Engine-building teams from 23 high schools will compete in the first round of the Hot Rodders of Tomorrow Engine Challenge Dual Championship next week at the SEMA Show. The Dual Championship is the last step before the finalists vie for the overall title of Engine Challenge National Champion at the PRI Show in December.
“We have seen incredible growth in the program this year alone,” says Jim Bingham, president of the organization. “The level of competition coming from these high school teams is very impressive. We love seeing the students get excited about the automotive industry and fuel a passion for what they want to do with their careers.”
A total of 40 teams are eligible for the championship. The first round will see the 23 teams at SEMA with four finalists moving on to the championship round. The remaining 17 teams will be narrowed down in the second round of the Dual Championship, also held at PRI. The final eight teams will compete December 11-12.
The challenge is reminiscent of a Top Fuel thrash between rounds at a national event. Teams must disassemble identically prepared small-block Chevys positioned in front of the work benches. The students are allowed only hand tools and must adhere to proper de-torquing procedures. When given the go-ahead by the judges, the teams then re-assemble the engines. Rules spell out correct procedures and torque numbers. Teams can also be penalized for dropping parts or any action deemed unsportsmanlike.
The team with the fastest overall time wins. Numerous aftermarket companies support the teams with uniforms with other endorsements.
The SEMA Show Dual Championship begins on Tuesday, November 3 at 9:00 a.m.. Eight heats will be held throughout that day with the final four teams competing at 4:00 p.m. The action returns at 8:00 a.m. on Wednesday with another eight heats. The final six heats will be held on Thursday and the award ceremony will be held Friday, November 6 at 10:00 a.m. Complete details can be found at www.hotroddersoftomorrow.com. Results will also be posted on the website and the organization’s Facebook page.