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Send us a text A $125 turbo, a rulebook, and a pile of blown parts shouldn’t add up to a Bonneville 200 MPH Club record—unless you’re Ross Powers. We sit down with Ross to chart his path from slow-but-stubborn drag passes on a Harley Sportster to a J-Class Lakester and a one-liter combo that set a 255 MPH record. The story is equal parts grit and guidance: mentors who open doors, a culture that treats records as borrowed trophies, and a set of principles that turn budget builds into bulletproof runs. Ross breaks down the physics that matter on salt—why suspension beats rigidity, where to add weight so the tires stay loaded, and how “real redline” is the point where power fades, not a number on a dial. He shares the pivot from fragile five-mile motors to durable 30-mile engines, the discipline of keeping a rookie pass under 200 in a car that wants to sprint in first, and the aerodynamic truth that lets small displacement punch far above its weight. If you’ve wondered how a tiny J Blown Fuel Lakester can deliver big speeds, this is your field guide. We also talk about the heart of land speed racing: rebuilding after crashes, honoring friends like John Boy, and inviting new people to trade spectating for staging lanes. From 130 and 150 clubs to smarter classes and better storytelling, Ross lays out practical ways to grow the sport without losing its soul. Along the way come the pit stories—dumpster fairings, rattle-can paint names, and the kind of gallows humor that makes week-long meets feel like family. Subscribe for more Land Speed Legends, share this one with a friend who loves fast problem-solving, and leave a review with your favorite takeaway. What lesson will you try on your next build? Support the show

Send us a text The salt doesn’t care about your plans, your budget, or your last name—and that’s exactly why Danny Thompson keeps coming back. From a childhood ban on racing to a 448 mph average in Challenger 2, Danny walks us through the moments that shaped him: motocross grit, off‑road savvy, open‑wheel precision, and the quiet craft of fabrication that keeps fast ideas alive. We get into the early hooks—Mustangs on the 10‑mile circle, a red hat in a lakester, and a Mustang flight that turned seven end‑over‑ends into a lesson on composure. Then the long game: resurrecting Mickey Thompson’s 1968 streamliner with almost no money, sending thousands of sponsor pitches, and learning, run by run, what Bonneville expects from a team. The details are raw and specific, from fire bottles fogging a visor at 400 mph to the split‑second choice to throttle through a yawing 450 mph return, securing a 448 average and settling a 48‑year family benchmark. We also celebrate the culture that makes this place different. Records are targets, not trophies; rivals call to congratulate; and a seven‑cylinder hack can topple a Vesco mark by 34 mph before an A motor goes in for the next hunt. Danny shares why he retired and sold Challenger 2 to clear debts, how Ferguson’s streamliner rekindled the chase, and where the dream points now: a three‑part Stand on the Gas series to fund and frame a shot at 500 mph in a piston‑powered Challenger 3. If Bonneville matters to you—its history, its people, and its fragile surface—this conversation is a map of what it takes to turn legacy into action. Subscribe, share with a friend who loves fast machines, and leave a review telling us: do you think a 500 mph piston car is within reach? Support the show

Send us a text The unsung heroes of motorsports often operate just beyond the spotlight, their critical work making high-speed glory possible while ensuring competitors return safely. Monte Widdison stands as a perfect example – the tall, calm presence who's been the last person thousands of racers see before accelerating down Bonneville's Salt Flats. For over 30 years, Monte has served as head starter for the Utah Salt Flats Racing Association, developing an approach to safety that racers credit with saving their lives. When Bob Dalton survived a 400+ mph crash, his first words to Monty were, "You saved my life," crediting the meticulous way Monty had tightened his safety belts. Similar testimonials from other survivors highlight how essential this final safety check truly is. Beyond starting duties, Monte helped revolutionized course preparation techniques at Bonneville. He reveals the secrets of identifying the optimal salt surface (not bright white but a harder, grayish-opaque salt), creating perfectly straight courses using distant mountains as reference points, and preparing racers mentally for their runs. His insights into salt conditions and driving techniques provide rare, practical wisdom for anyone fascinated by land speed racing. The stories Monte shares – from Bobby Unser initially resisting safety checks until Monte discovered his unlatched shoulder strap, to calming nervous racers with breathing exercises, to his adventures with temperamental course-dragging vehicles – paint a vivid picture of Bonneville's unique culture and challenges. They reveal how seemingly small details and procedures become life-critical when vehicles are exceeding speeds of 200 MPH plus. Whether you're a land speed racing enthusiast, a motorsports fan, or simply curious about the extraordinary people behind extraordinary achievements, this conversation offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of those who make record speeds possible – one safety check, one mile of perfectly prepared salt at a time. Support the show

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Send us a text The episode explores the critical state of the Bonneville Salt Flats, detailing its history, the effects of mining, and the community's fight for its preservation through initiatives like Save the Salt. The Legendary Larry Volk shares insights on the challenges posed by land use and the necessity for collective action to restore the flats for future generations.  • Historical context of potash mining  • Environmental impact of brine withdrawal  • Formation of Save the Salt Coalition  • Challenges with federal and local authorities  • Importance of raising public awareness  • Future strategies for salt restoration  • Emotional connections to the salt flats  • Call for collective community action Support the show

Send us a text Ever wondered what it takes to transition from the waves of offshore powerboat racing to the straight-line adrenaline rush of land speed racing? Join us as we chat with Andrew Sinclair, a racing enthusiast from New Zealand, whose narrative is a tapestry woven with the threads of his father's legacy, personal perseverance, and a love for speed. From exhilarating beach buggy rides to powerboat triumphs, Andrew's journey into racing is nothing short of inspiring. You'll hear about his family's racing traditions and how economic hurdles shaped, but never extinguished, his unyielding passion for the sport. Andrew's story takes us deeper into the world of racing when he shares how a serendipitous meeting at a powerboat event led to new endeavors on the track. His adventure unfolds with thrilling tales from the Bonneville Salt Flats, where the mystique of land speed racing captivated his imagination. Andrew and his team embarked on an ambitious project to transform a beloved Valiant Charger into a racing marvel, tackling the challenges of car fabrication and navigating unexpected detours like the global pandemic. As they faced each obstacle, the spirit of teamwork and community within the racing world shone brightly. Our conversation not only explores the technical intricacies and logistical feats involved in racing but also delves into the camaraderie and resilience of Andrew's team. From the meticulous process of transporting a racing car across oceans to the trials on the track, Andrew's experiences reveal the highs and lows of their racing endeavors, including a dramatic 250 mph spin and a triumphant return to the speedway. This episode is a profound look at the passion and dedication that drives motorsport enthusiasts to push the boundaries of what's possible, bringing home lessons on perseverance and the power of dreams. Support the show

Send us a text What happens when a casual encounter at a bar ignites a lifelong passion for land speed racing and The Bonneville Salt Flats? Meet our legendary guest, Pam Curtis Olson, who transformed from a racing novice to accomplished racer on the Bonneville salt flats. Pam's journey is a tale of bold spirit and unyielding determination, seasoned with humor and the camaraderie of the racing community. Her daring request to race Terry Nish's streamliner lead Pam on the journey of a lifetime! Not only did she earn entrance into the Bonneville 200 MPH Club she discovered the joy and friendships found in land speed racing. Join us as we recount Pam's thrilling pursuit of driving in both a roadster and streamliner.  Experience the rookie mistakes, the adrenaline rushes, and the triumphant moments of nailing that perfect run. With anecdotes of close-knit racer camaraderie and the unique challenges of different racing vehicles, Pam's tale is filled with humor, resilience, and the thrill of risk-taking. Relive her record-breaking runs and discover the transformative power of community and shared passion on the salt. This is a celebration of racing legends, unexpected beginnings, and the relentless pursuit of speed and excellence. Support the show

Send us a text Join us as Wayne Yurtin, the rising star of Bonneville's land speed racing scene, takes us on a thrilling journey fueled by his lifelong passion for speed and mechanics. From his BMX beginnings to mastering the racetrack with Formula Fords and Formula Mazdas, Wayne's story is one of relentless pursuit and love for racing. His early fascination with speed legends like the Blue Flame and Gary Gablich sowed the seeds for his ambitious feats at Bonneville. Hear how his transition from a successful software career to restoring classic cars, including the iconic 1963 split-window Corvette, led him to the National Corvette Restorer Society and eventually to the Bonneville Salt Flats. Listeners will be captivated by Wayne's quest to break the 235 MPH barrier at both Bonneville and El Mirage, facing the unique challenges that come with land speed racing. Discover the critical role of wind tunnel testing in overcoming aerodynamic hurdles and the excitement of setting a new speed record while experiencing the camaraderie of the racing community. Wayne's journey is not just about speed; it's about the personal milestones and the sheer exhilaration of pushing the limits, promising an inspiring and spirited narrative for all speed enthusiasts. Support the show

Send us a text What ignites a lifelong passion for speed? Let's journey back to the late 1950s and early 1960s, where a 1940 Ford coupe sparked an unquenchable thirst for racing. From joining the Roadrunner's Car Club to the electrifying moment of witnessing Mickey Thompson's streamliner at Bonneville in 1959, we explore the early days of land speed racing. Hear about the camaraderie and the challenges faced during those formative years, racing at the lakes and then moving on to the Bonneville Salt Flats. Ever wondered what it takes to build a high-powered engine that can break records? In this episode, we recount the thrilling experience of creating a "Frankenstein" engine in 1967, with invaluable help from Ack Miller and Art Chrisman. Discover how a homemade fuel injection system and meticulous tweaking led to an impressive 466 horsepower, ultimately resulting in a record-setting run at Bonneville. The story doesn't stop there; we delve into the late 60s and early 70s, recounting the achievements with a 29' Roadster and a Pontiac Trans Am that became the first door slammer to break a record over 300 MPH! But land speed racing is more than just the pursuit of records; it's about innovation and community. We discuss transitioning into custom car production, detailing the creation of unique metal-bodied cars inspired by 1932 Roadsters. Learn how a thriving component shop evolved into building the sought after Muroc Roadsters that led to building a street legal race car that drove to Bonneville and then raced over 200 MPH there. This episode is a tribute to the legacy, innovation, and community spirit that define the exhilarating world of land speed racing. Join us for a celebration of speed, passion, and the bonds formed on the track. Support the show

Send us a text Tim Confal began his racing career with a '69 Camaro in the San Fernando Valley in the late 70's which evolved to drag racing a fuel altered. While drag racing, he met Roger Gate and Bill Ward and started crewing on their streamliner at El Mirage and the Bonneville Salt Flats. Tim ended up running his own car, the memorable front engine Lakester named Myrtle.  Tim entered the Bonneville 200 MPH Club in 1989 driving an Opal GT. He connected with Bob Noice, and they began racing roadsters which led to the creation of the iconic Noicemaker roadster. The Noicemaker tragically crashed in 1989. Luckily the driver was not hurt badly but their bond and love for racing endured as they rebuilt another roadster and faced the challenges of the Double A Blown Gas Roadster class. His decision to eventually step away from racing highlights the emotional and physical toll that managing such a demanding sport can take. Finally, immerse yourself in the world of hot rodding and high-speed racing with stories that capture the unpredictable nature of the sport. From handling a Blown Fuel Lakester that is leaking nitro to crashing in an Opal over 200MPH, this episode delves into the thrill, danger, and determination that define racing excellence.  Support the show

Send us a text THE LEGENDARY LARRY ERICKSON is a passionate automotive enthusiast who first found himself at the Bonneville Salt Flats during a college break. Alone at Speed Week with just a sleeping bag in his El Camino, he began sketching the impressive vehicles he encountered. His artistic talents didn't go unnoticed, sparking connections with fellow racers and enthusiasts, and leading to him designing some iconic Speed Week posters. Larry's early experiences evolved into a fascinating career in hotrod and car design. Designing cars for notable figures like Billy Gibbons, Larry goes through the creative processes behind some of his design vehicles such as Gibbon's Cadzilla and Coddington's Aluma Coupe. Listen as he recounts his personal experiences building a roadster for the Grand National Roadster Show and the unique partnerships that have fueled his passion for automotive design. Listen to Larry's takes on some of his favorite land speed cars and motorcycles. His views on these cars are fascinating from a design point of view. His love for land speed and its cars did not stop with his admiration for them. He eventually designed his own and very beautiful roadster which is featured on this year's Speedweek Poster.  Support the show

Send us a text THE LEGENDARY DANNY BURROW is just a good old boy from the heartland who happens to go really fast! He went from driving trucks for George Poteet to driving George's Blown Fuel Comp Coup "The Blowfish" over 300 MPH! Danny gained memebership in the Bonneville 200 MPH Club in 2010 and later on earned the 300 MPH Chapter blue hat. Danny is probably the only LAND SPEED LEGEND to get a street named after them because of their land speed accomplishments! This is an entertaining interview that proves racing is more fun with friends! Support the show

Send us a text THE LEGENDARY WILLIE FREUDIGER made his first trip to Bonneville with his dad when he was 11 years old. Now, one of the few 3rd generational racers the Freudiger name is a well established and respected land speed racing name. Willie is wild, loves nitro and is the go to guy if you need someone to drive your ride. But most of all, he is a man who wants to see others succeed in land speed racing. Willie and the other Freudigers are the epitomy of what a land speed racing is about! Support the show

Send us a text THE LEGENDARY DAVE DAVIDSON is probably best known for being the first person to go 300 MPH in a roadster! Going 300 MPH in a highboy is as impressive as Dave is. Dave grew up wild and free on a ranch in California. He wanted a motorcycle when he was young but his mother would not allow it so instead he  began small town drag racing (at a much too young age) and his need for speed never stopped from there! Dave upgraded from illegal drag racing to sanctioned events, he finally got to race that motorcycle and he made land speed history with his historic 300 MPH ride. Three words to describe THE LEGENDARY DAVE DAVIDSON: humble, genuine and a badass! Support the show

Send us a text THE LEGENDARY FRANK SILVA'S first trip to  the Bonneville Salt Flats was with his dad when he was seventeen years old. That year they came out as spectators but it didn't last long and within a few years they were wrenching and racing the Got Salt Lakester. Frank's dad, Frank Sr., took six years to get a record in that car but it only took the junior Frank one! Unfortunely, his dad had passed away by the time he gothis record that earned him entry into the 300 MPH Chapter of Bonneville 200 MPH Club . Frank describes that year as "Fairy tale year" as he set  a record and spread his dad's ashes over the salt. Frank is one of the most enegetic, genuine and humble guys out on the salt and it makes for a great interview! Support the show