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2024 UMI Autocross Challenge Recap
The 8th annual UMI Autocross Challenge, presented by Visit Clearfield County, took place from August 25-27, 2024, at the scenic UMI Motorsports Park. With perfect weather and thrilling competition, the event once again showcased the camaraderie that UMIMP is known for, leaving both competitors and fans with unforgettable memories.
Kickoff Weekend
The festivities kicked off on Thursday with the traditional registration pizza party, followed by a track walk and relaxing campfires in the camper lot. This calm before the action allowed friends—both old and new—to gather together and strategize their racing plans for Friday morning.
Friday’s Thrills
Friday featured a course designed by Roger Irvine, which received rave reviews from participants. Descriptions like “fun,” “flowing,” “fast,” and “a blast to drive” were common among racers. The day saw mostly clean runs, with the exception of a minor spin by Joey Eichelman in NASCAR Turn 1. Though his crew attempted repairs, they ultimately had to call it a day. By the end of Friday, a total of 128 cars had taken their turns on the motorsports complex located atop Mt Zion in Clearfield County.
This year introduced a new Sport class, which combined elements from both Muscle on the Mountain and King of the Mountain events. The addition proved popular, fostering close competition that is sure to continue in future challenges.
Friday night was filled with community fun at the Finish Line Pavilion, presented by A+ Powder Coaters.
The Emily Whitehead Foundation held a bake sale along with other raffles and prizes during the event. EWF supports pediatric cancer charities and other local causes. In this instance, both EWF and UMI’s fantastic group of racers and friends came together to raise $6,900 to aid local father, Nate Wooster, in his battle with brain cancer. Our support and prayers are with him and his family during this difficult time.
Saturday Highlights
Saturday morning kicked off with a driver meeting that acknowledged racers who have attended every autocross challenge. Honorees included Eric Hjelm, Kenny Goodman, Mike Goodman, John Norton, Rob Beck, Gary Hatfield, Doug Lutes, David Redden, Derek Redden, Mike Stewart, David Pereira, and Steve Marshall. It’s a testament to their loyalty and passion for the sport.
Qualifying on Saturday showcased fierce competition with many top racers swapping positions throughout the day. After the dust settled on Roger’s Day 2 course, the field for the shootout was set with familiar favorites and a few surprises that kept everyone on their toes.
The After Dark Speed Shootout was undoubtedly the highlight of the afternoon. Drivers tackled the same Day 2 course but in an F1-style knockout format. The number of shootout entries depended on how many cars or trucks were in each class, making for an exciting and nail-biting experience as drivers raced against the clock.
2024 Autocross Challenge Winners
Sport Class Winners
Class Sponsor: Gordon Automotive Specialties
Truck Class Winners
Class Sponsor: Level 7 MotorsportsChampion Interviews
MOTM Interviews
King of the Mountain Golden Ticket WinnersÂ
Early: Larry Wolfe
Super Late: Jansen Fischer
Sport: Karen Thomas
AXC 2024 Action Shots
Drone Coverage
Event drone footage and photography provided by AerialJimPA.
For individual driver drone footage visit their website.
- Uncategorized
- July 30, 2024
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