Photo by Perry Bennett of AutoXpix.com

2021 Solo Nationals

Last weekend 39 drivers from the New England Region made the trek to Lincoln, NE for the 48th Solo Nationals event. After the 2020 event was cancelled due to Covid-19, it’s not surprising that 1130 competitors in total, representing 45 of the 50 states, eagerly gathered at Lincoln AirPark to crown more than 60 national champions in autocross classes this year. With our 39 entries, NER was once again one of the largest regions represented at SoloNats.

When all was said and done, NER put on fantastic performances, bringing home FIVE (5) 2021 National Championship titles, with an additional 9 earning trophy placements for the week. But to top it off, our drivers topped the PAX lists, proving just how strong our solo drivers are on a national level.

Photo by Rupert Berrington

Ginette Jordan – FSPL

Becca Nell – STUL

Todd Kean – SM

Grant Reeve – SSR

Billy Davis – STR

• F Street Prepared Ladies: Ginette Jordan; Terrell, NC; New England Region, VW Rabbit, 1.035 (14th National Championship, third in class)
• Street Touring Ultra Ladies: Becca Nell; Norwalk, CT; New England Region, Nissan 350Z, 1.316 (second National Championship, first in class)
• Street Modified: Todd Kean; Wallingford, CT; New England Region, Nissan 240SX, 0.861 (second National Championship, second in class)
• Super Street R: Grant Reeve; Sturbridge, MA; New England Region; Corvette Grand Sport, 1.209 (third National Championship, third in class)
• Street Touring Roadster: Billy Davis; New Haven, CT; New England Region, Mazda Miata, 0.625 (sixth National Championship, first in class)

Results from the 48th running of the Tire Rack Solo Nationals Championship. Each contains the class, winning driver, hometown, region, car, winning margin and number of championships.

Event Highlights

NER autocrossers have seen it all when it comes to weather. From blazing hot days to torrential downpours. Luckily, the weather gods shined on Nebraska and the week had gloriously beautiful and sunny days. Not a run was done in the wet and rain. Friday was arguably the “worst” with some higher than normal temperatures, but overall, competitors couldn’t ask for better event conditions.

For the NER drivers in particular, there were a couple standout moments for the week. The region party is also a highlight for everyone, and 2021 once again didn’t disappoint. It’s always a good time and plenty of laughs, good food and beverages were shared amongst the team.

A big shout out should go to Jojo Corrales-Kean for coordinating and designing the team shirts for this year! NER always stands out at these events with their team gear and Jojo knocked it out again this year.

Individually, Ginette Jordan solidified her standing as one of the best of the best. After the transmission in her car broke, she had to jump in a loaner car. Driving someone else’s vehicle, Ginette claimed her 14th National Championship trophy. Amazing.

The “Panda” also caused its share or memorable activities. PJ Corrales was caught welding the Street Mod in between runs. The first time, he used only ~90 seconds of his mechanical, and the second time, he welded the car (again) and didn’t even need to ask for a mechanical. Talk about getting it done!

And lastly, the caliber of our Autocrossers is easily evidenced by simply looking at the PAX leader board. When all the final times were indexed, NER drivers stood tall in 3rd, 4th, 5th and 12th.

3rd Place: Todd Kean

4th Place: Billy Davis

5th Place: Grant Reeve

12th Place: PJ Corrales

Trophy Winners

In addition to the 5 national titles, NER claimed 9 additional trophies over the week as well. Congratulations to each of these drivers on their outstanding performances.

AS – 11th Place – Mark Ponusky

BS – 4th place – Mark Daddio

STR – 6th Place – Mark Dudek

STR – 10th Place – William Koscielny

STH – 3rd Place – Brad Fiore

DSP – 3rd Place – Tamra Krystinik

DSP – 4th Place – Andrew Krystinik

SM – 3rd Place – PJ Corrales

SML – 2nd Place – Jojo Corrales-Kean

Kimsoo Gopnik and Bill Goodale

Photo by Perry Bennett

Solo Nationals News

Additional recaps and highlights from the week in Lincoln can be found through SCCA’s news. Links below for easy reference.

Special Solo Recognition Awards

2021 Solo Nats: 100 Pictures Worth 1000 Words

Second Set of 2021 Solo Nationals Champions Crowned

First Set of 2021 Solo Nationals Champions Crowned

ProSolo Finale Starts Championship Week