Race Report - Paul Hubbell Memorial at Haven Raceway, Elyria

[OctagonSpirit]

The Inaugural Paul Hubbell Memorial went off as an amazing time at Haven Raceway, both kicking off our racing season and paying tribute to Northeast Ohio's "First Family" of slot car racing. Mrs Donna Hubbell, unfortunately, wasn't able to attend due to illness, but the wife and I had a chance to visit with her (as well as make some special deliveries) after the race and she wanted to thank - and I quote - "All of her kids for remembering Paul."

Now, onto the racers results.


4th Place - Joe and Morgan Hall

The Halls were one of two teams competing in their first ever slot car race, coming over from the Hot Wheels side of our business, and they still turned in a fantastic performance. Joe turned both the highest heat count of the race at 151 laps AND brought in a 5.150 second lap for the current standing lap record. Morgan did admirably well also, learning the car early on and showing great determination to keep up with the other boys. They're both excited for the upcoming season and plan to be part of the core group.

3rd Place - Chuck and Charlie Bowers

Another pair of Hot Wheels collectors trying their hand at slot car racing, Chuck and Charlie notched up a strong run. Charlie in particular was a consistent threat to the eventual race winners, showing that all his time with his Carrera KTM X-Bow has given him a great read on our track. Look for him to be strong in our Juniors program this fall!

2nd Place - Max and Tom Hullman

The Hullmans came to us as regulars from Speedway Slots and Hobbies, which is sadly closing its doors, and are making the step into 1/32nd scale, as well as continuing their 1/24th scale racing. Max experienced early controller issues (OUR FAULT MAX) but came back strong in the late running, and Tom was strong and consistent. Both should be championship threats in their respective divisions.

1st Place - Matt and Ian Cramer

One year on from their Carrera Go starter set and borrowing cars at a surprise encounter with the OSRL North at Route 93, Matt and Ian have picked up their first victory and in their favorite form of racing - endurance! Ian jumped out to an early lead and the pair never looked back, with over 1000 laps in the 2 hour race and near total consistency, heat after heat. And the winnings? Straight into a Monogram Greenwood Vette for fun at home. You'd think they'd be sick of that car by now!

Other Notables

During the race, we were treated to visits by Ohio Challenge Cup regulars Jay Sabala and Ron Vincek, both stopping in to see how racing was going and apologizing for not registering to race. Next year, guys. Next year! Also stopping in with a bouquet for Mrs Hubbell was IRRA racer and Parma representative Steve Koepp, who gave our little hillclimb the thumbs up. We're already looking forward to not only the season to come, but to next year's event. Stay tuned, we'll release the car for next year's event in time.