Forum: Minnesota Dirt Track Racing Forum (go)
Moderators: StanM

Chris, the only rules I remember them talking about was maybe a change in the weight rule to get a little closer to other sanctions and also starting procedures. There was talk about the new spec motor they are going to try this year. That motor would probably only be legal in UMSS but would cost in the 8500-9000 dollar range if I remember right.

Microsprints are suppose to be taking off this year with more cars but they were having separate discussions so don't know anything about them.

If UMSS wants to change motor direction they should really look at the MSA 360 motor rules in SE WI. IMO it is a real cost competitive package and would be good to get the groups on the same package and then perhaps have some combo shows. Just a thought.

They don't want to change directions, just want to have an optional UMSS legal motor that is more affordable and similar in performance to the present motor package. There is no intention for the new motor to replace the present motor, just give people another option.

Chris, it was a well-attended meeting back on November 19. I did not post anything because really there wasn't any significant changes made other than like Racedoc talked about with a discussion on weight rule and new spec motor as an option. Lots of great input from drivers and fans. Ron talked about keeping the schedule right around 25 shows with Ma Nature likely getting some of them like the past couple of seasons. More demand for shows from the tracks was a real positive, as Ron informed the group he would not be able to fill all requests. Some new drivers coming in. Some new team combinations like Scott Broty driving for Ron Olson Motorsports in 2012 and Scott's son stepping into his potent #33 sprinter. Scott told me Jenny Eriksen was planning on returning to a sprint car in 2012. Some more young guns interested in getting into the sport which is exactly one of the very important reasons the UMSS was formed. The UMSS will work on a Hoosier Tire deal and announce the results (hopefully similar to last year).

TSCS sprints got into a little more detail. I know the Scat Crank was approved. Rocker tips to remain the same. Further discussion about weight rule in that division too. TONS of local interest in that new division, as I honestly think we'll double (or more) the total car count available. In 2011, we had 11 different cars race with two more that were built very late in the seaon that did not see track time. Several more cars are being purchased and put together for 2012. An established purse was discussed. Travel show purse (all races except those at St. Croix Valley Raceway) has been posted for the TSCS division on their website and FB page.

Micro sprints had a few in attendance. I do believe that class is going to grow with a home track (St. Croix Valley Raceway) for them to run on. I believe more info on that division will be forthcoming at a later date, as 2012 will really be much like 2011 was for the TSCS sprints, an introduction year (notice I did not say exhibition as the 2011 season was anything but that for the TSCS cars).

Over all it was a very informative meeting with a solid turnout on what turned out to be a snowy day come later morning and on into the afternoon. Lots of enthusiasm being generated for all three divisions and especially in the sprint car ranks. Like any organization, the UMSS has its pros and its cons, goes through growing pains, and sometimes struggles with trying to do what is right, but in the end we are indeed moving forward and gaining momentum. Those final two shows last October at Elko were honestly some of the very best sprint car racing I have seen in several years and would rank right up there with some of my top shows in recent memory!

There will be another meeting in March I believe to discuss the upcoming 2012 season in more detail, but no major rule changes are in the works for the winged division that I am aware of. The spec motor will likely be in at least one car and a further discussion will take place regarding weight rule. I would hope that the starting procedures will remain in place from how the year ended, as I thought things went pretty darn well for the most part and especially later in the season.

What are the details on the spec motor? Do you need a car to put it in?

I assume a tentative schedule will be released again at the banquet?

Cody