Utah Salt Flats Racing Association Prepares for World Finals Amid Challenging Weather Conditions

The Utah Salt Flats Racing Association is gearing up for its annual World Finals, but inclement weather has raised concerns about the event's feasibility. The Southern California Timing Association-sponsored event was forced to cancel its Bonneville Shootout after only one day of racing due to excessive rain and water on the salt flats.

According to Dennis Sullivan, president of the Utah Salt Flats Racing Association, several records were set during the initial event, with the streamliner Vesco Turbinator reaching an impressive 437 mph to set a new record. The Lindon Lakester, owned by Jeff Strasburg, also achieved a speed of 360 mph.

The USFRA was able to complete its full schedule at the World of Speed on September 9-13, but the current weather conditions are making it difficult for the association to determine if the event will proceed as planned. Sullivan emphasized that racers who participate in SCTA and Utah Salt Flats Racing Association events can only set national records, whereas 'Look's events are the only ones where international records can be set.'

Mike Cook, organizer of the Bonneville Shootout, expressed disappointment about the cancellation, citing the high water table and lack of heat to evaporate it, as well as insufficient wind to blow it away. SCTA president Pat McDowell also stated that there is a 99 percent chance the event will be canceled.

The World Finals are scheduled to start on Tuesday, but the waterlogged salt flats may force organizers to reconsider their plans. The association is working closely with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to determine the best course of action.

Racers and fans alike are eager to complete the 2017 season on the Bonneville Salt Flats, but it seems that late September storms are making it difficult to do so. If the event is canceled, notices will be sent out on SCTA's Facebook page and website as soon as possible.

As the situation unfolds, the Utah Salt Flats Racing Association will continue to monitor weather conditions and work with relevant authorities to ensure a safe and successful outcome for the World Finals.

Utah salt flats racing association