Q&A’s with the 2009 RallyCross National Champions and Runners-Up
By Lucas Laeser
RallyCross is all about our love for driving fast and furious in the dirt. Generally speaking most of us will say that win or lose we’re just happy to be out there RallyCrossin’ in whatever weather conditions, course surface or vehicle that’s available. But, ultimately racing is about winning (and losing too) thus the competitive nature comes out in all of us. To quote Dominic Toretto’s line from 2001’s The Fast and the Furious, “Ask any racer, any real racer. It doesn't matter if you win by an inch or a mile; winning's winning.” Although this line is a bit cheesy, and slightly out of context, the desire to clock the quickest time is what “drives” us to be smoother, faster, pushes us to burn off our friends and competitors and compels us to drive thousands of miles.
Win by a mile, lose by 0.01 seconds over a weekends worth of stages… whatever the outcome, from my seat a real racer has passion for our sport, a positive attitude and a good sense of humor. On that note let’s begin our quest for enlightenment and learn what it takes to be one of SCCA’s RallyCross National Champions.
Colorado’s event goes down in the books as one of the most successful, on schedule, smoothest running RallyXs ever and was run in entirety without any major car flipping ruts. Colorado drivers claimed the first spot in 6 of 8 classes out of the sixty-nine competitor field during the weekend’s brutal wintry conditions. So it comes as no surprise that 2010’s Championship will also be held there on August 20-22.
Why did the Coloradoans dominate so heavily at their event? Home field advantage, altitude, weather, good program? It could be any number of factors but one thing is clear: Colorado’s RallyCross program consistently has more top drivers than any other region and if you’ve got a driver from that region in your class you’d better bring your A-game.
Below are the complete interviews with the best of the best, (or should we say best of the west?) from SCCA’s RallyCross National Championship held in Fountain, on October 9–11, 2009. I queried the 1st and 2nd place drivers from each class at Colorado’s National Championship searching for answers about why they love the sport and how to go faster.
28-year-old Chad Ones of Pueblo, CO, is the 2009 M2 Champion. He drives a 1985 Isuzu I-Mark RS and has been RallyCrossing for 8 years.
Name: Chad Ones
Age: 28
Where do you live and what is your SCCA region?
Pueblo, CO; Colorado region
How many years RallyCrossing?
8 years
What is your favorite car class to drive and why (if that's not the class you won this year please explain)?
M2 baby! The drivers are all very good and really push each other to do more to improve their driving skill.
What is the best car for that class and why?
I don't think you can put your finger on one car in particular that would be the best in the class. I am a fan of small, light weight cars with a big engine, although if I could ever find an Oldsmobile Toronado...
Why RallyX and not solo, stage rally, hill climb ... (if you also participate in other car related motorsports please elaborate)?
RallyX I feel is a little more relaxed than other forms of racing and you can't beat the seat time. Solo is great, and I intend to take my car out this year and try it, but seat time is a little soft. Stage rally and hill climb look fun, but I'm too cheap to put down the entry fee.
Do you follow the WRC, Rally America, NASA RallySport and other rally series?
I really enjoyed following WRC until my cable company cut that channel from my line up.
What skill(s) helped you beat out your competition this year (if you're a runner-up, why'd you lose)?
I don't know if you would call it a skill or not, but I have this terrible rattle under the driver side floorboard that really drives me crazy. The only way to keep the rattle quiet is to have the gas or the brake pedal on the floor at all times. :)
What's your driving style?
Smooth and carry your speed.
Any advice for beginners?
Learn to left foot brake
Any pre-race rituals?
There isn't enough room to talk about all my pre-race rituals. I have a little OCD before each race. From the proper way to strap in to the proper rev of the engine, take a drink of water rolling up to the line, blow on my hands, clean the steering wheel off, wipe my hands off, hold the parking brake from the top and not wrapped around the handle, rev again, check numbers, start countdown, at 3, set rpm to launch RPM, flag lifts and I can finally get back to being a normal human being. I'm crazy.
Favorite drink during an event?
During the event I drink lots of water. After the event nothing quenches your thirst like a cold PBR.
What SCCA region puts on the best RallyX events and why?
Every region I have been to has put on a great event and I would go back to all of them. I am biased, but I have to say the Colorado/Rocky Mountain events are ran well with minimal downtime between runs, a good lunch break, and results ready before the drive home.
Who is the best SCCA RallyX driver you know and why?
I can't possibly answer this. If you could be more specific like, who is the best M4 driver in a 2003 Subaru WRX, or who is the best RPR driver in an 83 Toyota MR2 I could have an opinion but selecting one driver is too hard. Everybody I see drive has a slightly different style and I wish I could take some pointers from everybody.
Do you think you'll have a target on your back at National events in 2010?
No. See point above about PBR after the events... I try to make friends.
Typically, do you prefer longer or shorter courses?
Tight and technical or more open? I love them all. Too open and non-technical drives me crazy, but also consummate S's into a sweeper followed by more consummate S's is no fun either. I like when course designers mix everything up with tight, slow, technical parts followed by open flowing parts. Longer courses are always better!
What would you change about anything in the SCCA RallyX program and why (or, if it's good as is, please explain)?
Right now I really think everyone involved is going a great job. As long as RallyX does not turn into a 30 class and every car model with a different modification gets its own class, I am a happy camper.
Finish this sentence:
The best RallyCrosser is ... someone who spends more time looking at him or herself to improve rather than modifying the car. The car is only a speed tool and you are the operator making it do what you want it to.
Thanks for the time,
Chad
WRX ripper Chris O’Driscoll, 36, of Leadville, CO, took first in M4 (the largest class at 2009’s Nationals) and has only been RallyCrossing for two years.
Name: Chris O’Driscoll
Age: 36
Where do you live and what is your SCCA region?
Leadville, Colorado, I think its region 8
How many years RallyCrossing?
2 years RallyXing
What is your favorite car class to drive and why (if that's not the class you won this year please explain)?
M4, the all wheel just loves the dirt.
What is the best car for that class and why? Anything light and fast.
Why RallyX and not solo, stage rally, hill climb ... (if you also participate in other car related motorsports please elaborate)?
Rally of any kind rules but I do solo but it hard unless you set up for street and this year I will be doing stage rally as much time as I can get sideways as possible.
Do you follow the WRC, Rally America, NASA RallySport and other rally series?
I've been into rally for a long time. I watch it all but there's nothing like the WRC series, except maybe the IRC, that’s the dream. I go to the Mexico WRC every year.
What skill(s) helped you beat out your competition this year (if you're a runner-up, why'd you lose)?
Time behind the wheel and relax.
What's your driving style?
Smooth as possible whenever I can.
Any advice for beginners?
Just go do it whatever racing you like and try not to smile the entire time your shredding.
Any pre-race rituals?
No, just remember to breath.
Favorite drink during an event?
Monster
What SCCA region puts on the best RallyX events and why? RockyMR because courses are technical and don't break down like some other rallyx's.
Who is the best SCCA RallyX driver you know and why?
Me (haha)… Ken Cashion can get after it and Warren Elliot too.
Do you think you'll have a target on your back at National events in 2010?
I have a target yes because I hope to be going fast all year long.
Typically, do you prefer longer or shorter courses? Tight and technical or more open?
I like all course stills but my favorite would be long and technical.
What would you change about anything in the SCCA RallyX program and why (or, if it's good as is, please explain)?
I would request all regions are on the same page with rules and how the event is run
The best RallyCrosser … has to be Marcus Gronholm. He's won Finland’s (European) RallyCross championships and he's one of the best rally drivers in the world.
Robert “Scott” Johnson, age 58, of Warsaw, OH, took the win in SA for the second year in a row driving his canary yellow Mitsubishi EVO VIII.
Name: Scott Johnson
Age: 58
Where do you live and what is your SCCA region?
Warsaw, OHio — Ohio Valley Region
How many years RallyCrossing?
2 1/2
What is your favorite car class to drive and why (if that's not the class you won this year please explain)?
Stock All wheel drive. Lower expense (no modifications). Better reliability (no modifications). Can remain a daily driver. Can still use it for open track days and Solo II.
What is the best car for that class and why?
Mitsubishi Evolution of course :-) Good horsepower, steering and seat, excelent handling, reliable, takes a licking and keeps on ticking.
Why RallyX and not solo, stage rally, hill climb ... (if you also participate in other car related motorsports please elaborate)?
I still Solo and do open track days occasionally. I just haven't taken the time to try stage rally or hill climbs (though I would like to). I fell in love with rally X because I can drive with the tail out and drift it though corners adding another dimension of car control to my répertoire.
Do you follow the WRC, Rally America, NASA RallySport and other rally series?
Occasionally
What skill(s) helped you beat out your competition this year (if you're a runner-up, why'd you lose)?
It seems like dumb luck that allowed me to win this year. I think overall consistency helped. Though I felt I was getting slower the longer the course got and my competition got faster, somehow I eked out a win.
What's your driving style?
On open fast courses, Tail out drifting. On tight technical courses more controlled precision driving.
Any advice for beginners?
Have fun. Get the best tires allowed in your class. Lots of seat time. Don't be afraid to try different driving techniques to see what suite you and your car best.
Any pre-race rituals?
Not really. I just try to quiet my mind and to correct any trouble spot from previous runs
Favorite drink during an event?
Mountain Dew
What SCCA region puts on the best RallyX events and why?
Hard to say. Each region has it's own personality and idiosyncrasies but puts on a good event.
Who is the best SCCA RallyX driver you know and why?
I hate picking a "best" driver. There are to many to pick just one.
Do you think you'll have a target on your back at National events in 2010? Yes.
Typically, do you prefer longer or shorter courses? Tight and technical or more open?
I prefer a course that is about 90 to 120 seconds in duration, fast and open with a few tight areas to break it up.
What would you change about anything in the SCCA RallyX program and why (or, if it's good as is, please explain)? Overall I am satisfied with things as they are, though I think the National Championship event should be at different venues each year, though we could revisit a region after a few years.
Finish this sentence:
The best RallyCrosser is ... able to adjust to change course conditions, course layout and other variable as they arise.
Mark Atterbury, 43, of Lincoln NE has been RallyCrossing for two years and captured the win in the PR class driving his Alfa Romeo GTV 6.
Name: Mark Atterbury
Age: 43
“Thanks for asking for a response. Given that RallyX is the fastest growing aspect of SCCA (so I hear all the time) it is good to know that there will be additional focus on it in Sports Car. I realize that competitors put a lot of effort (and money) into the on track events, and SCCA needs to continue to support them. However, there are a lot of people who will never be able to make that commitment. Rally cross (and Solo) allows us to participate.”
Where do you live and what is your SCCA region? Lincoln Nebraska – Nebraska Region.
How many years RallyCrossing? 2
What is your favorite car class to drive and why (if that's not the class you won this year please explain)?
I have only driven rear wheel in competition. I highly prefer the rear wheel drive dynamics over front wheel drive, and I cannot afford a 4 wheel drive car. I really like the PR rules because they align so well with my car as is. My car is an “all arounder”. I Rally X, Solo and drive it daily.
The rear wheel drive classes have a more varied car types than any other. I love the odd machinery!
What is the best car for that class and why? Well it looks like the first generation MR2 is a pretty good choice based on PR and SR performance at the Nationals. I think anything that is tough and light. An early Toyota Starlet comes to mind.
Really, the best car for any class is an expendable car. I go to an event knowing that I need to drive my car home. I can’t push it so hard that I break it. That is part of the fun for me – finding that balance – but it means that I may not push as hard as someone with a trailer.
Why RallyX and not solo, stage rally, hill climb ... (if you also participate in other car related motorsports please elaborate)?
Cost and commitment. SCCA competition is only a part of my life. Even my “automotive life” has other facets: restoration, car shows, normal maintenance. Rally X allows me to run an event in a car I drive every day, with little preparation (seat and tires). My annual budget including dues and event registration is under $200, not counting the Nationals. Nationals only cost $500 total.
The other draw for Rally X is the low key atmosphere. Yeah, it is fun to win, but it is not such a prime focus that you miss enjoying the rest of the event. My personal goals are in this order:
- Don’t break the car
- Improve my time each run
- Enjoy the car’s dynamics – especially the rhythm of combination corners
This is very similar to Solo. However with the National Championship site now here in Lincoln, some of the relaxed atmosphere is diminished – necessarily so.
Finally – I am a big fan of the “gentlemen racers” of the late 50s. These guys raced for the love of it. They also often drove their cars to the event. I view Rally X (and most Solo events) as this sort of environment. It will eventually grow beyond this, but right now is the perfect time.
Do you follow the WRC, Rally America, NASA RallySport and other rally series? No – I used to follow WRC when Speed carried it.
What skill(s) helped you beat out your competition this year (if you're a runner-up, why'd you lose)?
The biggest factor in my second place finish at the Nationals was the course surface. It was great that ruts were not a concern. However, it forced you to stay on the line, or else! This was very different from the surface that I am used to in Nebraska where you can choose alternate lines without much penalty. Learning the surface quickly is critical.
What's your driving style?
Too much opposite lock! Have fun, but don’t break the car.
Any advice for beginners?
Get out and try it. Yes it is a bit harder on the car than Solo, but it is not harder on a car than driving it through the winter.
Any pre-race rituals?
Usually a full tilt rush to get from church to the event site. Once I am in the car and on the line:
* Calming breaths
* Run through the course in my head
* Think – smooth – smooth – smooth
Favorite drink during an event?
Gatorade or other sports drink. Need to stay hydrated.
What SCCA region puts on the best RallyX events and why?
The CO region seems to have it together pretty well. There seem to be a lot of varied events out there. Nebraska only has one site right now.
Who is the best SCCA RallyX driver you know and why?
Jan Gerber – fast and smooth. He is that way at Solo events too.
Do you think you'll have a target on your back at National events in 2010?
Very doubtful! However, I am looking forward to the regional season.
Typically, do you prefer longer or shorter courses? Tight and technical or more open?
I like courses with good rhythm. The longer ones at Nationals are fun, but the short ones are fine too. I like a course where you can experiment with the lines, try different entries, apexes that sort of thing.
What would you change about anything in the SCCA RallyX program and why (or, if it's good as is, please explain)?
The biggest challenge will be finding and retaining venues.
There has been a lot of talk about cumulative points towards a national championship. I don’t like this proposal. The national championship should contain special, long courses and extended racing, night “stages” etc to make it a really special event, but Rally X should be kept a grass roots sport. Towing cars all over the country to gain the championship will put it outside of the level of commitment many of us can afford. The solo model works well.
It would be fun to try a part tarmac / part dirt course.
Not really a Rally X comment, but: I would really like to try a Solo event with cumulative time scoring. Kind of like an “endurance Solo”.
Finish this sentence:
The best RallyCrosser is ... The one who participates.
Ken “Mr. Modular” Cashion, age 40, of Denver Colorado has RallyCrossed all over the country for 10 years, raced most classes and put on many RallyX events such as the Nationals at Fountain in 2009. He drove his Mitsubishi EVO IX to a second place finish.
Name: Ken Cashion
Age: 40
Where do you live and what is your SCCA region?
Denver - CO Region
How many years RallyCrossing?
Beginning my 10th.
What is your favorite car class to drive and why (if that's not the class you won this year please explain)? M4. No holds barred, no excuses. Always the fastest.
What is the best car for that class and why?
Evo IX. Superior handling. Superior power. Better gearing.
Why RallyX and not solo, stage rally, hill climb ... (if you also participate in other car related motorsports please elaborate)?
A good rallycross car can still be a good year-round street car. Rallycross is about seat-of-the-pants navigation, ability to adapt and consistency. Rallycross is a motorsport that can be done at a high level within a reasonable amount of time and money. I've done rally. It is too expensive for the average person, especially considering the travel and crew aspect. Hillclimb is similar, but the travel is less. Solo is to narrowly focused, particularly the SCCA variety. Too much about getting the right car for a class, which is likely to happen in RX as well.
Do you follow the WRC, Rally America, NASA RallySport and other rally series?
No.
What skill(s) helped you beat out your competition this year (if you're a runner-up, why'd you lose)?
Experience. (Runner up as a result of conservative driving and organizational duties)
What's your driving style?
Adaptive.
Any advice for beginners?
Drive the shortest line. Find traction. Keep the car pointed forward.
Any pre-race rituals?
Cat herding.
Favorite drink during an event?
Coke.
What SCCA region puts on the best RallyX events and why?
Utah during the Sealander years. Masters of the cross-over and the night event. Plenty of post-race ruckus.
Who is the best SCCA RallyX driver you know and why?
Chad Ones. Precise. Methodical. Consistent. Wins with an Isuzu. Very dignified on a mini-bike.
Do you think you'll have a target on your back at National events in 2010?
Always do.
Typically, do you prefer longer or shorter courses?
Tight and technical or more open?
Needs to be a balance. Too short doesn't seem like a race. Too long tends to be hard to memorize and leads to driver and vehicle fatigue. Multiple "laps" of a course can give the long experience and allow drivers to experiment from one lap to the next. Too tight is annoying and drives away business. Too open becomes a game of nerves and can be on the edge of safety. All depends on surface quality and lot size.
What would you change about anything in the SCCA RallyX program and why (or, if it's good as is, please explain)?
Need a points based championship. Need more flexibility from RXB and BOD concerning rules development and changes. The existing timetables don't relate to the competition seeason and tend to discourage member input. The regional programs need to take a bigger picture approach to the sport and compromise local traditions for the greater good. Regional programs need to promote SCCA.
Finish this sentence:
The best RallyCrosser is me. No, seriously...well yes, actually, but I digress. The best RallyCrosser is someone that can adapt to changing conditions, help his fellow competitor and keep coming back for more.
25-year-old Cole Ones lives in Arvada, CO and has been RallyCrossing for 7 years. He took second pace in 2009.
Name: Cole Ones
Age: 25
Where do you live and what is your SCCA region? Arvada, CO, Rocky Mountain Region
How many years RallyCrossing? 6 or 7
What is your favorite car class to drive and why (if that's not the class you won this year please explain)?
I've only raced M2 in the current format, but used to race G2 and G5. M2 is fun because it's always a competitive class.
What is the best car for that class and why?
1985 Isuzu I-Mark SFRC. 3 National Titles, 1 Runner-up. Enough said :)
Why RallyX and not solo, stage rally, hill climb ... (if you also participate in other car related motorsports please elaborate)?
For solo, everybody knows asphalt is for driving and dirt is for racing. As for the others, this is more local, more events, cheaper to run.
Do you follow the WRC, Rally America, NASA RallySport and other rally series?
WRC
What skill(s) helped you beat out your competition this year (if you're a runner-up, why'd you lose)?
My brother both helped my skill and was why I took 2nd. I'm still sticking to my story that I let him win, he might have a different outlook on it though.
What's your driving style?
I don't really know. Each course you tend to do something different. I usually try to drive in deep, brake hard, set up for the next corner coming out, accelerate early.
Any advice for beginners?
Stick with it. You can't expect to win races from the beginning. Watch the other drivers who win all the time and see what they do. And, if you can, get rides with lots of people so you can find out what works better for each type of course.
Any pre-race rituals?
Lots of coffee, try to get in my brother's head, roll-up the pants, and doughnuts
Favorite drink during an event?
Before - coffee. During - Water. After - any cool malty beverage, but PBR is lucky
What SCCA region puts on the best RallyX events and why?
Colorado puts on the best. Many different types of surfaces (that hold their integrity) that tend to be long and technical.
Who is the best SCCA RallyX driver you know and why?
Chad Ones. You know they call him "Iceman" because he's tough to beat and the pressure rarely gets to him. He can get in any car and beat the pants off whoever owns it.
Do you think you'll have a target on your back at National events in 2010?
I hope so. I like people gunning for me. It makes it more fun for everybody if there is good competition. It makes you refine your skills to stay at the top.
Typically, do you prefer longer or shorter courses? Tight and technical or more open?
More seat time is always more fun, so longer ones are good. And anybody can design and drive a left, right, left, sweeping right, left, right, left course. The fun of driving rally cross comes when the course is extremely tight and technical. I'm not saying speed isn't fun, because it, but I think RallyX should be about how well you can handle your car, and you can't do that if the course is flat-out all the time.
What would you change about anything in the SCCA RallyX program and why (or, if it's good as is, please explain)?
I think it's good where it's at. Changes never seem to hurt, but for what the program is now, I think it's excellent.
Finish this sentence:
The best RallyCrosser is ... Chad Ones. I'm offering a challenge out on his behalf.........I hope he doesn't mind.
Ryan Gates, Age 28, of Denver, Colorado took the second spot in the PA class driving a Subaru WRX after only one year of RallyCrossing.
Name: Ryan Gates
Age: 28
Where do you live and what is your SCCA region? Denver, Colorado — Rocky Mountain Region
How many years RallyCrossing?
1
What is your favorite car class to drive and why (if that's not the class you won this year please explain)? RPA, well I haven't drove in any other class but our class has some close competition and is always exciting!
What is the best car for that class and why?
Subaru! I drive one and they are just awesome in the dirt and very reliable!
Why RallyX and not solo, stage rally, hill climb ... (if you also participate in other car related motorsports please elaborate)?
I have been wanting to race in something ever since I know what a car was. The problem was I didn't have the money to do so until a couple yes ago. I have loved rally since the first time I saw it on TV. When I got my Subaru I told my self whether I have money or not I need to race! So as an entry level series I started CO Rally X and hopefully in a few years I can move up to hill climbs or the USRC, and move up from there, I definitely have goals!
Do you follow the WRC, Rally America, NASA RallySport and other rally series?
All of them!
What skill(s) helped you beat out your competition this year (if you're a runner-up, why'd you lose)?
I was runner up in RPA, #19 Subaru WRX Wagon, I think I couldn't take the win because of experience, 2009 was my first season and I don't think I have learned how hard I can really push my car and myself in the dirt.
What's your driving style?
Well I love to be sideways and sliding all over the place, BUT, I know that's not the fast way through a track! So I try to drive fast, smooth, keep it tight. I only slide the car in places I think it may help...
Any advice for beginners?
Keep it smooth and tight!
Any pre-race rituals?
Not really, I do take a couple deep breaths and try and loosen up cause I get nervous... But mainly just get focused on the cones.
Favorite drink during an event?
Gatorade...
What SCCA region puts on the best RallyX events and why?
CO! Know I've only raced in CO, but Ken Cashion and all involved in CO Rally X do an awesome job planning and keeping things running smooth with over 40 cars an event! Hats off to CO Rally X!
Who is the best SCCA RallyX driver you know and why?
That's a toss up between a couple drivers.... I couldn't say...
Do you think you'll have a target on your back at National events in 2010?
Maybe, I was runner up bit I know I drove pretty fast and my usual competition in my class would have liked to finish above me....
Typically, do you prefer longer or shorter courses?
Tight and technical or more open? I like courses with it all, after all rally usually has everything and everything in a stage.
What would you change about anything in the SCCA RallyX program and why (or, if it's good as is, please explain)? Maybe some jumps in the future.... No, SCCA and CO Rally X do a great job with everything! It would be cool to have a surface change though...gravel to Tarmac .....? ;)
Finish this sentence:
The best RallyCrosser is ... Me of course! No that's a tough one! Maybe in a couple years... There are so many great drivers, I couldn't pick just one
Mike Byington, Age 56, of Spanish Lake (St. Louis), Missouri, was victorious for the second time in the Rally Stock Rear class driving his 1982 Mazda RX-7.
Name: Mike Byington
Age: 56 (by the time you would use it.)
Where do you live and what is your SCCA region?
Spanish Lake, Missouri (suburb of St. Louis) St. Louis & Southern Illinois Regions
How many years RallyCrossing?
~5 or 6~maybe 7?
What is your favorite car class to drive and why (if that's not the class you won this year please explain)?
Stock Rear, so far. Well one, I've been racing RWD rotaries for almost 35 years; don't see a need to change now. Except to an AWD rotary maybe ;) I also enjoy running in the "slowest" class so I can compete with everyone at the event. There IS a progression planned to Prepared and eventually to Modified, but no timetable, and I fully expect to stay in Stock for the foreseeable future.
What is the best car for that class and why?
Good question and I have no idea, however if the Mazda contingency money is real I'd give 2 nods to the RX-7. There are a ton of models that have never shown up so there must be many better cars. Given the altitude of last and this year’s National Championship site, I would have to think something with a turbo would suffer less.
Why RallyX and not solo, stage rally, hill climb ... (if you also participate in other car related motorsports please elaborate)?
There is NEVER an "instead of" for me. I would and do compete in everything I can afford to. I began Solo in 1977 having began a limited careers in Circle Track the year before. In 1982 I added RoadRally for competition (and everything else) and Stage Rally for working. In 1985 I added working corners and RallyCross about 7-8 years ago. I won't bore you with the details of everything here :)
Do you follow the WRC, Rally America, NASA RallySport and other rally series?
Nope. Don't have enough time to do the stuff I need to DO, much less watch some else doing it.
What skill(s) helped you beat out your competition this year (if you're a runner-up, why'd you lose)?
This year I would have to say adaptability.
What's your driving style?
Controlled Fury?
Any advice for beginners?
Have FUN!
Any pre-race rituals?
I've been thinking of starting some.
Favorite drink during an event?
Chocolate milk, Blue PowerAde
What SCCA region puts on the best RallyX events and why? Well so far St. Louis has the smoothest courses, and of course its proximity gives it a vote. Hats off to Colorado for their running of the Nationals though.
Who is the best SCCA RallyX driver you know and why?
Me, and I intend to spend every last dollar proving it! Sponsors sought.
Do you think you'll have a target on your back at National events in 2010?
Most likely. I believe mechanical issues befuddled some of my competition last year so they may want revenge. I know I'm going to have to step up my game regardless.
Typically, do you prefer longer or shorter courses? Tight and technical or more open?
As a driver I will run whatever you put in front of me. I think I have more fun on the open runs, and don't like to see courses of excessive length.
What would you change about anything in the SCCA RallyX program and why (or, if it's good as is, please explain)?
The philosophy that RallyCross has to be "pure and separate" from the rest of SCCA. I believe it would be in everyone's best interest to mimic the Solo "Stock" rule-set in "Stock" RallyCross. I think the superficial "limits" on tires is overly regulatory. And I think the "count every run" scoring system is unwise and unfriendly. As someone who is involved in virtually every aspect of SCCA, I hate to see the attitude of some folks that think sharing some traits with our sister activities is somehow bad.
Finish this sentence:
The best RallyCrosser is going to be in Fountain Colorado in August.
31-year old Jason Miller of Lone Tree, Colorado took the second spot in the SA class driving a 2005 Subaru Legacy GT.
Name: Jason Miller
Age: 31
Where do you live and what is your SCCA region?
I live in the Denver metro area. My SCCA region is Rocky Mountain.
How many years RallyCrossing?
This was my first season RallyCrossing. I did one race the previous season in a M2 car.
What is your favorite car class to drive and why (if that's not the class you won this year please explain)?
I have only driven in two classes so far and Stock All Wheel Drive was my favorite. I did one race in a Modified Two Wheel Drive car and found that I prefer the All Wheel Drive cars.
What is the best car for that class and why?
I really don’t think there is one car that is far better than the others.
Why RallyX and not solo, stage rally, hill climb ... (if you also participate in other car related motorsports please elaborate)?
I have always wanted to rally but it always seemed to be a huge investment (time and money) for stage rally. I was excited when I heard about the RallyCross series and the stock classes. I have been solo racing for many years now and I still enjoy it.
Do you follow the WRC, Rally America, NASA RallySport and other rally series?
I follow the WRC and Rally America racing. I really like having WRC coverage back on TV and really wish there was more coverage of the Rally America events.
What skill(s) helped you beat out your competition this year (if you're a runner-up, why'd you lose)?
I think my years autocrossing have helped my to read the course and know the places where you could lose or gain a lot of time. I did have cone problems most of the season and at the national championship, which really hurt my times.
What's your driving style?
I try to be very smooth and fast but I can be too aggressive sometimes.
Any advice for beginners?
Have a lot of fun, don’t get frustrated if your times are not where you want, and ride with people who are putting in the times you want and pay attention to their driving.
Any pre-race rituals?
Not really.
Favorite drink during an event?
I like to start my race mornings off with a Monster energy drink.
What SCCA region puts on the best RallyX events and why?
I have only raced in Colorado and the events here have been great!
Who is the best SCCA RallyX driver you know and why?
There are a few guys in Colorado who are always good to watch because they are fast and smooth and always putting in some great times.
Do you think you'll have a target on your back at National events in 2010?
I don’t think I will, but I guess its possible.
Typically, do you prefer longer or shorter courses? Tight and technical or more open?
I prefer the longer courses which are fast and flowing.
What would you change about anything in the SCCA RallyX program and why (or, if it's good as is, please explain)?
The only thing I might change would be to add a few more classes. There is a large group of cars which are very good cars but not very competitive due to the current classes. For example in Stock All Wheel Drive, a stock non-turbo Subaru Impreza is put up against a stock Impreza STI.
Ryan Haenny, Age 32, of Lakewood (Denver), Colorado rocked second place in the Rally Prepared Front class driving a 1989 Chevrolet Beretta.
Name: Ryan Haenny
Age: 32
Where do you live and what is your SCCA region?
Lakewood, Colorado. With the Colorado Region SCCA.
How many years RallyCrossing? 5
What is your favorite car class to drive and why (if that's not the class you won this year please explain)?
I like Rally Prepared Front. One, it is the class my car fits into, which is nice. Two, I feel that there is a different level of driving skill that comes with competing in a front wheel drive car. Most of the rally scene is dominated by rear wheel and all wheel drive cars. I feel that the pull of the front tires coupled with the lock of the handbrake can prove a deadly combination.
What is the best car for that class and why?
I must say I hate questions as such. Is there a definitive answer as to which car is the BEST? I don’t believe so. But I can tell you that I have seen a fellow competitor own a few courses in his Ford Escort. I think a smaller car with a tiny wheelbase may be your best bet for RPF.
Why RallyX and not solo, stage rally, hill climb ... (if you also participate in other car related motorsports please elaborate)?
Well, I used to be a Solo competitor and my main complaint would be that you only get 3, maybe 4 runs in a single event... and that event can last for 7 hours or more! The draw of the dirt just kept calling me and now I run full time with the Rally organization. I am not involved with stage rally or hill climbs due to the cost involved. RallyX allows people operating on al sorts of different budgets the ability to show up and run.
Do you follow the WRC, Rally America, NASA RallySport and other rally series?
No... Mainly because I don’t have the time to do so, and I don’t get that channel!
What skill(s) helped you beat out your competition this year (if you're a runner-up, why'd you lose)?
Why did I lose? I hit cones, plain and simple. Well, that and the winner's driving skill level was impeccable. One of the biggest fault would be that I did not know I was hitting these cones. Hell, I think I hit the same one two or three times... but since I did not hear myself hit it, I was not aware I was hitting them. I would have tightened up my line or been more aware had I known I had hit a few...
What's your driving style?
Driving the front wheel drive car, I like to come in hot and push the limits of my traction until the back end breaks loose. I feel very comfortable in a sideways drift. I do, however, know that I could benefit from more fluid pedal control as well as not turning the wheel so far in corners.
Any advice for beginners?
Take, it, easy. This isn't an all out war, you versus the dirt. It is imperative to learn what your car is capable of in order to not only succeed, but to have fun at a RallyX event. And many times the only way you will learn what your car can and can’t do, is to push it to far. However, I recommend gradual steps up either throughout the day or over the course of a few events to really get a good feel for the numerous aspects of driving on dirt in a competition scenario.
Any pre-race rituals?
Nope. Just point me to the start line and wave the flag.
Favorite drink during an event?
Vitamin Water.
What SCCA region puts on the best RallyX events and why?
Colorado Rally Cross. I may be biased as I run in this organization, and I have not been to any other region's events... but it is not hard to see the quality work that the Colorado Region Rally Cross Organization does. Our events are well run, safe, innovative and fun. We constantly try to push the envelope with new ideas for the organization based solely on bringing more return on investment to the competitors.
Who is the best SCCA RallyX driver you know and why?
Ken Cashion. I have seen this man drive many a car at our local events and it is apparent that his skill behind the wheel is easily carried from car to car. He is adaptable, flexible and has the knowledge to take any course and make it his own.
Do you think you'll have a target on your back at National events in 2010?
Um... I don’t think so as I am just a local kid with a knack for whipping a Beretta around on the dirt.
Typically, do you prefer longer or shorter courses? Tight and technical or more open?
Longer courses offer more seat time, and who doesn’t want more seat time? However, a shorter course offers up the chance to be more technical and precise with your driving. Whereas an open course gives you the chance to let it hang out a bit... Aw shucks, just give me a course and I'll compete on it.
What would you change about anything in the SCCA RallyX program and why (or, if it's good as is, please explain)?
I enjoy the fact that any average Joe can get into this sport with little to no initial investment. From there it’s all just how far do you want to go?
Finish this sentence:
The best RallyCrosser is ... adaptive. Not afraid to try new techniques regardless of what is working for others.
Bret Hunter, Age 42, of Denver, Colorado took the first spot in the Rally Prepared Front class driving a silver 1988 Honda CRX Si.
Name: Bret Hunter
Age: 42
Where do you live and what is your SCCA region? Colorado
How many years RallyCrossing? 1
What is your favorite car class to drive and why (if that's not the class you won this year please explain)?
FWD. I drove mostly modified this year because my car did not have an interior. Other than that my car is pretty mush prepared class. At the nationals I put the interior back in and dropped back to prep class to be a little more competitive. I don't think either are a favorite because they are equally fun.
What is the best car for that class and why?
I think a mini with smaller wheels would rock in prep class. Those guys don't seem to want to get dirty.
Why RallyX and not solo, stage rally, hill climb ... (if you also participate in other car related motorsports please elaborate)?
I had to keep in a budget. I had around $1500 in the car and upgrades. I don't think I could have even raced for that in other disciplines. I also like sliding around a lot and doing donuts.
Do you follow the WRC, Rally America, NASA RallySport and other rally series?
I casually watch them when I get a chance. I am more of a doer than a watcher. I really enjoyed seeing Rally Colorado in Steamboat live.
What skill(s) helped you beat out your competition this year (if you're a runner-up, why'd you lose)?
I went to Nationals really expecting not to be on the podium. I love RallyCross. Its so much fun. You get to do all the things you would get tickets for in real life. Being a first year racer I have much to learn. Every time I race I get faster. I know that I need to left foot brake, double clutch, shift the weight of the car, and e-brake slide. I'm only proficient at one of these. It’s a secret. My total lifetime seat time is less than 4 hours so I expect to get a lot faster next year. I've raced bicycles my whole life so I think that really helped me with finding the lines for cornering.
What's your driving style? My son does ride-alongs with most of the drivers throughout the year. He says I slide around A LOT more than anyone else. I know it’s usually slower but it’s really fun. My friend Bryan who got me into racing and I share a car with calls it Gorilla Driving! He came up with that after I flipped his car, an identical CRX, the week before nationals.
Any advice for beginners?
Have fun. Don't worry about your mistakes because they are in the past. Learn from them but don't let them slow you down. Go fast and learn the limits of your car. You can always slow down next run. Have fun.
Any pre-race rituals?
I take a poo so I'm lighter. ;)
Favorite drink during an event?
Water and sometimes Red Bull.
What SCCA region puts on the best RallyX events and why?
I'm only familiar with Colorado and glad I'm here because I hear it’s the best.
Who is the best SCCA RallyX driver you know and why?
Tim Hardy. He beats most of the modified cars with his stock escort. Thanks for all the pointers Tim.
Do you think you'll have a target on your back at National events in 2010?
Probably, I kind of snuck up on them this year.
Typically, do you prefer longer or shorter courses? Tight and technical or more open? A combination of both like this years long coarse. I was really lucky they made that. It was perfect for me.
What would you change about anything in the SCCA RallyX program and why (or, if it's good as is, please explain)? No change.
Finish this sentence:
The best RallyCrosser is ... somebody that has fun and plays well with others. Whiners suck.
At Age 23-years-old Max Johnson, of Ft. Collins, Colorado is the youngest person to win a RallyX Championship. After 6 years driving a variety of Subarus Max took the win in the PA class driving a borrowed 2009 Subaru WRX hatchback.
Name: Max Johnson
Age: 23
Where do you live and what is your SCCA region?
I live in Fort Collins Colorado where I am a civil engineering student at Colorado State University and I am in the Rocky Mountain Region.
How many years RallyCrossing?
I did a couple of events in 2004 in my 93 Turbo legacy, a couple more in 2005. In 2006 I bought a 94 Impreza 1.8L with the intent to race the whole 2007 season. In 2007 I won the Prepared All Wheel drive class for the region and got 3rd in class at the National Challenge. 2008 I was more focused on school than I was on racing. In 2008 I bought a 95 Impreza 2 door rally car (the running joke is that it is a 22b) and didn’t race the whole season but got 2nd at nationals, 2nd western championship and 1st in the Regional event. In 2009 again I could not compete in all the events as I was in school. I ended up driving my co-driver Shawn Watson’s 09 WRX for a couple of events to prepare for nationals as the power gap that my 95 2.5L Impreza had with the other cars was too great to try to compete at the M4 level.
What is your favorite car class to drive and why (if that's not the class you won this year please explain)?
Mod 4 is my favorite car class to compete in as the competition in our region in that class is huge. I originally moved out of PA class to have some more competition, as PA was pretty empty at that time.
What is the best car for that class and why?
Well I have to say the Subaru GC8 (93-01) Impreza. It is balanced pretty well, very reliable, and its suspension parts just don’t break in RallyCross. I have stuffed the car into ruts putting it on two wheels and not hurt anything. I have never broken down on course or on the road for that case. The Impreza was purposely built to replace the Legacy as a WRC car in 93 and posted fastest stage times on its first event in Finland and was even leading for a while. It is tight, light (400-500lbs lighter than the 02 and newer WRX) and parts are readily available. It is no wondering why so many people drive them in rally. The Mitsubishi EVO is a great competitor though. It is a very fast and very precise vehicle. I believe that if Mitsubishi has a standard AWD system across its line-up since the early 90s like Subaru, it would be just a common in RallyCross.
Why RallyX and not solo, stage rally, hill climb ... (if you also participate in other car related motorsports please elaborate)?
I saw my first rallying on TV in 2000 and I have been hooked every since. I plan on doing stage rally and hill climbs and hopefully BAJA in my rally car in the future, and that is why I bought a stage rally car but just don’t have the money to participate in those right now. RallyCross offered me an inexpensive means of honing in my skills. It also gives me an outlet for my competitiveness and driving nature. After I have started RallyCrossing, my street driving is very much subdued. If I didn’t compete in RallyCross I know I would have many more driving tickets. Also, the car control skills I have acquired through RallyCross have probably saved my life. I have been able to avoid some accidents by just having good reactions and knowing the handling limits of my cars in adverse road conditions. One would have been a very serious head on crash when I just happened to be driving my rally car.
Do you follow the WRC, Rally America, NASA RallySport and other rally series?
I follow WRC religiously and download the races once they are available online. I watch the season reviews from the I follow Rally America but not as much as WRC. I don’t follow NASA events too much but am really starting to look at it because they have some of the closest rally events to me now that Rally America has consolidated its rally schedule.
What skill(s) helped you beat out your competition this year (if you're a runner-up, why'd you lose)?
Consistency. I don’t believe I hit a cone during the whole championship. I have had a lot of practice at RallyCross and kept the car as straight as possible.
What's your driving style?
I would say it is pretty precise. I don’t get too sideways around turn unless I have to. You see these people getting total sideways on course sometimes and it might look awesome but their times don’t reflect it. I do get interested in the drivers that are out sideways and start to reel in some good times. They are reaching a good medium between precise and being sideways.
Any advice for beginners?
Start in a low powered car. Get your skills nailed down and then add power. Keep the car as straight as possible starting out. If you are out sideways, do it in a way that you are keeping your front wheels straight. That way you are getting maximum traction and the front and back wheels aren’t fighting each other.
Any pre-race rituals?
I make sure the AC and the radio is off in the WRX, and that it is in first gear.
Favorite drink during an event?
Monster, just kidding, unless they would want to sponsor me, then I would drink whatever they want me to. I have always thought that if I was to start attracting sponsors I would have to get a sponsorship from a coffee company, as that is the only “energy drink” I use. So in short, coffee in the morning, a ton of water during the day, and maybe a slurpee for the drive home if it is hot.
What SCCA region puts on the best RallyX events and why?
I would have to say the Rocky Mountain region because of that near perfect National Championship we just put on that was in part due to the great surface. The Central region puts on a good event too. If you ever have ridden in the Bacardi bus at MPH raceway you know what I mean. I haven’t been to many other regions so I can’t speak for them.
Who is the best SCCA RallyX driver you know and why?
There are a lot of good ones out there so it is hard to say. I know a lot of good ones in Colorado. Erik Genack is Mr. Consistence. Ken Cashion always finds ways to magically pull two seconds out of a run that you didn’t was think possible. Chris O’Driscoll has that Colin McRae style and pulls serious quick times. I have always been scared of the Utahan Carl Sealander at the events we race at together as he is really fast in the great little Mazda 323 GTX. He is a really friendly guy to hang out with. James Rachner from the Northwest is also fast and I would like to see him compete at the National Championship. But there are fast people all around the country that I have never met. I think I am pretty fast too.
Do you think you'll have a target on your back at National events in 2010?
When anyone goes to a race they always want to win, so I'm guessing any previous winner gets a target on their back. Not sure what car I will be racing at the 2010 event. My friend’s 09 WRX or my 95 Impreza or what class. Depends how the new H6 engine in my car does.
Typically, do you prefer longer or shorter courses? Tight and technical or more open?
I really like the tight and technical courses. I also enjoy the open ones. But I LOVE a mix of both in one course. A course that lets you open it up and but will get you in trouble if you don’t slow it down in time for the technical parts, that is my favorite type of course. I believe this type of course tests the overall skill and smartness of the driver.
What would you change about anything in the SCCA RallyX program and why (or, if it's good as is, please explain)?
A topic that comes up often is “Is the National Championship a fair representation of the nation” The answer is no, probably not. As I said before, it is an inexpensive sport, which means a good amount of the competitors may not be able to trek half way across the US to race on a surface you may not be used to. Some people want there to be a National Championship made up of a few different races, kind of like Rally America, but points added up of your best races and the final race being weighted more than the others. I like it how it is personally, optional “National” races around the country with a main “Championship” race at the end. For me it is easier to justify spending the time and money on one big weekend than a bunch of races around the country. I don’t mind driving a long distance for one Championship race a year.
Finish this sentence:
The best RallyCrosser is ... Precise and remembers to fix his/her errors for the next run, and does not whine.
