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Beau Baron Pulls Off WORCS Championship While David Haagsma Grabs #3 Spot

11 Dec 2012

Beau Baron Maxxis/H&M Honda ATV poster

2012 proved to be special year for professional ATV racer Beau Baron and his Maxxis/H&M Motorsports team. Baron captured the WORCS ATV Pro Championship with a dominating performance aboard his Maxxis Tires Honda, capturing the championship with a win at his home track, Honolulu Hills MX in Taft, California, with a full complement of his friends and family cheering him on.

"It was great winning the championship at home," Baron said. "I was a little reluctant to make an official invite to all of my friends and family because I did not want to jinx my chance of winning in any way. I felt like if I asked people to come that it meant I was expecting to win, and I know it's not over until I cross the finish line with a checker flag waving."

"Somehow word got out a little, and more of my family and friends showed up than usual. In the end I was really happy they were there with me."

The most impressive part of the championship run may be that the H&M Motorsports team just completed their first year in racing, and the team was able to capture two championships. Teammate David Haagsma captured the Quad-X Pro 450 championship while also finishing third in the WORCS Pro series.

David Haagsma Maxxis/H&M Honda ATV poster

"As a brand new, first-year team, we had a lot of obstacles to overcome. I'm just very appreciative of the team because they handled most of them. I think the most important thing we did was prove ourselves. One championship is impressive for a new team, but two really makes a statement. We are all proud of that."

Baron credited his intense training schedule for his success this year, and also did not hesitate to point out the bond that he shares with Haagsma. The two live nearby and train together regularly, pushing each other as if every day was race day and the winner was the champion.

K&N sponsored David Haagsma bringing some money home after WORCS victory

"We motivate each other and because of how close we live to each other, we ride together often. As racers, we feel like we always have to be competing, so it's hard to let that go even during practice and it always ends up that we really push each other. That's a much better way to practice than by yourself."

Baron also kept himself busy when not racing quads by competing in various SXS races. Essentially a mix of motocross and stadium short-course racing with the ultra-quick and increasingly popular UTV's, Baron saw far less success in the cockpit than he did on the seat this year; but that could all change next season.

"I added the SXS racing to my program last year but I was kind of on my own. I am excited to announce that next year the SXS racing will also be part of the H&M team's program and I think this will be a good addition. I am hoping to win championships in both the WORCS ATV and SXS series as well as the Quad X series next season."

Baron credited his team's reliability throughout the season on his successful year. While Baron needed only to avoid a DNF in the final race, he instead had the confidence to push his quad to the limit and wrap up the championship while celebrating a victory. One of the reason's his Sparks motor was so reliable was the use of K&N Filters.

"We use K&N Air and Oil Filters on our Honda TRX 450. K&N is obviously our biggest defense against dust and dirt. We know we never have to worry about the reliability of K&N's products."

Find K&N products for your vehicle using the K&N application search then use the K&N dealer search to find a K&N dealer in your part of the world.

Andy Forsberg Continues his Journey of Dominance in Open Wheel Racing

11 Dec 2012

Andy Forberg recently captured his 13th career championship in open wheel racing

Northern California sprint car racer Andy Forsberg continued to write his name in the record books in 2012, capturing his 13th career championship in open-wheel racing. Forsberg's #92 family owned entry captured the California Civil War for the 7th time in his career, including each of the last three years.

The only negative in the championship was the disappointing finish to the Civil War at Oceanside Speedway in Watsonville, California. Forsberg suffered motor problems and could not close out his championship with a race win.

"It was (a little bittersweet), you always want to go out on top," Forsberg said. "We had a lot of people there at the Civil War finale who normally wouldn't go to races, so to just fall out with ignition problems is frustrating. Luckily we had a big enough lead where it did not matter. It was still fun to get the night over with and win the championship."

Forsberg's season did not end after his Civil War clinching night. Over the final month of the season, Forsberg won an open show in Marysville, California, ran in the top 5 consistently and showed great speed at the Trophy Cup in Tulare, California. The continuous dominance of the open-wheel scene in Northern California has some people tired of Forsberg, but he doesn't mind.

K&N sponsored driver And Forsberg definitely values the importance of family and friends in the racing world

"I think there are a few people that are over seeing us win, some of them are race teams and some are fans. It's kind of funny to drive a good race, win and get out of the car to have the fans booing you. I guess it's part of the whole racing deal. I get it."

Some of the most memorable moments for Forsberg came in non-points races.

"Winning the Mark Forni Memorial race was real exciting. I moved up from fifth to the lead, jumped the cushion with ten laps to go and let Jon Allard pass me, but on the last lap I got back around him to win the five-thousand dollar purse."

Forsberg also won his 99th and 100th race on the same night at Silver Dollar Speedway in Chico, California. Driving both the X1 and 92 cars, Forsberg won both the 360ci and 410ci mains.

Andy Forsberg relies on K&N products to protect his engine throughout the entire season, and with proper maintenance of course

"Everything went like a movie script. It was really cool."

The only disappointing note for Forsberg in 2012 was losing the 410ci championship at Silver Dollar. Forsberg tied for the points lead, but lost on the wins tiebreaker. But Forsberg said that loss was nothing compared to the divestating loss of two of Northern California's best.

"Losing on a tiebreaker hurts, but that's just racing. Just when you think you have seen it all, something else pops up. Those type of events put things into perspective, when actual heartbreaking events occur like when the Northern-California racing community lost David Tarter and Tyler Wolf this season. We raced with those two every weekend and we are definitely going to miss them."

While the losses of those in the racing community will hurt for years, Forsberg will always be able to look back at his personal accomplishments in 2012 and smile.

Forsberg credited the strong reliability of his motors for his success this season.

"We use the K&N Air Filters. Racing on the dirt is pretty important to keep the inside of the engine clean and the K&N Filters do a great job of that for us."

Find K&N products for your vehicle using the K&N application search then use the K&N dealer search to find a K&N dealer in your part of the world.

K&N Teammates Jeff Interlicchia and Steve Cox Square-off for a Wally at Speedworld

11 Dec 2012

K&N teammates Jeff Interlicchia and Steve Cox battle it out for the Wally at Speedworld Raceway Park

In drag racing you learn more about a person in ten seconds then you might in a lifetime elsewhere. Two people staring down a quarter-mile of nervous asphalt, holding on tight to an explosive herd of horses exposes character, and leaves no place to hide. It cuts bonds that run deep. The National Muscle Car Association's held their elimination runs at Speedworld Raceway Park in Wittmann, Arizona, and at the end of the day, Jeff Interlicchia and Steve Cox faced off for a coveted Wally.

Interlicchia drove his faithful orange 1966 Dodge Coronet. Cox piloted his fearless white 1968 Camaro. Two teammates putting friendship on hold for the moment.

"We have both been chasing points in the NMCA West for four race series, and I ended up winning the championship in the Quick Street class, which used to be called Street Muscle," Interlicchia clarified. "Having Steve Cox as a K&N teammate makes things even more enjoyable. He is a great ambassador for the sport, and always represents a company well. He is a fierce competitor, and although he didn't win a championship with NMCA this year, he finished a strong second. Next year will probably be a different story, as Steve does not like to come in second. Whenever you line up next to him, you better bring your ‘A' game, or your weekend will be very short. It's an honor to race with him, and even better to have him as a teammate and personal friend. In 2013 we plan to make K&N proud, and show that their products are the products of winners.

This was Interlicchia's second series championship, and to date his biggest. In 2008 Interlicchia also clinched the SCEDA(Southern California Drag Racing Association) title driving the same car, giving him an all-star batting average since he started racing in 2004. "A friend talked me into going to the Fontana track for fun," Interlicchia said. "I was instantly hooked, and my competitive spirit found me looking for ways to be a better racer. Since then I have won approximately 15 races and the two championships. I race in several different series in order to get as much seat time and exposure as possible. I currently race the Dodge at local bracket races, and a 1998 Pontiac Firebird in Stock Eliminator with NHRA in the D/SA class. I plan to continue racing for many years, because the desire to win is so strong. On any given day, I feel I am a threat to do that, or I wouldn't show up."

Jeff Interlicchia drives a 1966 Dodge Coronet in the NMCA Quick Street class

Interlicchia and Cox became K&N teammates after striking up a relationship with Greg Ventura at the same fortuitous Fontana venue. "I was introduced to him (Ventura) by Charlie Allen and Kevin McClelland. We forged a friendship through our common interest of drag racing," commented Interlicchia. "Greg felt I would be a good person to represent K&N, because I have produced great results at the track and I am friendly with everyone out there. I enjoy the sport as much as the people and I have built some lifelong friendships with people I have met at the track."

Interlicchia will kick off 2013 with the Winternationals in Pomona in February, and race all of the west coast NHRA National and Division 7 NHRA Lucas Oil races. "I also plan to defend my title in the NMCA Quick Street category, and will probably run a Summit Series at Irwindale and/or Bakersfield," adds Interlicchia. "When Fontana opens next summer, I will also run any races they have there also."

In regards to the competitive duo K&N's Greg Ventura adds, "Jeff Interlicchia and Steve Cox are serious, fierce competitors no matter what class they compete in, whether it be a small jackpot bracket race or a Divisional or National Event. These guys always have a good chance of making the winner's circle, and K&N is proud to have them onboard."

Find K&N products for your vehicle using the K&N application search then use the K&N dealer search to find a K&N dealer in your part of the world.

Brandon Wightman Shows His First Project Vehicle, a 2008 Toyota Tundra , at SEMA 2012

10 Dec 2012

Brandon Wightman's simple, but awesome 2008 Toyota Tundra SEMA Show vehicle

After attending SEMA for two consecutive seasons, Brandon Wightman decided it was time to take the bull by the horns and return to the show the next year, not as a spectator, but as a builder. That in mind, Wightman embarked upon a project, that although time consuming, would prove a very rewarding experience.

Starting off with a 2008 Toyota Tundra, Wightman was eager to get the project underway. At the build's end, his goal was to show a vehicle that not only would perform mechanically, but would prove very pleasing to the eye.

He opted to do very few modifications to the 5.7 liter engine resting under the hood but he did bolt a K&N performance ait intake atop the engine block.

Brandon Wightman displayed this 2008 Tundra with 5.7 liter engine at the 2012 SEMA Show

"I use K&N because I have heard the quality of their products is one of the best in the business, and gives out great results,"explained Wightman. "This is the first K&N product that I have ever used, and I plan to continue using K&N for all of my next builds. I love the performance gains and the extra power it gives to my truck.”

Aware of the importance of a proper exhaust outflow, Wightman chose to outfit his truck with a Gibson performance exhaust system. While under the rig, it was only fitting to install a six-to-seven inch lift kit by CTS Suspension.

With the bulk of mechanical issues behind him, Wightman eagerly proceeded to glamorize the exterior of the Tundra. From the front of the vehicle, folks would instantly be impressed upon seeing a T-Rex X-Metal mesh grill bordered with HID and LED lights that he received from houseofhid.com.

This 2008 Tundra not only looks great, but is funcitonal and equates to a great SEMA Show vehicle

With the front cap taken care of, Brandon Wightman then focused on the back-half of his vehicle. After installing an A.R.E. Z-series bed cap, Wightman was pleased with the body, and set out to choose what he would consider the perfect set of tires and wheels.

The paint job on the vehicle was flawless and white as a driven snow. Wightman was confident that contrasting colors would make the eyes of those looking on dance with excitement. Wightman bolted on a set of Fuel Offroad Revolvers, and what better color than black. Falling back on Toyo's reliability and good looks, the owner chose Open Country M/T tires as the final modification to the vehicle's exterior.

Granted, the rig was looking good and would perform to its expectations, but there was still work to be done on the vehicle's interior. Starting out with a Bedrug carpet kit, Wightman had laid down the perfect foundation for a classy set of seats. That in mind, he went with leather seats provided by Katzkin.

No matter what angle, this 2008 Tundra looked great in the 2012 SEMA Show line up

In Brandon Wightman's mind, a kickin' sound system was a crucial element to the epitome of the perfect build, that in mind, he turned to Al and Ed's Autosound for their know-how in audio installations and designs.

At the project's end, Kenwood Excelon, Stinger and Scosche audio had all been used to create a perfectly tuned sound system.

With the build behind him, Brandon Wightman had completed a project that not only was pleasing to the eye, but was a testimony of his perseverance and skills. "I am quite new to the whole project car building, and find it to be a new hobby and passion," explained Wightman. "It takes a lot of time and dedication to make sure that the vehicle is clean and ready to roll."

When asked his inspiration, Wightman continued, "To be able to say that I have built a SEMA vehicle has been a dream of mine. There is no theme. I just wanted to build something that I can show off and enjoy driving, as well as take it off-road sometimes and get it dirty."

Sponsors played a big role in geting this 2008 Toyota Tundra ready for SEMA 2012

Wightman's work has already been noticed as his truck was featured in the T-Rex Grille 2012 catalog. A recent photo-shoot was also scheduled for the December issue of a Japanese magazine, and yet another shoot has already been scheduled with Show Cars Inc.

Although the 2008 Toyota Tundra was Brandon Wightman's first SEMA build, he is already looking forward to future projects, as he has not been bitten, but has been consumed by the bug.

"I am very appreciative for all of the people I have run into over the past couple of years," explained Wightman. "My friend got me into this, as they all have lifted trucks. Without the support of my friends and family, I wouldn't have been able to build a vehicle that I can say has been on the SEMA Show 2012,"he continued. "Thank you for everything, and I look forward to the future."

Other similar SEMA show vehciles can be found in these related articles:
SNUGTOP Toyota Tundra
2008 Toyota Sequoia
2008 Toyota Tundra
2011 Arctic-Camo Tundra

Find K&N products for your vehicle using the K&N application search then use the K&N dealer search to find a K&N dealer in your part of the world.

K&N Filters Announces 2013 Horsepower Challenge Sweepstakes

7 Dec 2012

2013 K&N Horsepower Challenge

Fan participation, including eight trips to the program finals in Las Vegas and a grand prize of a new Toyota Tacoma, highlight the 29th annual K&N Horsepower Challenge Sweepstakes.

In addition to potentially winning a tremendous prize package including the custom Toyota Tacoma, fans will again be able to vote for their favorite National Hot Rod Association Pro Stock driver as the eighth and final participant in the 2013 event, which will be held April 6 on the Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.

"We've made a number of great changes for our sixth season as title sponsor the K&N Horsepower Challenge, including moving the finals to Las Vegas and bringing the eight fan-finalists, along with a companion, to the event,"said Steve Williams, Vice President for K&N. "With today's announcement of the new sweepstakes, we re-emphasize one of the greatest elements of the program - fan involvement! Again, they will dictate the eighth and final driver participating in the 2013 Challenge as well as one lucky fan will take home the one-of-a-kind 2013 K&N Horsepower Challenge Special Edition Toyota Tacoma designed and assembled by Toyota Racing Development with an assist from K&N."

"We are grateful for the help and participation of Toyota in this great program."

"Toyota Motorsports and TRD USA are pleased to once again provide tangible support in the form of a Toyota Tacoma to the winning NHRA fan who participates in the 2013 K&N Horsepower Challenge Sweepstakes”, commented Keith Dahl, National Manager of Motorsports and Engagement Marketing.

The longest-running specialty event in the NHRA, the K&N Horsepower Challenge is a unique race-within-a-race pitting the seven Pro Stock racers who have accumulated the most qualifying points since last July and one driver selected by the fans in a three-round, high-dollar shootout, with the winner pocketing $50,000.

The fans can also take part in this annual celebration of the "factory hot rods" by entering the K&N Horsepower Challenge Sweepstakes at knfilters.com/register/KN_HP_CS.aspx. From the entries received, eight finalists will be chosen who will receive a trip for themselves and a companion to the 14th annual SummitRacing.com NHRA Nationals.

On the day of the event, each finalist will be randomly paired with one of the eight qualified drivers, with the finalist whose driver wins the race taking home the 2013 K&N Horsepower Challenge Special Edition Toyota Tacoma, a unique mid-size pickup specifically created by Toyota Racing Development (TRD) and K&N Filters for this event with modifications to include a supercharger, a custom wheel & tire package, intake system, shocks, springs, as well as other touches inside and out.

Four-time champion of this specialty race and four-time NHRA Full Throttle Pro Stock champion Greg Anderson appreciates the scope of K&N's involvement with the Pro Stock category, as well as the excitement the Sweepstakes brings to the fans.

"K&N has probably become the biggest supporter of the Pro Stock category, for which we are very grateful,"said Anderson. "They put so much into it and do so much for the racers and the class itself. On top of that, they put out fantastic products, including several that we use on our race cars.

"Then, there's the K&N Horsepower Challenge, which is the coolest race of our year. You don't have to worry about points, so you can just go out there and race for both the money and pride in knowing you've defeated the best.

"I can honestly say from past experience that it's a fantastic feeling when you win the race, but it's no comparison to looking across the winner's circle and seeing the look on the face of the person who just won the sweepstakes. You end up feeling better for them than you do for yourself."

According to Caitlin Clement, K&N Track & Series Support Manager, a bit of sadness accompanies the announcement of the next K&N Horsepower Challenge.

"The excitement of this new chapter has been tempered by the loss of our great friend Jon Knapp,"she said. "Both facets of the K&N Horsepower Challenge, competition and fan promotion, have been greatly enhanced by the dedication and expertise of Jon and Joanne Knapp of J2Racing and Kermish-Geylin Public Relations. Over the past four years, they have played an integral role in the continuing success of the K&N Horsepower Challenge and K&N is extremely grateful for their hard work and dedication.

"We will greatly miss Jon, as he was a great friend and colleague to us and to the world of drag racing. Our hearts go out to Joanne and his entire family.”

Find K&N products for your vehicle using the K&N application search then use the K&N dealer search to find a K&N dealer in your part of the world.