2006 National Convention Report

By Tina Reeves, NEDIV Rep - Solo Events Board

NEDiv Solo was well represented at the 2006 SCCA National Convention. The national convention is a great way to learn more about our club, our sport and to find out who makes things happen.

Three days full of seminars featuring topics designed to educate and provide a networking forum.

The Solo seminars included a Safety Steward classroom session which also provided an outline of what to teach as a SSS Instructor. This seminar was co-presented by NER’s Kathy Barnes.

Also the Site Acquisition Committee’s latest offering of information available to any region needing guidance on how to secure sites. Tina Reeves was a co-presentor of this two hour session.

Discussions on what it takes to host an event were presented by a group of experienced solo organizers. This information included topics such as Timing procedures, Registration processes, How to chair the “big” events and others.

And everyone’s favorite, the SEB Solo Town Hall meeting. A chance to ask the questions of your SEB that you have been wanting to ask, a chance to see them in person and get an idea of what the heck they are doing. Always a treat, for all involved.

Our division was also front and center when it came to awards. G.J. Dixon, from NYR was named Solo Novice of the year for his outstanding performance at his first ever National Championship; winning the highly competitive D-Stock, G.J. was able to fly out to receive his award in person.

From our division’s history, the late Lynn DeHart, (Susq) was awarded the Solo Cup. This award is our sport’s highest honor. For those who knew Lynn, the only surprise to her winning this award is that it took so long. Those of you who never had a chance to meet Lynn and run one of the many NEDiv Championships that she chaired, you can be thankful to her for setting a standard for our Championships that is still what we measure by.

We now have two members from the NEDiv Solo community who are members of the Hall of Fame as Grant Reynolds joined first year inductee, Art Trier, former NYR member, in being recognized for his significant contributions to the Solo program and SCCA. You may have heard the name of Grant Reynolds if you have attended any of our Divisional Championships. The “big” trophy is named after him. Grant is responsible for a lot of our solo program, not only here in the Northeast, but also for the National Championships. We owe a lot to him, and all of the members who have put our rules and procedures in place over the years.

The National convention is not just for RE’s and “big dogs”. It is a valuable resource for all club members to attend and go home with a renewed sense of what our sport is and can be. Regional Solo Chairmen would find it helpful for sharing ideas that ultimately raise the quality of events hosted by all regions.

Next year the convention is being held in a warmer climate, San Antonio, TX. There may be financial support available to your region through the national office department of regional development, so think about attending.