The appeal of the Fastruck Series is understandable. Many concerns expressed by a beginning racer, like cost, are addressed by the series objectives. Jason's hopes of getting into the series are not dissimilar to a few competitors locked in the 2003 points race. The series draws drivers with limited experience in other forms of oval track racing, go-cart veterans looking for a different challenge, and those who have raced in the "higher levels". There are also racers who have gone right from the general admission grandstands into the cockpit of a Fastruck.
For now, Jason will have to be content with the memories. His enthusiasm will burn inside him until he can make the commitment required. "I know it's going to take a lot of work and a lot of money and I want to do it when the time is right," he said.
It's the next step in perpetuating the sport. It's been racing's biggest attraction. We can't catch passes like NFL receivers or hit home runs like Barry Bonds, but racing gives that "everyman" his chance to shine. For people like Jason, willing to step out of the stands or put down the game controller for a steering wheel, the joy of living a dream is not far off.
No Experience NecessaryThe roster of the Fastruck Series is an interesting mix of individuals. Like many series, there are veterans galore, but this series also features racers who are rookies in the purest sense of the word.
Often, a series sees racers who have toiled in entry-level divisions, wishing to expand their programs. However, there are some racers who have skipped that step and moved directly into competition with the trucks.
"Mack Payne saw us racing and decided he wanted to buy a truck," said Fastruck race director Bobby Diehl. Payne competed with the series for a few seasons before taking a break to pursue a business opportunity.
"Eddie Moran is another one," continued Diehl. "He was a fighter pilot and was looking to get into something like this when he heard about us. He's racing with us this year. Vic Slacter is a pilot for Outback (Steakhouse). He didn't have any racing experience until he bought the truck."
The series seems to be a popular drawing card for go-cart racers who want to have a little more protection around them. It has also become the latest racing effort for a former swamp buggy racer.
Richard Pellerito came into Fastruck racing in 2003. He was active with drag racing in New England some time ago and had been on the sidelines. He purchased a truck midway through the year and, despite no sponsorship help, put the truck on the track.
What's a Fastruck?*'97-'03 Chevy C-10, Ford F-150, or Dodge Ram body styles*108-inch wheelbase*Weight dependent upon engine. Left-side weight ranges from 55 to 58 percent, depending on engine*Engine does not need tomatch body style*Cams are series approved,manufactured by Crane*Intake manifolds are series approved, manufactured by Edelbrock *Holley 500 cfm 4412 carburetors*Wet-sump oiling systems*Built on GM metric frames.Tubing minimum 131/44 x 0.090* Engine centered with 1 inch tolerance*Engine setback-6 inches for Ford, 5 inches for Chevy, 131/44 inches for Dodge