IMSTEA

We've got about ten days left to finish up our little car. The engine runs and the steering works as designed - wasn't too sure how the rear steer thing was going to work - and we're getting ready to put the Mono-Kote on the body. We should be able to spin it around the parking lot a few times prior to leaving which will be a good thing. It will be nice for the driver to have a little bit of saddle time before having to drive the car in competition.

The Indiana Math Science Technology Education Alliance has been running this competition for quite a while. We've been competing since 2002. It requires a lot of work on the part of basically two people, Jim Thompson and Greg Steele. Many others help with tech inspection and raceday operations, none of whom make a dime from their efforts. Likewise, O'Reilly Raceway Park donates the track for the day.

The contest also requires quite a bit of time and effort from the advisors, such as myself. The creativity of the students is amazing. Usually, at least 40 cars are in attendance from high schools all over the state of Indiana. There have also been some college teams occasionally who use the track for testing for a similar contest (Shell Eco Challenge, SAE Supermileage). The rules are kept to a minimum and are primarily for safety purposes. The cars typically cost between $500 - $1000 to construct and you can use the same car two years in a row. We've been able to raise the money thanks to some very generous local sponsors, especially REMC, our local electric co-op.

Our best performance was two years ago when we got almost 500 miles per gallon. The best teams are getting over 1000. For us to match those teams, I would have to really get involved and take a much different approach from what I'm doing now. I try to stay as far away as possible, letting the students do as much work as they're capable of. It's not my car to construct but I help with what I'm asked to do and offer some unsolicited advice if I see them going down a blind alley. The time spent on the car takes away from class time for a few of them, so they come to open shop or from study hall to work. Usually a couple of guys take the reins and become the leaders. Others work when asked, others pretty much stand around all day. Pretty much what you would expect from most groups unless you have a very thorough screening process to become a team member.

This is going to be my last year with this project. I just don't have the time to devote to it, especially now that I'm involved so heavily with the boxing gym. It's unfortunate, but all good things have to come to an end. Race day is the 27th at O'Reilly Raceway Park in Indianapolis and spectators are welcome. I'll keep you posted.