The arm drops and competitors put pedal to the metal

Administrator | May 22, 2012 | Comments 3

Larry Porter, North Bay in his 63 Chevy Nova waits for the arms to drop. Bill Samuel photo

By Bill Samuel
www.quintecar.ca
Clear skies and warm temperatures greeted the 1,000-plus fans at the season opener for Armdrop Drag Racing in Picton Saturday, May 19.
“Couldn’t ask for nicer weather,” said Armdrop organizer Gen Conway. “We are very pleased with the number of participants and fans.”
Drivers arrived from as far as North Bay to participate in the one day event. More than 100 cars and drivers were ready to put the “pedal to the metal”. Every aspect of the event, from staff at the gate to the finish line judge, was run by volunteers. Along with a great day of racing, fans enjoyed a Show and Shine of classic cars and motorcycles. Kingston and Belleville Police Services each sent one of their fine motorcycles for display.

Since earliest times, man has always competed to see who was the fastest. Whether it was on his own legs, with animals or piloting mechanical devices, many competitions for bragging rights and prizes have ensued.

For the competitors at Armdrop, just getting out there was half the fun. Many friendly rivals got the chance to see who was fastest. One of the highlights of the day was the father-son duel between Dave Grimmon, of Foxboro in his 1970 440-cubic inch, Plymouth GTX verses son Brad Grimmon, of Consecon in his 1977 360-cubic inch, Plymouth Road Runner.

“Brad’s car is sounding pretty good,” grinned Dave Grimmon. “We’ll just have to see how it goes.”

Later that afternoon the mantra “there is no replacement for displacement” would be proved once again. Brad Grimmon can comfort himself in the knowledge that he was not the first nor likely be the last driver to enjoy the view of the back of Dad’s GTX.

This is the third season for Armdrop Drag Racing in Picton. Originally started as a safe alternative to street racing, the event has continued to grow in popularity. The event is an old-school, arm drop start, ‘run-what-ya-brung’ drag race. Twenty dollars and a running car are the basic requirements for a driver to compete for a moment of glory. Currently, a second date is being planned for September with hopes of a mid-summer event date to be scheduled.

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