What kind of automotive road race is won or lost as much off-track as on-track? And what race draws spectators away from the track to watch drama unfolding in the pits and crew garages? The answer to both questions is endurance racing or “enduro.”

More to the point, what major Utah race in July features temperatures that are actually dropping as the action heats up, and lets spectators in for free? Of course we are talking about the Tooele Storage Sunchaser 6-Hour Enduro. Hosted by National Auto Sports Association (NASA) Utah, this thrilling race is run on the Utah Motorsports Campus (UMC) outer loop race course. 

So mark your calendars for Saturday, July 27th, 2024, from 6:00 pm to midnight. It’s a unique and thoroughly enjoyable experience to watch fast cars of several types jetting around the track as the sky darkens. 

UMCs outer loop is perfect for this event with its blend of fast, flowing stretches and tight, technical turns. All race classes compete on the same track, creating a crowded field with non-stop action as cars of different speeds battle for space.

The annual race is part of NASA’s Western Endurance Points Championship (WERC) series and it attracts teams from all over. Unlike the typical 30-minute NASA sprint races or the usual three-hour WERC enduros, the Utah event is a grueling six hours that competitors hate to miss. 

So the Sunchaser is a true test of machines, drivers, and support crews, where victory is measured by laps completed rather than seconds. Teams need to be at their best and to coordinate their efforts effectively, ensuring all car components can endure extended high speeds. Of course a bit of racing luck never hurts. 

Don’t miss out on this unique event. It is the only long automotive endurance event in Utah and is a highlight of the racing season. With free admission for spectators, make sure you head out to the track and experience the excitement firsthand.!

© 2024, R Bairett