High School Students To Compete In Engine Build Competition

Between August and June annually, high school students practice and prepare for the big game or the next challenge in their academic careers. For a select group of teams, their road to the championship passes through the Carlisle PA Fairgrounds, June 24-26.

In conjunction with the 2011 Carlisle GM Nationals, the Hot Rodders of Tomorrow engine building competition will take place at the fairgrounds, making Carlisle one of six regional qualifying locations. Regional winners plus two non-winning top time "wild cards" will advance to compete in the championships, November 1-4 at the SEMA show in Las Vegas, NV.

Along with being dubbed "champion," these student engine builders are eligible for prizes, sponsorships, and support from select companies as well as scholarship money to aid in future education and training. In 2010 more than $600,000 in scholarship money was awarded and 2011 expects to match or exceed that total. Thus far, monetary commitments have been made by the University of Northwest Ohio, Ohio Technical College and SAM, the School of Automotive Machinists, located in Houston, TX.

The Hot Rodders of Tomorrow Engine Challenge began in 2008 with just five schools as an exhibition and has grown into a national competition for high school students. In 2011, more than 50 teams will compete nationwide. The event serves as a forum for the future development of today's youth for the race and performance industry. During each regional qualifying competition, students must properly disassemble small block Chevy engines using only hand tools and follow proper disassembly and reassembly procedures. This is a competition against the clock, so time added penalties may be issued. For specific rules and regulations visit the Hot Rodders of Tomorrow online.

"Hosting a regional event for the Hot Rodders of Tomorrow is one way we can foster the growth of the hobby and the industry," said Event Manager Rick Marko. "This competition encourages kids with automotive interests to pursue a career in the automotive world and with the scholarships that are made available; it insures an education and an opportunity to follow that dream."

In selecting the Carlisle GM Nationals as a regional qualifier, the Hot Rodders of Tomorrow has partnered with one of the most diverse All-GM events in the world. Over 1,400 vehicles from all eras are showcased yearly in Carlisle and offer the opportunity for not only Showfield competition, but also to meet like-minded enthusiasts of chrome classics, muscle cars, street rods, modified customs, and high-performance models.

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