Landracing Forum

East Coast Timing Association => ECTA General Chat => Topic started by: Seldom Seen Slim on January 30, 2011, 06:35:20 PM

Title: Important ECTA notice
Post by: Seldom Seen Slim on January 30, 2011, 06:35:20 PM: A Note from the East Coast Timing Association

For the 2011 Maxton Race Season, the ECTA has come to an agreement with the Gryphon Group which will allow us to continue the use of the Runway through the October Event.

It is the position of the Gryphon group that 2012 will see an increase in their training and traffic which will require them to fully use their leased area. In other words, they have written us a letter stating that it is their intent not to allow us any further use of the facility in 2012. During our meeting we agreed to look at possible ways to continue in 2012. The ECTA will continue to try and work with the Gryphon group as we move through this year.

At our Board of Directors Meeting held last August, we mapped out a plan to find other possible sites to create a traveling series. This Plan was to have a couple of events in the deep south in winter, moving to a mid-states for early spring and late fall and a northern mid-summer event. We have been actively searching x-military airbases and have a couple of possibilities in the works. If you are aware of sites that have 2 miles of undisturbed runways, please let us know about them. The ECTA has no plans on 'going away' but it will be different.

We collectively need to work together to insure our 2011 season at Maxton is successful by not interfering or disturbing their training facilities. Upon arrival at Maxton, you will be given a map of the off limits areas and no matter how tempting it might be to play in them.... it will be our responsibility to keep our people out of these area's... our pit area will change and you can expect to see those changes at the Gate as you enter. The Gate will open on Friday morning at 9 am.

Thank you for your continued support,
East Coast Timing Association Staff
Joe, Donna, Keith and Tonya
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: WildBro on January 30, 2011, 07:25:07 PM: I defiantly see this as a big opportunity for the ECTA to expand and grow to the next level.

Bill
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: Seldom Seen Slim on January 30, 2011, 07:30:25 PM: Good attitude, Bill. Then there's the not-so-good thought -- that it is going to take a whole heck of a lot of work to make the Ass'n grow -- and remember, Joe/Donna/Keith/Tonya have not only jobs - but lives, too. Expect that more than a few racers are going to have to step up their level of activity to make the thing work, to help it grow.

But still -- you're right -- it's definitely an opportunity. I'm not sure if it defiantly is, but then, what ever is?
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: sabat on January 30, 2011, 09:04:18 PM: Wow, big changes. Loring could become a points event perhaps.

Best of luck to the Turkneys :-D I will help in any way I can.

Dean
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: 116ciHemi on January 30, 2011, 09:26:42 PM: Best of luck to them. Hey Slim, are you familiar with the airport in Oscoda?
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: Seldom Seen Slim on January 30, 2011, 09:28:40 PM: Nope -- heard of the town, of course, but that's all. Why -- you thinking of starting an international airline based there?
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: DanMay1776 on January 30, 2011, 10:10:10 PM: First of all, I want to thank Joe, Donna, Keith and Tonya and everyone else who makes Maxton happen. I can only imagine the amount of work that goes into putting on the multiple ECTA events each year at Maxton. Having said that, in my mind the ECTA is the people not the venue, and if it has to move I believe the ECTA will survive.

What is the current status on Wilmington Airport ? Just throwing in my vote for something in the Midwest...

And looking forward to a good 2011 season at Maxton.
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: BAD-JAG on January 30, 2011, 10:28:22 PM: Need a new airport venue that's 2 miles long (smooth as silk) and in the deep south?

Sounds like Miami (it's in Florida) to me!
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: 116ciHemi on January 30, 2011, 11:21:46 PM: Quote from: Seldom Seen Slim on January 30, 2011, 09:28:40 PM
Nope -- heard of the town, of course, but that's all. Why -- you thinking of starting an international airline based there?

No. Dad had mentioned seeing some race cars using the runway once. I know that you have looked around some of Michigan's Airports before, I didn't know if Wurtsmith had ever come up before. I also know that the biggest business on the field is operated by a guy who is probably pretty friendly to motorsports- Conrad Kalitta.
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: 55chevr on January 31, 2011, 06:30:59 AM: This is not good news. The entire basis of land speed racing east of the Mississippi is ECTA. Excepting a single event in the far north east part of Maine which is quite a distance for most of the ECTA participants. We have to hope for some compromise at Maxton.
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: DKA on January 31, 2011, 08:02:21 AM: After a couple of years hiatus doing other motor sports, I am returning this year to the ECTA. The location is great for me (2 hours away), so I'm going to miss that if it goes away. But whatever, or where ever it happens I'm hoping to be a part of it. I'm also willing to do what I can to help this organization through this transition period.

David Anderson
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: RansomT on January 31, 2011, 09:20:12 AM: Quote from: DanMay1776 on January 30, 2011, 10:10:10 PM
What is the current status on Wilmington Airport ?

Still in the very preliminary stages. The Port Authority has been contacted and a presentation given. No offical word from them.
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: geezer1 on January 31, 2011, 09:39:58 AM: Quote from: 116ciHemi on January 30, 2011, 11:21:46 PM
Quote from: Seldom Seen Slim on January 30, 2011, 09:28:40 PM
Nope -- heard of the town, of course, but that's all. Why -- you thinking of starting an international airline based there?

No. Dad had mentioned seeing some race cars using the runway once. I know that you have looked around some of Michigan's Airports before, I didn't know if Wurtsmith had ever come up before. I also know that the biggest business on the field is operated by a guy who is probably pretty friendly to motorsports- Conrad Kalitta.

Hello,
I spoke with a rep from Kallita, who hooked me up with the manager at Wurtsmith. Nice guy, very helpful - the bottom line is that it doesn't look like the facility will work out. They have 1 runway, it's still being used and would have to be cleared when a takeoff or landing occurred. And, there are restrictions on where cars, transporters and people can go.

If anyone finds any other info on Wurtsmith - I'd be glad to help follow up.
Geo Turner
Geezer Racing
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: Tman on January 31, 2011, 10:15:53 AM: Maybe something on this site will pan out

http://members.tripod.com/airfields_freeman/
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: entropy on January 31, 2011, 12:40:49 PM: Change afoot at Maxton? hmmmmmmmm....
Sure have had a great buncha events, maybe the airport will put off doing what they are doing?
The Couny keeps telling the Texas Mile Org that change in ownership is likely but it never seems to happen.

I'd say that the Miami venue is the sweetest strip of all, albeit a lil bit shorter than Loring.

Maybe Dade County would listen to Joe T's pitch.

It be a great place to go when everything up N is too cold to hold races.
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: Cajun Kid on January 31, 2011, 01:37:34 PM: At first glance this news SUCKS !!! Maxton and the ECTA is a home track and home club to many of us. The reality that this may be our Farewell season at Maxton is hard to imagine for many of us.. But this is not a farewell to the ECTA, this is hunker down and work together time ... time to help the ECTA expand and reinvent LSR east of the Mississippi.

I am sure the road ahead will not be easy, but most things worth doing are not easy.

Let's all DO OUR BEST to make our 2011 Season the Best, Fastest and Safest Season EVER.... if in fact 2011 is our last at Maxton,, lets leave with our spirits high, let's have record attendance and record crowds...

Who knows, we may not get 5 dates in 2012,,, but if we do right in 2011, we well may get 1 or 2 dates each year, or even a spring SPEED WEEK !!!

Just being positive... !!!!

See you all in April.

Charles
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: wheels777 on January 31, 2011, 02:00:55 PM: Wow I'm bummed. I just love that place.
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: Seldom Seen Slim on January 31, 2011, 02:08:01 PM: Just for the sake of telling the story correctly - as far as I know it, at least -- but it's Gryphon (company) that's imposing the restrictions, not the airport authority or anyone like the city or county. I'm guessing here -- Gryphon owns the north end of the parcel of property on which we've run and now they won't let us use it - although the 2011 season has been arranged, with some restrictions. Gryphon evidently owns the property in the center of the pits -- so we can't pit there this year. Joe Timney mentioned that we'll be setting up somewhere along the return road. And so on - the cities of Maxton and Laurinburg and the county and the various businesses - like restaurants and motels -- are going to try to help get us permission to race, too.

So - don't vent your anger, folks, at anyone but the causing firm, and don't vent at them/him, the owner -- 'cause the only thing that's likely to happen from him getting a good chewing-out on line is for him to revoke all and any permission to use his land this year, too.
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: Cajun Kid on January 31, 2011, 02:17:59 PM: SSS, well put,, and I agree,,, Record Turn Out will provide big boost's for the local Hotels, Stores, Stations, Restaurants etc... The only hope is they can exert some pressure.. There sure ain't alot going on down there, so our economic input 5 times a year has to be a PLUS...

All we can do is take the High Road and Support the ECTA right now.

Charles
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: BudJ63 on January 31, 2011, 03:34:22 PM: Signs of the times I guess. I too will be there as long as we are allowed usage.
I have looked around here in central and northern Florida for unused Airstrips and found a couple of possible venues.

NAS Cecil Field in Jacksonville Fla. was closed in 99. It is now owned by the city of Jacksonville and has 2.3mile runway (according to the Google Earth ruler). Wikipedia shows 3 runways all at 2.4miles and one at 3.8 miles.

Jacksonville
http://mapper.acme.com/?ll=30.218611,-81.876667&z=14&t=H&marker0=30.218611,-81.876667,Naval Air Station Cecil Field

MacDill AFB in Tampa was shutdown for awhile and then re-activated. I do know that MacDill has Airshows and other events throughout the year, so it may be something to look into. Their runway is 2 miles long. Shutdown after the 2 is up would be a bitch... runway ends at Tampa Bay.

MacDill
http://mapper.acme.com/?ll=27.849444,-82.521111&z=14&t=H&marker0=27.849444,-82.521111,MacDill Air Force Base

And.. A little info on the Gryphon Group. really don't need to piss them off!

http://www.gryphonsecurity.com/index_2.htm
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: WildBro on January 31, 2011, 04:03:31 PM: Quote from: BudJ63 on January 31, 2011, 03:34:22 PM
Signs of the times I guess. I too will be there as long as we are allowed usage.
I have looked around here in central and northern Florida for unused Airstrips and found a couple of possible venues.

NAS Cecil Field in Jacksonville Fla. was closed in 99. It is now owned by the city of Jacksonville and has 2.3mile runway (according to the Google Earth ruler). Wikipedia shows 3 runways all at 2.4miles and one at 3.8 miles.

Jacksonville
http://mapper.acme.com/?ll=30.218611,-81.876667&z=14&t=H&marker0=30.218611,-81.876667,Naval Air Station Cecil Field

MacDill AFB in Tampa was shutdown for awhile and then re-activated. I do know that MacDill has Airshows and other events throughout the year, so it may be something to look into. Their runway is 2 miles long. Shutdown after the 2 is up would be a bitch... runway ends at Tampa Bay.

MacDill
http://mapper.acme.com/?ll=27.849444,-82.521111&z=14&t=H&marker0=27.849444,-82.521111,MacDill Air Force Base

And.. A little info on the Gryphon Group. really don't need to Plymouth them off!

http://www.gryphonsecurity.com/index_2.htm

Good info.
3.8 miles :cheers: Im in!
I think I could make it accross the bay to my house from Macdill if I had enough speed :evil:

Bill
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: KeithTurk on January 31, 2011, 04:05:01 PM: Thanks to all of you for your support .... Like you, we dig this place.... it's been our home for 17 yrs.... but we always knew this was a possiblility.. just part of the bigger picture... The airport authority has to make a living... and they have always said they would try to lease it long term...

The answer is it costs 1/4 million a year for a long term lease... and Gryphon has already signed that... so we're done, Unless of course our hero's there at Gryphon decide it's in their interest to continue working with us. Our hope is that by doing good work and taking care of the facility we can move forward and insure that the 2011 season comes off without a hitch... Sometime in the middle of this year or later we'll look at maybe a reduced schedule or some other kind of arrangement with them.... doesn't look good...

What does look good is that we're going to find something better.... that simple... there's a village out there looking for it's idiots and we frankly have the ability to fill that bill.......

Life is GOOD....

Keith
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: WOODY@DDLLC on January 31, 2011, 05:16:01 PM: Sean Roberts has posted a new site for comments about the possible Wilmington LSR event. I have made it known to him that I would like to see it follow the ECTA format vs. the TX mile format. Let him know at www dot wilmingtonmile dot com. Loring, Maxton and Wilmington series!?!? :-o
Besides it's only a 26 mile drive for me! :-D
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: Chris Horoho on January 31, 2011, 05:42:28 PM: anyone thought about here?
i know they have used it once in a while for some import road racing??

http://maps.google.com/maps?oe=utf-8&client=firefox-a&ie=UTF8&q=grissom+afb&fb=1&gl=us&hq=grissom+afb&hnear=Greentown,+IN+46936&cid=0,0,16398859028899941393&ll=40.647564,-86.14912&spn=0.030673,0.075788&t=h&z=14

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grissom_Joint_Air_Reserve_Base

3.8 miles long
not sure if still doing to events anymore but always worth a try ??
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: 55chevr on January 31, 2011, 05:46:43 PM: Grissom appears active military reserves ... that won't work ...
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: Chris Horoho on January 31, 2011, 05:57:38 PM: Quote from: 55chevr on January 31, 2011, 05:46:43 PM
Grissom appears active military reserves ... that won't work ...
sorry
i knew they would do events there in the racing industry once in a while
its a reserve air force
it doesnt get a lot of air traffic that i see (in-laws live in the housing on the property)
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: Cajun Kid on January 31, 2011, 06:10:49 PM: Jacksonville Fl. NAS Cecil Field has 4 runways.

2 North/South one is 12,500 ft long the other is 8,000
and 2 East/West both 8,000 ft long.

Last used in 1999, they should be in decent shape,,, the 12,500 ft long runway would sure provide all the length we need and it's parallel 8,000 ft runway would sure make a nice pit area ???

Charles
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: roadracer on January 31, 2011, 07:19:26 PM: Quote from: BudJ63 on January 31, 2011, 03:34:22 PM
Signs of the times I guess. I too will be there as long as we are allowed usage.
I have looked around here in central and northern Florida for unused Airstrips and found a couple of possible venues.

NAS Cecil Field in Jacksonville Fla. was closed in 99. It is now owned by the city of Jacksonville and has 2.3mile runway (according to the Google Earth ruler). Wikipedia shows 3 runways all at 2.4miles and one at 3.8 miles.

Jacksonville
http://mapper.acme.com/?ll=30.218611,-81.876667&z=14&t=H&marker0=30.218611,-81.876667,Naval Air Station Cecil Field

MacDill AFB in Tampa was shutdown for awhile and then re-activated. I do know that MacDill has Airshows and other events throughout the year, so it may be something to look into. Their runway is 2 miles long. Shutdown after the 2 is up would be a bitch... runway ends at Tampa Bay.

MacDill
http://mapper.acme.com/?ll=27.849444,-82.521111&z=14&t=H&marker0=27.849444,-82.521111,MacDill Air Force Base

And.. A little info on the Gryphon Group. really don't need to Plymouth them off!

http://www.gryphonsecurity.com/index_2.htm

As a retired Naval Aviation gut, I spent a lot of time at Cecil Field. The surface was smooth and in great shape. Florida in the winter sounds great to me. Longer trip, bit you go where the racing is.
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: LSR Mike on February 01, 2011, 11:09:15 AM: Quote from: KeithTurk on January 31, 2011, 04:05:01 PM
Thanks to all of you for your support .... Like you, we dig this place.... it's been our home for 17 yrs.... but we always knew this was a possiblility.. just part of the bigger picture... The airport authority has to make a living... and they have always said they would try to lease it long term...

The answer is it costs 1/4 million a year for a long term lease... and Gryphon has already signed that... so we're done, Unless of course our hero's there at Gryphon decide it's in their interest to continue working with us. Our hope is that by doing good work and taking care of the facility we can move forward and insure that the 2011 season comes off without a hitch... Sometime in the middle of this year or later we'll look at maybe a reduced schedule or some other kind of arrangement with them.... doesn't look good...

What does look good is that we're going to find something better.... that simple... there's a village out there looking for it's idiots and we frankly have the ability to fill that bill.......

Life is GOOD....

Keith

should we as a group start lobbying the Gryphon management on our behalf? telling them what a good neighbor they would be for letting us continue? are they a member of the local chamber of commerce? they should have an opinion about us not being there after 2011, that $250,000 isn't going to them.

you get more flies with sugar than you do with vinegar!
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: Moxnix on February 01, 2011, 11:21:46 AM: http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&g eocode=&q=Golden+Gate,+FL&aq=&sll=37.0625,-95.6770 68&sspn=30.599615,85.869141&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Gold en+Gate,+Collier,+Florida&ll=26.167995,-81.500187& spn=0.033818,0.083857&t=h&z=14

Naples, Florida: Harley Naples Evaluation Center property. It's been closed for over a year and the staff laid off. It looks like a 2 mile straight, huh? In a flood plane, so no houses nearby. Perhaps they would consider some sort of arrangement?

Embed fail. Try again--

http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&g eocode=&q=Golden+Gate,+FL&aq=&sll=37.0625,-95.6770 68&sspn=30.599615,85.869141&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Gold en+Gate,+Collier,+Florida&ll=26.167995,-81.500187& spn=0.033818,0.083857&t=h&z=14

Crap. Anyway, it can be seen on the county assessor's aerial photos.
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: Moxnix on February 01, 2011, 02:07:00 PM: From a former Buell enginer--

Straight is 2.0 miles long with no run off on either end. Gators come out of the swamp most afternoons and lay just off the pavment on the north end.

Black bears cross the track wedensday mornings (garbage day). Deer on occasions before dusk.

It was a very professionaly run facility, the employees were top notch. Ford owned it prior to HD.
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: runt13 on February 01, 2011, 05:21:13 PM: i was talking to brook mc cabe from colliers harley davidson today, i mentioned that i was going to maxton for my first time this year. we chatted it up for almost an hr. i mentioned that maxton may have to move for next year.

he said they just finished a new airport in halifax county. and that the old halifax airport has been vacant for a little over a year. he also mentioned that there were new hangers and building built in the last 5 years. he is going to see if he can get anymore info on it but this is what i got

the old halifax airport, near roanoke rapids nc. its not much, but its a start.

i will keep any information i get flowing.

runt
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: sailingadventure on February 01, 2011, 05:42:53 PM: Well, I really hate to hear this news, I guess I`ll have to work a little faster if I`m going to race this year.
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: mtkawboy on February 01, 2011, 06:51:00 PM: Prior to that, bales of a tobacco like substance used to fall out of the sky there from time to time from our Columbian friends to the south :roll:
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: Dan Stokes on February 01, 2011, 07:00:26 PM: I've just started gathering preliminary info but there may be another couple of possible NC locations. There's an abandoned WWII strip near Wilmington, NC that was used for drag racing at one time. I know an old-timer (even older than Me!) who will have more info. I'm playing phone tag right now.

Also, Dave Maty says Kinston may have an appropriate facility. Evidently they had commercial aviation but that's fallen by the wayside. I'm hoping Dave is looking into that one.

Bottom line - there ARE alternatives. The Wilmington, NC one would, of course, be WAY cool for me but Wilmington, OH could work, too. We'll just have to see how it all shakes out.

At the risk of sucking up a bit, let me say "THANKS!" to Keith, Joe, Tonya and Donna. I've looked behind the curtain a bit and I can assure you that we have NO idea of what it takes to pull these meets off. As said, if we're going to have to become a wandering band of racing gypsies we're all going to have to kick in even more or it just can't happen. It always seems a bit odd when they honor the volunteers at the banquet when it should be US honoring THEM!

Dan
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: bearingburner on February 01, 2011, 07:49:16 PM: After working 10 years on our lakester ,we are planning to run Maxton this Year. The loss of this site will be a real bummer for me,Like finding out there is no Santa Clause in November.
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: 116ciHemi on February 01, 2011, 07:56:51 PM: So, one idea that is perhaps really off the wall- what about an event on ice? I know of plenty of lakes large enough to support shutdown from 150+. If they can do it in Sweden, why not here? I'd do it.
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: Milwaukee Midget on February 01, 2011, 08:06:19 PM: I seem to recall the old Chrysler proving grounds having a 2 mile straight away. Do they use it on weekends? Do they rent it out?
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: iamflagman on February 01, 2011, 09:57:12 PM: Kieth,

Have you thought about going back to Spence Airport at Moultrie, GA?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spence_Airport
(http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spence_Airport)

Isn't that where the ECTA first held races, they seem to be real car friendly there with the big Annual Automotive Swapmeet.

http://www.moultrieswapmeet.com/ (http://www.moultrieswapmeet.com/)
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: Dan Stokes on February 01, 2011, 10:03:48 PM: I haven't worked for or with the OEMs for years and the financial times have changed. I used to work for the GMPG and they have two possible straightaways. I'm not as familiar with the Chrysler facility (although I have toured it) but I'm sure you're right. Ford Romeo (the Packard PG) probably has facilities, too.

There's certainly no harm in asking but here's what I think you'll find:
1) Security is TIGHT at these facilities. They're paranoid about industrial spying and guard all secrets (real and imagined) jealously.
2) Traditionally they are in use 24/7, more or less 365 days a year. So there are not likely to be any available dates.
3) Any damage, either to the facility or to any test equipment (including vehicles) is something they will not sustain.

I've never heard of these places being open to the public in any form, although I've heard that they have recently started renting to THEIR suppliers (Dana, for example). Not sure this would apply to an outside organization.

All this said, there's no harm in asking.

Dan
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: javajoe79 on February 01, 2011, 11:38:17 PM: Sorry to hear this. Here's to a great last year at Maxton and may many records fall! :cheers: See you all in April
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: KeithTurk on February 02, 2011, 12:20:15 AM: Right now .... rallying on our behalf wouldn't be productive....

Keep the alternate sites coming.... Maxton will take care of itself in time.... this guy won't be there forever.... he's just there now...

K
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: LSR Mike on February 02, 2011, 08:33:59 AM: Quote from: KeithTurk on February 02, 2011, 12:20:15 AM
Right now .... rallying on our behalf wouldn't be productive....

this guy won't be there forever.... he's just there now...

K

Good point Keith, temporary unavailability...
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: roadracer on February 02, 2011, 10:31:00 AM: I saw a mention of the old Halifax County airport. I will do some checking, but my recolection is it is short. Something like the little regional field we have in Granville County. The Global Transpark in Kinston didn't take off at all, but there are more businesses moving in there related to the building of the Air Forces new tanker, so there is more traffic. Pre 9-11 we closed the field at Oceana for a weekend to allow SCCA racing on the strips. I'm sure that is out these days. Not sure if the Navy closed Merridian, Mississippi or not. I"m sure we all will keep looking.
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: Captthundarr on February 02, 2011, 11:11:11 AM: Donaldson Center in Greenville, SC might be an option. It's a little short at 8,000 ft. but might be able to make it work. just gotta hang a bigger anchor on it.

To echo Mr. Turks point, this guy is in the secuity bizz and dont what to be bothered by a bunch of go fasters. he won't be there forever.
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: LittleLiner on February 02, 2011, 01:12:36 PM: Last space shuttle mission is this year . . .

Shuttle landing field at KSC is 15000 feet long.

Anybody know someone high-up in NASA?
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: sockjohn on February 02, 2011, 01:42:26 PM: Quote from: LittleLiner on February 02, 2011, 01:12:36 PM
Last space shuttle mission is this year . . .

Shuttle landing field at KSC is 15000 feet long.

Anybody know someone high-up in NASA?

Interesting, but I do know that NASA flys other research aircraft in some capacity. Isn't there a backup landing spot near White Sands, NM? I can't find it on google maps.
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: RansomT on February 02, 2011, 02:44:10 PM: Quote from: sockjohn on February 02, 2011, 01:42:26 PM
Quote from: LittleLiner on February 02, 2011, 01:12:36 PM
Last space shuttle mission is this year . . .

Shuttle landing field at KSC is 15000 feet long.

Anybody know someone high-up in NASA?

Interesting, but I do know that NASA flys other research aircraft in some capacity. Isn't there a backup landing spot near White Sands, NM? I can't find it on google maps.

White Sands Space Harbor .... it's on google earth. It's a dry lake bed.
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: jreken on February 02, 2011, 04:27:39 PM: E A S T Coast Timing Association Boys!!!!!!

John
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: 2fast4u2c on February 03, 2011, 03:36:08 AM: Tiger Racing will be a continued supporter of the ECTA at any venue in any location. What a fantastic opportunity to bring Great Racing to those who couldn't afford to travel to Maxton. Don't forget to get your New ECTA rulebook the moment it becomes available this year which should be soon.

Guy
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: MiltonP on February 03, 2011, 07:53:17 PM: I took a look at Gryphon Group's training and they plan to ramp up from the three courses currently offered at Maxton to possibly as many as fifteen. Unfortunately, my gut tells me that even if the CEO became a fan of land speed racing the facility will likely still be altered to the point we wouldn't be able to run there. Still... you never know. I wonder if Rockingham has enough property to add a 2 mile run. Doesn't look like it unfortunately, as those folks are definitely into expanding their offerings
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: MiltonP on February 03, 2011, 08:30:06 PM: I was wondering if there is any chance that Andrews Airforce Base would consider hosting an event. They are used to hosting the public on base for the airshow. Based on mapquest it looks like it has a pair of 2 mile runways parallel to each other with seperate taxiways so they could maintain emergeny operations. I think SCCA had a regular autox series at a DoD facility in the area but it is quite a leap from hosting autox on a lot to using a active base runway.
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: TRNorBRN6001 on February 05, 2011, 01:24:57 AM: Wow, I am out of the loop, my wife had to inform me. I am shocked and sad. I do however wish the best for the ECTA and thank them for all the work and time everyone has put in to Maxton to make it so great. Hope you all find some nice smooth strips and we'll come race. I hope to make Maxton one last time this year.

Farewell and best wishes,

Gary

P.S.: can't wait for all the new venues you all will be putting on!

P.S.S.: Entropy I might have to bum a few rides with ya in 2012!
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: entropy on February 05, 2011, 04:18:12 AM: Quote from: TRNorBRN6001 on February 05, 2011, 01:24:57 AM
P.S.S.: Entropy I might have to bum a few rides with ya in 2012!

Gary,
forget 2012, i'll prob be in an Old Man's Home by then, let's do 2011.
As soon as i get the subwoofer and spinners for my new Denali, i'll be GTG, TFA rollin'.

I'd love to do a Maxton event in 2011, and my dance card is filling up, so we gotta talk.
Karl

PS: get that Busa Turbo makin' noise, we gotta represent the great and sovereign Republic of Texas, and yr venerable 12 might not be up to the task.
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: 55chevr on February 05, 2011, 12:03:44 PM: Karl --- not the same without TFA ... ECTA will survive with some events somewhere ... still too early in the game to call
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: Tman on February 05, 2011, 12:31:21 PM: Here is a post I clipped from the HAMB Michigan but feasable sounding.

Grenade Inspector

Join Date: Jun 2008
Location: s.e. michigan
Posts: 173 Re: 2011. final year for the maxton mile.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Oscoda-Wurtsmith Airport, a former Air Force Base at Oscoda, Michigan, is and has been available at $1,000 per day. You provide the timing equipment, ambulance and safety equipment. I know guys that have been doing testing there for the last couple of years, and I know guys that have run at Maxton. Wurtzmith is in much better condition and safer according to them.

The runway in 12,000 feet long x 200 feet wide and in excellent condition.
http://oscairport.com/

For an aerial view, go to Bing Maps and search ‘oscoda wurtzmith airport’.
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: MiltonP on February 05, 2011, 08:43:18 PM: Pretty sweet looking base but at 737 miles from Winchester and Loring some 900 miles I sure am hoping for a regular venue a little closer to home. Wilmington is similar to Maxton in distance for me but I sure am hoping for something in the south so we can keep everyone who could make it to Maxton running.

A few miles south of Martinsburg, WV just East of I-81 is the Eastern West Virginia Regional Airport. Based on imagery the runway seems similar in length to Maxton and they may have acquired the adjacent property to extend it. They are hosting an airshow in September with our old neighbors, the Golden Knights participating, and I noticed a motorcycle rally on their monthly meeting agenda next week. They don't have passenger service there. If there is interest, I don't mind initiating contact with them but I would like to have an idea of what financial arrangements have been in place with other facilities before checking with them about the runway length and potent for events there.
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: racer x on February 05, 2011, 09:07:23 PM: Just thinking... If a track cannot be found before August 2012 . Could Loring be expanded to a week long event? It could be billed as "Speed Week East" and I am sure there would be enough interest if we only get one east coats race in 2012.
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: MiltonP on February 05, 2011, 09:35:39 PM: Not a bad idea at all! If you blow up early in the week there is nothing like a cold beer and fresh steamed lobster down on the coast to make you feel better!
:cheers:
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: Stan Back on February 05, 2011, 09:47:28 PM: ECTA Might= East Coast Traveling Assn.

Stan
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: jacksoni on February 06, 2011, 11:39:13 AM: I think Andrews unlikely with proximity to DC etc in spite of the airshow mentioned. In sorting and throwing out years of accumulation of stuff in my office ran accross an ECTA newsletter from John Beckett dated 3/95. Was talking about Marine Air station in Edenton,NC. Appears to be active civilian at this time and unlikely. Also did mention AF base "North Field" which is a USAF auxilliary field, 10kft runway. No services etc and intermittently active for training as far as I can tell. Something about bird observations and no activity during that. I have birding contacts and will ask for info on that. If they close for counts, might close for racing???? This place is just south of Columbia SC. Be worth looking at. Great runway length if could be made available.
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: LittleLiner on February 06, 2011, 02:40:27 PM: In New Jersey
Lakehurst NAS in New Jersey has a 12000 foot runway that is primarily used for testing/training catapult launches and arresting gear for carrier aircraft. Near as I can tell from some web surfing the runway is not used for any other purposes. They have two other runways for aircraft landings. At about the 3000 foot mark there is an arresting gear testing area. From the photos I've seen it appears that the equipment could be easily removed to allow cars/bikes to run through that area on the way to a full mile or as part of shut down (depending on which end you set up the start line.)

In Georgia
Hunter Army Airfield is in metropolitan Savanah, Georgia. It is on old B52 base with a runway that is 11,375 feet long.
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: jreken on February 06, 2011, 03:00:31 PM: Since 9/11 McGuire/Ft. Dix/Lakehurst NAS (all linked together) have been off limits to outside groups except on Armed Forces Day.
South Jersey#84 SCCA used McGuire for AutoX until 2001-NO MORE!!! Lakehurst is still the primary research,engineering and maintainence facility for all the Navy's catapult business. It's not likely they would open the facility.

John
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: Uncle Jimbo on February 06, 2011, 03:39:53 PM: As for use of Military bases - Since Sept 11 2001 - Here in Chi. for 28yrs the Chicagoland USMCR Toys for Tots motorcycle run always the first Sunday in Dec. had our final destination at the USMCR Eugene McCarthy reserve training center on Foster Av. terminated 4 yrs ago- Word came to us that Quantico says no more civilian use of military bases because of Homeland Security, and threat of terrorism. So after 28 yrs we now go to Lane Tech - still with full Honor Guard and plenty of USMC Humvees as part of our parade escort. According to the Corps. Chicagoland Motorcycle Toys for Tots org. is the largest, bar none, toy collector for the USMCR Toys for Tots Program, so they must be serious about further civilian use of military bases now. If this holds true for Air Force bases it may be the bone of contention ? Maybe digging up some viable corporate backing ala. Penzoil, Auto Zone, Champion, Autolite, Goodyear, etc. could help, if a private air strip needs some work the finances maybe could be there for runway enhancement if needed. Just a thought or two I guess.
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: runt13 on February 06, 2011, 05:25:32 PM: lakehurst is in my backyard....for real. my wife also worked there for a few years. i used to know the master chief there until he retired, i was introduced to the new chief, but lost contact with him. however i have run into him every once in a while at the local bike pubs. not that it can change the rules but i will stop down there and ask. what do we have to lose. and the comute for me is about 12minutes and half of that is waiting at the gate!

runt
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: 55chevr on February 06, 2011, 06:22:49 PM: I would forget the active military bases ... since 9-11 bases have been locked down ... best bet is old inactive bases like Loring ... there must be more around ... tough part is that we need 10000 feet to run a one mile event ...
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: iamflagman on February 06, 2011, 06:37:32 PM: Quote from: jacksoni on February 06, 2011, 11:39:13 AM
Also did mention AF base "North Field" which is a USAF auxilliary field, 10kft runway. No services etc and intermittently active for training as far as I can tell. Something about bird observations and no activity during that. I have birding contacts and will ask for info on that. If they close for counts, might close for racing???? This place is just south of Columbia SC. Be worth looking at. Great runway length if could be made available.

When I was the Solo Director for the South Carolina Region SCCA back in the early 80's we conducted SOLO II events at North Air Force Auxiliary Airfield, SC but when the DELTA Forces started to conduct maneuvers there and then they constructed a dirt landing strip for the C-17 we could no longer conduct events there. It is owned by the U.S. Air Force and is used primarily for C-17 Globemaster III training by the 437th Airlift Wing and its Air Force Reserve "Associate" unit, the 315th Airlift Wing, at Charleston Air Force Base. Additional "bare base" operations are also conducted by the 20th Fighter Wing at Shaw Air Force Base and the 169th Fighter Wing at McEntire Air National Guard Station. Other units can utilize North with prior coordination with the 437 AW. The 437th Civil Engineering Squadron (437 CES) of the 437th Airlift Wing at Charleston AFB maintains a detachment to maintain and operate the airfield. The only permanently assigned personnel are 10 USAF firefighters and one civilian grounds keeper. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/North_Auxiliary_Airfield (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/North_Auxiliary_Airfield)

(http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/e/ee/Northafaux-21jan1994.jpg)

Here is a link to a more current view on Google Maps;

http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=North+Auxilary+field,+sc&aq=&sll=37.0625,-95.677068&sspn=33.160552,79.013672&ie=UTF8&hq=North+Auxilary+field,&hnear=South+Carolina&ll=33.608508,-81.079016&spn=0.017013,0.038581&t=k&z=15 (http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=North+Auxilary+field,+sc&aq=&sll=37.0625,-95.677068&sspn=33.160552,79.013672&ie=UTF8&hq=North+Auxilary+field,&hnear=South+Carolina&ll=33.608508,-81.079016&spn=0.017013,0.038581&t=k&z=15)

I no longer have any contacts for North Air Force Auxiliary Airfield. They have a festival in North, SC every year that we used to coincide the SCCA events with http://www.woodford-sc.com/f_schedule.html (http://www.woodford-sc.com/f_schedule.html)
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: HemiRod on February 07, 2011, 01:06:13 PM: I looked at the Eastern West VA airport's web site, WVAIRPORT.org, and it says that the runway is 7,815' long , but they have the land to expand it to 9,000', and they have recieved a grant to do so! They also have a restaurant on site, and all kinds of facilities. It appears that they are cool with holding events there,hopefully Milton can get some info, if so I think this place would be great.
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: straight8 on February 07, 2011, 03:37:09 PM: Am pretty sure that Hunter AFB in Savannah is in active use(they come over my house regularly). Is anyone trying Spence Field in Moultrie, Ga.?
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: runt13 on February 07, 2011, 04:27:02 PM: a friend told me about this base in ny

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Griffiss_Air_Force_Base
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: MiltonP on February 07, 2011, 07:09:01 PM: I'm not positive but based on imagery I think the runway is a bit longer than that now with extensions having been added at both ends for turn around and safety. I will try to contact them though and at least get the scoop on the length though.
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: WWWMCLEANSRACINGCOM on February 07, 2011, 07:14:17 PM: Will camping and RVs still be welcome at maxton for 2011.
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: Cajun Kid on February 07, 2011, 08:31:19 PM: Quote from: WWWMCLEANSRACINGCOM on February 07, 2011, 07:14:17 PM
Will camping and RVs still be welcome at maxton for 2011.

Your tow rig is also your RV right ? Seems like that would be ok... Nothing in the notification mentioned anything other than a map to tell us where we can and cannot go.

See you in April

Charles
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: Pak Ramstock on February 08, 2011, 08:24:41 AM: I'm not sure if it's been mentioned earlier in this thread, but has anyone thought about moving at least one of the races to Indianapolis? It's a racing mecca, centrally located in the Midwest, and lots of interstates lead to it so it's generally easy to get to. As for runways, the first one that comes to mind is Mount Comfort airport, which is just off I-70 about 15 miles east of Indy. Not sure of the length of their runways, though. Plus, it'd cut my travel time from two days to about a half hour. :-D
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: redcatch on February 08, 2011, 08:39:50 AM: The Cape is not a option. Since 9/11 Security has been crazy. United Space Allience is trying to make the shuttle "Private". They want to continue 2 launches a year . There are lots of movements and launches other than the shuttle. It is a great runway. Too much equipt and it is all expensive.. A retired or active military person could get a visitors pass and watch from one of the VIP sections durning a launch. Now they won't even let you on unless you have official business. Or are on a official tour bus
Bob
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: bearingburner on February 08, 2011, 11:54:44 AM: I believe that one thing to remember about airports is that if the runway is active then FAA won't allow its use for anything except air traffic.
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: 116ciHemi on February 08, 2011, 04:27:22 PM: Quote from: bearingburner on February 08, 2011, 11:54:44 AM
I believe that one thing to remember about airports is that if the runway is active then FAA won't allow its use for anything except air traffic.

Yes, but active runways close all the time. A notam would have to be issued, but it happens pretty commonly. I am bombing down home for the weekend, I will grab my copy of the Federal Aviation Rules and check and see if I can find anything pertaining specifically to that.
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: 55chevr on February 08, 2011, 08:43:40 PM: Mount Comfort Airport = 5500 feet ... just a mile long ... most muncipal airports are 4500 to 5500 feet in length ... not long enough for land speed racing ...
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: Dan Stokes on February 09, 2011, 07:56:18 PM: Got some info on the Wilmington, NC possibility (actually Holly Ridge, a tiny town up US 17 a bit). Anyhow, it turns out to be just over a mile and evidently is still used sometimes by Camp Lejune for target practice. Either way, of no use to us. The Kinston, NC facility IS long enough and not tied to the military - several of us are looking into this one.

Dan
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: rightpedal on February 09, 2011, 08:19:39 PM: A thought on bases that have bin traditionally "off limits" What effect has the BRAC (base realignment and closure) had on a possible opening?

Steve
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: MiltonP on February 09, 2011, 09:03:02 PM: Kinston is a nice location. Plenty of lodging and other facilities nearby as it is on the main drag to new Bern, which is a town I wanted to spend a little time in as well. Lenoir Memorial Hospital is nearby not that I have any plans to visit that anytime soon! If nothing is available closer, there is a campground in Selma right at exit 96 off I-95 where I could keep my camper, which I currently keep in Lumberton.

Just found the Neuseway Nature Park with camping on the river at around 12 bucks a night just down the road from the airport! Seriously doubt they have rv storage but nice place to hang out with museum, planetarium, etc... nearby.
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: RansomT on February 10, 2011, 01:30:28 PM: Quote from: bearingburner on February 08, 2011, 11:54:44 AM
I believe that one thing to remember about airports is that if the runway is active then FAA won't allow its use for anything except air traffic.

From my understanding, that is correct ... however, if you have more than one runway at a location, then the second one can be used on a temporary bases.
Title: Re: Important ECTA notice
Post by: Commuta_Busa on February 14, 2011, 02:13:12 PM: this threads getting long and I've lost track of what airfields have been mentioned already. Sorry if this has alrady been mentioned.

Cecil Field, Jacksonville, FL
Owner: Florida State College at Jacksonville
runway is 12500 long and 200 feet wide