW Historic Group?
Ashley Averill, in the Ex-John Burnham Berkeley, trying not to frighten the Mingos feeding track side, Corner 7, at Pueblo. You cannot believe how big a Sprite looks from the Berkeley, an MG-B seem quite gigantic!.
Photo Credit: Andy Gould
Shortly after the first automobile hit the road, a second appeared. It was created for the express purpose of racing the first. This has been going on for more than a century now. Things have changed a great deal in that time. Speeds have increased; in general, engine displacement has decreased. Drivers used to be fat and their tires were skinny, today, most drivers are skinny and their tires are fat. Fifty years ago, stock car racing actually used a car that began life in an automobile dealer’s inventory. Today, they are not even real silhouette racers and bear no resemblance in technical terms to what they are purported to represent.
Ralph Veit, 212 Red Alfa Romeo, one of the Historic Group’s jewels leads 2006 Danny Collins Cup winner, Andy Keller, 912 White Porsche out of corner 7, in La Junta. Kent Baird, 712 Tan Abarth 1000 Coupe, nips at the Porsche’s heels.
Photo Credit: Don Suiter
To a lesser extent, the sports car has suffered the same fate. Early on, the cars were run on their own merit, just as their factory’s engineers designed, and employees built them. People are, by nature, born to tinker; they cannot leave well enough alone. Even when the rules specifically prohibit tinkering, they will seek the unfair advantage and go to great lengths to get away with it.
Rocky Mountain Vintage Racing and the NEW Historic Group seek to return to the days of yesteryear when drivers drove their stock, standard, sports cars, fitted with some safety equipment, to the track. Unloaded spares, tools, supplies, lunch and refreshments; checked tire pressures, taped headlights and glass lenses, and took to the track for friendly competition with like minded individuals. No expensive modifications! No stripping of value! Close to stock vehicles, sliding about on the tires of the day. Now, those same cars, on today’s street tires, can reenact those times. Mastering the lost art of the four-wheel-drift again. Enjoying lower cost, higher value fun! With more smiles per dollar!
Cindy Hegy, at the wheel of Dennis McIlree’s famous “Lil’ Bird” AH Sprite at La Junta. One of RMVR’s early race prepared cars, restored to street spec and now an Historic Group participant.
Photo Credit: Andy Gould
To be included in the Historic Group, your car need only be much as it was originally produced in terms of interior, engine, and appearance. Sport sedan/saloon cars are welcome as well! The list of cars in the Sports Car Club of America’s General Competition Rules (GCR) and Production Car Specifications (PCS) are eligible when preparation does not exceed the 1959 GCR/PCS for cars 1959 and older, 1967 GCR/PCS for cars 1960 through 1967. See the Rules page for information on obtaining the GCR/PCS.
Your car not listed? Ask eligibility! Not sure you comply? Ask eligibility!
Trisha Dudding, 933 Green Mini; Bob Miller, 613 White TR-3; Chris Trask, 101 Yellow Lotus Europa; Kent Baird, 712 Tan Abarth 1000 Coupe; part of RMVR’s eclectic Historic Group, exiting Corner 7, in La Junta. The La Junta Raceway is built on part of what was the La Junta Army Air Field. B-24 Liberator Bombers were based there for advanced training. This photo looks into the past to provide a glimpse of what it might have looked like as an early B-24 landed on the east-west runway at the AAF.
Photo Credit: Don Suiter
Preparation is basic. The ubiquitous safety equipment: rollbar, occupant restraints, fire extinguisher and the like are required. Good and proper mechanical function for safe operation. Low cost and durable street tires. If your vehicle is licensed for street operation you are NOT required to fit a safety fuel cell! Personal safety equipment is as required for any other class or car.
If you or your friends and loved ones have such cars and the opportunity to participate in track sessions with low preparation and low operating costs appeals to you, contact RMVR Eligibility (Bob Mitchiner) at eligibility@rmvr.com, and/or the Historic Group (Ian Rainford & Bill Rosenbach) at historic-race-group@rmvr.com.
Ian Rainford’s 1957 Jomar Climax.
Photo Credit: Andy Gould
Terry Hefty’s beautiful Cooper Monaco.
Photo Credit: Andy Gould
Return to Run Groups
A beautiful grid of Open Wheel cars, ready for battle.
Photo Credit: Robert Johnson
Formula cars are purpose-built, open-wheel race cars. They come in a variety of sizes and shapes which are dictated by specific “formula”, or specifications, unique to each class. Within RMVR there are three very active groups of formula cars which, on any given weekend, are run with considerable enthusiasm and skill. It’s not uncommon to have two different open wheel grids exceeding 20 cars in each! We often have dedicated races groups consisting of all Formula Vees (FV) or all Formula Fords (FF).
Since FV and FF are spec engines (e.g. motors cannot be “souped up”) the open-wheel competition is extremely keen - a fact most apparent at the end of most races where first place is rarely more than a second over the 2nd place car. Qualifying times are often with hundredths of a second of each other and often several cars will be nose to tail at the finish line!
You might believe that with such close racing, friendships would be rare within this group. Not so. These drivers are great friends, exemplifying the “Vintage Spirit”. Post-race “de-briefing” (aka BS) sessions will reflect the fun had by all while racing wheel to wheel. Someone break down? You’ll see all of them offering parts, help, or expertise to get them back on track in time for the next session.
Dennis McIlree leads a gaggle of Formula Fords at Hallet, our annual joint event with CVAR.
Photo Credit: Sports Photography, USA
But then, that’s how it is within all of RMVR - Help is there for the asking. If you have questions about open-wheel cars or racing, a good resource is the RMVR Bulletin Board, specifically the Open Wheel Forum. Just post your questions. You will get answers. Also, names of people to help with specific formulas are listed below.
The three groups of formula cars are Formula Vee (FV), Formula Ford (FF) and Large Formula cars:
Formula Vee
This is a spec class based on components taken from the VW Beetle. That’s right, the beloved Bug is the basis for a formula racer. These cars use the stock front beam and rear suspension, wheels, brakes, transaxle and 1200cc (1385cc for RMVR) engine’ right out of the ordinary street car. Working within a serious set of established rules that limit changes to any of the parts, this is a low-budget entry level racer that is truly a “driver’s ability” class. It’s no wonder that racing greats such as Emerson Fittipaldi and Arie Luyendyk and new drivers such as Indy 500 winner Buddy Lazier came from this class, establishing themselves with the ability to finesse a car to a win prior to having horsepower to take them there.
If you’d like to learn more about this very popular class, feel free to use these email links to contact some of our experienced, front-running drivers such as Reah “Mort” Mortimer, Bob Miller, or Bill Fleming. They’re anxious to help you with any aspect of FV racing.
Formula Ford
This is another spec engine formula class. FF uses the so-called Kent motor, a 1600cc, pushrod, four cylinder Ford engine. Chassis are tube frame with fully adjustable A-Arm suspension on all four corners. Once again, this is a “driver’s series” since engines cannot be tweaked to win with horsepower - it’s all about the driver’s ability to prepare and tune the car and it obviously makes for very exciting competition and camaraderie. As with Formula Vee, many of the professionals now in major league open-wheel racing cut their teeth in a FF.
Two of our avid FF racers would be quite willing to help you with any questions you might have. Just use these email links to John Mihalich or Bob Darcey. Both are very, very knowledgeable about FF cars and they welcome your inquiries.
Large Formula
These are the “big guys”. These various formulas have larger engines and usually the cars have wings and slicks.
There are a number of larger formula cars within this group. For instance, the FB class of cars are usually powered by the ubiquitous, and very powerful, 1600 TwinCam engines.
Then there is it Formula Super Vee (FSV) which, like their smaller brethren, are powered by a larger and more powerful VW engine.
And for the really power hungry formula racers, there are the huge F-5000 cars powered by big honking V-8 engines. Not for the weak of spirit or the beginner!
As you can see, there is variety in the large formula car group. However, contacting John Obialero (FB, et. al.) or Jerry Urban (FSV) will get you answers.
Return to Run Groups
These are the big, ground-pounding cars in the club. This group consists of the V-8 powered Corvettes, Camaros, Mustangs, Falcons, Shelby GT350s, Cobras, Dodges, Plymouths, and some Porsches. There are also a number of other over 2.0 litre Sedans which are classed with the Big Bore run group. Also, depending on engines, some of the B production cars wind up being more appropriately run in this group of very fast production cars. The big Porsche cars simply love to beat up on the V-8s.
Clearly these cars are the crowd pleasers. When the big boys (and sometimes girls!) show up in these cars, everyone is aware of it and the spectators and other drivers watch the action. In the past couple of years, Keith Davidson has done an excellent job organizing the annual RMVR Trans-Am featured weekend at Pueblo. Significant cars and drivers from around the country come to this premier event.
Keith Davidson’s very fast and very unique Ford Falcon Sprint at speed.
Photo Credit: Bob Alder
If V-8 power and wheel spinning action is your desire, this is the group for you. However, be sure your car is prepared in compliance with the RMVR rules governing this group. The rules for preparing these cars are quite complex because there are classes that go beyond the 1967 cut off applied to most other RMVR production cars. Some classes of big bore cars are prepared using the 1972 GCR rules (SCCA’s rules bible). Also, there are some unique big bore classes defined and developed uniquely by RMVR.
If you wish to gain insights into big bore cars, contact Walt Hane, Chip Hane, or Keith Davidson. They are very, very knowledgeable, congenial, and quite willing to help. Or you can go to the Big Bore Forum on the RMVR Bulletin Board to post your questions being assured that answers will be immediately forthcoming.
Return to Race Results
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April Second Creek
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G1 Production
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G2 Production
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G3 Formula
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G4 Ladies
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G5 Production
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June La Junta
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G1 Production
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G2 Formula
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G3 Ladies
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G4 Formula
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G5 Production
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G6 Production
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G7 Formula
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June Pueblo
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G1 Production
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G2 Formula
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G3 Trans Am
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G4 Production
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G5 Formula
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G6 Production
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July Second Creek
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G1 Production
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G2 Formula
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G3 Production
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G4 Production
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G5 Formula
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G6 Historic & Ladies
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August Second Creek Backwards
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G1 Production
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G2 Formula
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G3 Production
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G4 Formula
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G5 Production
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September Denver Grand Prix
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September Pueblo Enduro
Return to Race Results
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April PPIR
- G1 Production
- G2 Formula
- G3 Ladies
- G4 Formula
- G5 Production
- G6 Production
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May La Junta
- G1 Ladies
- G2 Formula
- G3 Production
- G4 Production
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June Pueblo
- GA Production
- GB Formula
- GC Ladies
- GD Production
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June PPIR
- G1 Production
- G2 Formula
- G3 Historic & Ladies
- G4 Production
- G5 Formula
- G6 Production
- G7 Production
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July Second Creek
- G1 Production
- G2 Formula
- G3 Production
- G4 Formula
- G5 Historic & Ladies
- G6 Production
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August Second Creek Backwards
- G1 Production
- G2 Formula
- G3 Production
- G4 Production
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September Pueblo Enduro
Return to Race Results
- April Second Creek
- G1 Production
- G2 Formula
- G3 Ladies
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G4 Formula
- G5 Production
- G6 Production
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G7 Production
- May La Junta
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G1 Production
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G2 Production
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G3 Production
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G4 Formula
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G5 Ladies
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G6 Formula
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June Pueblo
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G1 Production
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G2 Formula
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G3 Historic / Ladies
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G4 Formula
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G5 Production
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G6 Production
- July Second Creek
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G1 Production
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G2 Formula
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G3 Ladies
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G4 Historic
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G5 Production
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G6 Formula
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G7 Production
- August PPIR
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G1 Production
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G2 Formula
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G3 Production
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G4 Production
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G5 Production
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G6 Formula
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G7 Ladies
- September Pueblo Enduro
- October Albuquerque
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G1 Production
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G2 Production
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G3 Formula
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G4 Production
Return to Race Results
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May La Junta
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G1 Production
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G2 Production
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G3 Production
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G4 Formula
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G5 Ladies
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G6 Production
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June PPIR
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G1 Production
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G2 Formula
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G3 Ladies
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G4 Formula
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G5 Production
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G6 Historic
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G7 Production
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G8 Production
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July Topeka
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G1 Production
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G2 Formula
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G3 Production
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G4 Production
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July Second Creek
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G1 Production
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G2 Formula
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G3 Ladies
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G4 Historic
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G5 Production
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G6 Formula
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G7 Production
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August Second Creek Backwards
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G1 Production
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G2 Formula
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G3 Production
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September PPIR/BMW
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G1 Production
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G2 Formula
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G3 Ladies
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G4 Production
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G5 Production
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G6 Production
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G7 Formula
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G8 BMW
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October Pueblo Enduro
Return to Member Services
The Vintage Messenger is Rocky Mountain Vintage Racing’s monthly newsletter. If you would like to receive an email notification when the Messenger is published (along with other news of interest), please sign up for the RMVR Email News:
Search the Messenger archives:
2008
2007
2006
2005
2004
2003
The Messenger is in PDF format. If you do not have the free Adobe Acrobat Reader, download it here.
Return to Member Services, Useful Links
Clubs & Organizations
Tracks & Accommodations
Publications
- Victory Lane Magazine
The “Bible” for vintage racers. This monthly publication is now in color, covers races across the country, including RMVR events, has great articles, and has the definitive classified section. Most vintage racers subscribe to Victory Lane.
- GrassRoots MotorSports
Website for a good gearhead magazine.
- Classic Motorsports
A new sister publication of Grassroots Motorsports. Classic Motorsports is directed specifically to the older sports cars. In fact, it is now the official club magazine for SVRA.
- Vintage RaceCar Journal and Market Report
Another fine vintage magazine. Excellent articles and pictures and each month’s “Market Report” will feature a different class race cars (.e.g. Formula Ford) and provide current market values for the various marques.
- Vintage Motorsport
Advertised as “THE JOURNAL OF MOTOR RACING HISTORY”, this is an excellent publication for vintage racers with great articles on the history of motor racing.
Parts & Services
The following links do not represent a recommendation or endorsement, but rather a convenience for contacting these suppliers of parts and services to vintage racers.
Miscellaneous
If you have a link that should be posted here, please send it to the webmaster.
Return to Forms and Publications, Member Services
Forms
Applications
(If you will be attending Spring Drivers’ School, please use the School Packet below instead of these forms)
Requests for Event Entry
Other Forms
Publications
All forms & publications are in PDF format. If you do not have the free Adobe Acrobat Reader, download it here.
Return to Contact RMVR
Rocky Mountain Vintage Racing, Ltd.
6745 West Third Place Lakewood CO 80226
Diane Hively
303-319-3062 (voice)
303-274-8550 (fax)
admin@rmvr.com (email)
To email all RMVR Directors, simply send email to
board-members@rmvr.com. It will be forwarded to each of them. You can also click on
their name to send email to individuals.
The regular RMVR Board Meeting is held the third Wednesday of each month, commencing at 7 p.m. at Thornton City Hall, 9500 Civic Center Drive, Thornton CO, in the training room <Map>.
Return to Bulletin Board Help, Member Services
Go to the RMVR Bulletin Board
Go straight to the Classified Ads
We encourage all RMVR members to regularly visit and participate in the online RMVR Bulletin Board. It’s a great way to share information with fellow members, to post your own classified ads, to see what members are thinking, to ask questions, participate in surveys, or to get answers to your questions in a hurry. It is a public discussion place which is completely member driven. Anyone, registered or not, can visit and enjoy the board.
Major subjects, grouped into Forums, are pre-set, but all the topics (threads) within each Forum are completely determined by those who post to the site. Think of it as an on-going, on-line RMVR Feedback Session, bull session, and/or swap meet. What’s not to like?
Unregistered guests can view the Bulletin Board. However, please register first! Registration provides you enhanced features for using the board. To register, just click the SIGN UP button near the top center of the site page when first visiting the Bulletin Board. You need to register only once. Then, once registered, fill in the username and password you just created and hit the LOGIN button. At the top you should then be recognized by your username.
After you register and login, you can easily post new topics and even photos, ask questions, or respond to any thread. As a registered user you can edit your own posts. You can also customize other aspects of your Bulletin Board visits by modifying your “Account” and “Profile.” (Use the “Account” button at the top).
The next time you revisit the Bulletin Board you should automatically be logged in unless you’ve cleared all your cookies in which case you’ll probably need to login again. You did write down or memorize your username and password, didn’t you?
Registering doesn’t cost anything. The information you provide to register is as limited as you wish and, in any case, is not shared with anyone.
That’s it. Please visit the Bulletin Board regularly, participate, and enjoy.
Go to the RMVR Bulletin Board
Go straight to the Classified Ads
