Hitting 300 mph on the Bonneville Salt Flats and breaking the AA/Fuel speed record is a worthy goal. Doing so for charity is an even more worthy goal.
That's exactly what Team 608 has been doing since 1998, racing lakesters and hot rods while fundraising for cancer, juvenile diabetes and autism research.
"Team 608 is self-funded and self-sustaining and 100 percent of the money we raise goes to charities," said Bob Dauernheim, owner and builder of the #608 Lakester. "It’s our way of pursuing our passion for hot rods and racing, challenging the record books, and giving something back to society."
Back in 2009, the #608 Lakester topped out at 297 mph after the rules of aerodynamics dictated it could go no faster. So Dauernheim partnered with Olympic bobsled team designer Bob Cuneo to build a more slippery racer. His suggestion? Build an entirely new body with a longer, tapered tail.
Under the hood, the 25-foot-long, 3,100 lb. racer is still powered by a 582 inch, 1,150 hp big block engine designed by the legendary Tony Feil and powered by 114 octane racing fuel. It redlines at 7,800 RPM.
If Dauernheim's redesigned car, piloted by Don Biglow, breaks 300 mph, a team supporter will donate $5,000 to Autism Speaks. If it averages over 315 mph on two back-to-back runs, the #608 Lakester will also set the speed record for AA/Gas Lakesters.
Dauernheim is one of many speed freaks who uses a hobby to help the community. Earlier this summer, Ducati auctioned off a new bike and motorcycle tour package to support the Urban Zen Foundation, and on September 24th members of the Ferrari Owners Group will participate in a San Francisco-to-Los Angeles rally to help fund youth programs at Opportunity Impact.
We're suddenly feeling more charitable.
Photo: A. B. Shuman, Team 608
