National Convention 2011, day one report

Viva Las Vegas! SCCA Convention Is Underway

LAS VEGAS (February 10, 2011) -- More than 440 Sports Car Club of America members, representing 45,000 members across the country and beyond, have descended on the South Point Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas for three days of fun and business at the 2011 Sports Car Club of America Convention and Annual Meeting.

Jeff Dahnert, President and CEO, kicked off the convention at 8:30 local time with a welcome message in the South Point's Grand Ballroom B.

"I'm very optimistic," Dahnert said of the future of SCCA. "I'm optimistic because of the involvement I see from sponsors and manufacturers. It shows that they see the value of what SCCA is about, our members, and the things we do. I'm very happy to see that."

While on stage, Dahnert outlined the 2011 Strategic Plan, including a plan to grow the membership. The plan includes examples of providing a positive member experience, ways to promote growth and activation among members, plans to further position SCCA as a leader in the automotive industry and enthusiast marketplace, improving operational excellence and consistency through region and division support, and the always-necessary steps to continue along the path of financial stability for the organization.

In his message, Dahnert also gave special mention to some of the 74 breakout seminars and sessions that participants may participate in throughout the three days of the convention, covering everything from rules interpretations, to administrative duties like insurance, through driver tools such as tire technology or data acquisition.

Also highlighted on the schedule were Thursday's Leadership Luncheon and the annual meeting and town hall, Friday's Tire Rack0x00ae Rally and Solo Awards Luncheon, and Saturday's Club Racing Awards Luncheon presented by Mazda North American Operations and the convention finale, the Awards and Hall of Fame Induction Banquet presented by American Honda.

"I want to emphasize that the people in this room are the ones that are going to make the change and drive the club forward," Dahnert said, specifically addressing the Convention attendees. "You are the ones that will participate in this meeting and take the information back to your region to make a difference in the future."

Dahnert concluded by once again thanking those in attendance for everything that they had done for SCCA, and everything that they will do moving forward before releasing the attendees to the first of two breakout sessions this morning.

-source: scca