CLEARFIELD – The UMI Autocross Challenge, held on July 26-27, was a success with 90 competitors, which represented 13 U.S. states and Canada.
UMI joined forces with the Akron Sports Car Club to construct a challenging, 11-turn course that was complete with technical sections, fast sweepers, slaloms and heavy-braking zones.
When the tire smoke cleared, Justin Peachey of Manheim, Pa., claimed the overall victory with Jeremy McCauley of Altoona, Pa., nipping at his heels.
For the sixth consecutive year, the Emily Whitehead Foundation was on-hand with baked goods for sale, and both racers and fans dropped $20-dollar bills for a cookie to support the cause.
When word spread to track sponsor, Viking Performance, a $2,500 donation was phoned in, in exchange for a plate of brownies baked by Emily’s grandma.
Another charity, which was supported for the second consecutive year, was the Western Pennsylvania Chapter of the ALS Association.
Funds were raised by what has become known as “the swear bucket” and to which racers contribute after spinning out or blasting through cones.
Though organizers aren’t sure what bad words were said, the funds will help those affected by ALS. Racers dropped $100-dollar bills, in addition to donations from vendors, race teams and spectators.
Several side challenges were also matched and when the dust settled, the Emily Whitehead Foundation and ALS Association could count on receiving nearly $7,000.
During the awards, UMI auctioned off an invite to its King of the Mountain event in August. Brad Long of Gallitzin won with his $1,300 bid; then, he put Jeremy McCauley in the driver seat.
If McCauley wins the $10,000 at KOTM, both said the funds will benefit spina bifida research. Organizers said they look forward to another race and charity blitz Aug. 23-24.