Finally, after enduring periodic rainouts and even a snowout in 2007, HPP Day at E-town was moved from the volatile weather of early April to the summertime. The result for the June 28, 2008, event was a fantastic day of racing and showing Pontiacs at one of the East Coast's premier facilities-Raceway Park in Englishtown, New Jersey.
For those dedicated hobbyists who've stuck it out through the bad weather and the makeup shows and makeup races over the years and continue to participate in this show-and-go extravaganza, I thank you for your loyalty. And those who've strayed? It's time to come back, as there are few things in life more enjoyable than spending a warm summer day amongst friends while you collect awards on the show field, on the strip, or both.
This year was one of the best events yet, with 5 race classes and 14 show classes full of every Pontiac you can imagine-and some you haven't. Many participants chose to compete in both events, thereby taking full advantage of their Pontiacs' dual personalities. A large contingent of late-model GTOs that was in attendance is a perfect example. It's always fun to see dial-ins on windows in the show field.
This unrestored '62 SD race...
This unrestored '62 SD race car drew lots of attention. Owner Ken Colacino says, "Big Thunder was originally delivered to Hutchinson Pontiac in Rouses Point, New York. I purchased it from Richard Compton of Ovid, New York, back in 2002. Originally an Aqua car, code QQ, it now sports the vintage Fireball Roberts colors. Old timeslips left in the glovebox have the big Pontiac running a best of 12.09 at 135.35 mph at Capitol Raceway when Jim Fikes owned it. Big Thunder still retains the aluminum front end and bumpers, and was also built with 8-Lugs. The original trans with the VIN stamped on top and original rearend are still with the car."
"The original SD block and...
"The original SD block and other parts were borrowed by hobbyist Dave Howard," Ken says. "He relocated to Panama City, Florida, and while I was negotiating the purchase of these items, he passed away. His wife then sold the parts locally. I'm looking for info, old photos, and the original 421 SD block, VIN 76778 from this car. I had planned to do a frame-off, but from the response it got at Pontiac Day, I might put together a 421 SD engine and race Big Thunder just the way it is. That is, after I get the SD Grand Prix running." You can contact Ken at kcal69@hotmail.com with any info regarding his SD Cat.
Luis Vagueiro has a running...
Luis Vagueiro has a running reduced-scale replica of his '84 Fiero that is modeled here by a family member.
Michael Spatola's newly restored...
Michael Spatola's newly restored R/A-III '69 Judge deservedly took Best of Show Stock at this year's event.
Once the judges completed...
Once the judges completed the tally, show participants gathered 'round the HPP booth for the awards.
Best of Show Modified went...
Best of Show Modified went to Todd Levesque for his wild '00 T/A featuring Lambo doors, a blower, nitrous, and a host of other goodies. It graced the cover of HPP's Dec. '08 issue.
John Whooleys' polishing paid...
John Whooleys' polishing paid off, as his '01 WS6 T/A took Second Place in the "All Modified Firebird '93 to Present" class.