Wednesday, December 30, 2009

Happy New Year from the RC Insider

I thought I would take a moment and wish my readers and all drivers across the Southern California region a very Happy New Year. I hope 2010 is a very solid and prosperous year for everyone. I have dropped off the map since Thanksgiving and slowed down on the racing because, I have been preparing for my upcoming present that the stork will be delivering around the first week in February. I am giddy it's like a brand new RC car only better...

This past month I have traded in my RC wrenches for a power screwdriver as I put together furniture for the arrival of my new daughter. I can't believe I build stuff thank god for directions in the package. OK, enough of me being like Kathy Lee Gifford and rambling on about my kid. Let's get down to the upcoming new year of racing. I am really looking forward to it.

According to Jimmy and his posts on RCTECH.net the JBRL will have some new changes, also it looks like some new classes regarding skill level will be added. This sounds great! I actually will write an article about this in a month or so. I want to touch base on my News and Notes from last month. I told all of my readers that I was going to write a blog about the new off road track up in Modesto, California. Well over Christmas I went home to visit my parents in Modesto and I stopped by Modesto RC Raceway. Man those guys put together a really cool track. The layout is in, all I can say is that I can't wait to try it out. I owe Justin Avrett an article and he will be in my first installment in Jan 2010 along with The Palm Desert RC Raceway. Things are starting to come together for this track as well.

Since I live in San Diego I am glad the guys over at socal-rc.com welcomed me into their RC Community in 2009. I plan on supporting their races in the new year. I will be a part of their 2010 Short Course Racing Points Series which starts in two weeks. If you have a chance check out their site. They have picked up some pretty big sponsors for this series.... Team Associated and Traxxas just to name a few.

So in ending this years final blog I wanted to take this time to thanks several people for making my 2009 Racing season very rewarding:

Jimmy Babcock
The JBRL Crew that puts on the most professional 1/10 off road series races
Tyler Hicks (My Chief Mechanic)
Ed Garcia - (My Driving Coach)
Socal-rc.com guys
Shawn Parro
Bizbee's No-Tell Motel -(That guy always had the grill ready for barbecuing! All ready for 2010!)
Billy Bruce - Team Epic's Electric Team Manager

A very special thanks to Scott and Judy over at Banzai Motors for all the motor help this past year. Your products were fantastic.

If I left anyone out I apologize. I look forward to seeing all of you this next year... Let's all make it a great racing year.

Below are some links to checkout:

www.modestorcraceway.com

www.socal-rc.com

www.hotrodhobbies.com

www.banzaimotors.com

www.teamepiconline.com

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

News and Notes 11/18/09

This past weekend I had plans for driving on two local tracks here in San Diego. I couldn't make it happen due to the fact I was needed at work and I really needed the OT. Anyways if you go to Socal-rc.com and go to the Pics of 1/8 Downtown Track thread, you can see all the most recent photo's of the new track out in Barona. There were over 50 people in attendance this past Sunday. Way to go guys. I am going to get out there after Thanksgiving. The first official race will kick off sometime after the first of the year. Right now donations are being excepted as they are running practice races and testing out all the bells and whistles. I can't wait to get out to this track.

Since last weekend I have finished a couple of interviews on two new off-road tracks opening up here in California. I hope to have these done in the next couple of days. I think you guys will find these stories interesting and will want to pay these tracks a visit when they are finished. I am referring to Modesto RC Raceway in Northern California, and Palm Desert RC Raceway.


At this time I want to switch gears for a moment, the holidays are quickly approaching and I wanted to take the time to let people know about a few races that they can attend that support local charities in the greater Los Angeles area.


This Saturday is the Turkey Shoot-Out at Hemet Competition Raceway in Hemet, California. They will be accepting canned food donations for a local charity. Racing starts at 9:00am and gates open at 6:00am. It $30 for the first class and $20 for the second. Team Losi will be there from what I understand Adam Drake will have a few Losi products to raffle off during the days events. I will be in attendance for this race. I haven't had a chance to race this track, I am looking forward to it this coming weekend.


On December 12-13 the 11th annual Toys for Tot's race in La Mirada has been moved to Surf City, CA the address is 18100 Goldenwest St. Huntington Beach, CA 92648. The entry fees for this race are $25 plus a $10 toy and each additional entry it $5. I am planning on racing this one as well because the proceeds go to charity and this is just one of they ways, I can help give back this holiday season. I urge as many people as possible to come out for this one....


On the very same weekend the 6th Annual KO PROPO Grand Prix will be held at West Coast RC Raceway in LA Mirada, CA. The entry fees for this race are $50 for the first class and $25 for the second class. This race is going to be exciting because you are going to witness some of the best on-road racers that Southern California has to offer. Rumor has it Paul Lemieux will be in attendance. I hope this race fills up max capacity because Danny S. over at West Coast has been through a lot this year with getting his track open to the public and nothing would please me more than to see this race be a huge success.


Also Danny has mentioned in his RCTECH threads that he is contributing to OCRC's Charity race that same weekend to help support that track as well. What a nice gesture I think. If you go to the KO PROPO race they are also accepting toys that weekend to help out the Toys for Tots Race too.


Now if your not into the on-road thing or racing in a parking lot, but your looking for some competitive off-road action. Well on December 13th the 3rd charity race of that weekend is at OCRC Raceway in Huntington Beach. Robert Black is having a Christmas Charity race to help the local charity "His Nesting Place" the organization helps battered and abused women and children. Robert is asking that you bring unwrapped gifts to the track that day. He will have on hand some of the women and children for the drivers to meet and talk to that day. Some items that are being asked to be brought are Walmart and Target gift cards, robes for kids and moms and G rated movies.


That is a look at some of the holiday charity races taking place in the next few weeks. No matter which race you choose to attend that weekend I guarantee you will have plenty of fun...

Finally some side news about me I recently sent in my drivers resume to Team Epic and was accepted on their 50% team. I am really looking forward to running Epic Motors and Batteries this coming year. During this past JBRL electric series I tried some Epic products and was hooked. I want to thank Billy Bruce for allowing me the opportunity. This can't have come at a better time due to the fact I am expecting my first kid next February. I know I am a better promoter than driver, but I am really looking forward to the 2010 racing season...

Here are some links below:

www.teamepiconline.com

www.socal-rc.com

www.ocrcraceway.com

www.westcoastrcraceway.com

www.DowntownDelrin.com

Stay tuned for my next Blog:

Sunday, November 8, 2009

News and Notes 11/08/09

I wanted to let my readers know for the past couple of weeks I have been sick and out of work with the flu and the last thing on my mind was taking the time to write some blogs about the coolest hobby on the planet!

So I re-surfaced yesterday in San Diego at an un-disclosed backyard track for some fun racing with the Boys at Socal-rc.com. These guys host some of the coolest backyard races I have ever been too. Over the years I have seen a lot of backyard tracks but the ones these guys are driving on are great.

I really like the FREE COOLER OF BEER! That's right they hosted the race with some extra free beer for the racers. Now how often does that happen at the races? It was a great afternoon. I would suggest if you are in the SD area and looking for some RC help, talk to these guys because they can help you a lot. Socal-rc also is working with El Cajon Hobbies to expand there RC car department I assume that will become the local hangout for Short Courses!

I haven't had the opportunity to get out to El Cajon Hobbies but the owner was there yesterday watching the racing, that was good to see. He also donated a JC Concepts Short Course Body for the raffle it fits the Slash or SC10. I will for sure be stopping by his establishment in the future.

I also would like to let Danny S. over at West Cost R/C Raceway and Hobby Garage know, that I am so happy you were able to get your track re-opened. I really would like to get out there, but I am trying to throw as much support to tracks that are starting to come into play here in San Diego. I will for sure be at West Coast in the near future...

Since I have been out sick I have been behind on some articles that I have been wanting to get out. I have two track write-ups I am working on.... I am in the process of writing about a track in the Palm Desert area and in my hometown of Modesto, CA. Modesto R/C Raceway will soon be open. I will be talking with both of those track owners this next week and more info will be up as soon as I can get it done.

Finally the new off-road track down here in San Diego which is located on the Barona Indian Reservation is almost ready for racing. Today is a practice/track grooming party for the Socal-rc.com guys. The track is open from 8am to 3pm. It is invite only today. I can't wait for the official first race....

Alright I am finally out of breath, Whoooo....

Stay tuned for the next blog!

Friday, October 16, 2009

Great News for West Coast R/C Raceway and Hobby Garage

While I was at work this evening I received some texts from Louis Flood. He informed me that West Coast will be re-opening in a couple of weeks. He also mentioned to me that he will be working full-time at West Coast. I traded texts with him for about an hour, it was really awesome to hear how happy he was to be back in the RC game... Nothing makes me happier than seeing people who love what they do, get to do it for a living. Louis has that passion for this hobby and I am glad West Coast picked him up....


This was the best news I or my blog could have received all week. I look forward to being at the re-opening. I told Louis I would be making West Cost my new LA home track. Since I live in San Diego though I will be doing most of my club racing at the new track opening up in San Diego in a few weeks out at Barona Speedway on the Indian Reservation. As of late I have really been trying to patronize the on-road tracks in SD cause this is the community in which I live in.


Below is Danny's note on West Coast R/C Raceway and Hobby Garage recently posted on RCTECH.NET from last night:


Well everyone. The day we have all been waiting for has finally come. We had our meeting with the city tonight. We were given unanimous approval for us to open. Our official Re-Grand Opening day and festivities will be announced shortly.

Hang tight guys. The hard part is over. We just need to iron out some very, very small details with regards to opening and you will have your West Coast back!!

Keep posted for further updates.

See you again real soon.

From me and the staff of West Coast, thanks again for all of your support through this tough time.

Danny Stojakovic

Below is links to West Coast R/C and Hobby Garage:

www.westcoastrcraceway.com

www.wcrcr.com

Stay tuned for my next blog:

Thursday, October 15, 2009

News and Notes for this Week...

Dear Readers,

I have taken the past couple of weeks off from writing my blog due to my work schedule. I am now just getting back to answering a few e-mail requests and getting ready to post a few new articles to this blog.

I just wrapped up my first JBRL series this past weekend. I met some really cool drivers over the course of this racing season. I am already looking forward to next year. I have some good news. I will be partnering with socal-rc.com an RC website based out of San Diego, CA. I met the group a few weeks ago and spoke with one of the Administrators. Socal-rc.com has endorsed my blog and will be making a special spot on their website for it. I cannot thank them enough...

I am in the process of making banners for my EZ UP Tent. Please stop by my pits next year and pick up some swag.... I will be rolling out stickers, cards, T-shirts, etc... T-shirts will be for sale but, very low priced. Over the Holidays when Jimmy gets a little bit of a break I will be talking to him about donating a few shirts for the JBRL give aways for next years series races.

It has been a great year for me in this hobby and I only look to help promote and make it even better. Please continue to follow my blog I have some really cool articles to come out about some new tracks, drivers, and rules that are on the horizon for next years racing season....

Check out the link below:

http://www.socal-rc.com/

Stay tuned for my next Blog...

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

2009 Reedy Truck Race of Champions Results

Since I wasn't able to attend this race I was able to sit back and watch the action provided by The RC Zone. Greg Torkelson did a wonderful job providing good quality video and audio. He took it one step further and was able even follow the A main events. I thought the work he did was excellent given the heat and elements he had to work with. I thought the product he gave us was this past weekend was second to none of his competitors. Hopefully, we will be seeing his company streaming more races in the future. As for the Truck Race I would have liked to race this one, but couldn't make it. Jimmy Babcock produced another a top notch race this past weekend. In two weeks the JBRL will be back at Hot Rod Hobbies for the final electric event of the year. See everyone Oct 10-11....


Below is the link to The RC Zone:


http://www.therczone.com/


Here are your results for the 2009 Reedy Race of Champions:


Rookie Stock - Wayne Wyrick
2nd J Bird
3rd Nick Lasley Jr.

Stock Truck - Brent Calvert
2nd Danny Stojakovic
3rd Shawn Blackwell

Super Stock Truck - Shawn Blackwell
2nd Brent Calvert
3rd Brian Mcduffie

Modified Truck - Shawn Blackwell
2nd Brent Calvert
3rd Ryan Dunford

Factory Mod Truck - Jared Tebo
2nd Ryan Cavalieri
3rd Ryan Maifield

Traxxas Slash (spec): Brent Bisbee
2nd Nick Vivas
3rd Michael D. Fowler

ROAR Short Course - Cody Turner
2nd Nick Lasley
3rd Bill Koch

Nitro Truggy - Brad Wintermantle
2nd Kevin Kastan
3rd D.J. Silva

Factory Truggy - Jared Tebo
2nd Ryan Cavalieri
3rd Chad Bradley

Congratulation's to all the winners and participants in this years event!

For other info please visit:

http://www.hotrodhobbies.com/

Stay tuned for my next blog:

Saturday, September 26, 2009

Rounds 1 and 2 of the Reedy Truck Race of Champions!

Early this week I was on the fence on whether or not to run this weekends truck race. Once Jimmy had sent the photo's of the layout for me to blog about. I was hooked. I planned on making the trek to Hot Rod. I booked the hotel and everything. I was set to race Stock Truck and Super Stk Truck. However, my wife asked me on Wednesday to skip this weekend and go with her to a couple of doctors appointments on Friday. I was bummed at first for like 5 seconds, but since I have a new baby girl on the way racing takes a back seat. I recently bought an 18t for her. ( I just can't get into the doll thing yet!)

Jimmy and his track crew didn't disappoint me in the least. For those of you who don't know or didn't see yesterday's action. It is being broadcast live at http://www.therczone.com/live/. I must tell you the video feed was great and so was the audio very nice and clean. There were a few hiccups but it was on my end. I was watching from my PC. When I switched over to my Mac everything was perfect and no problems.

I hope Greg at the RC Zone gets a lot more two and three day races after this event. RC Zone's video and audio quality has been far superior to it's competitor's that I have seen. As a professional news photographer based in San Diego it was refreshing to sit back and watch the live broadcast and hear Jimmy say "Strap it up and get er done" several times, not even being mic'd by the RC Zone"

I heard Jimmy mention during the broadcast yesterday that next year will be a two day event. I second that. I wish all three day events were two day events but I realize that isn't possible. The competition was nothing short of what I expected. I am personally pulling for Zack Rogers this weekend in Stock Truck! Come on Kid....Let that Banzai motor rip! I also will be following San Diego's Jayson Pang who is the current TQ in Super Stk Truck hopefully he can grab win as well. This could be a big weekend for the Kyosho guys! Those will be a couple of the classes I will be keeping and eye on.

Good Luck to all the drivers today.... I bet Rounds 3 and 4 will be even faster than yesterday's heats...

For all the results of Round 1 and 2 please go to the RC Zone's website! Below is the link:

www.therczone.com

Greg, I just want to say thank you for all your hard work this weekend for taking the time to broadcast this spectacular race event.

Stay tuned for my next blog...

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Pic's from the old DHW Offroad Track in San Diego!


I was searching the Internet last night for some info on a blog that I have been working on and I happened to come across these old photo's of Discount Hobby Warehouse RC off-road track here in San Diego I thought some of the old school racers would get a kick out of these. I miss these days of racing. I can remember the day's of wearing turn marshall jackets! LOL!

Below I also found some pic's of M&M Hobbies as well.... Man does this bring back some good times from the past!

The photo's are courtesy of Blaze Web Creations below is their link:

www.blazewebcreations.com

Stay tuned for my next blog....

Monday, September 21, 2009

2009 Reedy Truck Race of Champions Layout


Jimmy Babcock just sent me these photo's around 1:30 this afternoon the layout is in for the 2009 Reedy Truck Race of Champions. This layout looks awesome! I was considering not racing this weekend now after looking at this layout. I think I'll be having a talk with my wife to see about this racing this one!

I will be blogging throughout the week about the upcoming race this weekend at Hot Rod Hobbies.... Note: Zack Rodgers won the track layout contest. This track has several familiar elements that were in the past several tracks. Please get out there tomorrow night because there will be a full house for the local points series club race. Racing starts at 6:00pm.

Man I wish I lived closer to this track!

Below is the link to Hot Rod Hobbies:

http://www.hotrodhobbies.com/

Stay tuned for my next blog....

Attn: Locals at Pegasus Hobbies

After reading several posts from concerned racers last night I thought it was in my best interests to respond to their concerns about what I have been saying on my blog. Let me be very clear in no way do I want to see the racing program go under at Pegasus Hobbies. I personally will continue to go and support James and the track crew on Saturday's when I am not racing a two day race, on-road, or JBRL Electric Event.

Last Friday, I wrote an article that started a bevy of resentment towards me and my blog. In that article I protected all sources I sited, including the main interview. I wrote that article unbiased as possible. I am speaking to those whose heavily criticized me last Saturday and Sunday. I don't want anything to happen to your race program, I personally will continue to support it as I do all race programs on this blog. I would never tell any racer or write an article to boycott any hobby shop or race track!

At this time I want to say thank you to both James and Louis for putting in so much time and hard work on that track. James you and Louis have really built a quality Saturday night club racing program over the past year. If your looking to race with the fast guys Pegasus is still the place to race. James both you Louis and the hobby shop have made it possible for me to have a place to club race that fits into my Saturday schedule. I drive an hour and a half to race at Pegasus for JBRL practice.

Furthermore, I extend my hand to James and the people helping him run the racing program on Saturday nights at Pegasus. If there is anything I can do to help promote your Saturday races I will put it on this blog. I would like to pick up with James where I left off with Louis.

Right Now! At this time there will be no more blogs about the recent situation at Pegasus Hobbies. Louis hasn't returned my texts or phone calls since late last week. Meaning I get the hint. I will leave him alone, and not make this an uncomfortable situation for him, or anyone involved in this matter anymore. I want to focus my energy on getting behind James and helping him keep the program going.

My door is always open. Louis knows how to get in touch with me, should he want to speak with me in the near future. I am doing my best here to bridge the gap with several people who are upset with me for what I have written.

I take much pride in writing this blog. I personally will continue to bring new and interesting articles to this site so please continue to read it.

Stay tuned for my next blog.

Sunday, September 20, 2009

More Pic's from the Chula Vista, CA Track!











I want to thank Frank Hinojos and so cal-rc.com for letting me come out this weekend and cover this race for my blog. Frank has done a wonderful job putting together a pretty cool track in his dad's backyard.... Frank I'm looking forward to driving this track with you this coming Wednesday morning!
If you are interested in driving this track you need to go to socal-rc.com to get the info:
See you all at the next event and stay tuned for my next blog....

Off-road racing comes to Chula Vista, CA!

Yesterday I spent the morning watching the first off-road race to hit Chula Vista, CA. To me this is the first real organized off-road racing since Family Hobbies shut down in Santee, CA. By the time Family Hobbies shut down in 2007, Palomar Raceway in Fallbrook, CA was going through it's problems as well. The first time the Barona track opened it wasn't around long enough to get off the ground. Finally, RC off-road racing is starting to breathe life here again in the San Diego area. The track here in Chula Vista is the first sign of bigger and better things to come.

They have held a few practices before this race, but yesterday was the Inaugural Race. I couldn't stay for the entire event because I had to get to work. Before I left, I spoke with the track owner/operator Frank Hinojos. He told me this track is in his father's backyard. He said it started out 5 years as a circle track for his RC18t. The track at the time was 30 by 15. Now he has built a 70 by 35 off-road track that is just awesome.

Frank told me he bought his father a Slash and he has run one pack on the track and just giggles at how hard the truck is to control. Stick it out Mr. Hinojos it gets easier the more you practice. Frank also mentioned it took two weeks of 8 hours a day to put this track together. He doesn't plan to change the layout much just a jump here and there. The track can accommodate a total of 20 racers. Right now they are running slashes and short course trucks. Frank said they would run stadium trucks and buggies if the interest was there but mostly the SC10's and Slashes are the vehicles of choice for now. Frank also mentioned to me, he would like to see in the near future some expert guys who are really into the sport come out and run his course.

Yesterday's race was being run by socal-rc.com's staff. They were using the I-lap system and keeping track of the laps like an official race. Very neat to see. One thing I thought that was very interesting was that racers came as far away from Escondido, CA. That is a good 40 minute drive to Chula Vista. If your interested in running on this track you need to go to socal-rc.com. Sign-ups are first come first served. Frank and socal-rc.com predict that off-road racing here in Chula Vista will be a once a month thing.

Due to this being in some one's backyard I am not disclosing the address because Frank and his family don't want people showing up unannounced to play on their track. We as RC enthusiasts have to be courteous to the neighbors.

Below is a link to socal-rc.com check the site often for the next race:

www.socal-rc.com

Stay tuned for my next blog...

Saturday, September 19, 2009

RC Pro Series comes to Hemet Competition Raceway!


If your looking for some good 1/8 scale gas and electric racing then look no further. Hemet Competition Raceway is hosting the Third Round of the RC Pro Series today for 1/8 scale nitro and electric buggies and truggies.

Today is only a one day event. I wasn't able to get out to this race today because I was covering another RC event in San Diego, CA actually Chula Vista, CA to be exact. Check the blog for the latest photo's and story this evening.

Below I posted a link to the PDF entry form: This has all the info on today's race.

Form PDF HERE

Below is a link to the RC Pro website go on there and you can get all the info for their series races.

Visit the RC Pro Website.

I meant to get a blog out this week on Hemet's race track but I got busy with work and you know how that goes... So today I am playing catch up. I plan to call next week and speak with the owner about his track and try to get the word out about both tracks that people are driving on. Hemet has two tracks for off-road they are 1/8th and 1/10th scale. This track has recently been re-opened and under new ownership... I look forward to hearing more about this track.

Below is the tracks address and summer schedule:
Racing is only $10 and Practice is $5 (This is a great deal)

146 S. Santa Fe st.
Hemet, California 92544
For info call 951-925-9331
Hobby Shop after 1030am Thanks

New hours
Sunday Closed
Monday Closed
Tuesday Closed
Wednesday 5-9 pm
Thursday 5-9 pm
Friday 5 pm practice and races at 7 pm
Saturday 5-9 pm

Here a few links that have updated pictures and info-

http://hemetraceway.com/ (has pic of old layout. will update that soon.)

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Hemet-...9395552?ref=ts

http://www.flickr.com/photos/Hemetrc

Stay tuned for the next blog......

Friday, September 18, 2009

Drama at Pegasus Hobbies

In my quest to find the most compelling story this past weekend at Round 7 of the JBRL Electric Series race hosted by Pegasus Hobbies nothing scratched to the surface on Sunday as much as the drama that took place the day before. By now most of the local RC racing community here in Southern California has heard about the dismissal of Louis Flood.

For those of you that don't know Louis Flood, he has been the Race Director at Pegasus Hobbies for the past 7 to 8 months. This past Saturday Pegasus Hobbies Management fired Louis Flood. He was kicked off the property indefinitely, and not allowed to race in last weekend's race. Sources close to Louis told me on Sunday that management made a big scene in the parking lot with him. Another source told me he was being accused of stealing from Pegasus Hobbies by letting racers race for free. My first question is why didn't management pull Louis aside and take the matter into an office at the hobby shop and dismiss him? You know the proper way of firing someone! Why make a scene for everyone to see? Especially on a weekend that showcase's your race track and hobby shop...

On Sunday I talked with several people that race at that track on a weekly basis. Most of them were really upset about the events that transpired and mentioned to me that they were kicking around the idea of not racing at the facility anymore. A few told me they would be looking for a new home track. Before this past weekend I had been e-mailing back and forth with Louis about promoting the Saturday racing program at Pegasus for my blog. He was very accommodating in his spare time. He provided me all the info I needed to get the word out about the racing program that he ran on Saturday's.

This past Monday I started to contact Louis, he and I traded text's and PM's all day. Tuesday we spoke for a good 45 minutes. I explained to him I wanted to blog about what happened and explain his side of the situation. He went into detail about everything. He answered everything to the best of his knowledge. I felt I left no stone unturned. Louis, asked me during the interview not to print anything that he commented on at this time, until he has a chance to speak with Tom who is the owner and runs the RC side of Pegasus Hobbies. Louis explained to me that he wanted to see if he could resolve the matter with Tom first before I printed his side of the story. I told him I would hold the information until he was ready.

After my interview with Louis I formed my own take on the situation, however until I blog about what Louis said to me. Right now my take is meaningless. Just know that Louis has alot of support from his friends and people here in the RC community. I want to thank him for taking the time to speak with me about a tough situation he has been put in.

I haven't contacted Pegasus Hobbies for a comment yet because Tom has been out of town since last weekend. I plan on making a call today and Monday following up and seeing if he or someone in management at the hobby shop can comment on the situation.

For the local racers who are contemplating whether or not to go out to Pegasus this Saturday just know that you can race at Revelation Raceway today and Hemet Raceway as well for $10 your first entry. I know for a fact those tracks are looking for electric racers and will welcome you with open arms.

http://www.revrace.com/

http://hemetraceway.com/

Stay tuned for my next blog...

Monday, September 14, 2009

Pics from this past weekend's JBRL Electric Race










These are some pictures I took at this past weekend's race at Pegasus Hobbies. I didn't get a chance to take as many photo's as I would have liked but I was able to get a few out..... The Banzai Team was out in full force..... Sorry I didn't get some pics of Jake McGarvey, Sean Silva and Zach Rogers, Scott... I will get some in at the next race and I will e-mail you, all of these by tomorrow....
Having said that I had a blast this past weekend I pitted with Ed Garcia and Jim Cooper local racers from San Diego which I call home.... It was nice to race with people that live 10 minutes from me... I will blog more tomorrow about this past weekend. I just wanted to get these out for people to see... Jimmy once again, you did a good job hosting the event. One of his tech crew loves to give me a hard time in tech. He played mind games with me right before my main telling me my rear tires weren't balanced..... Jimmy what are we going to do with your guys! It was a blast all in all I wouldn't have changed a thing!
Oh and a big thanks for my spectrum receiver I was given by your Sponsor. I now will be up grading to a 2.4 radio. I have used all of the sponsor's products this year that I received at each JBRL. It has been a great racing season.
Stay tuned for my next blog...

Saturday, September 12, 2009

Off-road racing is coming to San Diego!



Early this morning I had a reader ask me for an update on the track that is being re-built on the Barona Indian reservation. So I put a call in to Krazy Kevins in Chula Vista, CA today, and well what do you know offroad racing is coming back to San Diego, CA, November 1st. If you go to socal-rc.com you can read all about the track on its thread 1/8 downtown track. From the pictures at socal-rc.com it looks like this track is well on it's way to being complete.

Wouldn't it be something if the JBRL came to San Diego next year! Jimmy said in Bakerfield he wouldn't mind having a race in San Diego. Come on San Diego we can do it..... Either 1/8 scale gas or electric two chances next year let's get a JBRL race down here. The drivers will love the location, they can stay at the casino next door, lots of fun to be had by all. Next week I will bring you more info on this track and when it will open for practice.

Here is a link to socal-rc.com:

http://www.socal-rc.com/

Stay tuned for my next blog!

Round 7 JBRL Electric Series Coming Up!



Photo By: Jason Boulanger


As I sit here and write this blog at 4:45am were just 20 hours away from the kick off of Round 7 of the JBRL Electric Series. If it is anything like Round 4 in June then it will for sure be a great day of racing. As you can see by the picture I posted the parking lot will be packed, so I suggest you get there by Saturday afternoon. When I arrived at Pegasus Hobbies this past June I was blown away by the RV set-ups and tents. My first impression was Wow! It felt like I was at a Nascar Event. Jimmy had out done himself again. There were over 240 entrants and the parking spilled over into the next building. I know cause I parked there and had to hike the gear. It was worth it in the end.


That race, the track was run dry all day, but due to other businesses in the area there has been some dust complaints. So as usual there is a good debate whether or not to run the track dry or leave it wet for this race. My thoughts are if they get as many drivers as they did the last round they will probably have to run it half wet and half dry. This way it would keep the other businesses from complaining, and the race day would not be thrown off. Water should be placed every 5 races to keep things on track. Now if it is a smaller turnout, then obviously you can run more water for sure and water every 2 0r 3 heats if the turnout is what we had in Bakerfield. My prediction is that this will be a pretty big race, turnout will be high and we will see water on the track every 5 to 6 races.

Make sure to bring different and plenty of sets of tires. I run an associated T4 so I use Ribs in the front Holeshots and Double D's when dry. When wet I used Ribbed in the front and Komodo Dragon's in the rear. If your a new racer or an experienced one these tire choices are just some helpful info if your looking to race this weekend and not sure what is a good starting point. I also use the proline two stage foam in the tires as well.If tires are your main concern go to the JBRL website, it also lists tires to use at Pegasus Hobbies. Please keep in mind what I use and the site lists are starting point recommendations, but they should get you through this weekend. Today the club racing on Saturday starts at 5:00pm it should be a pretty big turnout. I bet the racing won't get done till midnight or 1:00am Sunday. I wish I could race tonight but, family comes first today, so I can play tomorrow.


From what I have been reading the layout has been in for about a month now, so the locals should be the guys to watchout for this weekend. I know I will have my work cut out for me, but that being said I really only go to these races to have fun and enjoy myself because I only get to race with these guys once a month. To me the best part is the BBQing, talking about the different rivalries, and about different RC tips and tricks etc. In the end it doesn't matter as long as you had a good time and were able to get out of the house and enjoy yourself.



Here is a link to the JBRL site:

www.jimmybabcock.com


Here is a link to Pegasus Hobbies site:

www.pegasushobbies.com


Stay tuned for my next blog later in the day....

Tuesday, September 8, 2009

Hot Rod Hobbies Club Racing Series begins Tonight...

This is a very big week for 1/10 scale electric racing if your in the Southern California Region. Let me start off by saying it is good to have you back Jimmy. I hope you enjoyed your time calling the ROAR On-road Nitro Nationals this past weekend. It was nice to read the ROAR site and see my favorite on-road nitro driver Mike Swauger win the 1/8 Open Final by a whole lap up on the field. Finally, I saw Brent Bizbee's post this afternoon, wishing you a very happy birthday, so from all of us down here in San Diego Happy Birthday big guy. Thank you for all you do in this wonderful hobby by giving us a a great venue every month to get out and put our skills to the test and race with some of the best electric drivers this hobby has to offer. I really have looked forward to the JBRL Sunday's this year....

First of all you can start the week off by getting out to the Hot Rod Hobbies on Tuesday night's this fall for what is probably the biggest club race during any given week. You will find such drivers like Jeremy Kortz, Chad Bradley and Adam Drake from time to time, just to name a few. It just depends on who shows up. The last Tuesday night's series was getting more than a 100 entries on a week night. That is fantastic. It has to do with the new short course class that ROAR has officially started earlier this past spring. So get out support the track and get your buggy or truck tuned for this weekends JBRL Race at Pegasus Hobbies this coming weekend. Tuesday's the racing starts at 6:00pm and the entry fee's start at $12 dollars. For all the information please providing updated info click the links below.

Here is the Link for Hot Rod Hobbies:

www.hotrodhobbies.com

Here is the Link for JBRL:

www.jimmybabcock.com

Starting tomorrow, I will be hyping this weekend's JBRL Race at Pegasus by sending 1 to 2 blogs daily in hopes of getting anyone and everyone out who hasn't experienced a one day RC event such as this one, to hopefully come out and see what this hobby is all about.... By reading through the threads today the parking lot at Pegasus will start filling up Friday night. That house will be rocking all weekend long.... I wish tomorrow was Sunday already...

Stay tuned for my next Blog...

Monday, September 7, 2009

Electric RC Racing's Resurgence...

While I was on break last night at work, I was sitting in the break room reading this month's Radio Control Car Action Magazine. I came across a very interesting article by Matt Higgins the magazine's Executive Editor, called "Electric Revolution" on page 18 in the "Starting Line." I have to say I agree with everything he had to say. I don't have his extensive experience in racing nitro 1/8 buggy's, because I mostly race 1/10 scale electric, but I see where he is coming from. He is right for the past 5 years people have been mostly racing 1/8 scale nitro because the only choice was nitro.

To truly compete in electric racing in the past you were buying new batteries every couple of months because you were running them hard. When it came to motors, brushed was the only option so you would have to cut the commutator every run to stay competitive, not to mention a fresh set of tires every heat to try and keep up with the factory boys. Well, now with brush less motors and lipo batteries your now mostly working on the set-up and your driving skills.

I was around for 1/10 electric racing back in the early 90's in Northern California and I can say the ROAR Electric 1/10 Off-road Nationals would have World Class drivers all the way down to the C Mains in 2wd and 4wd modified off-road classes. I mostly raced in Livermore, CA at Hobby Haven which isn't around anymore. In my opinion the best indoor off-road 1/10 scale track ever. That track hosted the International Reedy Race of Champions 1/1o Electric Off-road race for a number of years. I remember those races would go down to the K mains in just 2wd modified. To me that was truly some of the best RC racing I have ever witnessed. I was a junior in high school at the time when the Francis Brothers Mark and Matt started to emerge as the new fast guys at Team Associated. It was a treat watching some of RC history's best battles with Halsey, Kinwald and Masami. Man those were the good days.

That being said, Matt mentioned in his article that electric racing is back and soon will be on top. I agree, but I think a few things need to change. There needs to be less two day races! Seriously! Everywhere I turn around every track is hosting a two day race several times a year. We need to get back to the most prestigious races get those 2-3 day events. For example, if it is the Reedy Race of Champions, Cactus Classic, or the Shootout races that have a following should be a 2-3 day race, and the rest should be dropped to a one day event with a maximum of $25 per entry fee. Do this and the rebirth of electric will take off.... It is already making a move, I just want it to come back faster.....

Here is a link to Matt Higgins twitter page:

www.twitter.com/mattatrcca

Here is the link to Radio Control Car Action magazine:

www.rccaraction.com


Stay tuned for my next Blog...

Nitrohouse Finals at Revelation Raceway

I didn't get a chance to get out and watch the mains this weekend, but from what I read on RCTECH.NET the drivers in the 1/8 Buggy Expert Nitro class were turning 40 second laps on a hard track.

Here are the results of the top 3 drivers in every class:

1/8 Electric Buggy A-Main

1) 14 Laps 10:43:76 Tim Bump
2) 13 Laps 10:15:29 DJ Sandate
3) 13 Laps 10:22:25 Jason Kung

40 Plus A-MAin

1) 25 Laps 20:25:14 Rob Bender
2) 24 Laps 20:17:59 Louis Fernandez
3) 24 Laps 20:23:31 Bill Birdsall

Buggy Beginner A-Main

1) 17 Laps 15:29:24 Spike
2) 17 Laps 15:32:55 Doreen Chong
3) 16 Laps 20:44:50 Rodney Roberts

Buggy Novice A-Main

1) 26 Laps 20:16:39 Jason Smeltzer
2) 25 Laps 20:20:66 Brian Nunez
3) 25 Laps 20:44:50 Jose Aguilera

Buggy Amateur A-MAin

1) 40 Laps 30:06:11 Aaron Huerta
2) 40 Laps 30:16:27 Louis Fernandez
3) 25 Laps 20:15:07 Bailey

Buggy Amateur B-Main

1) 26 Laps 20:32:76 Kevin Thatcher
2) 26 Laps 20:41:37 Bailey
3) 25 Laps 20:15:07 Peter Martin

Buggy Expert A-Main

1) 57 Laps 40:09:01 Jeremy Kortz
2) 56 Laps 39:46:45 Chad Bradley
3) 55 Laps 40:18:77 Matt Schreffler

Truggy Beginner A-Main

1) 19 Laps 15:37:92 Jason Cicchetti
2) 17 Laps 15:11:92 Doreen Chong
3) 17 Laps 15:41:53 Frederich Harrell

Truggy Novice A-Main

1) 25 Laps 20:21:51 Tim Grbavac
2) 24 Laps 20:23:13 Mike Thompson
3) 22 Laps 20:19:00 Jerry King

Truggy Amatuer A-Main

1) 41 Laps 30:00:58 Brad Wintermantle
2) 41 Laps 30:21:00 Chenzo Kolbe
3) 41 Laps 30:22:63 Robert Wickham

These are the results for the top three in every class that ran at the Nitrohouse Labor Day Open this last weekend. If you want to see all the results of this past weekends action just click the link below:

www.revrace.com

1/8 Buggy Expert A-Main video by Eric Ketchum

Click the Link Below:

www.youtube.com/watch?v=7TkTXbjtaY4

Congratulations to all the Winners!

Stay tuned for my next Blog.....

Sunday, September 6, 2009

Today's Pic's from DHW Raceway in San Diego


Here is a wide shot of this weeks layout!

A view from the pits...


These cars were flying around the track today...

These guys were having so much fun today!

One of the coolest paint jobs today!



DHW Raceway in San Diego

If your looking to do some parking lot racing in San Diego, today is your lucky day. Discount Hobby Warehouse, and race organizer Frank Mijares (Of Franks Bodies) are working together to bring a great race program that keeps attracting more and more racers every race day! I met Frank about a month ago he runs a pretty cool club program for on-road locals in San Diego. Racing is open to anyone and everyone that has an r/c car and wants to try their hand in racing.

It looks like right now, racing is taking place every 1st and 3rd Sundays, though schedule is subject to change. Track opens at 8am, and racing starts at 10am. Racing usually concludes around 3-4pm.

Discount Hobby Warehouse's address:

7644 Clairemont Mesa Blvd
San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 560-9633

Currently there are on average of 7-9 heats per round. Racing includes two rounds of qualifying, and the Mains. Classes are Stock Sedan, 19-turn Sedan, Modified Sedan, and 1/18th scale mini's. If there are enough cars of any other different class, a new class can be started and raced. They also have been getting slash stock and mod classes. One thing I noticed when I get out to DHW races, is that they put wooden jumps out for the slash trucks. Very nice. If your concerned about not having a transponder for your car, not to worry Frank manually counts the laps for everyone. He does a great job doing it with 7 plus cars in a race. Wow!

Brushless motors, and LiPo batteries are allowed for racing. Come on out and enjoy a great day of R/C Racing. Race entries are only $10 not sure about the second class entry fee... Good luck to all the drivers today... Hope to see you out at DHW Raceway today.


Stay tuned for my next Blog...

Saturday, September 5, 2009

Pegasus Hobbies Racing Tonight

If you happen to be getting ready for the next JBRL electric series race, tonight is your second to last chance of racing before the much anticipated 7th round JBRL Electric race at Pegasus Hobbies in Montclair, CA. I expect there to be a full class of Truck Stock for club racing tonight. This track usually pulls a good 12 to 15 drivers in this class not to mention they also get a full class in Slash and Stock Buggy averaging between 7 and 10 drivers. All in all they usually get between 9 and 12 heats regularly, but I heard last week they had an amazing turnout because everyone is getting ready for next Sunday's race.
This venue was supposed to be at West Coast RC Raceway and Hobby Garage but due to certain circumstances this race has been moved to Pegasus Hobbies. I look forward to a re-scheduled race at West Coast from it's pictures and what certain drivers have told me it is a great facility. I will blog about these guys in due time. Back to Pegasus it really is one of my favorite stops on the JBRL circuit because it is a short 1.5 hour drive up the I-15 for me but more importantly it is always one of the biggest turnouts every year for electric racing. In June at the last JBRL race we weren't done till after 9:30pm that race had like 26 mains. Jimmy always hosts a big day of racing and I am sure it will be the same for 9/13/09....
Earlier this this week, I touched base with Louis Flood the race director for Saturday's club racing at Pegasus. He mentioned to me that Pegasus recently got online and will be able to post the race results soon... I look forward to bringing those to you.... The races start at 5:00pm and the entry fee is $10.
So get out there and get your ride ready for the up coming JBRL Race. By the way this round will be run wet...... So get the right tires....
Here are some info links Below:
Stay tuned for my next blog...




NitroHouse Labor Day Open at Revelation Raceway

This weekend Revelation Raceway is hosting the NitroHouse Labor Day Open. If your interested in getting your 1/8 scale Buggy or Truggy out and testing your skills on a true 1/8 scale track, they have a variety of car and driver classes for you to choose from. That is one thing I have noticed about Revelation Raceway is how they classify a driver. When you race at their facility you have 4 different driver classes you can choose from, Beginner, Novice, Amateur, and Expert. This should be a great weekend for some 1/8 scale nitro racing. This weekends race will have 4 different car classes for you to race, 40 plus Buggy, 1/8 Buggy, 1/8 Truck, and 1/8 Electric. Gates open at 7:00am Qualifying on Saturday the 5th. They also will have a Concourse for all cars and a Trophy Dash for Buggy and Truggy. On Sunday Sept 6th the gates open at 7:00am there will be large trophies for all mains. Entry fees are as follows $45 dollars after Aug 31st it's $50 dollars. the second entry fee is $35 dollars. If you sign-up by the Aug 31 you receive a free T-Shirt with your entry. If your interested in purchasing a t-shirt of this weekends race please contact revrace@msn.com.

Below is the link and info to Revelation Raceway:

Revelation Raceway
4871 W. State St.
Ontario, CA 91762
(909) 628-9909

www.revrace.com
revrace@msn.com

Below is the link to Nitrohouse this weekends sponsor:

www.nitrohouse.com


Stay tuned for my next blog:

Friday, September 4, 2009

2nd Annual Pro-line Surf City Classic Finals

I apologize for getting this blog out so late. I had the pleasure of spending this past weekend at OCRC Raceway in Huntington Beach, CA . I raced in the 2nd Annual Pro-line Surf City Classic. It was a really fun weekend for rc drivers becasue they had the opportunity to meet with represenatives of several different car manufacturers.

I liked the fact I was able to get three qualifiers in on Saturday and be done by 5pm. It was a prefect weekend for racing not to mention the door prizes. After each main they announced door prizes, OCRC gave away several ready to run kits 2 of them were 1/8 scale electric kits and I received an HPI E Firestorm 1/10 scale electric truck. There were over 100 entries and 16 heats of action packed races.

It was neat to see Jared Tebo in action. I swear everytime that guys runs his Kyosho Buggy, it makes me want to go out and buy a kit. Team Associated and OFNA Racing didn't disappoint. In the 1/8 scale Pro Electric Buggy Jeremy Kortz and Ryan Cavalieri put on a show for us. In the end Cavalieri took the win.

Ryan ended up winning 3 out for the 4 pro classes this past weekend. He also took home a cool $1,700 in cash prizes. Great Job... I would also mention that local favorite Steve Hartson made the 4wd mod class a race to remember. I couldn't keep track of the lead changes he definetely was knocking on everyone's back door all weekend long....

Overall Robert Black and his track crew did a great job this past weekend. I liked how well the race was run. I would hope that more people come out and support this facility in the future. It really is a great place to put your skills to the test.

Here is a link below to OCRC raceway:

http://www.ocrcraceway.com

Stay tuned for my next blog...

Sunday, August 30, 2009

Round 5 JBRL Nitro Series

The JBRL heads to Elings Park and International Raceway in Santa Barbara this weekend for the fifth round of its nitro series on Sunday August 30th. This is a great opportunity for some expert and pro drivers to make up some points because a few guys won't be on hand. Jeremy Kortz and Ryan Cavalieri are racing at the 2nd Annual Surf City Classic sponsored by Proline. So if your looking to make up some points then head to Santa Barbara where Jimmy and his crew plan to put on a great day of racing for your enjoyment.

The JBRL Nitro series is in its 3rd season, averaging 18o entries per event. This year this series will visit 8 tracks for drivers to test their skills on. This series is not only fun for the beginning nitro driver but as well as the seasoned pro.

This past April the JBRL had a record 340 entries at Thunder Ally for the first round of the series. It broke records for both the JBRL and Thunder Ally in entries. That is a great turnout. Click the links below for JBRL nitro and electric information.


If your interested in checking out this rounds nitro track click the link below.

Good luck to all the driver this weekend.....

Stay tuned for my next post...

Friday, August 28, 2009

Friday Night Racing at Revelation Raceway

If your looking for some good Friday night racing well I have just the place for you, Revelation Raceway. They recently started a Friday night racing program on 8/14/09, for 1/10 and 1/8 scale electric off-road racing. If your aren't sure what tires to bring you can checkout one of my links and you will get an idea for what to have on hand. Make sure to bring extra parts if your racing 1/1o scale buggy or truck because, the on site hobby shop is mostly stocked with 1/8 scale parts.

Revelation Raceway will be hosting the Nitrohouse Labor Day Open next weekend September 5th and 6th. I will blog more about that race next week.

Check the link below for buggy and truck set-ups at Revelation Raceway:
http://www.jimmybabcock.com/

Below is the Friday Night Racing Schedule:
http://www.revrace.com/


EVERY FRIDAY

GATES OPEN AT 5:00 PM

PRACTICE AT 6:00 PM

QUALIFYING AT 7:00 PM

DONE BY 11:00 PM

TWO ROUNDS OF QUALIFYING

MAINS
BUMP UPS / ALL CLASSES

DRIVER CLASSES
BEGINNER / NOVICE / AMATEUR / EXPERT

CAR CLASSES
1/8 ELECTRIC / BUGGY AND TRUCK
SHORT COURSE TRUCKS
1/10 SCALE / ELECTRIC AND GAS

AWARDS ALL MAINS
-
SIGN UPS NEVER CLOSE
-
EVERYONE WELCOME
-
ENTRY FEE $10.00 DOLLARS


Stay tuned for my next blog...

Thursday, August 27, 2009

Pound It Raceway

If your looking for some fun on-road club racing this weekend then I have the place for you. Pound It Raceway located in San Diego. The race director is Ray Rameriez. He has been running races here in San Diego since the beginning of the 2009 racing season. I personally want to thank him for taking the time to do this. It is alot of hard work putting together a quality outdoor asphalt track.

He is there early every race weekend setting it up for us. He washes the track and lays a nice coat of grape soda down for traction. The race program started out as a once a month treat but it has turned into a bi-weekly racers delight for the locals here in San Diego. He recently held a Dash for Cash race in July and had some world class drivers come down from LA, which provided an exciting day of racing.

So if your looking for something fun to do this weekend make it out to Pound It Raceway, you will not be disappointed. Ray puts on a good race for both the beginner and the seasoned on-road veteran. I look forward to seeing next weeks video's.


Below is the address and the rules for Pound It Raceway:

Pound It Raceway is located at:

4373 Viewridge Ave.
Suite A
San Diego, CA 92123
Behind the building.

We will be racing once a month for the time being. If everyone wants to race more then we can do that. Track opens at 10:00am. Racing starts at 12:00. Race entrees are $10.00.

We use the AMB transponder set-up and have handouts. Personal are preferred but whatever you need. The track is set-up with the Road Rails system and some fire hose. The dimensions are 100'x50'. We do provide power and an Air Compressor. Items needed to bring are: Table, Chair, Pop up Tent, and a race car.

We follow the rules very strictly here. If you are found in violation of one of the rules you will be asked to leave.

Rules are as follows:

Track Rules:

1. Have fun.
2. Be respectful.
3. Use staging lane.
4. No driving in the pits.
5. Pick up your trash when you leave.
6. Smoking only allowed in Smoking area and trashcans must be used.
7. Try to keep from walking on the racing line unless marshaling a car.
8. No Drinking or Drugs.
9. If you damage the track during practice, make sure it gets fixed.

Racing Rules:

1. Do you turn marshaling.
2. Return handout transponders.
3. Let Faster drivers go (During practice and racing).
4. Be ready to race when your race is up (1 min. grace only in mains).
5. No stopping on the straight.
6. If your car is stuck/stopped on the track for any reason, call it out to let the other drivers know.
7. No going the wrong direction on the track.
8. No using reverse at any time.If there are any questions please ask he race director.

The next race day is August 29th.

Please feel free to ask any questions that you may have.

http://www.rctech.net/forum/ Please go to the Pound It Raceway Thread...
http://www.rctech.net/forum/california-racing/297245-pound-raceway-san-diego-ca-parking-lot-racing.html

Stay tuned for my next blog...

Wednesday, August 26, 2009

2nd Annual Pro-line Surf City Classic

It's that time of the year again for OCRC Raceway. The 2nd Annual Surf City Classic returns to Huntington Beach, CA August 28-30. This years race is sponsored by Pro-line Racing. OCRC Raceway is accepting sign-ups via on-line this year. Winner of each qualifier and main will receive a free pair of Pro-line rear tires. In addition to that there will also be prizes awarded from Rob's Hobbies, Gyro Hobbies HPI, Hot Bodies Racing, and Sticky Kicks.

There will also be an Invitational Class for this years event for Mod Buggy, Mod Truck, and Mod 4wd. Pro and Factory drivers will receive over $3,000 in cash and prizes for placing in their respective classes. Last year OCRC Raceway hosted the 1st Annual Surf City Classic featuring 155 entries and 19 action packed heats. Let's see if Robert Black and his team can break last years record. I will be on hand blogging all weekend from the pits and my hotel room so please feel free to stop by and give me some feedback....




Welcome to the RC Insider...

Hi,

My name is Jeremy Flint and I would like to invite all RC enthusiasts to my blog RC Insider. This is my beta version for a potential website. This blog will have something for everyone to enjoy. My vision for this blog is to make this a marketing and promotional tool for everyone in the RC racing community. In the beginning I plan to start right here in Southern California. As the blog picks up and gains momentum then I will expand into other parts of the US. Some of my plans that I have for this blog are local race reports, features on up and coming local racers, product reviews and interviews with the people who design and work with the latest RC products.

Please stay tuned and check back often..