Thursday, January 28, 2010 Riverside Marriott

Thursday, January 28, 2010
Riverside Marriott
Welcome Race Fans
The Original
The International Kart Federation leads the way in the continual development and
improvement of karting as a fun and economical way to enjoy one of the world’s
most popular motor sports. From beginner to seasoned competitor, the IKF strives to
create a safe, competitive, and fun racing environment for the entire family.
Won’t you join us? For easy application information call the
IKF office or visit us online.
WWW.IKFKARTING.COM
To the pride of our community...
Happy 50th!
Discover the
A N
T O
I N T E G R A T E D A P P R O A C H
F I N A N C I A L P L A N N I N G
strength in
The “Duffy” is the pinnacle of excellence in
karting and is awarded to 1st place finishers
at IKF Grand National events.
CONGRATULATIONS
CONGRATULATIONS
CONGRATULATIONSON
ON
ON
YEARS
YEARSOF
OF
OFSUCCESS
SUCCESS
SUCCESS
50
50
50YEARS
Lamb
Lamb
LambEnergy,
Energy,
Energy,Inc.
Inc.
Inc.
909-923-4999
balance
SHAWN WASHINGTON ACCOUNTANCY CORPORATION
Certified Public Accountants ▪ Business Consultations ▪ Investment Services
call (951) 788-6700 or visit us at www.swaccpa.com
riverside ▪ los angeles (century city)
The entire Adams family would like to thank all of
you for sharing this historic event with us. We are
glad to have played a part in the wonderful sport
of karting and look forward to the next 50 years in
motorsports. Good luck to you all.
The Adams Family
Frank
McKinleyAdams
Adams
Frank
McKinley
Born:July
July
1897
Born:
24,24,1897
Deceased:1986
1986
Deceased:
Frankwas
wasthetheson
sonofofa aformer
former
Frank
slave,brought
broughttotoCalifornia
Californiainin
slave,
mid
1880’s.
thethe
mid
1880’s.
workedforforthetheWPA
WPAduring
during
HeHeworked
depression. During
Duringthe
thelate
late
thethedepression.
1930s
and
early1940s
1940sheheworked
worked
1930s
and
early
MonroviaSchool
SchoolBoard
BoardDistrict.
District. Once
Oncemoving
movingtoto
forforthetheMonrovia
Riverside,heheworked
workedatatRexall
RexallDrug
DrugStore
Storeasasa ajanitor,
janitor,and
and
Riverside,
later
CaliforniaSchool
Schoolforforthe
thedeaf.
deaf.
later
at at
thethe
California
Mary
Holmes(Clark)
(Clark)Adams
Adams
Mary
Holmes
Born:
February22,
22,1898
1898
Born:
February
Deceased:1985
1985
Deceased:
Mary was
was born
born inin
Mary
Birmingham. Alabama,
Alabama, the
the
Birmingham.
thirdchild
childofofa aPresbyterian
Presbyterian
third
minister. She
She came
came toto
minister.
Californiasometime
sometime around
around
California
1916. and
and ended
ended upup inin
1916.
Monrovia when
when her
her father
father
Monrovia
took anan assignment
assignment atat a a
took
Methodist Zion
Zion Church
Church inin
Methodist
Monrovia,
California.
Monrovia,
California.
Mary
finishedthethe7th7thgrade.
grade.She
Sheworked
workedfor
forthe
theMary
MaryKnoll
Knoll
Mary
finished
“Sisters”Sanitarium
Sanitariumwhile
whileliving
livingininMonrovia.
Monrovia. Once
Onceshe
she
“Sisters”
moved toto Riverside,
Riverside, she
she volunteered
volunteered with
with various
various
moved
organizationsand
andraised
raisedthe
thelast
last5 5ofofher
her1111children.
children.
organizations
Frank met
met and
and married
married Mary
Mary inin 1918,
1918, inin Monrovia,
Monrovia,
Frank
California. All
Allofoftheir
their children
children were
were born
born inin Monrovia,
Monrovia,
California.
thth
exceptfor
forTim,
Tim, the
the 10
10 child,
child, who
who was
was born
born atat the
the Los
Los
except
Angeles County
County Hospital,
Hospital, due
due toto Mary’s
Mary’s unstable
unstable health
health
Angeles
condition.
condition.
TheAdams
Adams Family
Family moved
moved from
from Monrovia,
Monrovia, California
California in
in
The
1943,when
whenMary
Maryand
andFrank
Frankused
usedthe
themoney
moneyfrom
fromtheir
their two
two
1943,
oldersons,
sons,Phillip
PhillipBernard
Bernardand
andFrank
FrankMatthew
Matthew(Pancho),
(Pancho), to
to
older
purchase 14
14 acres
acres inin the
the Riverside
Riverside area
area later
later known
known as
as
purchase
“Belltown”. Both
Both Philip
Philip and
and Pancho
Pancho were
were inin the
the Armed
Armed
“Belltown”.
Service(World
(WorldWar
WarII).
II). They
Theysent
senttheir
theirallotment
allotmentmoney
money to
to
Service
theirmother
mothertotoassist
assistininthe
theraising
raisingofofthe
theyounger
youngerchildren.
children.
their
Bornfrom
fromthis
thisunion
unionwere:
were:
Born
IreneJune
June
July6,6,1919
1919––deceased
deceased1976
1976
Irene
July
PhillipBernard
Bernard
February2,2,1921
1921––deceased
deceased1943
1943
Phillip
February
FrankMatthew(Pancho)May
Matthew(Pancho)May11,
11,1922
1922––Deceased
Deceased1983
1983
Frank
FannieMarion
Marion
May12,
12,1923
1923
Fannie
May
ThelmaEleanor
Eleanor
October31,
31,1924
1924
Thelma
October
CharlesWilbur
Wilbur(Chuck)
(Chuck)August
August25,
25,1926
1926––deceased
deceased1998
1998
Charles
HelenIone
Ione
March3,3,1929
1929
Helen
March
ThomasDeWitt
DeWitt
October22,
22,1933
1933––deceased
deceased1993
1993
Thomas
October
JosephJerome
Jerome(Jerry)
(Jerry) February
February21,
21,1937
1937
Joseph
ChesterTimothy
Timothy
November9,9,1938
1938
Chester
November
EuniceSharon
Sharon
March7,7,1943
1943
Eunice
March
Irene
June
(Adams)
(Tillman)
Allen
Irene
June
(Adams)
(Tillman)
Allen
Irene,
as called
family,
was
very
supportive
Irene,
as called
by by
thethe
family,
was
very
supportive
ofof
thethe
track
although
take
active
role
business.
track
although
sheshe
diddid
notnot
take
an an
active
role
in in
thethe
business.
child,
Theodore
Tillman
SheShe
hadhad
oneone
child,
Theodore
Tillman
Theodore,
known
as Teddy,
worked
track
from
Theodore,
known
as Teddy,
worked
thethe
track
from
itsits
inception.
assisted
in the
pits,
scoring
and
technical
inception.
He He
assisted
in the
pits,
scoring
and
technical
fields.
Once
Uncle
Jerry
went
into
service,
Teddy
fields.
Once
his his
Uncle
Jerry
went
into
thethe
service,
Teddy
became
starter
track.
Teddy
died
1987.
became
the the
starter
forfor
thethe
track.
Teddy
died
in in
1987.
Phillip
Bernard
Adams
Phillip
Bernard
Adams
Phillip
of Frank
Mary.HeHe
graduated
Phillip
waswas
thethe
firstfirst
sonson
of Frank
andand
Mary.
graduated
inin
winter
class
of 1942.,
during
World
War
The
draft
the the
winter
class
of 1942.,
during
World
War
II.II.The
draft
passed
3 times
(4F),
then
they
began
calling
passed
overover
himhim
2 or2 3ortimes
(4F),
then
they
began
calling
up enlistees
all enlistees
could
walk
hold
a gun,
and
was
up all
thatthat
could
walk
or or
hold
a gun,
and
hehe
was
called up to serve in late l943.
called
up to serve in late l943.
He was trained for the Demolition Squad, finished basic
He was trained for the Demolition Squad, finished basic
training and shipped off to England. He developed
training and shipped off to England. He developed
pneumonia. The Service attempted to fly him to California,
pneumonia. The Service attempted to fly him to California,
but his condition became critical and he was flown to
but Colorado.
his condition
became critical and he was flown to
He died 2 or 3 weeks later. Phillip was married,
Colorado.
died–2Phillip
or 3 weeks
had one He
(l) son
B. later. Phillip was married,
had one (l) son – Phillip B.
Frank Matthew (Pancho) Adams
Frank Matthew (Pancho) Adams
Pancho was the second son born to Frank and Mary. He
Pancho
was the
second
son born
graduated
in the
summer
class to
of Frank
1942. and Mary. He
graduated
in the
summer where
class of
I can NOT
remember
he1942.
worked before being called
I can
NOT
remember
where
he
worked
before
called
up in the draft …but, he had purchased
a l941being
Chevy
Coupe
up in
the
draft
…but,
he
had
purchased
a
l941
Chevy
Coupe
then he gave the keys to his sister (Marion) – l year younger
thenthan
he gave
the–keys
hisDID
sister
(Marion)
l year younger
himself
ANDtowe
NOT
have to– WALK
to school
thanthe
himself
– AND
we DID NOT have to WALK to school
next school
year.
the next school year.
Hisbasic
basictraining
trainingwas
waswith
with
His
trucksininthe
themotor
motorpool.
pool.
trucks
Someofofhis
histraining
trainingwas
was
Some
doneright
righthere
hereininRiverside,
Riverside,
done
priortotohis
hisbeing
beingshipped
shipped
prior
overseas.(Camp
(CampHahn)
Hahn)
overseas.
Hewas
waseventually
eventuallystationed
stationed
He
Burma,where
wherehehehelped
helped
ininBurma,
buildthe
theChina-Burma
China-Burmaroad.
road.
build
Hehad
hada alot
lotofofstories
storiestototell
tell
He
whenhehecame
camehome
homeininl946
l946
when
talkingabout
aboutdriving
drivingthose
those
talking
bigtrucks
trucksdown
downstreets
streetsthat
thatlooked
lookedlike
likethe
the buildings
buildings were
were
big
touching.
touching.
Heworked
workedininvarious
variousjobs,
jobs,got
gotmarried,
married,and
and had
had one
one son
son
He
(Lyle). Divorced, moved to Chicago for several years.
(Lyle).
Divorced, moved to Chicago for several years.
Worked for the US Postal service while in Chicago. He
Worked for the US Postal service while in Chicago. He
returned to Riverside, and moved to the East Side of town.
returned to Riverside, and moved to the East Side of town.
He worked at various aircraft jobs all over the Southern
He worked at various aircraft jobs all over the Southern
California region.
California region.
Pancho was very active in the track business. From the very
Pancho
was very
activewith
in the
beginning,
he worked
thetrack
city business.
and countyFrom
to getthe very
beginning,
cityassisted
and county
to get
permissionhetoworked
run the with
track.theHe,
by other
family
permission
to
run
the
track.
He,
assisted
by
other
family
members, worked with the City and the County to get
members,
with
City and
the off
County
to get
variancesworked
approved
andthe
permits
signed
in order
to build
variances
approved
and
permits
signed
off
in
order
to
build
the quarter mile track and the buildings which were erected
the
mile track and the buildings which were erected
at quarter
the facility.
at the facility.
Pancho had three (3) children – Lyle, Cherie and Christine.
Pancho
had three
(3)his
children
– Lyle,
Cherie and
Christine.
From time
to time,
children
have assisted
in the
special
From
time
to
time,
his
children
have
assisted
in
the
special
projects and races at the track.
projects and races at the track.
Fanny
Marion
(Adams)
Brown
Marion
(Adams)
Brown
arionFanny
(Adams)
Brown
Fanny
Marion
(Adams)
Brown
Marion participated in the
nny Marion (Adams)
Brown
Marion
participated
in the
Marion
participated
inshethe
Marion participated
in the
business
whenever
and
business
whenever
she and
business
whenever
she
her
family
were
in theand
area.
whenever
she
and
Fannybusiness
Marion (Adams)
Brown
family
in the area.
Marionherparticipated
inin were
the area.
Herherwere
husband,
Ellis
Brown,
family
the
her family were
in was
the
area.
Her
husband,
Ellis Air
Brown,
in the
United
States
business
whenever
she
and
Her
husband,
Ellis
Brown,
Her husband,
Brown,
Force,
and
traveled.
most Air
MarionEllis
participated
theStates
was
in they
the in
United
her family
were
in
the
area.
was inwhenever
theForce,
States
Air
of
ourUnited
early
track
years.
This most
and
they
traveled.
was in the
United
States
Air
business
she
and
Her husband,
Ellis
Brown,
only
allowed
them
amost
short This
Force,
and
they
traveled.
of
our
early
track
years.
Force, andher
they
traveled.
most
family
were
in
the
area.
period
of
timeyears.
with
family
was inofthe
United
States
Airthe
ouryears.
early
This
onlytrack
allowed
them
of our early
track
This
Her husband,
Ellis Brown, a short
and track.
period
of time
the family
Force, only
and they
traveled.
most
allowed
them
awith
short
only allowed
aandshort
was inthem
the United
States
Air
track.
of our period
early track
years.
ofMarion
time
with
the family
had This
five
children.
period
of
time
with
the
family
Force,
and
they
traveled.
most
Deborah Patrice,
Garnett,
and
track.Tina
only Ellis
allowed
themAlise,
a Mary
shortEllen and
and
track.
Marion
hadto This
five children.
earlyfamily
track
years.
Ronald. Onceoftheour
Brown
returned
Riverside,
period
of
time
with
the
family
1963, AllPatrice,
of only
them
gave
time to
theAlise,
family
business,
Deborah
Ellis
Garnett,
Tina
Mary
Ellen and
allowed
them
a children.
short
Marion
had
five
and
track.
especially
during
Grand
Nationals,
Championship
Races
and
Ronald.
Onceperiod
the Brown
family
returned
to Riverside,
Marion
had
five
children.
of
time
with
the
family
atrice,
Ellis
Garnett,
Mary
special
events.
1963,
All
of them Tina
gave Alise,
time to
the Ellen
familyand
business,
Garnett,
Tina
Alise,
Mary
Ellen
and
and
track.
Once
the Brown
family
returned
to Riverside,
especially
during
Grand
Nationals,
Races and
Marion
had
five Championship
children.
own
family
returned
to
Riverside,
events.
ofspecial
them
gave
to Mary
the family
business,
Ellis
Garnett,
Tinatime
Alise,
Ellen and
ve time
to Nationals,
the
family
business,
Marion
had
five children.
during
Grand
Championship
Races and
he
Brown
family returned
to Riverside,
Nationals,
Championship
Races
andEllen and
e,
Garnett,
Tina Alise,
Mary
nts.Ellis
em
gave time to the family business,
e the Brown family returned to Riverside,
Grand Nationals, Championship Races and
them gave time to the family business,
ng Grand Nationals, Championship Races and
th
I am
child
Mary
Frank
I am
the the
5th 5child
of of
Mary
andand
Frank
Adams,
having
2 older
brothers
Adams,
having
2 older
brothers
andand
2 2
older
sisters.I was
I was
born
raised
older
sisters.
born
andand
raised
in in
Monrovia,
California
finished
High
Monrovia,
California
andandfinished
High
School
in 1943.
School
in 1943.
While
China
Lake,
I metand
andmarried
marriedCharles
CharlesR.R.King.
King. Charles
Charles
While
at at
China
Lake,
I met
worked
V.A.
Hospital
Los
Angeles.I quit
I quitmy
myjob
jobininChina
China
worked
at at
thethe
V.A.
Hospital
in in
Los
Angeles.
Lake,
moved
Los
Angeles,
and
lived
there
years.During
Duringthat
that
Lake,
moved
to to
Los
Angeles,
and
lived
there
forfor
2323years.
period
I worked
DepartmentofofDefense.
Defense. Charles
Charlesretired
retiredinin
period
I worked
forfor
thethe
Department
l978;
sold
house,and
andmoved
movedto toRiverside
Riversidestayed
stayedwith
withmy
my
l978;
wewe
sold
ourourhouse,
parents
who
were
aging.I later
I laterretired
retiredin in1981.
1981.So--------how
So--------howdodoI I
parents
who
were
aging.
now
connect
myself
Adams
Kart
Track?
now
connect
myself
to to
Adams
Kart
Track?
What
memorable
about
youth?I I
What
waswas
memorable
about
mymy
youth?
will
always
remember
the
Depression
will always remember the Depression of of
1929.
YES,
I was
5 years
BIG
1929.
YES,
I was
5 years
old;old;
TheThe
BIG
earthquake
in
Long
Beach
of
1938;
earthquake in Long Beach of 1938; thethe
opening
of Santa
Anita
Race
Track;
opening
of Santa
Anita
Race
Track;
andand
the
BOMBING
of
Pearl
Harbor
–
and
the BOMBING of Pearl Harbor – and thethe
declaring
of war
in 1941.
declaring
of war
in 1941.
Leading
into
Christmas
Seasonofofl959,
l959,there
therewere
were3 3children
children(1(1
Leading
into
thethe
Christmas
Season
niece,
2 nephews)
that
unclesand
andaunts,
aunts,wanted
wantedtotosurprise
surprise
niece,
2 nephews)
that
we,we,thetheuncles
with
a
gift.
The
children
were
between
the
ages
of
7
–
9.
My
Brothers
with a gift. The children were between the ages of 7 – 9. My Brothers
heard
about
“Go
– Karts”- so
- so
after
much
discussion,several
severalofofusus
hadhad
heard
about
“Go
– Karts”
after
much
discussion,
put
together
the
cash
and
purchased
one
(l)
Kart.
Of
coursemy
my
put together the cash and purchased one (l) Kart. Of course
Brothers
driveit…however,
it…however,after
afterhaving
havingone
oneorortwo
twosmall
small
Brothers
hadhadto todrive
incidents,
they
had
to
purchase
another
Kart
as
a
gift.
incidents, they had to purchase another Kart as a gift.
family
by now
reached
– parents
(10)
OurOur
family
by now
hadhad
reached
the the
sizesize
of –ofparents
(2),(2),
andand
tenten
(10)
children.
The
oldest
girl
was
married
with
a
son.
The
two
oldest
boys
children. The oldest girl was married with a son. The two oldest boys
inducted
Army.
family
moved
to Riverside
werewere
soonsoon
inducted
intointo
the the
Army.
OurOur
family
moved
to Riverside
County
in
l943
–
adding
a
new
baby
girl
to
the
family.
I
finished
County in l943 – adding a new baby girl to the family. I hadhad
finished
School,
in Monrovia,
working
in the
effort
- for
HighHigh
School,
in Monrovia,
andand
waswas
working
in the
WarWar
effort
- for
thethe
Lockheed
Corporation
on
the
P-38
aircraft.
I
quit
that
job
in
1944
Lockheed Corporation on the P-38 aircraft. I quit that job in 1944 andand
moved
to Riverside.
moved
to Riverside.
Christmas
morning
FUN
began.The
The
Folkshad
hada acircle
circledrive
drivethat
that
Christmas
morning
thethe
FUN
began.
Folks
went
down
beside
house
– coming
incline.Well
Wellyou
youknow
know
went
down
beside
thethe
house
– coming
upupananincline.
youngsters
have
no
fear.
But,
you
can
not
imagine
how
big
their
eyes
youngsters have no fear. But, you can not imagine how big their eyes
when
they
came
corner
house
makethethecircle
circledown
down
gotgot
when
they
came
to to
thethe
corner
of of
thethe
house
totomake
the
driveway.
My
Mom
stood
it
as
long
as
she
could….then
she
told
the driveway. My Mom stood it as long as she could….then she told
everyone
take
that
Kart
down
riverbottom
bottomtotodrive.
drive.So,
So,the
the
everyone
to to
take
that
Kart
down
to to
thetheriver
next
morning
My
Dad
got
on
his
tractor
and
began
dragging
a
course
next morning My Dad got on his tractor and began dragging a course
between
trees
shrubs.So,So,
rode
aroundmissing
missingtrees
treesand
and
between
thethe
trees
andand
shrubs.
asas
hehe
rode
around
large
rocks,
cars
driving
along
the
road
seeing
him
finally
stopped
and
large rocks, cars driving along the road seeing him finally stopped and
asked
him
what
was
doing.Then,
Then,asasit ittook
tookshape,
shape,they’d
they’dask
askif if
asked
him
what
hehe
was
doing.
they
could
bring
their
they
could
bring
their
youngsters,
with
their
own
youngsters, with their own
Karts,
out
to
drive
on
Karts, out to drive on thethe
Course.
AND FROM MY
Course.
AND
FROM MY
PERSPECTIVE, I GUESS
PERSPECTIVE, I GUESS
YOU COULD SAY THE
YOU COULD SAY THE
REST IS HISTORY
REST IS HISTORY
THELMA
E (ADAMS)
KING
THELMA
E (ADAMS)
KING
older
sister,
(Marion)
I began
working
at Norton
Force
An An
older
sister,
(Marion)
andand
I began
working
at Norton
AirAir
Force
repairing
aircraft
wings
shot-up
during
- until
BaseBase
repairing
aircraft
wings
shot-up
during
the the
warwar
- until
thethe
endend
of of
the
War.
I
went
to
a
Private
Business
School
(in
Riverside);
then
on
the War. I went to a Private Business School (in Riverside); then on to to
Riverside
College.During
During
I was
a student
there,
Riverside
CityCity
College.
the the
timetime
I was
a student
there,
I I
worked
part-time
in
the
College
Library
worked part-time in the College Library
(1946
– 1948).
After
receiving
(1946
– 1948).
After
receiving
my my
AAAA
degree in l948 – I worked two (2)
degree in l948 – I worked two (2)
additional years full-time in the college
additional years full-time in the college
library. I began taking Government tests
library. I began taking Government tests
and in June 1950, I began working for
and in June 1950, I began working for
the Navy, at Inyokern, California, on the
the Navy, at Inyokern, California, on the
Mojave Desert…at the Naval Ordnance
Mojave Desert…at the Naval Ordnance
Test Station. Today, that area is known
Test Station. Today, that area is known
as China Lake, California.
as China Lake, California.
Charles(Chuck)
(Chuck)Wilbur
WilburAdams
Adams
Charles
Charles (Chuck) Wilbur Adams
Charles
Wilbur
Adams
was
born
August25,
25,1926,
1926,the
thesixth
sixth
Charles
Wilbur
Adams
was
born
August
(6th)
child
Frank
andMary
Mary
Adams.
was
known
(6th)
child
of of
Frank
and
Adams.
HeHe
was
known
byby
Charles
Wilbur
Adams
was
born
August
25,
1926,
the sixth
most
ofhishis
closefriends
friends
and
familyHe
“Chuck”
most
and
family
asaswas
“Chuck”
(6th)ofchild
ofclose
Frank
and
Mary
Adams.
knownoror
by
“Chuckie”.
Chuck
attended
Monrovia
schools
and
later
“Chuckie”.
Chuck
attended
Monrovia
schools
and
later
most of his close friends and family as “Chuck” or
pursued
a military
career
hopes
becoming
afighter
fighter
pursued
a military
career
in inhopes
ofofbecoming
“Chuckie”.
Chuck
attended
Monrovia
schoolsa and
later
pilot.
These
dreams
were
derailed
by
the
ending
of
the
pilot.
These
dreams
were
derailed
by
the
ending
of
the
pursued a military career in hopes of becoming a fighter
pilot
training
recruits
Tuskegee
PilotProgram
Program
for
pilot
training
forfor
recruits
in in
thethe
Tuskegee
for
pilot.
These
dreams
were
derailed
byPilot
the
ending
of
the
which
he
was
selected.
After
leaving
which
he
was
selected.
After
leaving
pilot training for recruits in the Tuskegee Pilot Program for
the
military
Chuck
returnedtoselected.
toMonrovia,
Monrovia,After
California
and
thewhich
military
Chuck
returned
California
and
he
was
leaving
began
workcareer
career
draftsmanemployed
employed by
by
began
hishiswork
asas atoa draftsman
the military
Chuck
returned
Monrovia,
California
and
Rockwell
International
"Rockwell".
metand
andmarried
married
Rockwell
International
"Rockwell".
HeHemet
began his
work career
as a draftsman
employed
by
Juanita
Parker.
Out
of
the
couples
union
they
were
blessed
Juanita
Parker.
Out
of
the
couples
union
they
were
blessed
Rockwell International "Rockwell". He met and married
with
three
daughters
(married
Greg
Coleman)
with
three
daughters
(married
totoGreg
Coleman)
Juanita
Parker.
Out Marian
ofMarian
the couples
union
they
were
blessed
Tracy
and
Cathy.
Among
his
many
career
advancements
Tracy
Cathy.
AmongMarian
his many
career to
advancements
atat
withand
three
daughters
(married
Greg Coleman)
Rockwell,Chuck
Chuck worked
worked asas anan Aeronautics
Aeronautics Field
Field
Rockwell,
Tracy and Cathy. Among
his many career advancements
at
Engineer
where
he
madevaluable
valuablecontributions
contributionstotoaircraft
aircraft
Engineer
where
he
made
Rockwell, Chuck worked as an Aeronautics Field
capsule designs
designs on thethe
Apollo 1313 and
and quality
capsule
Apollo
Engineer where heon
made valuable
contributions toquality
aircraft
control
engineering
services
for
the
space
shuttle
program.
control
engineering
space shuttle
program.
capsule
designsservices
on for
the the
Apollo
13 and
quality
Chuck
retired
from
Rockwell
after
35-years
of
service.
Chuck
retired
from Rockwell
35-years
service.
control
engineering
servicesafter
for the
space of
shuttle
program.
Chuck retired from Rockwell after 35-years of service.
Chuck had
had many
many interest
interest such
such asascooking,
cooking,
Chuck
gardening,
wood craftsmanship,photography,
photography,bowling
bowlingand
and
gardening,
Chuck wood
had craftsmanship,
many
interest
such
as cooking,
bicycling,
and
watchingracing
racingevents.
events.If Ifyou
you weretotoask
ask
bicycling,
and
watching
gardening,
wood
craftsmanship,
photography,were
bowling and
him
wouldtelltellyou
youthat
thathehewas
wasone
oneofofthe
thesons
sonsthat
that
him
hehewould
bicycling,
and watching
racing events.
If you were
to ask
helped
to convince
parents
buildAdams
AdamsKart
KartTrack
Trackand
and
helped
hishis
parents
him to
he convince
would tell
you
thatbuild
he was
one of the
sons that
was instrumental in the design of the tack. Chuck was
was
instrumental
in his
the parents
design build
of the
tack. Kart
Chuck
was
helped
to convince
Adams
Track
and
also an unrelenting jokester, and was very good at
also
an instrumental
unrelenting injokester,
and ofwas
very Chuck
good at
was
the design
the tack.
was
telling "tall tells" that even the person he was telling the
telling
tells" that even
the person
he was
also "tall
an unrelenting
jokester,
and was
verytelling
goodthe at
story about could even be convinced that it was true. Chuck
story
about
could
even
beeven
convinced
that it he
waswas
true.telling
Chuckthe
telling
"tall
tells"
that
the person
was the life of any party and would often entertain his
was
the about
life of
anyeven
party
wouldthat
often
entertain
his
story
could
be and
convinced
it was
true. Chuck
was the life of any party and would often entertain his
familywith
withsongs
songsfrom
fromhis
hisfavorite
favoriteartist,
artist, Nat
Nat King
King Cole,
Cole,
family
bike
riding,
cooking,
andgardening.
gardening.
Although
he
enjoyed
bike
riding,
cooking,
and
enjoyed
family
with
songs from
his
favoriteAlthough
artist, Nathe
King
Cole,
these
activities,
his
true
joy
and
passion
was
being
in
the
these
activities,
his
true
joy
and
passion
was
being
in
the
bike riding, cooking, and gardening. Although he enjoyed
company
hisfamily,
family,
Chuck
hadpassion
veryclose
close
and loving
loving
company
ofofhis
Chuck
had
aavery
these activities,
his true
joy and
was and
being
in the
relationship
with
his
girls
and
was
a
wonderful
grandfather
relationship
with
his
girls
and
was
a
wonderful
grandfather
company of his family, Chuck had a very close and loving
hisgrandchildren
grandchildren
Gregory
Jr.,
Whitney,
Chase
and his
his
toto
his
Gregory
Jr.,
Whitney,
Chase
and
relationship
with his
girls and
was
a wonderful
grandfather
special
oneJoseph.
Joseph. Gregory Jr., Whitney, Chase and his
special
to his one
grandchildren
special one Joseph.
Chuckpassed
passedaway
awayon
onJanuary
January 1,1, 1998,
1998,but
but his
his memory
memory
Chuck
will
never
forgotten
byall
allthat
thatknew
knew
andloved
loved
him.
will
never
bebeforgotten
by
and
him.
Chuck
passed
away on
January
1, 1998,
but
his
memory
will never be forgotten by all that knew and loved him.
HELENHELEN
I. ARMSTRONG
(Adams)
(Bush)(Bush)
I. ARMSTRONG
(Adams)
Helen (Adams)
(Bush) Armstrong,
the seventh
(7) child
Mary
Helen (Adams)
(Bush) Armstrong,
the seventh
(7)ofchild
of and
Mary and
Frank Adams,
went
to
Huntington
Drive
Grammar,
and
Ivy
Jr.
High
Frank Adams, went to Huntington Drive Grammar, and Ivy
Jr. High
SchoolsSchools
in Monrovia.
in Monrovia.
My parents
movedmoved
to Riverside
in
My parents
to Riverside
in
l943 and
settled
in
Belltown
(West
l943 and settled in Belltown (West
Riverside).
I attended
University
Riverside).
I attended
University
Jr. HighJr.School,
graduated
and then
High School,
graduated
and then
to PolytoHigh
which which
is nowis now
PolySchool,
High School,
the property
of RCC.
I graduated
the property
of RCC.
I graduated
in 1947.
I worked
at Kustners,
in 1947.
I worked
at Kustners,
on on
Main
St., during
the summer.
Main St.,
during
the summer.
joined
theduring
USO World
during World
andtowent
Air Bases
I joinedI the
USO
War II War
and II
went
Air to
Bases
and and
Navy Stations
to dances
the servicemen.
At March
Air Force
Navy Stations
to dances
for the for
servicemen.
At March
Air Force
Base,
I
met
John
Bush.
We
married
and
soon
had
three
(3)
children
Base, I met John Bush. We married and soon had three (3) children
– Connie,
and Ralph.
– Connie,
John Jr.,John
and Jr.,
Ralph.
began working
the Riverside
Superintendent
of County
I began Iworking
for the for
Riverside
Superintendent
Office Office
of County
Schools
in
1956,
NDS
WAS
promoted
to
the
Supervisor
Schools in 1956, NDS WAS promoted to the Supervisor of theof the
Media Center.
retired
fromafter
there
30ofyears
of service.
Media Center.
I retiredI from
there
30after
years
service.
is athat
saying
that
goes something
like“A
this:
“A family
that works
There isThere
a saying
goes
something
like this:
family
that works
together
stays
together”.
WE
ARE
together stays together”. WE ARE
A LIVING
OF THAT.,
A LIVING
PROOFPROOF
OF THAT.,
still– here
– Throughout
the
We are We
stillare
here
Throughout
the
years, my sons John and Ralph have
years, my sons John and Ralph have
continued to drive Karts, racing at
continued to drive Karts, racing at
various
Tracks
in
Southern
various
Tracks
in
Southern
California including National races.
California including National races.
.
.
My most memorable, everlasting
My most
everlasting
eventmemorable,
was when we
purchased the
event was
when
we
purchased
theto that,
TRAILER, I loved it. Next
TRAILER,
lovedmyit.Sons
Nextstarted
to that,
was Iwhen
racing. I
was when
my
Sons
started
racing.
WAS SCARED TO DEATH.I
WAS SCARED TO DEATH.
Thomas
DeWitt
Adams
Thomas
DeWitt
Adams
Thomas
DeWittAdams
Adamswas
wasborn
born
Thomas
DeWitt
October
1932.HeHe
known
October
22,22,
1932.
waswas
known
to to
allallasas
DeWitt.
From
boyhood
to
Adulthood
DeWitt. From boyhood to Adulthood hehe
enjoyed
sports
speed.While
Whileplaying
playing
enjoyed
sports
andand
speed.
football
at
Polytechnic
High
School,
football at Polytechnic High School, hehe
received
an injury
arm
and
hand
received
an injury
thatthat
leftleft
oneone
arm
and
hand
paralyzed.
He
endured
many
surgeries
over
paralyzed. He endured many surgeries over
lifetime
to help
ease
pain
fromthis
this
his his
lifetime
to help
ease
thethe
pain
from
injury.
injury.
never
disability
keep
him
He He
never
let let
thisthis
disability
keep
him
from
enjoyingspeed
speedor orparticipating
participatingin in
from
enjoying
sports. He was involved with the car club known as the Cocher Car
sports. He was involved with the car club known as the Cocher Car
club. DeWitt chose not to let his injury keep him from achieving
club. DeWitt chose not to let his injury keep him from achieving
success in his life and in giving back to the community.
success in his life and in giving back to the community.
He made a decision to enter the educational field. During his
He made a decision to enter the educational field. During his
college years he was very active in school and community activities
college
years
was1954
veryheactive
in schoolasand
community
activities
and on
Julyhe10,
was initiated
a member
of the
Upsilon
andchapter
on Julyof10,
1954 Alpha
he wasPsi.
initiated
a member
of hired
the Upsilon
Kappa
After as
college
he was
by San
chapter
of Kappa
Psi. After college
he wasteacher.
hired He
by began
San
Bernardino
as theAlpha
first African-American
handicap
Bernardino
thea first
African-American
handicap
Heyears
beganof
his careeras as
classroom
teacher but during
histeacher.
first two
his teaching
career ashea moved
classroom
teacher
but
during
his
first
two
years
quickly from teacher to Head teacher and ofan
teaching
he tomoved
quickly He
fromwasteacher
to Head
teacher
and and
an
assistant
the Principal.
in charge
of sports
programs
assistant
to in
thethe
Principal.
Hesports
was in
charge of
programs
coached
elementary
program.
Hesports
worked
with theand
San
coached
in
the
elementary
sports
program.
He
worked
with
the
San
Bernardino Recreation Department as a playground director For 14
Bernardino
years. Recreation Department as a playground director For 14
years.
His involvement with sports did not stop there, he officiated
His involvement
with
sportsgames
did not
there, Area
he officiated
football,
basketball and
softball
for stop
the Inland
Officials
football,
basketball
and
softball
games
for
the
Inland
Area
Officials
Association. His Educational career with San Bernardino School
Association.
His Educational
career with
Bernardino
School
District included
being responsible
for San
counseling
students
with
behavioral
and academic
problems. He
a transportation
specialist
District
included
being responsible
forwas
counseling
students
with
and designed
and initiated
San Bernardino
first transportation
behavioral
and academic
problems.
He was district’s
a transportation
specialist
safety
program.
He
also
was
a
pupil
transportation
specialist
and an
and designed and initiated San Bernardino district’s first transportation
assistant
to the
specialist, which
was aand
liaison
safety
program.
HeInter-group
also was arelations
pupil transportation
specialist
an
between
schools
and
the
community.
He
also
worked
with
related
assistant to the Inter-group relations specialist, which was a liaison
Inter-group
functions
within
the African-American
community.
between
schools
and the
community.
He also worked
with related
He
planned
and
developed
a
Title
I
Outreach
program
Inter-group functions within the African-American community. and inservice
Child and
Development
a multi-cultural
He to
planned
developedteachers.
a Title IAs
Outreach
program specialist
and inservice to Child Development teachers. As a multi-cultural specialist
he was
was responsible
responsible for planning
planning and
he
and developing
developing multi-cultural
multi-cultural
materials for
for use
use in
in EIA, SIP, and
materials
and Bi-lingual
Bi-lingual programs.
programs. He
He was
was
responsible
for
developing
the
District
Advisory
for
Native-American
responsible for developing
District Advisory for Native-American
education.
education.
He served
served as
as assistant
assistant to principals
He
principals and
and in
in 1976;
1976; he
he left
left the
theSan
San
Bernardino Unified
Unified School
School District
Bernardino
District to
to become
become the
the first
first AfricanAfricanAmerican Principal
Principal hired
hired in
in the
American
the Jurupa
Jurupa Unified
Unified School
School District.
District.He
He
ended his
his educational
educational career
career by
ended
by returning
returning to
to the
the classroom
classroomfor
forhis
his
farewellyear
year before
before retirement.
retirement.
farewell
DeWitt was
was concerned
concerned about
DeWitt
about his
his community
communityand
andwas
wasinvolved
involved
with
many
local
organizations
which
were
committed
to
with many local organizations which were committed to the
thewellwellbeing
of
the
community
in
which
he
lived.
He
was
president
being of the community in which he lived. He was presidentfor
for
many years
years of
of the
the Northwest
Northwest Mosquito
many
Mosquito Abatement
Abatement District
District and
anda a
member for 14 years. He was involved with the local Jaycees and
member for 14 years. He was involved with the local Jaycees and
many other local organizations in Riverside. He participated in
many other local organizations in Riverside. He participated in
parades and local fairs. He believed in community spirit and
parades and local fairs. He believed in community spirit and
involvement and giving the community, activities to be involved in
involvement
and giving the community, activities to be involved in
and proud of.
and proud
of.
So, on that fateful Christmas
So,brothers
on thatdecided
fateful toChristmas
when his
buy that
when
his
brothers
decided
buy and
that
first Go-Kart for the familytoniece
first
Go-Kart
for the
familyHeniece
and
nephews,
a legacy
began.
became
nephews,
a
legacy
began.
He
became
one of the founding family members
one
the Adams
founding
family
that of
began
Kart
Track.members
It was
that
Adams
Kart
was
onlybegan
natural
that as
theTrack.
family Itmade
only
natural
that
as
the
family
made
the transition from family fun to
the
transition
familywould
fun become
to
family
business from
that DeWitt
the family announcer for
family
business
that
DeWitt
would
become
family
for
the track, which included So Cal and Tri-Cthe
Kart
clubs announcer
which made
the
track,Kart
which
included
So track.
Cal and
Tri-C
made
Adams
Track
their home
Tri-C
KartKart
clubclubs
once which
gave him
a
Adams
Kart
Track
their
home
track.
Tri-C
Kart
club
once
gave
him
trophy, naming him as the announcer with the golden tongue. DeWitt a
trophy,
himfor
asthe
thebusiness
announcer
the golden
DeWitt
was thenaming
announcer
untilwith
his death
on Julytongue.
3, 1993.
.
married
Victoria
Hijar
and
this marriage
had. 3
was the DeWitt
announcer
for the
business
until
histodeath
on July 3,they
1993.
children:
Karen
Thomas-Ashley,
Thomas
Adamsthey
II, had
and 3
DeWitt
married
Victoria Hijar
and toDeWitt
this marriage
Kevin
D.
Adams
Over
the
years,
his
children
and
descendants
have
children: Karen Thomas-Ashley, Thomas DeWitt Adams II, and
supported
the Adams
Track his
and children
the Adams
Kevin
D. Adams
OverKart
the years,
andMotorsports
descendantsPark
have
business
with
their
time.
When
a
call
out
is
made
to
family
members,
supported the Adams Kart Track and the Adams Motorsports Park
all respond
of theWhen
legacy
left by
commitment
business
withbecause
their time.
a call
outDeWitt
is madeand
to the
family
members,
he
made
to
his
family
and
this
important
family
legacy.
all respond because of the legacy left by DeWitt and the commitment
he made to his family and this important family legacy.
Joseph Jerome Adams
Joseph Jerome Adams
Joseph Adams known to his family and friends as “Jerry”. Jerry was
six years old when the family moved to Riverside. Jerry participated
in football, basketball, baseball, and track. Jerry lettered and excelled
in all sports, but his favorite sport was basketball. On the court, Jerry
would imitate Goose Tatum of the famous
Harlem Globetrotters and was given the
nickname “Goose” by his friends and family.
Jerry was a member of the Junior Harlem
Globetrotter that would perform at
exhibitions throughout the Inland Empire,
including the Indian Reservations. They even
performed exhibitions during half time when
the Famous Harlem Globetrotter’s played at
the San Bernardino
Orange Show in 1954
and 1955. Although Jerry and Carolyn knew
each other from the neighborhood, it wasn’t
until a football game at Poly High School in
1956, when Carolyn needed a ride home. Jerry
gave her a ride home and asked her for a date.
When Jerry picked Carolyn up for their first
date and he met her father, Charles Bridges,
Mr. Bridges told him, “I have great
expectations for my daughter” and Jerry replied “My dad has great
expectations for me too.” Jerry and Carolyn will celebrate their 50th
Anniversary April 23, 2010.
Between 1955 and 1956, Jerry was introduced to bowling. A sport he
loves as much as basketball. Although he doesn’t play basketball
anymore, Jerry still bowls in two leagues to this day. In 1956, Jerry
and a group of young men got together and started a car club called
“Cochers” in French it means “Coachman”. The car club was
known to give roadside help to stranded motorist whenever they
encountered those needing assistance. There were articles in the
newspaper about the Cochers Club. The articles wrote about the
Cochers performing services from changing tires to minor repairs, in
which no money was asked, expected, nor accepted. The Cochers
earned the gratitude and commendation of the entire community.
The club was active until 1962. In 1999, the Cocher members
reconnected and to the present they are involved in the community.
The year 1960, was an important and busy year for Jerry, first the
Adams Kart Track opened in January 1960, next Jerry married
This
is page
14 Bridges on April 23, 1960, and then he was drafted
Carolyn
Anne
into the Army and left in August of 1960. He spent six months in
boot camp at Fort Ore in Salinas, California. Jerry’s first station was
Fort Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska. After six months, Jerry flew
back to California, picked up Carolyn and they drove Jerry’s ’58
Chevy to Alaska, where they lived until 1962. They returned to
California in July of 1962, driving that ’58 Chevy. Jerry played
basketball and baseball for the army team. Jerry started the races at
the Adams Kart Track before he was drafted, upon his returned from
the Army, Jerry resumed his job as the starter of the races.
Jerry has always been a hard worker, when you come to the track
you’ll find Jerry working. After graduation from high school in 1955,
Jerry got a job washing cars at Citrus Motors. In April of 1956, Jerry
was employed by Hunter Douglas/ Alcan as a janitor, working his
way up to a salvage yard operator driving a fork lift and lastly a self
service engineer (human resources and supervising installers) prior to
retirement after 20 years. He worked for Sun Masters for 5 years as a
shop foreman and 12 years at Rohr working his way from bench
tooling layout to model shop supervisor.
Jerry and Carolyn have two children Sherri and Joseph II, In-laws;
Sheneca, Melvin, grandchildren; Brittanee,
Kaleaph, Jordon, Lamar, Alexis, Jalen and
Jadon.
50th Anniversary
Events Schedule
Introduction ……………...............Helen Bush Armstrong
Master of Ceremonies ……........................…Troy C. Adams
Invocation
Recognition of Sponsors
Recognition of Dignitaries
Special Award Recognitions
6th Annual VKA/AMP
Vintage Kart Reunion
Thursday, January 28, 2010
9:15a.m. – 4:00p.m.
4:30p.m. – 9:00p.m.
Open Practice
Adams 50th Anniversary Celebration
Friday January 29, 2010
9:15a.m. – 4:00p.m.
11:00a.m. – 2:00p.m.
4:30p.m. – 9:00p.m. 7:30p.m.- 9:00p.m.
Open Practice
Geritol Gang – John Julis
Luncheon in Riverside
6th Annual VKA/AMP
Kart Reunion Show Awards
Adams Drift Exhibition on track
Saturday, January 30, 2010
7:00a.m. 8:00a.m.
10:00a.m
1:15p.m.
1:30p.m.
3:00p.m.
Open Practice and Registration
Drivers & Pit Meeting
National Anthem
Opening Ceremony & Heats Begin
Richard Kennedy’s “This Side Up”
“Exhibition”
Final Heats Begin
(8 classes – 6 laps each)
Trophy Presentations and farewells
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Vintage Karting’s 6th Annual Reunion & Adams’ Kart Track’s 50th Anniversary
CAST OF CHARACTERS
Riverside, CA From humble beginnings at Christmastime in 1959, Adams Kart Track (currently
Adams Motorsports Park – AMP) has been and remains an historic track for karters everywhere.
Family matriarch, Mrs. Thelma King, is a very special guest at our event each year. She only
makes it to the track for a little while now so don’t miss her. In 2007 this event honored her late
husband, Charles, who left us in 2006. A good many of the remaining “Adams’ Family” will be
here and of course Troy and Timel still operate the facility in a long standing family tradition.
We thank them for their partnership and support of this event each of it’s six years thus far.
Wow, has it been six years?!?! Importantly, this year we join in appreciation of the Adam’s Kart
Track and family for 50 years of partnerships within karting’s community making this great facility
available to the tens of thousands who now have racing memories at Riverside. Please join us
in celebration being held in their honor on Thursday evening at the nearby Marriott on Market
Street. You can purchase your tickets at event registration.
As always our honorary flagman for this 2010 race is Jerry Adams, and sister Sharon (Eunice)
still takes time to welcome karters and in the early days of this event her administrative expertise
and assistance to Timel made it happen. Sharon’s son, Anton Lisberg, is your flagman this year and
flags IKF Region 7 on a regular basis, special thanks Anton.
This year we’ll be welcoming even more of the Adams’ family members as we celebrate 50
years with them and you’ll meet them as the weekend unfolds.
Without the Adams’ family this track and this event would not be possible. We thank them
from the bottom of our hearts and we are all hopeful that karters from everywhere will enjoy the
track for another half century. Congratulations Adams’ Family
BARWICK, Graeme - New South Wales, Australia
Graeme Barwick belongs to the
“Vintage & Historic Association of New South Wales.” He owns a 1972 Devenson with a
Yamaha rotary motor. His father began karting in 1959 and manufactured the “Victa Sports
Kart” and has written a book about karting. We extend our heartfelt welcome to Graeme in
his third trip to our event. He’s back this year with more of our friends from Australia
BENNETT, Bud, Kirt, and Craig – The Bennett family of RM Motorsports hail from
Wixom, Michigan in the Detroit area. Bennett’s are easily spotted in the pit, the big tractortrailer rig was brought out by Bennett’s. They haul the equipment for many, many of our
east coast and Midwest vintage karters and enthusiasts. All the Bennett’s race vintage karts
themselves. We need to congratulate Craig for his win this year at the Monterey Historic Races
as well. Bennett’s are an incredible addition to the vintage karting family and we couldn’t be
more honored to have them join us again this year. Welcome back. We anticipate they will
be transporting at least 30 karts to join us this year. Take a minute to walk by their pit and see
the fabulous equipment. Their karts are always wonderful eye candy
BERIETER, Bruce - Bruce and wife Gretchen call Stanton, California home. Bruce owns
and drives his green Hornet sprint with a Bonbright built West Bend. Proprietor of Jocko’s
Speed Shop and Museum, which is the site of an infamous December motorhead party each
year. Bruce also produces the clever VKA buttons we all so proudly wear. Wife Gretchen can
be seen just about anywhere there is a job to be done and the track with a beautiful smile
on her face. Bruce is always at our planning meetings for this event and his contributions
are so very much appreciated. Gretchen is always at this event to help us with operations
and administration and anything else she sees needs tending, and we thank this very special
couple for just being who they are. This year they also donated our very clever balloons.
CONNERS, Dick - Lancaster, CA , IKF Hall of Fame Expert in Sprint. Conners began racing
in 1959, the same year he sat off-pole next to Faye Pierson at the very first Grandnationals. He
went on to win six titles from 1962 to 1965. Three of those titles were from one event in Fort
Worth, TX in 1963. All karters from that period admire his accomplishments and we certainly
welcome him here.
CORSO, Tom - Tom began karting in 1968. Tom will be here with his Original kart, a
Rupp A-Bone and still has the original engine he ran then. Tom helps with pre-tech with Louie
Figone and we very much appreciate his help. Anytime you see Tom you are guaranteed a
smile. Thanks for being here Tom.
DONOVAN, Jim - Naperville, Illinois. Jim has attended nearly every vintage event this
last year. His clutches have been and are a constant and well respected addition to most any
engine package for decades. He was here in Riverside last year and we welcome him back
this year. He and his company, MaxTorque www.maxtorque.com , have not only donated
substantially to our raffle this year, Jim is also one of your supper sponsors for our Friday night
Tent Gala and Kart Show. Please take a moment to thank him if you see him. He stays busy
helping everyone in the pit.
MaxTorque, the company, began in 1957 by a renowned inventor, George Fields, who
held 42 patents. He was one of the early pioneers of centrifugal clutches and many of his
designs are still in use today. In the early days you had to push start karts and when Fields’
sons began karting he had a better idea, the centrifugal clutch. Mr. Fields also designed his
own chassis in the early days so he had access to parts, you know how things break in this
sport. It was called the Max-Torque Special. He sponsored a young driver at the time, Don
Surwall. Later the team added the likes of Jim Rose and Rick Parsons. Fields would later sell
the company and in 1989 present owners James Donovan and Frederick Meyers purchased
Max Torque.
Jim says “who would ever have guessed that the karts of the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s would
come back with such rebirth in the Vintage Karting arena.” But they did. Jim says the stated
goal of the company now…..we will make you a clutch if you have a need. Jim says “we
were the first to provide clutches for go karts in the beginning and we are committed to keep
them running for future generations to enjoy.” How cool is that! Thanks Max-Torque, thanks
Jim, and welcome back.
FIGONE, Louie - Half Moon Bay, CA Louie began racing in the early 60’s with a Clinton
A400. Louie became involved again in the mid-80’s when son Joey began to compete in
modern karting in northern California. Joey became an IKF Grandnational Champion in 1993
in Sprint. Louie was heavily involved in the IKF as a committee member and then a member of
the IKF Board of Directors in the late 80’s through the mid-90’s. He has just accepted a board
position for Vintage Karting Association. And a great addition he is.
Louie returned to vintage karting in 2002. In addition to assisting with tech and
coordination of this event each year, Louie will also be driving his original Dart Chaparral with
a West Bend. Son Joey will be driving both the single and the dual again this year. I think they
take turns on both karts. A true joy to watch on track.
Louie and the Figone family are also one of our supper sponsors for our Friday night Tent
Gala and Kart Show. Louie Figone’s contributions to karting and particularly to this event are
above and beyond the call of duty, so please join us in celebrating Louie’s involvement at this
years’ gala event.
FISHER, Ernie - Gualala, CA Ernie began racing karts in the 60’s but didn’t stop when
he stopped racing in competition. Ernie went on to be the starter for six IKF Grandnational
events and has flagged many vintage events across the country as well as this event in years
past.
He was on the cover of Karter News in 1967 when he took 2nd place at the IKF
Grandnationals and twenty years later Ernie received the IKF Troy Ruttman Roadrace Award
for his Bug laydown kart. Ernie recently restored a rare Hovey Hawk, and won a show award
for that effort.
FLOREY, Dick - Dick hails from Central Point, OR and was heavily involved in building
the Medford, OR Kart Track. If you’ve never been there it is a great track. Dick is a huge
motorcycle fan, he owns six or so, and rides them to GP events all over the country. Dick
has some really cool vintage karts and is one of the nicest guys you’ll ever meet. We gladly
welcome him back to this event. He left the “zoo” to be with us, and I will explain. Dick’s wife
Coney has been rescuing animals for years, hence the zoo, and she cannot leave the animals
to be with us but her efforts are appreciated by all. Dick was one of our judges in 2009 and
is always helping at this event. Thank you Dick.
FREEMAN, Bill - This is Bill’s and his wife Dodie’s third trip for our event. Their involvement
and contributions to not just karting but all sorts of racing are impressive indeed. Bill began his
karting career in 1961 in the Midwest, then in 1972 – 1974 he relocated to California to race
karts here. From 1974 to 1978 Bill raced in the SCCA Trans-Am, IMSA GT racing. Bill was also
an SCCA B-Production National Champion and from 1977 through 1983 he was involved in
Newman-Freeman Racing. Paul Newman, God rest his soul, and Bill Freeman formed a racing
partnership in 1977 to compete in various forms of auto racing. The “Newman-Freeman
Racing” team dominated North America’s Can-Am series in its Budweiser sponsored Lola team.
The team drivers included Keke Rosberg, Elliott Forbes-Robinson, Bobby Rahal, and Danny
Sullivan, to name a few.
Bill and Paul Newman also co-drove many professional races together during that period.
In ’83 and ’84 he was involved in Gurney-Freeman Racing. During this time Bill was Assistant
Team Manager, Indianapolis 500 CART racing team and partner at All American Racers in Santa
Ana, California.
For the last three years Bill and his lovely wife Dodie have contributed mightily to our
event just by being with us. They are also among our Friday night supper sponsors for the
Tent Gala & Kart Show. Should you get a chance, he and his wife are positively delightful to
talk with, please thank them. THANK YOU BOTH and Welcome back.
HOLT, Randy - Lancaster, CA
Randy began karting as a kid in 1959 and ran for Tom
Medley for several years. He came back to karing in the early 90’s to participate in roadrace with
Kathey Hartman. Currently Holt drives Medley’s vintage karts as well as his own reproductions
and a modified Hartman endure/roadrace kart. Randy has become a fine mentor to junior
driver George Friend, a partnership both of them are quite proud of. Kim Gillette also drives
for Randy and she won the sapphire ring in last years’ raffle.
Randy also assists Tom Medley in creating our most unique show trophies for this event
each year. Thanks Randy………
HUGHES, Vince - From Oceanside, CA Vince was VKA President in 2005 and was an
advisor and part of the steering committee on the Riverside event for it’s first five years. Thank
you Vince.
Hughes could certainly open his own museum with his personal karting equipment and
you can eat on his karts they are so immaculate. His restoration skills are quite evident. Vince
has taken home more show awards than any other in vintage karting.
IVES, Terry - Citrus Heights, CA is where Terry calls home. Terry Ives Industries (Tii) has
amassed Championships all over the country, not just in northern California, over the past
quarter century. Terry’s nickname is “IronMan”
A master engine builder, Terry was part of the NorCal-IKF gang that made Region 11 the
biggest IKF Championship Series in the country in the late 80’s and early 90’s. At that time Ives
was also a major player on the IKF Board and committees and remains an advisor to all sorts
of karting related clubs and organizations, including IKF, and VKA of course. Terry is a lifetime
member of IKF. Terry is an IKF Roadrace rated “expert” with 6 Duffys (Grandnational Titles)
Terry Ives is known for his skills as race director, tech director, fabricator and mechanic…….
and if you’ve ever seen him drive a dual, you know it is nothing short of amazing. Terry builds
Mac engines for vintage karters everywhere. For the past nine years Terry has devoted most
of his efforts to vintage karting. Vintage karting simply would not be where it is today without
Terry’s support and attendance. We are proud to have his better half, wife Carol, attending this
event again this year. Welcome Carol, and thanks for joining us.
Terry Ives is your assistant race director for this event, and Terry was recognized at our
2009 event for his contributions and support of this sport and this event. Thanks Terry
GEER, Dick - Arcadia, CA
Dick became the first IKF (then Go Kart Club of America)
Grandnational winner in 1959. Dick won all three heat races that day on his Bug Dual.
Initially a partner in Bug Engineering, he helped build the very first karts used by Team Bug.
Dick was a Team Bug member and toured in the famous Bug bus all over the U.S. in the early
days of the company.
JAMES, Jesse – Chicago, Illinois. Yes, that’s his name. While Jesse has only been
involved in vintage karting a few short years, he is a most welcome addition. A most colorful
character whose day job is at the CBOT. Jesse is in awe of our sport and the machines and
we are told by our friends in the Midwest that Jesse has an entire room in his house dedicated
to his kart collection.
GRIFFIN, John - Jackson, Mississippi. John is a great vintage karting enthusiast. John
originally raced karts in from 1967 through 1973 and attended many national event during
that time. He even bought one of Lake Speed’s Mac 101’s in the early days. Just watch, the
man can drive…………….
Five years ago he began racing modern karts again, and about three years ago he went
to Quincy. His first vintage race in Quincy hooked him on the vintage movement as well. He
also has Dan and Nancy Lotz in the pit with him. Dan is just great with karts, and Nancy is
just a sweetheart. Dan raced in years gone by and is a master mechanic on these fabulous
machines.
For the first time this year John has invited his mother to attend our event so take a
moment to welcome her. John runs in the single sidewinder and the dual sidewinder classes.
His equipment is always immaculate and his personality is just awesome. You will certainly
enjoy seeing him drive. This is John’s second trip to our event. Welcome back John.
JOHNSON, Ralph – Ralph has always lived in Southern California, but you will recognize
him as being one of three original members of the band Earth, Wind & Fire. Ralph is just an
all around great fellow and his bride a true gem. Last year Ralph won the Tom Pierson BEST
BUG OF SHOW award with his magnificent and very glitzy reproduction 1964 BUG Sprint.
Welcome back Ralph, so glad you could join us again.
JULIS, John - Riverside, CA John raced roadrace karts in the 60’s and 70’s and won the
1969 Roadrace FKE-II class in Indianapolis, Indiana. John is the host and organizer of the everpopular and growing annual “Geritol Gang” Luncheon held the first of every year in Southern
California. In the beginning the luncheon was by invitation only by none other than karting
hero and icon Earl Larson, and even then John coordinated everything for the luncheon for
Earl. Now that karting has lost pioneer Earl Larson of GEM Products, the luncheon is now
held in his honor each year. Thank you John. If you wish to attend the Luncheon John can
be reached at (951) 689-1221 for reservations.
KANAMOTO, Sets - Montebello, CA Sets raced in the early 60’s and joined the famed
GO KART team traveling and racing from coast to coast. He is a welcome addition to the
vintage karting family now.
KOSSARAS, Dean (check spelling)- Grand Blanc, Michigan. As a young lad traveling
with his parents on the I-10 freeway in West Covina, CA in 1958, Dean actually saw the
Eastland Parking Lot kart races staged by the early Go Kart Club (later IKF) While living in Palm
Springs, CA in ’65-’66 Dean raced at Adams with a Dart Kart with a Mac 91.
Dean and Mark Shepard were instrumental in getting some of our famous past champions
back into karting…….folks like Lake Speed, the Bennett family, big-bad Jeff Brown, and Pete
Berlt and Butch Stewart. Dean is currently a VKA board member as well
Among other karts, Dean currently owns a Dual B-Bomb Invader and a Dart Chaparral
with Mac 101’s. The Chaparral won four times at least at Quincy. He also has a PX single with
a BM-130 that is just plain fast. Dean drives in the single sidewinder class and he and Bobby
Lee really put on a show in Quincy in 2009.
KENNEDY, Richard “This Side Up” - Gualala, CA
Rich is a long, tall fellow who
handles his kart on 2 wheels rather than 4 with consummate skill and a huge grin on his face.
They call him the “Bishop of Balance” and he holds track records at kart raceways across the
USA.
Richard’s unique driving skill demonstration entertains even the most accomplished drivers.
And to the children in the pit he is the Pied Piper of Karting! Kids flock to him and to see him
negotiate turn after turn with his kart on the edge, literally defying gravity. On occasion they
do get to see him roll over, but that’s just part of the drill………. it does happen.
His is truly a one-of, his skills quite unique in motorsports. He literally throws his kart
into a roll-over situation and catches it, balancing on two wheels with the engine in the air
while he precision steers it to keep it on edge on two wheels. Needless to say it takes tons of
practice, enduring bruises and scraping body and bodywork. Each attempt requires intense
concentration and superior skill to keep from landing on his head. The only thing equal to his
skill is his passion for what he does. Richard uses an Emmick and a vintage Bug Wasp.
Rich is supported by his crew and long time friend Will Guyan and Ernie Fisher. Richard
Kennedy has achieved fame and success as a professional sculptor, hot rod builder, engineer
and designer, and real estate mogul in Gualala, CA, a coastal paradise in the Redwoods.
Richard is a stellar gentleman and has become a fine and proud tradition within this
annual event. Thanks so very much Richard……..
LAYBUTT, Max – Sydney, Australia We welcome our newest Aussie to Riverside. This is
Max’s first trip to our vintage event, he came with Graeme Barwick who has been here three
years. Max is the national treasurer for the Australian Karting Association and has been racing
karts for more than 40 years. He hopes to get on the track during his visit. Please join us in
welcoming him
LIVINGSTONE, Frank “Duffy” – Chattanooga, TN. Livingstone and Roy Desbrow
had a muffler shop in the Pasadena/Monrovia area in the fifties (Duff & Roy’s Muffler.) In
the late 50’s Livingstone raced in roadster races in southern California in a home-built Model
T-Bucket built quite literally from scrounged together parts. Duff did well with his “jalopy”
partially made from WWII military parts, and surprised the sports car scene with consistent solid
finishes against what was clearly better equipment.
In 1957 the muffler shop partners saw Art Ingall’s little miniature racing machine (karts)
and formed Go Kart Mtg. Co. and began to build their own and raced Go-Kart chassis until
1962. Livingstone went on the roadrace periodically through the 60’s and 70’s. Duff won
his first Sprint Grandnational title in 1960 in Azusa, CA in the “C” sprint class and won another
championship in 1967 at the IKF Roadrace nationals in the FKE class in Washington state. He
drove a chassis of his own design called the GP Glove with B-Bombs.
When the little bronze man we call the “Duffy” was originally introduced in the 70’s the IKF
Board of Directors called it “Joe Karter” and “Karting’s Oscar,” which prompted the Hollywood
folks to promptly issue a “cease and desist notice” and the IKF Board needed to come up with
a new name for this most prestigious award. So the IKF Board went on a mission to come
up with a catchy name. Therefore, in honor of his service on the Board and his contributions
to the sport of karting during the early days of the sport, the coveted Grandnational classes
trophy was renamed the “Duffy” in the mid-70’s. Duff was on the IKF Board in the early days
and is also a Lifetime Member of IKF. Duffy was presented with a VKA Lifetime Membership
in ‘06
Duff now builds and flies model airplanes. He and his wife have just relocated to Tennessee
and he is unable to attend our event for the first time in it’s six years. He will be sorely missed
but we hope to have him back next year.
McCORNACK, Bill – St. Charles, Ill. Bill raced karts from 1968 through the 90’s. Then
in 2004 he met Terry Traeder at a trade show in Florida and learned about our vintage
movement. Bill hasn’t missed a Quincy vintage event since then. A master machinist by trade,
Bill drives and wins many vintage classes and has an incredibly restored Bug Stinger with a
Mac 101.
Bill is also your host and promoter of the vintage event in Brodhead, WI each year and the
vintage Midwest program. Bill is also a member of the VKA Board of Directors. Special thanks
to Bill for always contributing to our raffle, for being here, and for being such a great vintage
karting enthusiast. Welcome back.
MEDLEY, Tom - From lovely Burank, CA, Tom is our absolute guru of all things automotive.
He is the creator of the “Stroker” cartoon of Hot Rod Magazine fame and Tom was on the
Peterson Publishing staff for 40 years. An entire section of the NHRA Museum in California is
devoted to Mr. Medley.
Tom and son Gary were karting in the 60’s and 70’s and Tom is a collector of Mac engines
and parts and still owns a couple of karts including the Faller that Faye “Ladybug” Pierson
drove at the very first Quincy event in 2002. So it was Tom that helped to get her so involved
in the current vintage movement.
In the early days of karting Go Kart Mfg’s “Stroker”-like cartoon originally created by Tom
Medley has been modified for us as VKA’s logo Thank you Tom. Today Tom still contributes
photos and articles for our vintage events. In fact, he and Faye are and always have been your
host and hostess of this event, as it was they who first approached the Adams’ to arrange this
event. They wish to welcome you to the event again this year. Please take a moment to give
them a big “thank you” should you get a chance.
Tom is over 80 years young and still going strong. Presently he designs and creates, along
with his long time friend, Randy Holt, all of the show awards and trophies for this event and
continues to contribute by doing any and all artwork needed for decals, plaques, collector
pins, and even T-shirts. NEW: Tom created the commemorative pin for this years’ special
event. It’s also on our tee shirt.
Truly a legend in his own time, we are so very blessed to have Tom be such a special part
of this event and this sport. In 2006 Medley was made an honorary lifetime member of VKA
for his incredible contributions to vintage karting and to VKA. Thanks Tom, we love you. And
if you get a chance to visit with him, he has the best stories in all of karting.
O’HARA, Steve - Laguna Hills, CA Steve has 8 Grandnational Titles. He owns and
drives his original 1970 Bug Sprint and shows his twin Bug. Steve is listed in the Hall of Fame
Experts in the current IKF rulebook.
We understand Steve is bringing quite a display of five or so karts, and his collection of
McCulloch engines this year so make sure you stop by his pit to take a look. Hopefully he
will put his gems in the kart show on Friday evening. Thanks for sharing Steve and welcome
back.
PATRONITE, Tom (Azusa Engineering) - Azusa, CA Azusa Engineering www.
azusaeng.com always assists in sponsoring raffle gifts for our event, and we all enjoy visiting
with him at the Geritol Gang Luncheon. We thank him tremendously for his efforts and hope
you see him in the pit this year.
2010 marks 50 years in karting for the company, congratulations. The company was
originally started in April 1960 by Duffy, Roy Desbrow and Bill Rolls. Their CPA, Jim Patronite
became the first President. Jim’s talent for marketing and his accounting background served
him well. Eventually, Jim purchased all of Azusa Engineering’s outstanding shares and
grew to become an industry-wide supplier for every significant US kart manufacturer. Jim’s
nephew, Tom, joined him in 1978, became its President in 1985 and began investing in Azusa
throughout the ‘80’s and 90’s. Jim, the senior retired in the late 90’s but Tom, Tom’s son T.J.,
and Jim’s son, Jim Jr, are currently all owners and active participants in the management team
at Azusa Engineering today. Their products can be found in after-market motorcycles, small
aircraft, and off-road and industrial vehicle, but most importantly on karts. We thank them for
their involvement and wish them at least another 50 years of success.
PIERSON, Faye “Ladybug” - Azusa, CA Faye, along with Tom Medley are your host
and hostess for this event and have been since it began six years ago when they first met with
Adams’.
Faye’s late husband Tom started his karting business in 1958 and Faye participated in the
first Grandnationals in 1959 where she finished 2nd behind Jimmy Yamane in the “A” Class.
Over the next three years Faye went on to race the world over for their Team Bug including
the U.S., Mexico, the Bahamas, England and Italy. Faye counts among her accomplishments
winning two years in a row the infamous and quite grueling 100 Miler in Tecate, Mexico. No
wonder her competitors pushed for enforcing overall weight requirements. She kicked their
tails and can and does still drive these remarkable machines. An amazing lady.
Faye remains a principal of K&P Mfg. (Bug Karts) along with her sons, Tommy and Jon.
They were recently joined in the family business by grandson Colin, who is contributing
mightily.
Faye returned to karting with the vintage movement in 2002 at the behest of long time
friend Tom Medley. Faye and best friend, Mona Sturgeon, took off for Quincy, Illinois and
needless to say have been hooked since.
This year Faye will be driving her 1963 reproduction Bug Sprint with an Ives prepared
Mac 90 powerplant. She also has other karts in her personal arsenal including a reproduction
sidewinder and an original dual, BUG’s of course!
Faye’s nicknames in karting are “LadyBug” and “Queen Faye.”
Faye puts a tremendous amount of effort into the coordination of this event each year.
She so enjoys vintage karting and the people, that’s why she puts a lot of heart into the
planning each year.
PIERSON, Jon & Tommy - Sons of Tom & Faye Pierson, these two boys have been
involved in karting all of their lives. Both raced in the 70’s and Jon still has his ’73 Stinger with
a Mac 101 and has recently restored his original Bug Sprint which will be driven by nephew
Colin Reese again at this year’s event.
Tommy got into vintage with his Mom of course and he has a unique, one of a kind,
scaled down version of a 1973 Stinger you will see at the kart show or in the pit. It is so cool,
and absolutely adorable.
Jon & Tommy know so very much about vintage kart chassis they are often called upon
for the expertise from vintage karters the world over. Today the two of them, along with Faye
and her grandson Colin, still carry on the company that their father, the legendary BIG TOM
PIERSON started in 1958. The company remains the oldest karting company still in existence
in the world. Big Tom began manufacturing karts and parts and became a Bridgestone/
Firestone distributor of racing tires, an enterprise continued to this day.
The Pierson family will be presenting the “Tom Pierson Memorial Best BUG of
Show” award on Friday evening. Jon & Tommy select the winner each year. This trophy is a
permanent vintage presentment at each of our annual VKA/Riverside events in honor of Tom
Pierson and his legacy.
RIPPY, Leon & Carol – Thousand Oaks, CA. Leon and Carol won the award last year for
RESTORED ORIGINAL with a superb 1962 McCulloch R-200 kart with a Mac 30 engine. Leon
told the wonderful story of karting with his dad in South Carolina when he was a young lad.
Both Leon and his wife are just wonderful people and we’re so very happy to welcome them
into our vintage family. I understand that he is now completely obsessed with the vintage
karting craze and has even had to re-arrange his house for his mini-museum, and I’m not
kidding. I don’t know which of their little beauties we will see this year, but I assure you it will
be rare and exciting.
You might recognize Leon from his nearly three decades on the big screen. His recent
notable starring roles have been in THE PATRIOT, and he is currently shooting the final episodes
of SAVING GRACE on TNT. He plays “Earl” the angel and we are simply delighted to have he
and wife Carol join us again this year.
ROGERS, Will – Will began karting in 1960 with a home built twin-rail kart with a twocylinder Merc, water cooled outboard engine. How cool is that?!? He ran enduro karts at
Santa Rosa and in 1963 he began racing short-track at Snow’s track in San Jose, California. In
’64 he started racing with Stanton Race Team where they built all of their own square tubed
kart frames, which he ran in the McCulloch super heavy class. In 1967 his two sons, Dan and
Shan, ran IKF races until 1969. Then water-skiing got in their blood but he is back here now
and we welcome him back with open arms.
SHEPARD, Mark –Oxford, Michigan. Mark owns and drives his original 1962 Caretta,
among other things. Mark won “Best Original Equipment” in Quincy in ’05. He also has a
1960 GoKart 800 and a rare left-handed Bug Stinger Sidewinder.
From ’64 through ’69 Mark won three IKF Grandnational Championships making him an
IKF Hall of Fame listed expert. One of his Championship wins was in Riverside in 1964….and
he’s still winning races. Mark also won in Quincy this past September yet again. Mark goes
out of his way to support this event and we appreciate his love of the sport. Welcome back
Mark.
SMITH, TOM – Novato, CA Tom raced karts as a kid in the mid 60’s throughout the
Midwest. He later became right hand man and good friend to the late Jerry Garcia of Grateful
Dead fame. After Garcia’s death Tom began collecting and restoring vintage karts and has had
as many as nine at a time, though there are those of us who believe he really has more than
that stashed away. It is true that every room in his house, and even his underwear drawers,
have vintage kart parts in them. Tom’s day job is restoring vintage cars so restoring vintage
karts for his personal pleasure was a natural for him. Tom prides himself on having among
the most beautiful and rare equipment out there, and it’s not just for show. You’ll understand
what that means when you see his stuff on the track.
STANTON, Robert – Bennettsville, South Carolina. Robert and wife Wanda bought out
the Rupp/Dart Kart inventory, jigs, etc. from none other than Mickey Rupp in 1974 and to this
day Robert reproduces the Rupp/Dart Karts at Robron, Inc. with the original jigs. Wanda says
“he’s just possessed!!”
Robert’s involvement in karting spans 50+ years with both IKF and WKA. Robert quite
literally started the 4-Cycle division in the south with WKA and it’s board and members at that
time. Robert always contributes to our raffle with cool stuff and we thank him for that. “He
positively knows everyone in the country with any racing background at all, past or present”
says Mona Sturgeon. We are always honored when Robert comes to visit. Welcome back
Robert.
STURGEON, Mona – Madera, CA Mona began karting in the summer of 1985 at age
25, when she began dating husband Rick. She drove for Team Bug and was a member of
Team Bridgestone her entire karting career.
Mona is the very first female to obtain IKF rated “expert” status. Mond is quick to point out
however that legendary Kathey Hartman won two championships in the early ‘60’s in sprint
and roadrace. At that time, there was no criteria for becoming what we refer to today as an
“IKF rated expert,” though Kathey was surely that. The current criteria were not established
until the early ‘70’s when IKF created the “Duffy.”
Heavily involved in IKF’s NorCal Region 11 & 7, Mona won two IKF Grandnational
Championships in the late 80’s earning her “expert” status. Through the late 90’s she raced
both Sprint and Speedway Divisions and retired from competition in 1997. She also served as
an IKF Board member in ’95, ’96, and ’97. Mona has been race director at more than a dozen
IKF National and Grandnational Events. Also a Lifetime Member of IKF. She will be your race
director at this event again this year.
Mona got involved in vintage karting in 2002 when best friend, Faye Pierson, asked
her to travel to Quincy for Faye’s first vintage event in 2002. Once there Terry Ives offered
Sturgeon his own personal 1971 Bug Stinger Sidewinder with an Ives prepared Mac 101 to
drive and she was hooked on the movement, even though this Bug was built some 15 years
before she started racing karts. Faye says of Mona “She’s fast on the track and can still turn
a wrench!” Mona’s nickname in karting has always been “Wicked Witch of the West” and
more recently was dubbed “Princess Mona” by Gus Traeder due to her traveling with “Queen
Faye.” However, “wicked witch” seems to fit better than “princess” somehow. Rick and Mona
Sturgeon raised four children in the pits over their careers and their children all still love karting.
Their grandchildren are just beginning to race kid-karts. It is and always has been a truly family
sport for them. You will see many of their children around the track this year.
STURGEON, Rick - Madera, CA Rick began karting in 1980 and drove to claim six (6)
IKF Grandnational Championships. Renowned for his 4-Cycle engine building, his engines
have won a dozen Duffy’s. Two of those won by wife, Mona. One by Joey Figone. Rick
drove in every division in karting on both Emmick and Bug karts, was a driver for Team Bug
and Team Bridgestone for more than a decade. Bridgestone’s 1990 calendar dubbed him
“Mr. Kleen” because his equipment was always impeccable. Rick was a member of the IKF
Technical Committees for a decade as well. He was chief tech inspector at more than a dozen
IKF Grandnationals during that time. He retired from karting in 2000. This is Rick’s fourth trip
to this event where you will see he and son Jas helping take care of Faye’s kart during this
event again.
THOMAS, Bill - Montecito, CA Bill was a Team Bug member for three years and involved
with the company in sales in the very early days. He participated in both the 1959 and 1960
IKF Grandnationals in Azusa, CA and won the “A” Class on a Bug/Cad in 1960. Bill learned of
vintage karting just a couple of years ago and is a great addition to our vintage family.
THORIN, Tom - West Hills, CA
Tom got his first ride on a Fox Go-Boy with a Clinton
400 in 1959 and is totally hooked on vintage today. Tom restored and drives a 1961 Simplex
chassis with a Mac 101. Son Michael drove a ’72 A-Bone with a West Bend in the junior
classes. Tom was president of VKA in 2007 and has always been a supporter of this event
each year. Thanks
TRAEDER, Gus & Fern and family – Quincy, Illinois. Owners of the famous TNT
Kartways in Quincy, Gus and Fern are true legends in karting in the United States. They and
son Terry and family are long upstanding business owners in their community and were heavily
involved in the City of Quincy’s growth and popularity over the last 6 decades or so. You need
only attend one of Gus’ events to know this. 2010 will also see the Traeder’s celebrate their
50th year in karting. I’m sure it will be a really great show. The Traeder’s have been involved in
karting since 1959 and Terry is an IKF Hall of Fame Expert as well.
Since 2002 Gus devotes vast amounts of time and energy in his retirement to hosting the
ever popular and most unique Vintage Karting Olympics each year, though it does cut into
his time on the golf course so you know it’s important to Gus if it gets him off the green for a
while. Gus and Fern intended to be here this year but health issues aren’t going to allow Fern
to travel this year. God bless them as Fern recovers.
VKA VINTAGE KARTING ASSOCIATION – The VKA is a partner in this event and is
a membership organization for vintage karters. If you are not yet a member you can pick up
an application at registration. The organization is run by vintage karters for vintage karters.
The organization’s mission is to provides it’s membership with useful information and promote
vintage karting. There are more than 400 members. The website is www.vintagepowersports.
com/vka Many of the board members are here in Riverside. You can find club president Carl
Weakley under the big VIP tent at the VKA table set up for you there, for both members and
non-members. Stop by when you get a chance to say hello. The following board members
are here to support their membership as well. Feel free to ask them any questions you might
have about the club:
Carl Weakley, President Dean Kossaras, Safety
Louie Figone, Secretary
Jeff Campbell, Website
Bob Lapke, Treasurer
Brad Fultz, Membership
Bill McCornack, Exec. Dir.
Jerry Van Duesen, Archivist
Jack Murray, working on VKA judging guidelines
Gentlemen, we all wish to welcome you and to thank you for your service and for your
support. Good to have you here.
Please check out the VKA website for more information, articles, forums and contact
information for you to join and enjoy.
VANNATA, Steve - Arroyo Grande, CA
For a few years Steve drove his 1962 Kart
Grand Prix with a Mac 91 and then in 2006 moved into the dual class with a beautifully
restored Bug. Steve has now taken home the coveted “Tom Pierson Memorial Best Bug of
Show” award in 2006. Steve’s a great addition to vintage karting and just one of the nicest
fellas you ever want to meet.
VAN de VEERE, Dick - New to our event this year, Dick and Duff Livingstone are lifelong
friends. Dick owned “Go-Kart #2” in the early days, a high rider with a West Bend 750 lawn
mower engine, built in the famous GP Muffler Shop in Monrovia. This was before they were
known as Go-Kart. Dick was also on the original Go Kart Club of America Board of Directors
before it became International Kart Federation in 1962. We welcome Dick to our event.
WHITEHEAD, Jim - Another revered karter from the early days, and no wonder, he
showed his mastery of the sport in the mid-60’s when he drove his Dart Kart to win three
consecutive C-Open titles in ’65, ’66, and ’67. He also won B-Open in ’66 as well.
?
WIGGINTON, Scott - Santa Clara, CA
Scott began his vintage experience in 2001.
He builds reproduction chassis and a remake of the famous Go Power wheels. He drives his
Go Kart 1200 with a West Bend 820. Son, Adam, drives a Jelich prototype with a West Bend
as well. Thanks for being here yet again Scott.
WILMS, Tom - Redlands, CA Tom began karting as a young boy in 1959 racing right
here at Adams. He also raced in the 30th Anniversary Adams’ event. His father owned a kart
shop and Tom got back into karting in 2002 with the vintage movement driving a dual Dart
Kart with Mac 101’s. He’s still winning races as well, he won at this event in 2009.
Tom is also the man that makes sure we have fuel for this event each year and we so very
much appreciate his support and assistance. Welcome back Tom and thanks again.
YAMANE, Jimmy - Yorba Linda, CA An IKF Hall of Fame rated expert, Jimmy raced and
won the very first IKF Grandnationals in 1959 in the “A” class, where he passed Faye in the late
laps to claim the victory, Faye finished second. Jimmy went on to work for McCullogh and
helped develop the engine and later a chassis for the karting market. He also won the 1961
Nassau, Bahamas Grand Prix “A” Class.
Again, much gratitude to the many who put in so much effort, Troy Adams & Timel Adams
-Sebastian, Tom Medley, Faye Pierson, Terry Ives, Louie & Joey Figone and Tom Corso, Bruce &
Gretchen Berieter, Randy Holt, Pete & Carolyn & Ann Preschern who do our computerized scoring
and take care of the grid every year, my daughters for registration and scoring and Dave Williams
for his wonderful announcing and entertaining commentary……………..and all of you I haven’t
mentioned….thanks so very much
Most respectfully submitted,
MONA L. STURGEON, Race Director
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Congratulation
On 50 Years in Business
Serving the Motorsports Community
1-888-865-9749
www.frittsford.com
Logo Courtesy of Tom Medley
th
From the team aton
Stronghold
Motorsports
Congratulations
50 years
of succe
THE WIGGINS FAMILY
ROENA
LEWIS II
JACKIE
LEWIS III
F R I T T S F O R D C O N G R AT U L AT E S
T H E A D A M S FA M I LY O N 5 0
YEARS OF PROVIDING GOOD
BUSINESS AND COMMUNITY
S E RV I C E T O R I V E R S I D E
Congratulations on 50 years of success
CONGRATULATIONS
ON THE
50TH ANNIVERSARY
OF
ADAMS MOTORSPORTS
Congratulations on Adams’ 50 Anniversary.
We look forward to many more years with you.
The VKA Board and Members
www.vkavintagekarting.com
You are an inspiration.
You are quick to reach out to those in need. You selflessly give of
your time. You make a positive difference in our community one
kind act at a time. For your inspired example, we salute you.
Union Bank is proud to sponsor
the 50th Anniversary of Adams Kart Track.
Arlington Banking Office
Lydia Carmona, Branch Manager
9811 Magnolia Avenue, Suite B, Riverside, CA 92503
(951) 352-5575
Corona Magnolia Banking Office
Curtis Flannigan, Branch Manager
1431 Rimpau Avenue, Suite 102, Corona, CA 92879
(951) 739-5925
Riverside Downtown Banking Office
Marissa Peterson, Branch Manager
3625 Vine Street, Riverside, CA 92507
(951) 346-1501
©2010 Union Bank, N.A. Visit us at unionbank.com