It was 10:15 a.m. and already well over 100 degrees on the starting line of Kansas City International Raceway. I was hot, tired, and sweaty. But, just as the first set of cars idled into the water box, ready to begin time trails for the LTX Shootout, I couldn't help but get excited about everything the LTX Shootout really stood for. You see, it is more than just a race. This event is a who's who of LTX racers, many of which have traveled thousands of miles to be here-racing for a spray painted Optispark trophy and a modest payout. But, in reality, that isn't why anyone came.
Perhaps that is why the LTX Shootout is a group of the nicest, most enthusiastic racers I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. From Tony Shepherd and Kyle McKenzie, the directors of the LTX Shootout, to sponsors like LTXTECH and Nitro Dave from Nitrous Outlet, to racers like Warren Dempsey, everyone in the pits seemed to know each other like old friends. In the parking lot the night before, competitors were helping one another get a car tuned, or swapping out a failed water pump. This is the type of racing environment that everyone should strive for, and the result is not only a good time, but also killer heads-up racing.
With classes for every type of LT-based racer, from the wild "run what ya brung" Outlaw field to the 12.00 index, the Shootout tries to keep racing tight in every round. We were on hand to witness some new personal bests, a ton of side-by-side heads-up showdowns, some killer wheelstands and a final round that came down to reaction time. If you like late-model (and specifically LT-based) racing, this is one event you should not miss. Follow along as we highlight some of the best moments and cars from the 2nd annual LTX Shootout.
If you own an LTX race car,...
If you own an LTX race car, this is the single best event of the year. Held at Kansas City International Raceway, you can't ask for more LTX action in a single weekend.
The pits were filled with...
The pits were filled with killer cars, including these four from the Speed Inc. crew.
While it may look a little...
While it may look a little rough around the edges, Ray Hinton's car meant business, competing in both the Modified Power Adder and Modified N/A class.
Jeff Stark brought his clean...
Jeff Stark brought his clean '94 Firehawk to run in the Modified Power Adder class. With 383 cubic-inches, Jeff was running in the low 11s all day.
Best engine bay of the event...
Best engine bay of the event goes to Brady Matysek and his absolutely gorgeous '94 Z28. You will be seeing more of this car in an upcoming issue, so stay tuned.
They say 90 percent of the...
They say 90 percent of the race is won before the lights turn green and everyone in the pits had a tight focus on going home with a trophy.