Story I'd like to share.
Many ECTA and Bonneville folks remember the names Courtney and Villa Hizer. As I understand, over the years, their cars set numerous records at both ECTA and Bonneville events and Courtney was in the 200 MPH clubs for both organizations.
After Courtney's passing in 2011, the team wanted to carry on the Hizer racing tradition and so the #80 Hizer Racing Spirit '59 Berkley was built for the Modified Sports class. Unfortunately, the car had some teething issues at Bonneville in 2012 and several things had to be changed. They regrouped, came back in 2013 and on crappy salt, Paul Powell set the B/BGMS record at 250.563 with a best speed of 278+ and a Red Hat to boot!
For 2014 the team decided on an engine change to a slower class and Villa would drive the car.....something she had never done before. They came to Wilmington in July to let Villa get some seat time before SpeedWeek. They had engine and transmission issues but did make a few slow passes. Engine and trans issues were resolved back at the shop and the car was readied for SpeedWeek.....Strike one! Decided that the car would run at World Finals.....Strike two! They came back to Wilmington and Bingo! Villa was finally able to make several passes with the best being 128+. Several small items need to be changed over the Winter and the Hizer Racing Spirit team will be back in Wilmington next year before heading out to Bonneville.
Pics from this past weekend:
I have gotten to know the team over the past few months as Paul only lives 10 miles from me. I spent quite a few hours at his place helping them get ready for SpeedWeek, World Finals and Wilmington.
Sorry to ramble on but I think it's a REALLY COOL story!
Gregg
