FINAL REPORT:We all got our license runs but the Offy got tight when we were ready to make our record runs so we made the decision to save it rather than chance any more damage. Bill made a pass up to 181 mph, 5400 RPM against the 176 mph record but did not count because it was on a licensing run. He let off the gas so as not to exceed the 175 mph max on his run. The engine was pulling strong and should go to 210 mph once we get it fixed.

The current record is held by the Latin-Gillette racing team who probably holds more Bonneville records than anybody. It took them 10 years to beat the previous record holder. They finally got it in 2008. We had a lot of people cheering for us, the underdog, and they knew we had the equipment to blow that record away, however, Bonneville eats rookies for lunch and it wasn't to be on our first time on the salt.

So, we all decided to fold our tents and return to Miami to regroup. Bummer it is only once a year, except for the World Finals Oct 3rd, which won't give us enough time to make all the record runs we want to.

Bonneville is so exciting and certainly overwhelming. As an example, it is 10 miles from the finish line to the pits... The wait in line averages about two hours. Then if it doesn't start or a spin out, it takes hours to get back to the start line. They are extremely safety minded and prior to start the starter double checks everything to make sure all is well..

We will pull the Offy in Miami and send it to Cincinnati at our convenience. We will pass thru Indianapolis and Cincy on our way back to show off the finished car to AJ, Tommy McGriff and Jim Himnelsbach. Then mosey on down to Fla with some stops at a few fresh water lakes to exercise the Century (my "On Golden Pond boat"), which is on the top shelf of the stacker trailer.