Open Road Challenge has new event

Friday, May 13, 2005 | 9:54 a.m.

SUN WIRE SERVICES

The running of the Nevada Open Road Challenge this weekend in central Nevada will have a new twist: the Z2Z Big Red Challenge.

R.J. Gottlieb, who once held the speed record at 197.99 mph with a 222 mph top end in a specially built 1969 Camaro called "Big Red," has created a new challenge. On a special 2-mile stretch of highway outside Ely on Saturday, drivers will attempt to reach 200 mph within 1 mile from a dead start, and then hit the breaks for a quick stop (all within the 2-mile limit).

The winner will be the driver who reaches the 200 mph criteria and is able to stop in the shortest distance. Sponsoring this unusual event is Baer Brake Systems.

The Challenge, and its companion Nevada Open Road Classic in September, follow Nevada Highway 318, with the starting line on the outskirts of Lund about 30 miles from Ely. The finish line, exactly 90 miles down the highway, is near the small town of Hiko.

It is expected that more than 110 cars will be at the starting line Sunday morning.

Last year two Las Vegas drivers took home first place trophies: Norm Johnson driving a 1999 Camaro Z28 in the 135 mph class and Fred Wagner at the wheel of a 1996 Porsche. Johnson and Wagner will be defending their championships.

The first car will take the green flag at approximately 8 a.m. Speed classes range from 95 mph to Unlimited.

For more information call (702) 631-6666 or check the website at www.Silverstateclassic.com