First, no study has ever been done that links new race rider training to accident statistics at the track that I know of. The office has complimentary earplugs! i have problem, not saving photos in photo mode (only this track), any solve ? Take the Rosamond Blvd exit off the 14 freeway and proceed west for six miles until you reach the track entrance. After all Ive picked up thousands of Budweiser cans in that area! "A gorilla with bigger balls". Turn 8: Sometimes called, "The Sweeper," turn 8 is a high speed right hand corner. As for the tracks concern over Cochrans public comments, Hewitt says, I really dont think Larry realizes the gravity of the statements he has made. It is legal counsels job to make them realize the potential gravity of certain types of statement before they are made, not afterwards. Did Chris McCauley have all the information made available to him? Friday testing: Willow Springs Raceway offers Friday open testing. At the track, nothing more than a standard riders meeting flag briefing was done to enlighten riders of the obvious risks involved, that was in the early 1960s. If I need to cancel the hotel reservation for my stay near Willow Springs International Raceway, will I receive a refund? Stream songs including "Cars Specific Race Cars Desert Willow Springs Raceway, Figure Eight When a post is labeled with the words press release, it means that Roadracingworld.com is not responsible for its content and that Roadracingworld.com makes no guarantee that it is accurate. Contact the track office for details at (661) 256-6666 orinfo@willowspringsraceway.com. Willow Springs International Raceway is located in Rosamond, California, USA. Willow Springs International Motorsports Park (commonly referred to as Willow Springs) is located in Willow Springs near Rosamond, California, about 80 mi (130 km) north of Los Angeles. This bears directly upon the ability of race organizations to exist at all, and on whether racers are left at risk because necessary safety discussions dont take place for fears of liability. It is possible for a capable car or motorcycle to exceed 160mph on the front straightway. In addition to an in-person Drivers Meeting,Drivers Meeting Notes are linked on this page and will be emailed to all participants. Monte Lutz Delta, Ohio FIRST PERSON/OPINION Via e-mail: Thank you for the article regarding track safety and liability issues, it is interesting to understand the multiple constraints riders, track management, and track employees have to work within. Should the rider have been warned that if he gave it too much gas at low speed and it highsided him and punched a hole in his body he could die? In-car camera captures Chevy Corvette Z06 crash at Willow Springs The driver and passenger walked away, but the C7 'Vette sure didn't. Track days are never to be taken lightly. It was the second fatality at the track in less than a year. WebWillow Springs Raceway General Information When you visit Willow Springs International Raceway, The fastest Road in the West, remember that your interest in motor sports is Tires, fuel, garages, racing services, race control, announcing, restaurant, gift shop and vendors are also located in the East Paddock.We also recommend parking at the paved parking available at the Budweiser Balcony to enjoy one of the best views in motor racing (included in the general admission) for an up-close look at the twisty bits of the track, as well as a breath-taking panorama of the beautiful Antelope Valley and the surrounding mountains. to the WSIR main track entrance at 3500 75th Street West. Questions and answers People have asked 4 questions about working at Willow Springs Raceway. 2012, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc. By John Ulrich Willow Springs International Raceway owner Bill Huth has closed down the tracks motorcycle race sanctioning body, Willow Springs Motorcycle Club, effective immediately. Heavier cars will lift the inside right wheel four to eight inches off the pavement a real ticklish position to be in! Willow Springs Raceway Careers and Employment Reviews Gate Guard in Rosamond, CA 93560 4.0 on August 8, 2016 General Maintenance in Rosamond, CA 4.0 What would you say about your employer? I decided then that corners needed names, so I began. Regards, Chris Speights WSMC #676 Long Beach, California FIRST PERSON/OPINION Via e-mail: After reading the article on the Willow Springs fatality I was moved to contact you. Wed have new guys fall and just stand there at the site of the crash, Cochran says, and the crash truck guys would come up to them and say, Why are you standing in an impact zone? and the racer would say, Whats that? I decided that I had to do something, even if it was going to cost me my position. As an aside, in the lengthy discussion on the unofficial Willow Springs Motorcycle Club BBS about the crash, the New Racer school and the firing of Cochran, there are many criticisms of the New Racer school and not many racers rushing to its defense. Huth, who paid $116,000 for the facility, was initially not interested in road racing, however he purchased the lease to the track hoping to use the main straight for drag racing. The spinout area on the inside of the turn is flat and spacious, seldom allowing a car to roll. For 2012, the club had scheduled 10 race weekends, January through October; the next event was planned for February 18-19. The economy is the main thing. Asked about riders who have already paid for a 2012 season license, Huth said, Were going to reimburse their money. I think we can all agree the latest generation of 600cc machines hardly qualify as entry level equipment. Huth was content to take the circuit in whatever direction would pay and its desert location close to LA made it a popular destination for film-makers. The cost is NOTincluded in your POC registration. I dont think the numbers have changed very much if at all, that is just my opinion but again, there is no reliable data on it that says one way or the other. Last Update: 9/10/21. Take the Rosamond Boulevard exit and go west (left) approximately 6 miles on Rosamond Boulevard to the main track entrance. Staff are friendly, room is spacious and very clean. WebClose product quick view Title Daves mission is to ensure that every motorcyclist anywhere in the world gets the fundamental information needed to understand the basics of their own motorcycles suspension. Willow Springs International Motorsports Park is located in Willow Springs near Rosamond and Lancaster, California, and is about an hour north of Los Angeles. Time Trial and PDS groups will have four sessions on both Saturday and Sunday. It is from this area that spectators can view the entire race course, with a lot of action right in front of them on turns 3, 4, and 5, while looking out over Wings Leg, The Sweeper, Turn Nine, Castrol Corner and The Rabbit Ear. How many riders or racers actually take the time to thoroughly examine the run-off areas? Huth politely declined the offer saying he "hadn't had it long enough yet". 3/20/09 3:00 PM. Corner speeds range from 70mph to 170mph and the fastest cars and bikes can reach 200mph on the straights. From the outset, this was a brutally fast course with one of the highest average speeds of any course in the United States, earning it the moniker "The Fastest Road in the West." (they might need to be updated to be fully compatible with the new AI line.) For the record we did have one student who ran off TWICE there and I believe this person was not allowed back out (thankfully) after the second time. Well have to give it back to them. Huth said that the racetracks main source of income is now television commercial shoots. Here are some handy driving directions to help complete your trip to Willow Springs Raceway Turn 9: A right-handed turn with a big dip before the apex. 16 00. If anything, the gentleman who was removed might have found another way to remedy a perceived lack of instruction without the public letter. At the time I figured it would be appropriate to name it Cobra something or other, but never did. Not all press releases are posted and Roadracingworld.com may reject press releases if the content is too heavy on commercial promotion with little or no news value or if the press release contains obvious errors. Do the right thing when the opportunity presents itself. Cup Racing, Time Trials, and Performance Driving Series (PDS). Share your events on LapTrophy mobile app and website. Only experience will build up the skills needed for positive outcomes when things get sketchy. Episode 2: Johnny Lewis Originally the circuit featured an oiled dirt surface, but by 1954 this had been paved over to create the permanent surface we know today. WebWillow Springs International Raceway August 12 at 5:41 PM Drifting Balcony will be closed Aug 20,2022 8am-5pm 22 Share Willow Springs International Raceway August 12 at 5:13 PM 2WTD Saturday Aug 20, 8am -5pm Streets of willow 55 Willow Springs International Raceway August 12 at 5:02 PM Test and Tune Friday Aug 19,26, Sept 2,2022 @ 8am-5pm. to have news value, may be placed on roadracingworld.com as a service to our readers. As an industry insider I believe that we are a long way from seeing this trend peak, let alone decline. Improvements to pit lane facilities were the only noticeable changes to the road course, which has remained remarkably untouched in its original configuration to the present day. Instead, to expand capacity, a second road course was constructed alongside it, known as the 'Streets of Willow Springs'. WebWillow Springs is now the oldest continuously operating purpose-built road course in the United States. If you observe anything to the contrary, please report it to a race official or to the Administration Office at the main entrance.We also try to maintain a wholesome atmosphere just like any other amusement park you might visit. Last minute registrationat the track will be $100 higher than online pricing-no exceptions soregister early. Two main factors contribute to this longevity: firstly, the track is located out in the Mojave desert, so has not been encroached by pesky developments; secondly, the vast open spaces mean that there has always been an abundance of run off, so there has been no need to slow the course with silly chicanes. Race your car on the big track of Willow Springs. And there obviously are unanswered questions. Copyright 2023: Regards, Keith Code Glendale, California. The article raises interesting points. Its not fair to the riders who put their trust in the School wherever it may be. Given that legal scenario, club officials may have felt the best way to limit their legal exposure was to distance themselves from Larry and Myra Cochran. While there are no grandstands, there are plenty of banks to watch the racing from and from most views you can almost the whole of the course. Absolutely not. Like most clubs, WSMC requires racers to sign waivers releasing the club from liability in case anything goes wrong. The circuit passed into the ownership of Bill Huth in 1962, starting a long period of family ownership which continues to the present day. The name stuck and went on to be used as the name for Willow in the movie. March Editorial Note: Scroll down to see the video. Statistics dont back that up as being true. In 1981, I regained control of the raceway after the termination of a fifteen-year lease. Land developers were also keen, offering close to $100 million and in more recent years Kia reputedly offered $50 million. Exiting the Balcony, the racers rush down the hill and make a left turn of 90 degrees around a natural mound and on towards Monroe Ridge. Stephanie Huth took over the motorcycle club when Bill Huth reorganized it six months ago; she managed the track for about 20 years and also successfully promoted two AMA Pro Road Racing Nationals at the facility, in 1998 and 1999; she also promoted the WSMC-sanctioned Toyota 200 for seven years. He came back as a Novice in March 2006, ran four races with the club in all of 2006, took three months off, came back in March of 2007 and died from injuries suffered in the April 2007 race. Vehicle tech inspection should be performed at an official POC Tech Inspection Station. WSIR charges a $15.00 entrance fee (per person) at the gate. "Willow Springs / Streets of Willow Long Course". Classrooms, Timing & Scoring, and VIP areas are above these buildings. Tanner has been involved with racing and with the Japanese manufacturers for years, and his industry connections were something the club sought, Hewitt says. My choice of Castrol Corner was not only for financial assistance, but as long as Ive been around racing, Ive smelled Castrol in the air, and every time I smell it around Willow my thoughts go back to Gilmore Stadium and the Hey Days of the Mighty Midgets. 2300 West Double Play Way, Lancaster, CA 93536. Upon asking why he was still going to have the rule, he had no answer other than it showed responsibility in case of a law suit. Dont be Steve. Rider error is responsible for most accidents that happen on the track and of course bad luck can have something to do with it. Its not really making any money and it hasnt paid rent for six or seven months. Breakfast pretty all right. Sadly experience isnt rolling out with them and seriously injured or dead isnt sexy or fun at all. Conclusion: Road racing is dangerous, and when something goes wrong, the only person who really knows what happened often cant tell us. Separating the West and East Paddocks are the old Willow Springs Offices. I reference the following portion of the story. Racing is safer than ever because people usually racers have yelled, screamed, threatened to boycott, and demanded safety improvements. 6 // Sunday // Buttonwillow Raceway (13CW) You can crash at under 25 mph and be dead as recently happened in a paddock accident at another track. Fuel: Leaded and unleaded race fuel will be available at the track both days. Colin an instructor at Willow Springs Raceway. Director of Motorsports: Joe Wiederholt (858) 525-5278ormotorsports@porscheclub.com, Club President: John Momeyer (661) 478-9561or president@porscheclub.com, Chief Driving Instructor: Dwain Dement 949-633-9455 or 949-770-2888 cdi@porscheclub.com, Competition Director: John Momeyer(661) 478-9561 cd@porscheclub.com. The Ultimate MotorSport Country Club Experience! Im the type to ALWAYS attend the riders Meeting then find the grey haired guys on ancient machinery to learn the track. Dont quote me on that. I personally encourage every rider to take the extra time to become familiar with every aspect of the track especially where they can and cannot go if something goes wrong. Organizations, in some cases, are just covering their butts in a potentially litigious society. The reputation of this decreasing right turn is known throughout the world. He added that riders will be able to race with AFM at Buttonwillow Raceway, CVMA at Chuckwalla Valley Raceway and WERA West at Auto Club Speedway. googletag.cmd.push(function() { The racers are close to top speeds as they exit Wings Leg and turn slightly right into the 8oo-foot long sweeping turn. WebClose product quick view Title Daves mission is to ensure that every motorcyclist anywhere in the world gets the fundamental information needed to understand the basics of their own motorcycles suspension. That holds true on even the safest track, driving a car with minimal power to the wheels. January. To drift out here means lots of problems once you leave the course. googletag.pubads().set('adsense_background_color', '#000'); If you say "Yes", we will be able to send you text messages at the track when we have schedule changes or other items of general interest. There are a total of seven tracks at Willow Springs. The largest and most well known track is Willow Springs International Raceway (commonly referred to as Big Willow). There are other racing facilities such as The Streets of Willow (1.8 mile road course), The Horsethief Mile (road course), Turn 9s not really too dangerous Its just embarrassing! WebWillow Springs Intl Raceway is located at 3500 75th St W Rosamond, CA 93560. It was stressed by our instructor. [1] Construction began in 1952, with the inaugural race held on November 23, 1953. googletag.pubads().enableSingleRequest(); If conveying the gravity of Turn One was the point then it worked. The main track is a 2.500 mi (4.023 km) long road course that is unc We didnt like the access ", A verified traveler stayed at Residence Inn by Marriott Lancaster Palmdale, "I like the vibe of the honor the points that you get with Expedias company and you get special gifts. |. Please complete tech inspection prior to the eventin order avoid finding car problems at the track. WebListen to Willow Springs Raceway by Sounddogs Sound Effects on Apple Music. Willow Springs is now the oldest continuously operating purpose-built road course in the United States. Were not going to shut it all down, said Chris Huth, just the motorcycle club. Reached by phone, WSMC General Manager Stephanie Huth said Were all blind-sided by this. Stephanie Huth told Roadracing World that WSMC workers Ashley Tanner and Megan Tannerher daughters and Bill Huths granddaughterswill be looking for work. Also the cleanliness of the place. And its hard not to believe him when he says he spoke out because he is concerned about rider safety. I would argue any debate and discussion regarding rider safety is healthy no matter the forum or the way it may be brought about. A press release is not an article written by Roadracingworld.com staffers. What do you know, it was small displacement bikes that were the worst crashes according to him. No new rider or racers school can be held responsible for someones panic or momentary stupidity and its potential consequences. I would like to point out that when the tracks legal representative makes a public statement regarding the lack of legal guidance to a current or past employee, he is really indicting the tracks own policies and procedures. The next event at Willow Springs is a two-day event, and will be held on October 6th & 7th. Then another from a Chinese consortium for $13 million. Steve rolls his Z06 on the straight between turn 1 and turn 2. On this Wikipedia the language links are at the top of the page across from the article title. There are common sense actions like staying out of an impact zone that I do not need to be told. Construction began in 1952, with the inaugural event held on November 23, 1953. If you're looking for things to see and do in the area, you might want to stop in and see Antelope Valley and Antelope Valley Fairgrounds. Willow Springs International Motorsports Park (commonly referred to as Willow Springs) is located in Willow Springs near Rosamond, California, about 80mi (130km) north of Los Angeles. Simply put: What will liability concerns do to the free, open discussion of rider safety and the ability to race in the first place in the future? Come join us for an exciting weekend at Willow Springs International Raceway. Motorcycle racing became ever more important and Willow Springs became an important venue for AMA racing in its earliest years. WSMC ran on the third Sunday of each month from its founding until 2010, when the club ran an 11-weekend schedule. googletag.cmd.push(function() { Cup Racers and Time Trialparticipants must present your logbook at check-in, complete with an inspection stamp from an approved POC Tech Station. The only steady employee I had when I first came to Willow was a cock-a-poo dog named Wing. Hewitt is equally passionate about the sport; not only does he have a double-digit number with WSMC, but his name is on one of the garages at the track. Check prices close to Willow Springs International Raceway for tonight, Mar 2 - Mar 3, Check prices close to Willow Springs International Raceway for tomorrow night, Mar 3 - Mar 4, Check prices close to Willow Springs International Raceway for this weekend, Mar 3 - Mar 5, Check prices close to Willow Springs International Raceway for next weekend, Mar 10 - Mar 12, 6.4 mi from Willow Springs International Raceway, "The room was very clean the only thing is the tv kept going out of service the repair person came and fixed it but then it went out again Over all was nice", 14 mi from Willow Springs International Raceway, "Excellent place to stay with your pets. Enter Dates. [6] The track was repaved in late 2021 after numerous complaints of the deteriorating quality of the track.[7]. The track looks fantastic, I love the attention to detail however I have a problem. Riders showed up at the track with a motorcycle, the desire to race and enough money to pay entry fees; we were then granted a license and raced, you could even get a license by mail with no experience of any kind. Photography: Luis Vivar is providing POC with photographs this weekend and is preselling packages atLuna Pics - Presale. Unfortunately, when they became public, those comments may have increased the clubs potential legal liability for McCauleys death, says an attorney who specializes in property and premises liability law. To date Turn 3 carries no name. Well probably just have open testing or track days on the days allocated for the motorcycle club, until further notice, Huth said. Photography: Luis Vivar is providing POC with photographs this weekend and preselling! Drivers Meeting Notes are linked on this Wikipedia the language links are at track! Motorcycle to exceed 160mph on the days allocated for the motorcycle club, until further notice Huth! 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