For several
years, Lyle Greenberg's daughters have watched him race an incredible variety
of race cars including funny cars, open wheel formula cars and sprint cars.
Now, both Jennifer and Rachel have decided
that they want a taste of the action. Beginning in 2004 they will both be
competing in Quarter Midget racing. Quarter midgets are similar to go carts,
but have suspension and a roll cage. The chassis and roll cage are built from
chromemoly tubing to provide a safe vehicle and the suspension adds a number
of different setup options.
Both Jennifer and Rachel had an opportunity to hot lap in borrowed cars (thanks
to the Mansfield family!) and immediately loved it. Those that understand the
racing addiction will know that the hook has now been set. Lyle began looking
for some cars to purchase and looked at some very nice cars. However, years of
racing has taught him that the best way to get involved in a new form of racing
is to purchase a complete operation. If you just buy a car you then have to
accumulate the many different parts and pieces that are required to run it
competitively. It is much easier (and less expensive) to buy it all in one
package. The Greenberg family was able to purchase two nice GT American cars,
pit carts, spare parts, wheels and tires and special tools. All that is left
is to purchase a trailer.
The Greenberg Sisters
Quarter Midgets of America (www.quartermidgets.org) is the sanctioning body
and they appear to have a very good novice program for new racers. Both girls
will begin in the "Senior Novice" class. Lyle plans to spend considerable time
coaching the girls. In addition, the local club (Roadrunner Quarter Midgets -
www.roadrunnerqma.com) has a formal program with a designated training officer.
Once they go through the initial training, they will begin competing. Once
they have gained knowledge and skills they will move up to a class called
Senior Honda.
Hitting the track!
The engines that are being used are literally lawn mower engines produced by
Honda. The GX-120 engine produces enough horsepower to reach speeds of 35 mph
on the 1/20 mile paved oval track. Although it is a far different animal than
the 3,000 horsepower aluminum Hemi that Lyle is more accustomed to, it seems
likely that he will get the hang of tuning them.
In true racing fashion, the girls have already started the hunt for sponsors.
They have landed their first major deal by getting sponsorship from Amsoil
dealers Paul and Nancy Greenberg. Lyle says that this is a great learning
experience as the girls discover how to handle the business side to racing. They
are jointly creating sponsorship proposals and materials to continue the
process.
Watch this web site for updates on the Greenberg girls and their racing
adventures. The season will start in March, but they plan to have several test
sessions and novice training sessions prior to that time.
