Craig Gingerich wins a NHRA Wally!!! (May 2005)

Challenge racer Dan Warren having fun with Wally

May 2005 - Bradenton, FL - The Corvette Challenge was recognized for the first time ever with an NHRA Wally as the prize. Corvette racers came from all over the state in hopes of taking home the elusive prize, but only one would walk away victorious.

But first we need to address the attendance for the challenge. This month we only had 22 Corvettes registered for the challenge which was disappointing considering the trophy (Wally) up for grabs. For the Florida Corvette Challenge to succeed we need racers to come out and give their support, we welcome any comments or ideas that you may have to help boost attendance. I am sure all of you want the Corvette Challenge to be as successful as it is fun!

Enough of my ranting, onto the racing, Semi round touted Larry Beutlich (2004 Florida Corvette Challenge Points Champion) up against Craig Gingerich with Bruce Littler having the bye into the Finals. Craig dialing a 13.33 and Larry dialed a 13.15, with Craig leaving first his r/t of .059 might prove to be the clincher, Larry gave chase with his r/t of .082 but he wasn't giving up yet he put all he had into the throttle and crossed the finish line first but broke-out by .024 putting Craig in the finals.

With the Finals set Bruce Littler versus Craig Gingerich, some would even say this is a showdown of veteran experience versus youthful exuberance, only time will tell. With Bruce in his '91 convertible dialing a 14.59 giving himself a 1-second head start over Craig with his dial in at 13.38. However; Bruce gave himself a little too much of a lead with a -.008 red-light giving the win and the Wally to Craig. I guess youthful exuberance wins out, this time……….

Congratulations Craig!!!!
Bradenton's photos

Next race will be June 25, 2005.

If you would like to visit the Corvette Challenge throughout the nation, visit The National Schedule