The 1989 Silver State Classic - A Pivotal Moment for Big Red

In September 1989, Big Red, the legendary 1969 Camaro, made history at the Silver State Classic in Nevada. After being banned from Baja, the Camaro was ready for a new challenge. RJ Gottlieb took the wheel, with Hot Rod magazine's Joe Pettitt riding along, thanks to an arrangement by editor Jeff Smith.


A High-Stakes Start

Their adventure began with a surprising twist: a high-speed chase by highway patrol. Cruising at 70 mph, Big Red’s gear ratios drew the attention of an irate officer in a 35-mph zone. This early challenge set the stage for an exhilarating race. Despite the initial setback, RJ and Joe pushed Big Red to achieve a remarkable 222 mph, showcasing both the car's mechanical prowess and the team's endurance.


Triumph with a Tragic Twist

Big Red completed the 92-mile desert course with an average speed of 197.99 mph, finishing in just under 28 minutes. This impressive feat not only highlighted Big Red’s speed but also underscored the dangers of high-speed racing, as the event was marred by a tragic accident. Despite this somber reality, Big Red's performance solidified its place in racing history.


1991 Nevada Open Road Challenge - Big Red's Continued Dominance

By 1991, Big Red had become a symbol of American muscle, transcending its origins as a fierce competitor. The Nevada Open Road Challenge in May provided the perfect venue for Big Red's continued success. RJ Gottlieb, motivated by the legacy of his father Dan, who had helped pioneer the event, brought Big Red back to the race.


Conquering Challenging Conditions

Despite facing unpredictable weather, including wind and late snow, race day arrived with clear skies. RJ expertly piloted Big Red, which now boasted an 800-horsepower engine, through the demanding 92-mile course. The Camaro reached a top speed of 208 mph and an average speed of 189.25 mph. This performance secured another first-place finish in the unlimited class, further cementing Big Red’s legendary status. The media took note, with features in All Chevy magazine and Turbo & Hi-Tech Performance celebrating the Camaro's success.


The 2011 Silver State Classic Challenge - A Legendary Return

In September 2011, Big Red made a notable return to the Silver State Classic Challenge. RJ Gottlieb and retired co-driver Joe Pettitt reunited for this highly anticipated race. Despite facing a challenging road surface, Big Red demonstrated its enduring capabilities.


Masterful Performance

RJ skillfully managed Big Red, achieving an average speed of 185.972 mph over the 90-mile course, with peak speeds reaching 222 mph on straight sections. This performance earned another first-place finish in the Unlimited class, reinforcing Big Red’s status as a racing legend.


Big Red’s journey through the Silver State Classic and the Nevada Open Road Challenge showcases its enduring legacy as a symbol of speed, power, and automotive excellence. From the thrilling 1989 race to the impressive performances in 1991 and 2011, Big Red continues to captivate and inspire as one of the fastest Camaros and a true icon of racing history.


Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Big Red Camaro: 1969 Camaro Dominates Big Red Events and Top Racing Cars

Big Red Camaro: Conquering the Bonneville Salt Flats

Buckle up for a journey through silver state classic episode history with the legendary Big Red Camaro!