Willow Springs International Raceway SRA-West Formula Sidecar Series Rosamond, California: The SRA-West Formula Sidecar series came to an end in the paddock of Willow Springs Raceway this past weekend as the final round was called due to rain. Although the series does race in inclement weather, a lack of teams with rain tires forced series organizers to call the event Sunday morning. Teams present made the most of Saturday practice and its mild weather. On Sunday however, only second overall Team Johnny Killmore would attempt to make the first wet practice session. Running DOT legal automotive race tires from Hoosier, the spitting rain was still too much for the barely treaded rubber, and they spun on their second hot lap while exiting turn 9, avoiding any obstacles or injuries. After much discussion and head-scratching while looking at weather radar, the decision was made (with much consensus by the teams) to call the event and begin the awards ceremony. The driver championship goes again to William Becker of Team Becker Moto Works of Apple Valley, California. Becker won every race this season save two, using his beautiful home-built Formula 1 chassis and a 2006 Suzuki GSX-R engine in stock trim. Second place went to driver John Wood of Team Johnny Killmore, using a heavily modified Windle Formula 2 chassis with 2002 Suzuki GSX-R1000 power. Wood was able to lead the early parts of the 6-8 lap sprints this year, but could not match Becker’s speed after the tires came up to temperature. Rumor in the paddock is that Wood will attempt suspension upgrades to the aging Windle to increase high-speed stability and steering response. Third place went to driver Sean Bakken of Roadkill Racers, who used a Spike Taylor chassis and the only Yamaha engine on the grid, a 2002 YZF-R1. The passenger championship was slightly different, as not all drivers were able to use the same passenger this season. Eric Becker, son of William Becker, made every round and handily won top honors this year. Second place went to rookie Brandon Matthews, who managed to make the bulk of the series by racing on multiple teams when a chair was available. Expect to see more from this fast learning rookie. Third place went to veteran Gary McEwen, who also raced with multiple teams. The 2012 season looks promising for the SRA-West, with all the major players expected to return and two more teams already attempting to form in the closing stages of 2011. A vintage sidecar series is also in the works, with four machines of varied specification being fabricated at the Becker Moto Works shop. Featuring BMW or Yamaha XS650 power and different price levels based on features, an “arrive and drive” rental program is being explored for any machine not being sold prior to the commencement of the 2012 season. This format should allow interested racers who do not want to deal with the costs or speed of modern machines to battle it out with other competitors. Interested parties should contact William Becker at 760-961-2108 or [email protected]. The SRA-West would like to thank all of its members and supporters this year. Continued support by Cycle Gear, Hoosier Racing Tires, and Barnett Clutches is greatly appreciated. Special thanks also go to host organizations AHRMA, WSMC, and WERA for bringing the three-wheeled action of this unique sport into their fold. Without this support, there would be no SRA-West. Congratulations to all our champions, and happy holidays to all our friends in the motorsports community.