The SAM ’99 Camaro had back to back wins at the 2010 Holley LS Fest and LSX Shootout. Soon after, SAM found out the rule changes that would take effect for the 2011 Season. Team SAM was very excited to learn that there would be four LSX Challenge races in 2011 with a points system and a champion.

The major changes needed to accommodate the new rules were a 350 lb deduction and the allowance of a larger (29.5x10.5) tire. The Hugger Orange Camaro was sent to Specialty Metal Craft for some updates and a new cage that is certified to go 7.50. The factory doors were swapped out for removable fiberglass ones from VFN and a taller carbon fiber hood to clear the dual throttle bodies on the revamped Beck intake. A new transmission tunnel was fabricated to facilitate clutch removal and SAM replaced the factory radiator and cooling system for a lighter configuration.

Team SAM, made up of motivated students worked that day and night, getting ready for the NMCA season opener in Bradenton, FL. The engine was still warm from the dyno when it was set in the car. After double checking the car, team SAM left for Florida. It was there that SAM lowered the bar with a string of 8.30s at 165 mph, setting both e.t. and mph records.

They also made improvements in 60 ft, going 1.19 and consistent low 1.20s.

The ’99 SS was in the winner’s circle again and all the hard work paid off. Three weeks later, the orange beast was unleashed in Commerce, GA for the second event of the NMCA LSX season. It was at Atlanta Dragway, where Team SAM reset their own records going consistent low 8.20s at 164 mph.

In the final, Judson won again with an 8.23 at 164 taking the long way down the track.