RACE RECAP: OPTIMA USCA PIKES PEAK – 2016
FOUNTAIN, CO – Pikes Peak, with its hairpin turns and long straightaways, has been known as a course that demands the perfect setup and focused driving ability. The Ultimate Performance team was there to handle the suspension-tuning, allowing for the vehicles to maintain top performance as the heat constantly increased throughout the weekend, changing the track conditions on every run. In total, 65 drivers tackled this course in an effort to achieve victory within the four classes on July 9th-10th.
JJ and the team at Evolution Dynamics in Lewisville, TX put in long hours on the days leading up to the event to help give Ken Thwaits’ 2007 EVO the modifications it needed to meet his expectations. Performance enhancements included an ABS system for the Wilwood brakes and an upgraded suspension and drivetrain. In an effort to not only mechanically upgrade the car, they also added a satin black wrap to entice the design and engineering judges. All of which improved his placement on the podium.
Jake Rozelle brought his DSE equipped ‘69 Camaro. The team battled all weekend to overcome the intense competition by making suspension changes on every run, from shock adjustments to changing roll centers. All of the effort paid off as he was able to continue his domination of the GTV class, reining in his third victory in three events.
Jordan Priestley debuted a prototype set of JRi and UP tuned coilovers on his 6th Gen Camaro, “Evilyn”. The new suspension performed flawlessly out of the gate, allowing Jordan to take the GT class head on and bring home the win.
To dial in some changes made prior to the race, Brian Hobaugh brought his C5 Corvette. Due to a water pump failure, he was only able to get in one run in the autocross. A quick replacement allowed him to compete in the last half of the speed stop.
Matt Alcala raced in his ‘06 Mustang. Matt continues to improve the performance of his Cortex equipped S196 Mustang with modifications such as fender flares to accept the wider BFG tires for maximum grip.
Congratulations to all of the Ultimate Performance drivers in their achievements.
For more photos of the event click here.