| Frequently Asked Questions About The Capital Campaign & HPR |
The loss of Second Creek Raceway at the end of the 2005 race season has severely compromised the scheduling and growth opportunities for all the clubs which used that local facility for so many years. Consequently the development of a new race facility has been undertaken, with efforts and planning dating back to before the closure of Second Creek. We hope that the following extensive FAQs will answer your questions regarding this important project. A club sponsored, owned and operated motorsports facility for the Denver metro and Front Range enthusiast is believed to be an essential element to the future of amateur road racing in Colorado. If you have other questions, don't hesitate to ask.
The Capital Campaign to raise money for the new HIGH PLAINS RACEWAY (HPR) is the product of CAMA.
What is CAMA?
CAMA (Colorado Amateur Motorsports Associates) is the entity created by the group of five clubs which were the majority users of Second Creek. These clubs are Motorcycle Roadracing Association (MRA), Porsche Club of America, Rocky Mtn. Region (PCA-RMR), Rocky Mountain Vintage Racing (RMVR), the Colorado Region of the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA), and the Multi-Car Club Alliance (MCCA). The Multi-Car Club Alliance is a collective of eight other car clubs, specifically: the Alfa Romeo Club of Colorado; Audi Club; BMWCCA, Rocky Mountain Chapter; Colorado Exotic Car Association (CECA); Lotus Colorado; Mercedes Benz Club of America, Mile-High Section; Viper Club, Colorado Region; and the Z-Car Club of Colorado.
How long has CAMA been around?
CAMA was formed in 2003 by the same five clubs who purchased the Second Creek lease in 1998 and managed SCR until its demise in 2005. The sole purpose of CAMA was to find and promote a replacement facility for Second Creek. CAMA has been working diligently on that goal since its formation.
How is CAMA run?
Over the years, each of the five club members had a designated working representative. These representatives have kept their respective club Boards informed about all CAMA decisions and voted on all CAMA issues with guidance from their respective club Boards. As project sites were being considered and as a business plan was being created, it was shared with, and input taken from, all respective Club Boards. Also, CAMA has provided continuous regular financial statements to the respective club Boards.
Is the proposed HPR the only facility they've considered?
Hardly. Probably 40 different sites of varying viability were inspected or considered. However, only three were considered viable. Two potential projects reached the point of taking measures to obtain options on those specific properties, but both of those were abandoned for various reasons. As it turns out, aside from the delay in finding a site, this may have been a blessing in disguise since the current HPR project has so much going for it.
Aren't there other private track developments which might serve road racers?
Yes, there are other private track proposals out there. But "might" is the operative word. Will those facilities be built? When will they be built? Many are still seeking capital or investors. And the question remains if and when those private tracks will be available and then what track rental rates might be. We don't know the answers to those questions. As you can see, those are a lot of important "ifs." CAMA, as represented by the underlying club members, felt it important that the clubs control their own track destiny by owning their own facility - thus this project.
Why does CAMA think they can pull off this project?
First of all, there is the collective conclusion that we MUST pull it off in order to control our own destiny. But more important, the collective five-club group, operating as a DBA of CMC, successfully "pulled off" rescuing and operating the old Second Creek facility. With a $100,000 collective club investment in 1998 (i.e. each of the five clubs provided $20,000), the five clubs formed the Second Creek Committee which took over the lease of that track, purchased track assets from the previous lease holder, and successfully operated Second Creek over the ensuing seven years. That successful effort kept the track open for several years, maintained it, and in the process accumulated a substantial surplus (more on that later) over those years. So, the local amateur road racing community actually does have a successful "track record" of operating a track. Also, while this isn't California, years ago the SCCA San Francisco Region was able to undertake a similar single club effort creating the fantastically successful Thunderhill. So, it can be done.
[ Back to Top ]
| General Description of the Project |
Where is HIGH PLAINS RACEWAY located?
The facility will be located on U.S. Highway 36, 17 miles east of Byers. This is 60 miles (and less than one hour) east of the I-25 & I-70 interchange, known locally as the Mousetrap. At the Byers, exit I-70 (which bends to the south towards Limon) taking Highway 36 due east 17 miles. While this may appear to be a long way out there, finding appropriate property which isn't subject to housing development encroachment, where the land price is affordable, and which has good access all necessitated going east. As Denver area amateur motorsports enthusiasts, we were all spoiled by Second Creek's fantastic proximity. HPR is only about 30 minutes east of Second Creek and far closer and easier to get to than LaJunta and Pueblo.
How large is the property?
BIG! The rectangular site is 460 acres! (For a frame of reference, the Second Creek property was only 55 acres.). Phase I of the project will only need to use about half of the acreage. For perspective, that half is an area slightly larger than the Pueblo road racing area.
Gee, the site is out east. Is it flat and ugly?
Well, it's not flat! And that is the real "beauty" of the site. It has marvelous rolling terrain features meaning that the track will have several significant elevation changes - the most important feature of memorable race tracks. While the terrain is rolling, there are adequate flat areas for a large paddock and, eventually, an autocross/skid pad. Trees can be planted. In the meantime, bring shade.
How long is the track?
The current track configuration (subject to refinement) is about 2.5 miles (similar to Pueblo's length) with 15 turns and, as mentioned, several places where there will be meaningful elevation changes which makes for a memorable track!
Sounds wonderful. When can we go racin'?
As of August 2008, sufficient funds have been raised to begin construction and to deliver a "useable factility" (i.e. the 2.5 miles circuit, good paddock area and an access road). It is anticipated that this will permit clubs to use the facility for the 2009 racing season.
[ Back to Top ]
So, how much is it going to cost us?
The initial phase cost approximately $3.6 million and was fully funded by the initial capital from the clubs, donations from members (Founding Contributors), donation from commercial enterprises (Founding Sponsors), and by participants in the lending program. Additional contributions are being solicited over the rest of 2008 and into 2009 to pay for the amenities at the track such as nice bathrooms and showers, timing tower, RV hookups, garages, etc.
[ Back to Top ]
What is the timing of the Capital Campaign?
The initial Capital Campaign ran from the summer of 2007 thru August of 2008. Sufficient funds were raised to begin construction. The Capital Campaign will continue over the rest of 2008 and into 2009 to pay for the amenities at the track such as nice bathrooms and showers, timing tower, RV hookups, garages, etc.
So, let's cut to the chase! How much is this going to cost me?
Here's the deal. A capital contribution in any amount will be gratefully accepted. Anything from $25 to $25,000. (Yes, there have been early indications of contributions that large!) On average, we're hoping that everyone thinks in terms of making a contribution equivalent to the cost of an average weekend of racing. Some folks spend more than others but, on average, if everyone contributes an amount of that magnitude, we can get this thing done. We recognize that many of you aren't active racers. But as an enthusiast or as a worker, you too have a vested interest in seeing High Plains Raceway come about. The same rule might apply for you - what might you spend on an average weekend? That's a good barometer of a reasonable contribution.
Clearly there are many who are fortunate to be able to contribute more than the above guideline and will do so just because they can. (Advanced kudos to those great people!!) It is hoped that the contributions of those fine folks will help offset those who simply aren't able to contribute. But, as an average, the above suggests a benchmark for you. Each of us must be our own guide.
Why should I contribute at all?
Simple. If you want to be part of the High Plains amateur racing scene in the future, there won't be a club "scene" to be a part of unless we "get 'er done." This Capital Campaign is your chance to be recognized and appreciated as a Founding Contributor to this important club effort. For your contribution, please read the other Capital Campaign printed materials for the recognition perks for varying levels of contributions.
[ Back to Top ]
| How Your Contributions Will Be Handled |
What kind of assurances do I have that my contribution will result in a track actually being built?
Getting the track built is not an issue. The amount of money needed for that basic "useable facility" has already been raised and construction has already begun. Contributions going forward will simply enable us to add all the amenities which we all want and deserve.
[ Back to Top ]
OK, I'm ready!!!!!! How do I contribute?
Go to the Capital Campaign page to download the necessary form. It is important that if you are a member of one of the five CAMA member clubs that you designate your contribution as being for your club. These totals are being tracked because technically your Capital Campaign contribution will eventually count toward your club's permanent capital position in the project. If you are a member of a couple of clubs you can split your contribution between your clubs, attributing whatever amount you wish to each of them.
Is this contribution a charitable tax deductible?
NO. Even though your club may be a tax-exempt 501c(7) organization, that it is NOT the same thing as a tax exempt religious or charitable organization. Yes, racin' is almost a religion to many of us, but …. Uncle Sam isn't so generous with 501c(7) Hobby & Social Clubs. We are, however, accepting credit cards. So, while you can't get a charitable deduction, you can sure get the miles on your credit card.
Can I make the contribution from a business account?
Of course you can. Or, if you wish to also make it a valid business deduction, there are advertising opportunities available. Please contact Greg Kyde at 303-485-5588 or Charlie Thompson at 303-665-2506 for details of the promotional/advertising business opportunities for your firm.
Can I make contributions of materials or professional services?
Absolutely. As already noted, all the estimates are based on CAMA paying market value for all materials and services. Pro Bono services have already been a big factor in getting this project going. If you are in a position to provide any needed materials or services, please contact your CAMA Rep to see if something can be worked out.
Why are my funds being mailed to Phoenix?
CAMA uses Chase Bank. For efficiency and more secure receipt of contributions, their lockbox services are being used.
[ Back to Top ]
It is hoped that this extensive FAQ answers all your questions. However, should you have any other questions, please don't hesitate to contact the CAMA representative from your club. Otherwise, please get your contribution in as soon as possible. A contribution thermometer is being maintained on this website to track the progress of this very important project.
You can make a difference. And it will take all of us contributing our respective fair share to make it happen.
See you at High Plains Raceway.
[ Back to Top ]
|
