Pontiac Heaven at Speedworld Motorplex - Pontiac Pavement Pounders

Owner Bio: Tony Valdois
"I love the fact that where I live, my '72 LeMans is one of a kind," said Tony Valdois. "I can't drive it down the street without somebody giving me the thumbs-up or stopping me to ask about the car." Though the outward appearance of the LeMans speaks for itself, it's why the 38-year-old automotive store assistant manager keeps it that is poignant. "My wife's uncle was the second owner and when he passed away in 1995, my wife and I decided to purchase the car so that it would stay in the family," Tony recalled. "We originally bought it as a driver but soon after took it to the track one Friday night and it was all downhill after that." This led the 20-year dragstrip veteran to his proudest moment in his LeMans. "I won the 2003 National Dragster Challenge and my first Wally," Tony says. "I was at Pueblo Motorsports Park on Father's Day and my oldest daughter was there to celebrate with me. I am looking forward to the day my daughters are able to drive down the track and feel for themselves the adrenaline rush you get when you pass your opponent and cross the finish line for a win."

Owner Bio: Ray Baumgardner
Having once been a team roper and currently a truck driver, 37-year-old Ray Baumgardner is no stranger to taking control of wild rides. His '78 T/A is a good example. "It was a cheap starter car and I like Trans Ams," he told HPP, regarding the Pontiac he purchased in 2003. "Besides, I got in 'big trouble' in one when I was in high school!" Since he began racing four years ago, Ray has posted several Top 10 Wins in Division 7 series NHRA Drag Racing, he was the 2005 Division 7 Champion, and runner-up in Pamona, California, at the year-end National Finals. Pontiacs that have passed through Ray's hands over the years include a '66 4-door LeMans, a '67 LeMans, an '00 Grand Prix GTP, and a '74 Ventura.