[DeTomaso] The end of an Era in Open Road Racing?

[Asa Jay Laughton]

Dateline: 2 June 2012 - Team Pantera Racing

In what could be the greatest coup in the history of Open Road Racing, 
Dennis (Mad Dawg) Antenucci recently announced he would be retiring at 
the end of the 2012 season, after running the 25th Anniversary Silver 
State Classic Challenge in Nevada.  Dennis' departure leaves the field 
wide open for some other Pantera owner/driver to take up the slack and 
continue representing the DeTomaso marque in the world of Open Road Racing.

2012 will be the 25th year for the Silver State Classic Challenge, a 
race held between Hiko and Lund Nevada on a portion of Highway 318.  
Twice a year this long open stretch of road is closed to the public 
while cars of all makes and models race in selected speed brackets from 
95 MPH to Unlimited.  A new record was recently set at 217.7750 MPH.

The Neveda Open Road Challenge is held in May, while in September the 
longer running SSCC takes place.  The competition is unforgiving, with 
less than 0.0001 seconds separating the men from the boys in many classes.

Being the 25th anniversary of the race, you can count on special 
celebrations.  Want to join in?  Here's how.

If you think you have what it takes to drive triple digit speeds on an 
open highway, this race is for you.  If you want bragging rights... this 
is how you get them.  First, if you even -think- your Pantera will be 
ready, you need to make hotel reservations in Ely.  Most all Team 
Pantera Racing members stay at the Hotel Nevada, but rooms are filling 
up fast.  See here for hotel information:
http://www.silverstateclassic.com/hotel_information.aspx

After the race, the banquet is held at Sam's Town in Las Vegas.  Be sure 
to make reservations there as well.

To see the schedule of events, download it here:
http://www.silverstateclassic.com/documents/global/pdf/event_schedule_sept.pdf

Make sure you complete all your entry forms early as well:
http://www.silverstateclassic.com/entry_forms.aspx

Next go and read the rule book here:
http://www.silverstateclassic.com/rulebook.aspx
Pay particular attention to the Tire requirements, and don't show up in 
H rated tires, you -won't- pass tech, even if you think you should.  The 
Pantera is easily capable of exceeding the speed classification for H 
rated tires and they won't let you run them.  Period.  You need V-rated 
or higher tires.

Now get your Pantera in shape:
- Engine, transmission
- Fresh oil, brake fluid, coolant
- Good brake pads, safety harness, helmet

All those who show up to race in their Pantera will earn a coveted Team 
Pantera Racing Challenge Coin and Patch which you can proudly wear on 
your jacket, driving suite or gym bag.

All prepared?  Good.  See you there.