Laughlin: Armin Schwarz summary

Podium result at test race - Laughlin Desert Challenge short and (too) hefty

Good news from Nevada! Last weekend Martin competed in the Parker Pampa 400 in order to put our buggy through a test at race speed. Martin finished third in class and eleventh overall. That's a super result and an excellent motivation for our All German Motorsports Team. Now we are very confident for the upcoming Tecate Score San Felipe 250 on 14 and 15 March.

Well, the success came just at the right time because the Laughlin Desert Challenge two weekends ago didn't turn out the way we had hoped. On the first day of the two-day sprint event Martin was held up by a slipping torque limiter. And on day two my drive came to a halt after just 400 metres with a defect driveshaft joint.

That was a real shame, because the weather suited me perfectly. Heavy rain had turned the track into a muddy arena. And our buggy was hotter than I had ever experienced before. For the short track I didn't need a navigator. So we had taken out the co-driver's seat, one fuel tank, the spare wheels and other equipment, saving 450 kilos in all.

Now I am looking forward to the Tecate Score San Felipe. I remember a few sections of this race from the 2006 Baja 1000. I'm curious if and to what extent these stretches have changed through the weather. Maybe I'll recognize some of them, which will certainly be good for some top times.

Back here soon with more news,

best wishes,
Armin

-credit: armin-schwarz.com