Breaking the Barrier: How Alex Taylor Dominated the 200 MPH Club

In the thrilling world of motorsports, few milestones signify unparalleled achievement quite like entering the elite 200 MPH Club. Recently, automotive wonder Alex Taylor achieved this prestigious honor at Speed Week 2024, showcasing her skill and determination behind the wheel of a 1980 Camaro. The excitement was palpable as Taylor not only qualified for membership but also shattered the existing records, setting a new mark of 235.638mph for the C/Classic Blown Gas Altered (C/CGBALT) class.

For those unfamiliar, Speed Week is an annual event held on the salt flats of Bonneville, Utah, where speed demons from all over the world come to push their machines and their skills to the absolute limits. It is here where Taylor came up against both the elements and the competition, demonstrating her resilience and commitment to push boundaries. A bond that dates back years, Taylor has had the privilege of collaborating with prominent figures in the racing community, specifically Keith and Tonya Turk, who have been instrumental in her journey.

The Chance Encounter that Sparked a Dream

Taylor's story is as much about serendipity as it is about skill. She first met Keith Turk, the Race Director for Drag Week, when she was just 16 —the youngest competitor at the event at the time. Impressed by her competitive spirit, Keith introduced her to his wife Tonya, a multiple land-speed record holder. The spark was lit, and ever since, Taylor has had her eyes set on land-speed racing.

After participating in Speed Week 2023 and experiencing a rain-out, Taylor was eager to connect with the Turks once again. During a drag and drive event known as Sick Week, they reunited, and a plan was devised for Taylor to race at Bonneville, driving the Turks’ famous Camaro. This storied vehicle has made a name for itself on the salt flats, symbolizing speed, precision, and resilience. With the stage set, the team began preparing the Camaro for its record-setting attempt.

Fine-tuning the Powerplant

The task of getting the Camaro race-ready was full of unexpected hurdles. Initially, the Taylors intended to build their own short-block to compete; however, due to unanticipated supplier issues, they had to think on their feet. Enter David Freiburger — the former editor of Hot Rod magazine and co-host of Roadkill. He was generous enough to produce a 347-cubic-inch small-block that he’d initially crafted for racing in El Mirage. Taylor and her team made quick work converting it from electronic fuel injection to a blow-through carb setup, ensuring it would meet the requirements for the SCTA’s classic class.

The stakes were high, but the effort was well worth it. Although they never had a chance to run on a dynamometer, the previous specifications of the engine suggested it would produce over 1,000 rear-wheel horsepower. Thus equipped, the Camaro was ready to make history on the salt flats.

A Checkered Start

As the third day of racing approached, anticipation hung thick in the air. While making her initial qualifying run, Taylor blasted down the salt, reaching an astounding speed of 236.182 mph, which surpassed the existing record of 224.331 mph. The thrill of the moment was electric, but the challenge was not yet complete. According to 200 MPH Club regulations, not only did Taylor need to break the record, but she also had to back it up with a return run within the required parameters.

Conditions conspired just right for Taylor and her team, allowing them to make the necessary return attempt later that day. As they clocked in at 235.095 mph, joy enveloped the crew. They knew they had successfully secured Taylor's place in racing history. “Alex has always been spot-on,” remarked Keith Turk, reflecting on her impressive awareness and control behind the wheel.

Conquering Challenges and Overcoming Impounds

All triumphs, however, come with their set of trials. After her record-breaking runs, the Camaro had to undergo inspection. This included a check to confirm the engine’s proper displacement. Tech officials went to work, performing meticulous calculations to ensure everything conformed to SCTA regulations. Once confirmed, Taylor could finally revel in the well-earned joy of her achievement.

Celebrating Growth and Achievement

As Alex donned her stylish 200 MPH Club hat, there was a sense of accomplishment that permeated the atmosphere. She had not only fulfilled a personal dream but also carved out a legacy within the competitive community of motorsports. The camaraderie among racers, fans, and families imbued the event with a spirit of respect and encouragement for all who dared to challenge the limits of speed.

In an era where women in motorsports continue to break barriers, Alex Taylor stands out not just for her speed but for the tenacity that helped forge her path. She inspires the next generation of racers to follow their dreams, redefining what it means to be a part of the automotive world. Congratulations to Alex Taylor, her family, and her supporting team for achieving an incredible milestone in racing history!