Kickin in the New Year!!!

Okay the time is ticking away so quick. I can't believe that it is already the middle of April and we have completed 4 races. The brand new Embry-Riddle car has made her debut, 2 airshows and a tornado. HUMMMMM sound like fun, you bet ya!!!!! We kick off the year with the Miller Jet Dragster in Bradenton, FL two weeks later we traveled to Belle Rose, LA. I couldn't be happier on how the dragster is running. She is coming back just as good as last year not skipping a beat. Now the new Embry-Riddle Jet Dragster, we had to shake down and get her running. New cars are always fun, if you believe that Nitro says HA!!!! After a few bugs, we got her running great. Hey maybe we are getting good at this. She made her debut at Cycle Palooza and then just ran at the ADRL show.

Now on to the tornado, yes a tornado. We were just sitting there and the next thing we knew it the skies opened up and I thought I saw the scarecrow!!! Luckily we didn't have any damage, but unfortunately others were not as lucky. Clean up was not fun, but the airshow must go on.

So now I have to talk about the ADRL show. The cars were amazing, we were there for a reason....filming a new promo for Larsen Motorsports. We always try to change things up every year, but I think this is going to be pretty cool. We wanted to show the entire operation. i can't wait for the production team to finish and I will post it as soon as possible.

So that covers the racing, now lets talk about the business side of Larsen Motorsports. We are moving!!!!!! Yes moving. I can't wait, Daytona Beach here we come. The new shop is getting a facelift as we speak, crews are working so many hours to make her a show place. Photos to come. Moving the shop means we are selling our house and buying a new one. Wish us luck in this real estate market. So here we are almost to Easter and guess what we are doing???? Racing of course. We are heading to Summit Motorpsorts Park this weekend to have a little fun. Others will be hunting Easter Eggs, we will be hunting MPH and ET!!!!

If you aren't my facebook friend, log on today. That is the best way to keep up to date with everything that happens at Larsen Motorsports. I hope everyone enjoys their weekend. Be safe and make sure and have fun!!!!

luv ya,
e

Power Block TV

Hey Everyone,

Make sure you check out Power Block TV this weekend, March 19-20. I had the chance to bring the Miller Jet Dragster to the studio and spend some time with Courtney. Very cool. Go to www.PowerBlockTV.com to get show times near you.

luv ya,
e

Hello 2011

Well here we are almost at the end of January and 2011 has already kicked off. Crazy. Larsen Motorsports has a lot of very cool things on the horizon, but we have to make sure and keep focused on what is in front of us first. So, what has been going on, LOTS. I flew out to Nashville to meet up with Miller Marketing to do a TV show called Power Block TV which airs on Spike. We were asked to bring the Miller Jet Dragster and myself for a couple of days of shooting. Sounded like fun. When I was telling people of my plans all I heard was "you get to meet Courtney Hansen, she is HOT!!!" Not wow, you get to go and see the Muscle Car, Trucks, Xtreme 4x4, and Horsepower stages and see what goes on behind the scenes. Crazy boys!!!! Anyway, I flew in and meet up with Travis from the Road show and Vickie from Marketing. We loaded in the car at the Power Block studios and got the tour. Very very cool. It was impressive to see that the sets were as cool in real life as they are on TV. A lot of work goes on in the studios, it isn't just shipped out and the brought back to the show. I would have loved to have taken pictures, but of course, they won't let you do that, which I totally understand. Sorry!!!

Anyway for those of you that want to know, No Courtney was not there on the the first day. The next morning and we were back at the Studios. You could feel the difference in the air on filming day. Time for hair and make-up and before you knew it my turn had come. Here is your Courtney scoop, she is as pretty in real life as she is on TV. Very tall and beautiful. But here is the best part, she is really nice and knows her stuff!!!! We had a blast talking to each other, and I was so impressed when I walked away. All of the camera guys and the producers were great and a lot of fun to work with. Now the guy who put my mike on, I have to wonder about him!!! wink wink!!!

We shot our part and then it was time for some photos. I will post the photos that they send to me as soon as I get them in. The show will air March 19-20 on Spike Network during the Power Block time in the morning. I hope that you will watch.

Back to the airport and time to fly out as we had a Military Days to set up for the next day. It was at University High School in Orange City, FL We brought out the brand new 2011 Embry-Riddle Jet Dragster to help recruit students. It rained on Friday, but it didn't matter, the students still came out and asked a lot of great questions. We loaded the dragster up and hit the road. 2 events done already.

The check list is long for 2011, but if we just keep marking them off, things will get done. My 2011 schedule is going to be posted, so make sure you mark your calenders and come out to support us. I am going to be adding some merchandise to my website soon as well. Also for those of you that love jet cars and want to keep up to date with your favorite drivers, don't forget to check out www.njraracing.com

luv ya,
e

Where has the time gone

Well it is a chilly December day and I am just trying to avoid doing my work. Anyone out there feel the same way???? Some days it is just hard to get focused as you can tell from my lack of blogs. Well where we left off was not a good place and I just had to take a break to get my head together. I had just had an issue with my Embry-Riddle jet dragster in Columbus, OH and it set us back more than what I had hoped. But the good news is that all is good now. I took a few weeks off to heal mentally and physically. It was sorely needed. It seems like for the past few years I have had only one speed and that is all out. The wrecked forced me to take things a little slower for a bit and what I found out about myself is that I only have one speed!!! Please don't ever make me take things slow again. So lets get to the good stuff....RACING!!!

We tested the Miller Jet Dragster the first part of November to get me some seat time before my first race schedule for the Orlando Night of Fire. You always wonder after you wreck if you are going to be the same in the car or how it is going to feel. Well let me tell you the butterflies were moving around pretty bad when they were putting me in the car but when I heard Chris say "here we go in 3,2,1!" and the car came to life, the only feeling I had was HOME!!! This is what I was put on the earth to do! I love my jet cars!!! We made some 1/8Th mile passes to make sure all was good and my baby didn't disappoint. 218 mph in the 1/8Th and boy oh boy did that feel good! Here are a couple of photos from the day.



Hopefully you can tell from my smile that I LOVE this life!!! So we loaded up the car and it was time to get ready to race. The Miller Jet Racing team loaded into Orlando Speed World where we were racing a good friend Terry Rosberg and the Thriller jet dragster. Orlando was the first track that I ever raced at, and it was great to be back. They had a packed house and the crowd sure did get a great show. 6 jet teams 2 jet trucks and 2 wheel standers. Unfortunately it rained after our first pass and it cut the evening short, but WE WERE BACK!!!

The next weekend we headed south to Palm Beach International Raceway in West Palm Beach, FL tough life!!! We were racing Jerry McCart and his Glory Days jet dragster. 4 great passes, what more can you ask for. A good friend was on had to catch this amazing photo. Get your hot dogs ready!!!


Rest, who needs rest, I had been off for 2 months and it was time to race. So for the last race of the year we head to Bradenton Motorsports Park for the Snowbird Nationals. To say that we were ready to have a good time would be an under statement. We loaded into the track and just knew that it was going to be a great day. Saturday morning and the sun is shinning we got to the track. Again I was racing Jerry McCart. Standing room only and the crowd is pumped up!!! On their feet cheering going wild and the jet cars blasted down the 1/4 mile!! Huge fire and Bob Motz ending up the show with his amazing jet semi!!! Everyone made great passes down the track and we put an end to 2010!!! After we hung out with all of the other racers and let our hair down, sorry no photos!!!! What a way to end the year. We loaded up the car for the last time and headed home.

The next week was the Performance Racing Industry show in Orlando, FL where all of the who is who of racing comes out to see what the manufacturers have for us. This year we had a booth. Larsen Motorsports had a huge announcement. The National Jet Racing Association (NJRA) was launched. Now for more info on what the NJRA is you need to visit our website at www.njraracing.com to get the scoop.

So 2010 is over and it is time to look to 2011 and what it has in store for us. I can sure tell you that we have lots of exciting things happening. New shops, new dragsters, new trailers and graphics, TV, and hopefully new adventures with all of the fans!!! So for 2010 we put away the smoke, fire and the screaming fast passes down the 1/4 mile until the first race of the year where we will do it all over again!!! Ain't life great!!!

luv ya,
e

Labor Day

Hello, I hope that this blog. finds everyone healthy and happy on this Labor Day weekend. It is a day that people should be spending with thier families enjoying bbq's. We have been very busy at Larsen Motorsports these past few weeks. Unfortunally everything has not gone well. This past Saturday we were racing at National Trail Raceway in Columbus, OH and had a problem with the Embry-Riddle jet car. As I was driving her down the track, a cross wind lifted the car and I hit the wall. I am fine, and the Embry-Riddle Jet Dragster did just what she was supposed to do and absorbed the hit for me. At time like this you have to take a step back and look at all of the safety features on the car and thank GOD for everyone that makes our cars so safe. Larsen Motorsports has never skimped on safety, and always been one to over do, and it truly paid for its self this weekend.



We want to thank all of the safety crew at National Trail and the NMRA as well as fellow racers that were there for support. Conrad Scary's crew are the best. My guys give me the best car everytime to go down the track in and I am so proud to have each and everyone of them on the team.



All will go on with the Embry-Riddle team, we are going to make a couple of schedule adjustments, but other than that, you will see us back on the track shortly. Thanks for all of the well wishes, and we hope to see you all at the races very soon.

luv ya,

e

Who does this?????

Who does this???? This is the question that I have been asking myself a lot lately. We have been jetting all over the country for the past few weeks and we finally landed in Orlando at midnight on Monday evening. Now it is time to gather up everything and hit the road again. I was working on travel plans with Jennifer (my friend/travel agent) and we both realized that we are working for the next 19 weekends with only 3 of them off. How does that happen. I think I need to fire the scheduler. Oh yeah... that is me!!!!

We are now officially a two car team. We have been racing both the Embry-Riddle jet dragster as well as the Miller Welding Jet Dragster at many events this summer. I have to say, both cars are doing great and behaving themselves. The Miller car had a few new car blues, but she worked them out producing a 277 mph pass at Route 66 this past weekend. Not too bad for a brand new car. Now both cars are ready to go, and hopefully the rest of the summer will continue to have great racing action.

We are heading out for the 8th year in a row to the EAA Oshkosh AirVenture. We are here with ERAU and always have a lot of fun. We will hold our 3rd annual Bowling tournument again this year so watch out Vedalo and Orgon Aero, you are both going down!!!! Then I finish up on Friday with the Lunch with the Stars before flying out to Norwalk, OH to race the Miller team at the Night Under Fire. We will meet up with 3 other jet car teams as well as Bob Motz, the Forces, Wilkersons, and other top fuel teams. My family will be coming out to enjoy the evening. If you have never gone to this show before, it is a must to put on your bucket list!!!!

Then we are heading to Charlotte, NC to race at Z Max dragway with 4 wide jets again this year. In the mean time here are some photos that I have taken while on the road this summer. If you want to keep up with the teams, please make sure to follow us on facebook or twitter!

See you at the races!!!

luv ya,

e

The Dog Days of Summer

The Dog Days of Summer are upon us. We left home to start the summer in Maple Grove, PA with the Embry-Riddle jet dragster, then back home to pick Andrew up on his last day of school. Then fly off to Michigan to make a quick stop at the school of some of my biggest fans. Speak in front of the entire school, then whisked off to visit one of my sponsors Matrix Systems, to tour the factory and finally ended the day at a backyard BBQ. Up again early the next day to work the Roush Museum with my good friend Susan and display the jet dragster with some of the NASCAR guys. Time for me to work on Friday evening making a nice pass down the track. Saturday morning and back to the track for two more passes with the new Miller Welding Jet Dragster. Sunday my best friend Jennifer, picks me up at the hotel to hang out with her family and to do a little pre-father's day shopping. Best Buy here we come. After a GPS and few other things, we headed back to her house where we spent a nice night. Morning and it is time to get back at it. I am supposed to be at a local distributor event for the Miller team and the weather isn't looking good. But a few good fans stopped by before Jennifer to the rescue takes me to the airport to make my flight home for just a couple of days.

Back at home and it is just Chris and myself. Andrew is staying with his Aunt Nancy and Uncle D. He is fishing everyday and having a great time. Chris and I are celebrating our 24th anniversary. Yes 24 years we have been side by side. Chris made a reservation for us on the beach at the Don Cesar in St. Pete, FL. What a beautiful place. We enjoyed fun in the sun for just 24 hours. We only had a small amount time and then back to the airport. Yes oh Yes Jennifer back to the rescue to pick us up at the airport and drop us at our rig.

We meet up with Uncle D and Andrew and then Kansas City, MO here we come. The Embry-Riddle team has been at this wonderful competition called Skills USA and for the third year we are back!!! We spent a week with these extraordinary students and I always leave feeling very inspired. This year was no different. Watching these students excel is just so much fun. Thursday afternoon and no time to rest, we need to hit the road to make Atlanta by the next day in order to make their night of fire!!!

Friday evening and we meet up with the Road Show rig and it seems as if some of the crew decided to race in the test and tune session. Saturday and back to the track. HOT HOT HOT!!! Florida does not have anything on Atlanta in the heat department. The crowd is small at first, but as the day goes on, the crowd slowly fills up and makes for a great night of racing. The Miller team makes a couple passes. Every time I get more laps in the new dragster, it gets better and better. We ended the night with great fireworks and then eating every dessert on the Ruby Tuesday's menu!!!!

Sunday morning and back at the track to tear down. Then nap and pool. Monday morning and I am getting itchy to get back home for the first time in a couple of weeks. But we have one more stop at the Air Gas display. At first I was thinking, "what are we doing here?" Just as those words popped into my head, people started pouring in!!! Now, of course, they were all there to see me, not the FREE lunch that they guys were putting on!!! HUMMMMMM. No matter who or what they came to see, it sure was fun when the place was packed!!! Some of my good friends from the track came out to see us as well. But home was calling me and we headed out!!!

For the first couple of hours we did great, but about 6 hours into the trip home we lost it and didn't think we were going to make it. But finally at 11:00 p.m. we walked in the door!!! Home sweet home!! It was sweet until it was laundry time.

We will be home until July 5th and then it is NASCAR time in Chicago. Time to switch over the clothes and get some sleep. ZZZZZZZZZZZZ I will check in later and let you know how that all turns out.

luv ya,
e

Summer Time!!!

The summer is officially here. We found that out yesterday while testing our new Miller Jet Dragster at Bradenton Motorsports Park. It was an amazing day, and the Miller Jet Dragster is behaving herself now!!! New cars always have the new car blues, but she is acting like the lady she is now!!! After we loaded up and celebrated at our favorite place to eat at in the Bradenton area. Woodys River Roo!!! Right on the water and it is hard not to have a good time while you are at the Roo!!

As summer is gearing up, the racing if going to get hot and heavy. This weekend we are heading to Reading, PA for the NMCA race then barely enough time to fly home, get Andrew and get to Milan, MI for the Jack Roush Museum on Wednesday and then racing for the weekend. The rest of the summer looks just as crazy, from Kansas to Atlanta to Chicago, this summers schedule is amazing. Lots of great racing, lots of great fun. Make sure you check out the schedule to see if we are coming close to you!!!

Now for all of the other exciting news, Blown Away is getting ready to start filming. This is going to be so much fun. The film crew is going to out at many of the races coming up capturing what we do behind the scenes. It is going to be a crazy ride, but I can't wait for it all to start. I will keep you all up to date as things unfold!!
luv ya,
e

ALL COMING TOGETHER!!!

So much has been happening these past few weeks I don't even know where to begin. Lets start with my new car. Larsen Motorsports is proud to announce partnering with Miller Electric. This has been a long time in coming and we are very excited. The dragsters have all been welded with Miller equipment so we will definitely have the Power of Blue behind us. The Miller Jet Dragster will travel around the country not only racing, but going to many different shows. You will have to check the Miller schedule to see where the dragster will be. Now lets talk about how the dragster is getting from race to race. She is riding in comfort in the Miller Road Show 1. They have totally refitted their rig for my new baby. New graphics inside and state of the art equipment. My new Miller Jet Dragster will live the life of luxury. I just want to know if there will be room for me????? You can find more about the new Miller race team on our website and choosing the Miller team.

So where does that leave me with the Embry-Riddle team? We are also racing her across the country adding some Western dates to our schedule. This is the brand new Embry-Riddle Jet Dragster, the sister car to the Miller Jet Dragster. We have all new uniforms, graphics on the trailer and are working with Embry-Riddle with new projects. So if you want to see the where the Embry-Riddle team will be, you can go to the site and choose ERAU team.

Now of you thought that running two race cars was going to keep us busy, come on. We are working with McCabe Productions and they are producing a Reality Show about what goes on behind the scenes at Larsen Motorsports. The show is schedule to air in 2011 and we will be filming at several of the race tracks across the country. Nitro better be ready all of the girl pugs will be after him!!! I think he wants a dog house with a star on it and chicken 3 times a day!!

I know that this is a lot in just a short time. We have been working on everything for several years and it has finally all just come together. This is just the tip of the iceburg. Keep checking back because things are moving faster than my jet car at this point. Look for a lot more photos, a lot more up dates and a lot more fun!!!

We are heading out to Norwalk, OH this weekend where we will debut our brand new Miller Jet Dragster, so if you are in the area, make sure you come out and say HI.

luv ya,
e

Where is Spring???

So all we hear about is global warming and how the earth is changing. I want WARM weather!!!!! I am ready for the heat. Sitting in a hotel in White, GA and it is only 46 outside, YUCK!!!! I want to pull out my summer clothes and complain about how hot it is!!! I know how about a little cheese to go with all of this.

We are in White, GA doing a display at Toyo tire factory. Last night we fired the Embry-Riddle jet dragster up in the parking lot. We will do it one more time tonight and then head to Atlanta Dragway to run the NMRA race. I am still getting used to the new car. She is a different dragster, with a GE J-85 in her. She doesn't like some of the things that my Pratt and Whitney J/60 liked, so I am in the middle of a learning curve. All good.

Last weekend we raced in Bradenton, FL for the NMCA races. Lots of fun on Saturday, but Sunday left a lot to be desired. It rained so hard on Sunday we were looking for the no wake zones in the pit area. After the race, we had dinner with some new friends. I will keep you posted on some new things that are happening with Larsen Motorsports. We meet up with them and went over the next days schedule. I did a radio commercial and had a lot of fun. I will post pics and news very soon.

After playing MISS SUPERSTAR, time to get back to my real job and we headed back to the track to tear down as was too wet to take things down on Sunday. The NMCA finished up their race Monday while we were there. Then it was off to boot camp. This boot camp was HARD. Miss Brenda knows how to make us dig very deep and get the most out of work-out. I am feeling stronger than ever. Now I just need to eat healthy.

Well lots going on for Larsen Motorsports. If you go out to the track to see us, at some races you will notice a lot of cameras following us around. I will keep you posted on what that is all about. I guess that is it for now, back to the hotel room where I should be doing work. Focus Elaine, Focus!!

Luv ya,
e

OUCH!!!!!

Okay so before we get to the title of this blog. we will go back a little. After the last blog. We were going to head back to the track and get the new graphics for the trailer. We are getting there. The new graphics are on the sides and the trailer is at the shop right now with the guys working very hard on the rear door. I will post photos later this week. The new fire suit has not come in yet, but Simpson is working hard. I received my new helmet freshly painted by Joe Graska this weekend. I let him have a little fun and he did not disappoint. It is really cool. I will post a photo later this week. I am getting geared up and ready to go for the first race of the season. I turn on the TV and watch the weather and what do I see.......80% of rain on Saturday. You have got to be kidding. This race was already rained out and here we go again. No time to complain, you pack up and head to the track no matter what.

Friday came and I was waiting for our newest crew member to come over as I was riding with him to the track. His name is David Crohe. I have known David, his wife Melissa and their two girls for a very long time. When we were starting to look for some extra help, we thought of our friend David. He accepted and here we are. So Andrew, Nitro and I loaded in his car and it is off to the races. We get in have some dinner and call it a night. Our other crew, Mike Mathes, is driving in from Georgia to help show David about the dragster. Great Guys!!!

Well Saturday morning and I am afraid to look outside, but it has to be done. Guess what, it doesn't look half bad. The weekend just looked a whole lot brighter!!! We head out to the track and things are getting ready to roll. We unload the car and guess what, we are back in the ball game. It is race day baby!!!! I am racing a friend Jerry McCart this weekend and we are ready to have a little fun.

We gear up for the first pass and to say that the butterflies are making a home in my stomach, is an understatement. It is always the case for the first race of the year. But as soon as the helmet goes on and you get strapped in, it is game on!!!! We had a lot of friends that came out to cheer us on and even though the sun wasn't shinning, we put on a great show. The Embry-Riddle dragster ran straight and true. It sure felt great to be back behind the wheel. As soon as we got back from the pass, it started to sprinkle. But the owners of Bradenton Motorsports Park did the right thing, they canceled the race for the rest of the day, as the rain was only supposed to get worse as the day went on. They gave everyone that came on Saturday FREE tickets to get back in on Sunday and had the jet cars come back on Sunday to finish the show!!!! YES!!! More racing!!!!

Sunday morning and it has gotten a little chilly overnight, but we are ready to go. We arrived to the track early to attend the RFC chapel service, where something magical happened. Nitro met a women. She is a 3 1/2 year old pug named Gabby!!! She was soooo cute. The looked each other over and decided us humans were just weird.

After we separated the Pugs, it was time to go racing again. We get the car ready to go and made one more great pass down the quarter mile. 287 mph, not a bad way to start off the new year. We are heading out west from here. Lots to do and see. Check the schedule to see where we are going next. I have a few more races to add to it, but we are pretty much sold out at this point. Not a bad thing to have happen. I will dust off the camera and get you some photos of the new stuff and post them very soon.

I hope you all are going to watch the Superbowl this weekend. GO SAINTS!!!! Just a little shout out for my No Problem buddies!!! Okay so back to the title of the blog. OUCH is what I am feeling right now. I thought I had friends, but obviously thought wrong. Somehow I was talked into joining this workout boot camp. What was I thinking. There is a reason I not like lunges!!!!! There will be NO photos of this!!!! Even my fingers hurt, how does that happen. But hopefully it will pay off in the long run. DON"T mention RUNNING!!!


luv ya,
e

Hello 2010

OK so when I last checked in I told you about my fun schedule that I had for the end of 2009. You hopefully will understand why I haven't posted anything for a while. After a very full 2009 racing season Larsen Motorsports finished out the year with a rain out in Bradenton for their Snowbirds. It was so disappointing. The race tracks now more than ever need our support and for them to have a loss like this really did not help. But you can't fight Mother Nature.

So, we headed for the Performance Racing Industry show that is held in Orlando, FL If you are into racing, this is show for you not to miss. Everything that you love about racing is there under one roof. We had a lot of great meetings and ran into friends that we hadn't had a chance to see through the year.

After that it was time to get ready for Christmas. Wait back up I forgot to tell you that we had a bunch of friends staying at our house, a bunch of jet racers and friends a like. We all hung out around the table and told great stories from the present and the past. It was really cool. OK so now it is time to get ready for Christmas. Lots of cooking and shopping and then Christmas is here. We went to the Christmas Eve service with my Mother in Law. It was really nice. Christmas morning and paper is flying. We all got way too much, ate way too much and made way too much mess. Then it was time for rest. Chris wanted to get away so we purchased a cruise that left a couple days after Christmas. We sailed away, no cell phones, no e-mail and best of all no work. We slept in and took naps. It was a wonderful way to spend the holidays.

Okay that sounded good, but man do I miss the sights and smells of the race track. I got a call from Bradenton Motorsports Park and they said they were going to reschedule the jet portion of the Snowbirds for January 30th. So guess what baby.......It is time to get back to what we love to do. It is time to go racing. YES!!!! We have a lot of work to do in the off season. New graphics for the trailer, new firesuit, new helmet and HUGE surprises!!!! (NEW CARS!!!!))) I have never been more excited about a race season yet. So hang on things are just starting to heat up!!!

luv ya,
e

The final PUSH!!!

Well, it has been a very long time we have just been slammed. I do not know where the time goes, but between racing, being a wife, mom and trying to run a business makes me wonder how I keep my head above water sometimes. But we have one final PUSH to finish up the year.

The good news is we are in the state of Florida for the remainder of the year. YES!!!!! Okay so are you ready for the next 4 weeks schedule hang on cuz here we go:

November 18 Guest speaker at the Great American Teach In
November 19 Display Embry-Riddle Daytona Beach
November 19 Drop trailer and set up for the Orlando Night of Fire
November 21 Orlando Night of Fire
November 22 Homestead (yes Homestead) NASCAR display fan zone
November 26 Cook Thanksgiving Dinner YUM YUM
November 27 Celebrate Andrew and Nitro's Birthday and drive to West Palm for the Citrus Nat
November 28-29 Race Citrus Nationals Palm Beach International Raceway
December 3 Drop trailer and set-up for the Snowbird Nationals
December 4 Race the Snowbird Nationals Bradenton, FL
December 5 COME HOME!!!
December 8 Pick up friends from airport
December 9 Production meeting
December 10-12 PRI show Orlando, FL
December 11 NMCA/NMRA awards banquet
December 12 stay in PJ's all day and eat Bon Bon's!!!!
December 13 Christmas shop and get it done!!!

That is my life, anyone what to join me??? I say this now as I am in the middle of this crazy life, but as soon as the racing season is over then the first words are "when is the next race?" You can be sure that we will be back out in 2010 ready to go!!!

Well hang on it is going to be a great ride!!!! I will try and keep you filled in as much as possible. Keep checking back in 2010, we are going to have some great fun. New cars, additional sponsors, new race tracks, and big announcements. Don't miss a minute.

luv ya,
e

I know LAZY LAZY!!!!

Sorry it has taken me so long. It has been very crazy. We have been buying and selling so much, that time has just slipped away. But I will try and catch you up.
1 sold the 1941 Willys
2. sold Miss Ta Fire
3. sold Miss Ta Fire trailer
4. sold our F550 truck
5. bought LOTS of engines
6. took new ERAU jet dragster to race
7. questioning my sanity.

You have no idea. We have just been so busy and things are moving so fast that I have no idea how we keep things straight. But the racing action has been amazing. Columbus, OH was the last pass down the track for the Embry-Riddle jet dragster. We have finally gotten the bugs out of the new dragster and it is running great. Just a couple more things to straighten out and I can't wait to she how fast she can go!!!

We made a quick trip to Belle Rose, LA and met up with our great friends. Always a favorite for the food and friends. The racing isn't too bad either. Sad to know that this will be our last time for the 2009 season, but looking forward to rounding out the season.

This weekend we are racing in Bowling Green, KY for the NMRA finals. This has been a great year for the Fords!! We have seen just about a little of everything. I think that over the past year we have made a lot of friends and it will be great to see who takes home the championship.

Well that about covers it for now. Tomorrow I take Chris to the airport @ 6:30, come home take Andrew to school, then come home to make more flights to finish out the year. We are working on some great things for the JETS for the 2010 and 2011 season. We will be posting all of the news ASAP.

Keep checking back.
luv ya,
e

World Series a Grand Slam!!

Back from the World Series of Drag Racing in Cordova, IL This is our second year at the World Series and I can tell you it was only bigger and better than last year. We arrived in town on Thursday afternoon, we flew in as Chris had repositioned the rig in town a couple of weeks ago. We got our bags and headed to the car rental. We had a major choice to make, Avis rental tempted me with a choice, a normal rental or a brand new Camaro........now ever since Transformers every person wanted Bumble Bee, me included. Well this car wasn't Bumble Bee, but she was sweet. I chose the cool car!!!! Chris and I hopped in the car and got ready to have fun for the weekend. It was a rainy day and the car held the road wonderful. We went to pick-up the rig at the Crownharts, where we had left her. Chris got in the truck and it was my time to get behind the wheel and see what she had!!! The new Camaro sits great and handles wonderful. Everything was very user friendly. Not quite sold yet, but moving in the right direction. We dropped the rig at the track and went to the hotel to rest for the big day tomorrow. Friday and the clouds were still out, but the weather report looked good. I did forget to tell you when we left Florida it was in the 90's and that night it dropped into the 40's in Cordova. YIKES!!! We get everything set up and the crowd starts coming in for the Friday qualifying. We were scheduled to make a pass Friday evening and two on Saturday night. We waited all day long and the sun finally came out. The cars were flying down the track and them temps were cold. Things looked good, until........a very small rain cloud passed over us and dumped enough rain for the track to call it a night without us making a pass. The next day and the sun is shining and by the time we got to the track the crowd was huge!!! We unloaded the dragster and it was slammed all day. We had the great opportunity to race with KC Jones and Paul Kelly with the Cannonball Express, Diamond Jim and Dan Crownhart and Fran Peppler. We also had Benny the Bomb along with the wheel standers of Bob Hall and Richard Hutchinson. Now that sounds great right, well how about Tim Wilkerson and his son Dan, Cruz and Tony Pedregon and TJ Zizzo. Crazy right. That is what the World Series is all about. I couldn't even tell you the final car count. It was amazing. Scott and Linda Gardner really know how to put on a show. There were families that have been coming for all 56 years, they camp out and really enjoy racing. I can tell you I am a fan!!! Well back to racing. We get ready to make our first pass and the Crownharts are first down the track. Unfortunately, they got tangled up with each other and Dan ended up taking out Jim's parachute. They are both safe and healthy due to their safety measures in their cars. Both were in great spirits. I am sure they will both be back at the track in no time with their hot rods ready to go. KC and Paul went next and then Fran and I ran. The crowd went wild, standing room only and the stands were packed. We had so much fun. After checking on the Crownharts, we turned the car around to make the second pass for the evening. We headed back to the staging lanes and loaded up only to hear the announcer say there had been another wreck. Unfortunately the time was running late and we were unable to make our last pass. The crowd all came back to the trailer and we hung out late into the evening. This race rocked!!!! We came back on Sunday and loaded up and I got to drive the Camaro back to the airport. Chris is driving the rig to the next race. I was in the airport and heard that there was bad weather in Atlanta so all flights were delayed. Good Grief!!! I almost made the flight that did get out, but just a couple of seats short. I was feeling pretty bad, when I looked out over the airfield to see the plane that I was supposed to be on getting towed out to the runway. Then the front landing gear just collapsed. The plane bellied down and the passengers had to be taken off. Well maybe I will just let things happen and be happy about it. No one was hurt, and I finally made it out and arrived home 5 hours late!!! It is good to be home. This weekend we are heading to Columbus, OH. Andrew and I are flying out in the morning and I better get packed!!!! Hope you all have a great Labor Day weekend and enjoy the races somewhere!!!

luv ya,
e

Rather be racin!!!

Okay. for the most part most people see what we do at the track and think that is what goes on, well let me tell you, that is the easiest part of our jobs!!! We left Z Max dragway, Andrew, Nitro and I flew home while Chris drove to the next race to leave the rig. Life has a way of just keeping going. While we were gone, the mail still comes, bills still need to be paid and work needs to be done. We can't do any of that on the road. So there is no rest. We had been gone for almost 3 weeks, what a mess. It took me a couple of days just to get the feel of home. I had no food in the house and just going to the grocery store is hard. But, we made it through and I picked Chris up from the airport and then the work started out in the shop Chris is a hard boss! There is no rest at Larsen Motorsports!

We head out to the shop and get moving on assembling engines and start working on getting the new ERAU jet car up and running. Our crew guy Mike and his daughter Alli made the long drive to come and help over the weekend, thanks guys!!!

Engines are always top priority, but yard work doesn't wait. I had to trim the palm trees, man do they have pickers!!! If that wasn't bad enough, the fire ants were all over. I think there is something about me that they like!! My feet are killing me. Okay so enough whining. We still have a week and a half left at home before we hit the road again for the next race. Hopefully we will get caught up in that time. I guess that is it for now. Back to the ants.

If anyone hasn't seen the video of the 4 lane drag race on you tube, you need to log on and watch. It was probably the coolest thing I have ever done racing!!! It will last in my memory forever! Here is the link. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ApJAgUBEQdw

Have a great week!!!

luv ya,
e

Airplanes and Fast Cars

The team flew out to set-up for the sixth year in a row at the EAA Oshkosh Air Venture air show. We always love this air show as you never know what you are going to see. They had changed the layout of the show and Embry-Riddle expanded their spot to make it very nice. We had to quickly hang out with all of our friends because this year, we left early to head to a race in Ohio. We hit the ground running and met up with friends and sponsors. We were invited to sign autographs at the Ford exhibit with Jack Roush a couple of days and finished up the week signing at the FAA area. On Wednesday evening to break up the week, the President of Embry-Riddle took us all out for a wonderful dinner. Then it was time for the 2nd annual Larsen Motorsports ALL OUT Bowling Party. The same group and a few extras came out to bowl our hearts out and had a legendary time. Thursday morning and we had to be at the show bright and early to finish up some filming for ERAU. That afternoon we started tearing down in order to head back to Summit Raceway Park for their Night Under Fire.

We arrived on site and they were ready for us. The Embry-Riddle team was working out of the Miller Welding Road show rig for the weekend. First class all of the way. We set up, then went for dinner before we collapsed at the hotel. We knew the next day was going to be crazy. 8:00 a.m. and we are back at the track. Most of the big names in Nitro Funny car racing were invited to the show as well, the Forces, Pedregons, Jim Head, Willkersons and the DHL car of Jeff Arrend. The jet dragster were on hand as well as Bob Motz with his amazing jet truck. We can't leave out the wheel standers and 600 race cars. What night. Everything is set to music and the cars were making huge power on the track.

At 7:30 it was out turn. I was paired up with Lou Pereira. The crowd went wild and we both made great passes down the track. Ernie and Jill followed us up and then it was time for BOB!!! The crowd went wild. The love the jets. We only had a short time and we were back on the track. Nitro Funnys first and then us. At the end of the track they had us all wait for the famous fireworks show. Bob burned down the wall and the fireworks went crazy We towed back up the track for the crowd to come out and see the cars, get pictures and autographs.

We went back to the trailer and still signed until 3:00 a.m. and after an 18 hour day finally made it back to the hotel. ZZZZZZZZZZZZ

We had a display on Monday and then headed to friends house to relax for the evening. Finally I got to see one of my biggest fans DVD he had made for me. He did a great job and I got to see what he likes to do. Interesting!!! Now it is time to hit the road one more time. We are heading to the brand new ZMax dragway in Charlotte, NC. I will be racing 3 other jet cars down the track at the same time!!! Four lanes, sounds cool!!!

Well time to start the day. It is one of Andrew's friends Birthday today so we are taking her out to lunch. I will keep you posted. Hope to see you at the races!!!

luv ya,

e

Testing and beyond

Well after a great vacation there is no time to rest, it is off to test the brand new ERAU Jet!!! Now where are we going to go??? First we try Bradenton, FL but no luck as it rained. So now where?? Well we call the race track PBIR in West Palm and they say sure bring her over. So off to the races for Friday and Saturday. Friday we get a couple of shots down the track, and then it rains. Saturday we make a couple of passes before the rains hit again. The car is getting there and we are working out some of the new car bugs. Unfortunately we had to pack it up as bad weather was heading in. So we loaded up and headed to yet one more dragstrip. Gainesville, FL was having a run day Sunday, so guess what, where there is a race track open, we are heading out. We loaded and our spirits were up and we were ready to kick a little butt!!! Well the first pass, still working on bugs and by the end of testing we are getting there, but not good enough to take the new girl on the road for the next few races.
We load the new car back in the trailer and head back home. Our heads are hanging a little, but you know what, things are not as bad as we are thinking. First, we have a beautiful state of the art brand new jet dragster that is going to FLY, she may be giving us some problems, but as they say nothing that is worth while is easy. Second, we have a GREAT Embry-Riddle Jet dragster that I have been running for the past 2 years and she is not ready to take a back seat. Third, we have a wonderful car, which is my original Jet dragster the Miss Ta Fire that is wanting to come out of retirement.
We decided to hit the road a little early as and take a little time to smell the roses on the way to the next race. We found this spot that is amazing, just north of Chattanooga, TN. We rented a floating cabin and stayed for a couple of days. But the sound of burning rubber was calling and we had to get to the next show. Route 66 here we come!!!
We pulled into the track on Thursday evening and the clouds just let go. We dropped the trailer and headed to the hotel. We ordered some Chicago style pizza. Got to bed early to get ready for a huge weekend of racing. The Superbowl of Dragracing!!!!
Friday morning and can you say BRRRRR!! I was not not ready for the cool weather. We were scheduled to make 3 passes over the weekend. One pass per day. Friday night and we were the last car down the track. We make a nice pass and then meet up with family that made the trip to come and see us. Saturday morning and we get back to the track. The place is crazy packed. Food lines, entry lines and they are going to get their money's worth!!!! Amazing drag racing, amazing weather and records are being set on the track. We make our pass and then load up for the night. Sunday is coming soon. One more pass down the 1/4 mile and then it is time for us to become fans. We get to watch some of our friends go for the Superbowl Championship. I am happy to say my girl Susan the She Devil kicked it. Congrats Susan!!!
Well we hung out till the end but we had to hit the road and head even further north. We dropped the trailer at Oshkosh for the next event. The EAA Air Venture show. We head for the airport and fly home. Now my good friend Curt is here hanging out, but not for long. Saturday we head back to work the airshow and then we are going to the Night Under Fire at Summit Raceway Park in Norwalk, OH. Now if you have been living under a rock and don't know what this show is, you need to check it out!!! I cannot wait. John Force and the entire gang is going to be there. 4 four jet dragsters and Bob Motz with his jet semi. A combination for success!!! This summer is heating up!!! See you at the races.
luv ya,
e

Can you say VACATION!!!

We start out our vacation with one last race. We head to Atlanta Dragway to do their annual Night of Fire. This is a great family race as we always celebrate our 4th of July with our racing family at the race track. Friday we load in and do our display at Walmart and then head to the hotel for some great pizza and swimming in the pool. Saturday morning and the kids head back to the pool and I get ready for the full day of racing. HOT HOT HOT is the best way to describe the race. Man I thought Florida got a little toasty, but by 12:00 it was steaming. I mean literally steaming. We had a rain shower and the steam was pouring off the track. I thought it would cool things off but wow it got sticky. Talk about true racers. The Jr. dragsters drivers were real sports. They raced in all of that heat and were amazing. It is the largest group of Jr. drivers that I had seen in a while. They are amazing.

So we were supposed to make two passes on Saturday night and then the fireworks were going to go off at 10:00. We pull into the staging lanes @ 6:30 p.m. and were schedule to blast off @ 7:00. Unfortunately a racer in front of us had a problem on the track and oiled it down, and I mean the entire track. It took over 2 hours to clean up. We road down the return road throwing out t-shirts and hats in some guys in the Army. Pretty cool. I was racing Hojo and Casey Jones and the trains were on hand to give the crowd what they came for. We were only able to make one lap down the track as time was running out for the fireworks. They were awesome. After the show, Chris and they guys get everything loaded up I finish up with the fans and then we hit the road.

Now we really really have to hit the road, our vacation is starting in just a few hours. Our friends from Michigan flew in while we were racing and we were all scheduled to board a cruise ship in Tampa by 12:00 on Sunday. There was no time to stop, and we rolled into the house @ 9:30 a.m. jumped in the shower and hit the road. We were all ready for some R&R. First day was just floating at sea. Second day was Grand Caymans and sting rays. Third day Cozumel and the beach, fourth day is Belize and cave tubing, last but not least is Roatan and shopping in the port. Then to finish it all off we had the last day at sea.

This was the best vacation we have ever had. We rested and got all caught up to hit the ground running for the race season that is coming up. I will post vacation pics real soon. Hope you all enjoyed the 4th and can't wait to see you at the races.

luv ya,
e

Back Home Again

It feels so good to be home. I am sitting in my favorite chair with Nitro sitting here with me, Chris talking on the phone (of course) and Andrew playing basketball with his friend Nelson. Life is good. I made homemade double chocolate chip cookies and dunked them in ice cold milk. Wow can you say paradise!!!!! But we have to back up a little. We left our house almost two weeks ago to fly out for the next race. Our first stop is Maple Grove, PA We are heading out to race for the NMCA. We have never been to this track and I am very excited. The only problem is that it is raining when we get into town on Friday. Not cool. One of my good friends Jill is coming in to hang with us at the races. We met up on Friday night and got to bed early for the fun day at the races. It was Jill's first time at the Drag Races and I was really excited to put her on the starting line. Saturday we made two nice passes and I think Jill went back a little extra crispy!!! Sunday and we are back at the races. We made a great pass and then it was time to hit the road. The only problem is I had made some great friends at the track. We said our goodbyes and then started out for Michigan where we were going to our next race.

Okay, I did not think the roads could get any worse, Nitro even went air born, talk about bumpy. When we dropped the trailer off at the Roush Museum for a display later in the week, we were still bouncing in the truck. We figured out that we had lost our airbag in the back of the truck. Well that explains everything. Chris's cousin owns a trailer dealer, we pulled in and they took great care of us. Both of our families live in central Michigan, so it was off to see family. Lunch at Uncle Johns, and then dinner later with my sisters and their families. I can feel my pants getting tighter. Only one night to spend with family and then back on the road.

Chris dropped me off at a friends house who lives near our display. We have been friends with the Kempf's for several years. We first met on a cruise ship when our kids were very small. We have since vacationed a lot together and stayed real close. Andrew and I hung at the house while Chris went to do business. Later that night, you guessed it, back out to eat. The next morning it was all work. We were scheduled to place the dragster into the Roush Museum to display with several of the top NASCAR drivers along with Jack and Susan Roush. Susan and I sat together signing autographs for most of the evening, it was girl power all of the way.

The next morning and we had to set up for the races. Rest, are you kidding me. We get everything set up and make our pass, last car down the track 10;45 P.M. Back to the hotel for a little rest and then back to the track at the Milan Dragway for the NMRA. Saturday morning and we had better be all hands on deck as our families and friends are coming out to the races. It was cloudy but believe it or not no rain in sight and the race went off perfect!!!! We made our passes and it was so much fun to see my sister in the stands cheering me on. Worth all of the work to get here.

No rest yet, we still have to tear everything down so we can hit the road first thing in the morning. Thanks JIM for the help. We get back to the hotel and crash. Now comes the fun part, the long drive home. We made it half way the first day and then finally we are back to the beginning of this blog. Me sitting in the chair. See, that chocolate chip cookies sounds pretty good right now. No rest as we have to fight those new car blues and get the new car up and running for our next race, Atlanta Dragways Night of Fire. I think I need more cookies.

luv ya,
e