GOLD CUP ROOKIES

After selling their Datsun, Wynn and Lonny buy a

new Zink Formula Super Vee and set out to race in

the Gold Cup series. Competition is stiff, and an

unknown enemy tries to sabotage their efforts.

Jeff Kuralt, their sponsor, has invented an

electronic device called the Altaguard and hopes for

a contract with the Army. The boys try it on their

racer, then take it to Aberdeen Proving Ground to

demonstrate it to the Test and Evaluation Command.

It fails! Jeff is about to lose his contract and must

withdraw his sponsorship. The boys are shattered.

How will they be able to race for the rest of the

season?

When an Arab sheik shows unusual interest in

their car and the Altaguard, a chain of mysterious

events erupts. Their friends Nancy-Rae and Inky are

on an airplane that is hijacked by Arab guerillas.

The Super Vee is damaged by an intruder at night,

and Wynn is almost killed on the race track. Will

they be able to beat the Swedish Super Star Sven

Rosen? Dont miss the grand finale. It is breathtaking!

WYNN AND LONNY RACING SERIES

The Mexicali 1000

Road Race of Champions

GT Challenge

Gold Cup Rookies

Dead Heat at Le Mans

The Midnight Rally

Wynn and Lonny Racing Series

GOLD CUP

ROOKIES

BY

ERIC SPEED

NEW YORK

GROSSET & DUNLAP PUBLISHERS

COPYRIGHT 1976 BY GROSSET AND DUNLAP, INC.

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

PUBLISHED SIMULTANEOUSLY IN CANADA

LIBRARY OF CONGRESS CATALOG CARD NUMBER: 75-17388

ISBN: 0-448-12166-2 (Trade Edition)

ISBN: 0-448-13329-6 (Library Edition)

Printed in the United States of America

CONTENTS

CHAPTER PAGE

I OMINOUS BEGINNING 1

II A BAD DECISION 14

III A FLAPPING WING 27

IV OVERLOADED CIRCUITS 39

V GOOD-BY CAMERA 50

VI THE CHARGE: ESPIONAGE 60

VII THE SECRET CODE 70

VIII THE SHEIK OF ARABY 81

IX BLACK FLAG 93

X A FIERY ACCIDENT 105

XI A SUSPICIOUS CHARACTER 116

XII HUFFS SNEAKY TRICK 128 XIII RED-HOT RACING 140

XIV A FRIENDLY INDIAN 150

XV SPINOUT! 156

XVI TOE-IN TROUBLE 167

XVII BAD PUBLICITY 174

XVIII GRAND FINALE 185

GOLD CUP ROOKIES

1

CHAPTER I

Ominous Beginning

If you want to be the best driver in the world, you have to race an open-wheel car, Lonny Morris said to the two older men as they watched his friend

Wynn Redford race around the track.

The three stood in the pits at Charlotte Motor

Speedway, while Wynn tested a new Zink Formula

Super Vee. He and his chief mechanic, Lonny, had

decided to compete in the Gold Cup professional

series for Super Vees.

The little blue car finished the tricky infield road

course and swept up onto the super speedway

section. Its engine sound rose and fell as Wynn went

up through the gears, and finally peaked as the car

screamed through the last high-banked turn at top

speed.

Wynn and Lonny were high school buddies from

Clayborne, North Carolina. As boys they had

2

watched stock car races on Friday nights, and had

started racing themselves as soon as they were

eighteen years old. Wynn was tall and rangy. He had

a long, easy gait and a ready smile, which vanished

instantly when he was troubled. Lonny was a stocky,

hard-muscled farm boy whose even temper had

often kept Wynn out of a bad situation. Racing buffs

declared Lonny to be the best mechanic in the state.

Thats a fine car youve built, Ed, one man said to the other, a tall thin fellow. Now if we can just get you to sell it for a reasonable price, Im sure Wynn and Lonny will do us both justice in the Gold

Cup series. The speaker was Jefferson Kuralt, a handsome

well-built industrialist from Newgate, North

Carolina. He had sponsored the boys when they won

the amateur championship in Formula Vee and raced

a Datsun 260Z in the International Motor Sports

Association Grand Touring series.

Im sure we can solve that problem, Ed Zink replied. I want these two to drive one of my cars this year. Judging by their past performance, theyll win their share of races.

Wynn finished banking and flashed by the pits

with his pale-blue helmet just visible above the

dark-green windscreen. At the 100 yard marker that

warned drivers of the approaching first turn, Wynn

backed off the throttle and touched the brakes while

3

gearing down for better control. In an instant he had

driven the car through the turn as though it were on

rails.

Then he pulled into the pits. Lonny helped him

out of the car, being careful not to lean on or push

the thin fiberglass bodywork.

Ive never driven anything this fast in my life! Wynn said. He removed his helmet and shook out

his sandy blond hair. Its as fast as the Z on the straight and its faster through the corners. What were my times?

Lonny examined his charts and began the

necessary calculations. Your best lap was just over a hundred miles per hour, he said. Thats faster than the Datsun ever went here, but is it good

enough for Super Vees? Zink looked at the lap times and frowned. Not

quite yet, Wynn. Dont worry though. We can make some adjustments that should help. Also, youll get more comfortable in the car with practice.

Driving this is really different from racing the Datsun, Ed. I had to pitch the two-sixty Z into a

corner and then fight with it to make it stay on line.

Most of the time we cornered a little sideways. Dont ever put a Super Vee sideways because it

will spin out, Lonny said. It goes fastest when its driven through a corner very precisely. You dont have to pitch it around.

4

Right, Zink added. And thats why most sedan drivers dont make it in Formula cars. You have to be very exact in an open-wheel car because it is so

responsive. When youre in traffic with other Super Vees, everybody has to be careful. Otherwisewell, weve had far too many Gold Cup cars touch wheels and fly through the air.

The cars cant touch wheels? Kuralt asked. No, not at all, Zink replied. When rotating

wheels touch, one car is lifted up. In sedans or stock

cars the drivers can bang fenders all they want

because the wheels are covered. That makes for

close, exciting races, but the driving gets sloppy.

The worlds best driversFormula One and Indianapolis five hundred racersdrive open-wheel cars.

Where does the Gold Cup series fit in? Kuralt asked.

Its the best training ground for top-flight racers. Two years in the Gold Cup series is fantastic

experience. Wynn will drive against the stars of the

future. Occasionally, some of todays best drivers even compete in the Gold Cup when they dont have a major race to attend.

Lonny and Ed Zink began to make some

adjustments to the car, while Wynn sat down on the

pit wall with Kuralt.

It looks like a good car and a fine series, Wynn,

5

Kuralt said. Where are the races held? All over the United States and Canada. The

opener will be at Daytona in about a month. Were looking forward to it. Ed says his car will cause a

sensation when the other teams see it. Whys that? The body has a triangular shape rather than the

usual rectangle. The wide base of the triangle forms

the bottom, and the sides angle up to keep the

weight in the bottom of the car. I see, the industrialist said. Its shape helps it to

go around corners better. Right, and it helps on top speed, too. It cuts the

air better. The car did indeed look like a triangle,

broadening to a wide base just behind the drivers seat. The highest part was a pointed section of blue

fiberglass just behind the roll bar. At the front, it had

a broad, flat chisel-section nose for smooth air

penetration. Behind the roll bar the flat four-cylinder

engine and four-speed transmission ended the main

structure.

Ed Zink walked back to the pit wall as Lonny

finished adjusting the suspension. What do you think, Jeff? Have I sold you a racer?

Kuralt rubbed his chin thoughtfully. Its a very well designed car, Ed, and Id like to see the boys drive it. But Wynn and Lonny will have to make the

6

final decision. Im going to sponsor the car they think will give them the best shot at the title. It could

be this one, a Lola, a Royale, or a Supernova.

Theyve all got good points, and the boys have been looking around.

Yes, they do have their good features, Zink agreed. But with any of those cars, theyd be racing against factory teams with the very latest

modifications, or lighter, stronger parts. With this

car, anything I come up with to make it go faster

will be theirs first.

The factory teams are hard to beat, and they seem to have unlimited budgets, he continued. Ive seen those drivers crash and destroy their cars, trying to take a checkered flag half an inch ahead of

someone else. Kuralt looked up in surprise. How can they

afford to waste cars like that? Most of them are very wealthy young men,

Zink answered. They can take chances that Wynn and Lonny cant. They wont get fired from the team because theyre buying their rides.

Why do they pay? Kuralt asked. I thought these were professional teams with factory

sponsorship. Yes, but each teamthe Ted Willard or Pete

Lambert groups, for examplehas only one professional driver. Willard brings in Sven Rosen

7

from Sweden every year for the most important

races. Ian McQuirt, a Scot, and Tim Snavely drive

for Lambert. I dont think theyre as good as Rosen, though.

The other drivers are what we call gentlemen sportsmen. They pay to drive the very best cars, and they have enough money to buy two or three new

ones each year from Willard or Lambert if they

crash. The discussion continued as Wynn set out for

more practice. Lonny checked the fuel, then helped

his partner strap himself into the cramped cockpit.

Jeff Kuralt was still puzzled. Why do the gentlemen sportsmen allow Willard and Lambert to

charge them to drive when guys like Sven Rosen are

paid for it? Thats easy, Zink said with a chuckle. When

they get good enough to beat the hired professionals

regularly, the teams will pay them to drive. But as

long as Rosen is faster, these fellows will have to

pay about two thousand dollars per race. So they drive hard, and sometimes dangerously,

trying to improve? Exactly. Thats why the Gold Cup series is so

hotly contested, and thats why, when you see Sven Rosen win race after race, you know hes good.

Ed stopped talking as the cars engine roared to life. Wynn paused for a moment to allow the oil

8

pressure to reach the proper level, then accelerated

through the pits and onto the track.

Charlotte Motor Speedways road racing course was built into the infield of the stock car track. Its

2.25 mile length used part of the super speedway,

then turned into a tricky infield section with corners

that tested a cars handling to the utmost. As Wynn drove around slowly to warm up the

tires, Lonny walked to his toolbox. He recorded the

changes made in the car in a neat notebook he kept

with him at all times. When the team returned to

Charlotte for a race, it would tell him how to set the

suspension and engine for maximum performance.

Within a few laps Wynn was driving faster than

before. He learned it was not necessary to let off the

throttle as he came from the back straight into the

high-banked super speedway turn.

Hes catching on, Ed Zink remarked with a smile. His experience building Gold Cup racers had

taught him that it took a while for a driver to

develop confidence in the small, fragile-looking

machine.

After ten laps Wynn returned to the pits. This

time he remained in the car and talked with Zink and

Lonny.

The front end is beginning to push in the infield, he said, making a sliding motion with his hands.

9

We cant change the wedge now, Lonny replied, but I can take some bar out of the front.

What does that mean? Jeff Kuralt asked. If its pushing, Lonny explained, the front end

is sliding too soon. I can change the wedge, meaning

the weight distribution, when we get back home. In other words, thats a major operation, Jeff

said.

Lonny nodded. Bar refers to the anti-sway bar. By taking some bar off the front Ill make the car more flexible, with better traction.

Wynn climbed out of the car to stretch, and

Lonny adjusted the front anti-sway bar. Then Wynn

took the car onto the track again. In just two practice

sessions he had lowered his lap times considerably,

and was on the verge of breaking the Super Vee

class record.

Five more laps and well quit, Lonny remarked to the two older men. Ill bet you a Coke he breaks the record.

Youre on, Zink said. The three watched intently as Wynn went into the

second lap, where he noticeably increased his speed

through the twisting infield course. The low blue car

entered the high-banked portion of the track almost

a full second sooner than it had before. The engine

note quickly reached top speed and the car seemed

to fly down the long straight.

10

On the last turn Wynn held the car high and close

to the wall, blocking off the strong side wind that

was whipping dust devils across the track. The first-

turn shutoff marker came closer, and still Wynn kept

his foot firmly planted on the throttle.

At the last possible moment he backed off and

began to brake for the turn. The Super Vee squatted

on its suspension as the tires gripped the asphalt,

almost ready to break loose and slide.

If he were going half a mile faster hed be out of control! Lonny exclaimed.

Suddenly a large black sedan drove onto the track

directly in front of Wynn! The blue racer swerved

sharply to the left and spun wildly. From the pits the

three onlookers could see Wynns hands on the steering wheel, frantically fighting for control! He

spun around backwards and struck the sedans bumper. The left front wheel broke off and bounded

high over the wall into the empty grandstands.

Smoke boiled from the remaining three tires and

sparks left a bright-red trail as the racer slid down

the track and hit the outside wall with a sickening

crunch. Still moving at over 100 miles per hour,

Wynn bounced off the wall and continued down the

track. Inside the cramped cockpit he held onto the

steering wheel with both hands and thought about

ways to escape when the machine stopped.

A final shallow impact with the infield retaining

11

wall sheared his two right wheels off, and then the

car halted. Wynn instantly cut the ignition switch,

then activated the emergency fire-extinguisher

system. He released his safety harness and struggled

out of the smoldering wreck.

The track fire truck and ambulance rolled up as

the dazed driver sat down on the grass a short

distance away. His friends in the pits were running

at full speed to the scene. Lonny was the first to

arrive.

Where did that guy come from? Wynn asked. I ruined the racer and nearly killed myself.

Dont worry about the car. Zink panted. Are you all right?

I think so. My harnesses held, but my heads spinning. I dont seem to hurt anywhere. Whos in that car? How did it get past the guard?

Jeff Kuralt ran to the black sedan. You nearly killed that driver! he shouted into the window. Why didnt you stop at the gate?

A tall, white-haired man stepped from the sedan

and examined the dent in his front bumper without

speaking. He wore a dark-blue business suit with a

fancy silk handkerchief neatly folded in the breast

pocket.

The guard waved me through, he said at last. Im very sorry that your friend wrecked his car, but he was obviously going too fast to make the turn,

12

even if I hadnt been there. Kuralt turned to the red-faced guard who had

walked up behind them. Did you wave him in? Not exactly, sir, the guard replied. Mr. Huff

here visits the track pretty often, and I always wave

at him. Today I was waving for him to stop. We had

the gate down to repair the hinges. Im awfully sorry he got by.

Kuralt fixed his eye on Huff. The stare was

returned, and the two men stood silent for a moment

as they evaluated one another. Hubert S. Huff was a

well-known local official with the Sports Car Club

of America. He had also served several terms in the

state legislature. He lost his bid for reelection,

however, when a shady investment deal he had

promoted was exposed as a fraud.

Mr. Huff, Kuralt said in a carefully controlled voice, anyone with an ounce of sense would have looked before driving across the track. You almost

killed my driver today, and you did destroy our

racer. Now I suggest that you get out of here! Wynn and Lonny walked up to observe the

confrontation. Huff looked at Wynns faded and grease-stained drivers suit. A malicious expression came to his face.

Im truly sorry that you destroyed your Super Vee, he said. I often have to come out here to inspect various sections of the track and facilities

13

before SCCA races. Were having one this weekend, you know.

I know, Wynn replied. Were you going to race? Huff inquired. We planned to run the Gold Cup series, Lonny

said and stepped closer to the bigger man. But now we dont have a car unless you pay for the one you ruined!

Your insurance company will have to contact mine, Federal Auto, and try to collect, Huff replied. But I dont see how they can blame me when your driver goes into a corner too fast and wrecks his car.

Anyhow, you two young rednecks wouldnt stand a chance against the Pete Lambert team.

He got into his sedan and left through the open

gate. Lonny clenched his fists tightly. He was lying, Wynn. You could have made that turn.

He came here to cause trouble, Wynn replied. I wonder if this really was an accident!

14

CHAPTER II

A Bad Decision

The group went to the Super Vee and surveyed the

damage. It was total.

I can build a new one in about three weeks if you boys help, Ed Zink said.

Wynn, you were a full second under the old record on that last lap, Lonny said. Nobody has ever driven a Super Vee that fast here before!

Wynn nodded. What do you think, Jeff? Will Altadyne sponsor us this year?

Kuralt agreed. The Altadyne Corporation had a

reputation for building high-quality scientific

instruments. Sponsoring a winning Gold Cup racer

would be great advertising for his firm.

I think so, fellows. Ill have to put you on a very tight budget, though, because the economy isnt very healthy right now. But I have high hopes for a new

invention of mine. If you feel you can represent us

15

well with the Zink, Ill support you. Hurray! the boys shouted. Lets get this wreck

back to the shop and go to work! The succeeding weeks were filled with long days

and nights at the Zink factory. The boys worked on

every phase of construction. Wynn learned sheet-

metal fabrication and helped technicians build the

cars chassis. He discovered it was called a tub because it was made of sheets of stainless steel,

bent, formed, and riveted to hold the driver and fuel.

Lonny took advantage of his mechanical ability

by fabricating the suspension pieces, and cutting and

fitting the oil lines and other plumbing. In three

weeks, the car was finished and loaded on the

Altadyne Racing Team trailer.

Daytona, here we come! Wynn smiled as Lonny connected the trailer to their faithful dune

buggy, Beetle Bomb.

Ed Zink and his technicians waved good-by as

the youths pulled out of the parking lot. Two days

later, the buggy pulled into the IMSA registration

area at Daytona International Speedway. Other

crews were already lined up to get their passes.

It feels funny to be here without the Datsun, Wynn remarked as they took their place in the Super

Vee line. The boys first contact with IMSA had been through GT racing in their 260Z the year

before. They had made many good friends, and now

16

saw several of them in the GT line.

Paul Sykes waved and smiled. Whats the matter? he shouted. Arent you going to run against us any more?

No thanks, Lonny replied. Were tired of beating you. Were trying to learn something new this year.

The friendly conversation between the old rivals

was interrupted by a voice from the front of the

Super Vee line.

If you came here to learn, youre in the right place. A medium-sized dark-haired man with a full black beard walked toward them with his hand

outstretched. Im Ted Willard. Glad you fellows are running the Gold Cup with us.

Wynn wondered if this was genuine. He had

expected antagonism from the factory team

managers.

Im Wynn Redford and this is my partner, Lonny Morris. Nice to meet you, Ted.

The Gold Cup is the best series in the world, Willard said with conviction. We need more good drivers to keep it that way. If theres anything I can do for you, just ask. With that remark, he turned and went back to his place in line.

Hey Paul, Lonny called out to Sykes. How come you were never so nice? Seems to me you

lectured me once about beating you, and you havent

17

loaned a tool to anyone in years! Sykes laughed. I didnt come into racing to

operate a pawn shop. I came to win. Anyhow,

Willard just wants to sell you a car. The three laughed and the lines advanced,

separating the old rivals.

Inside the track, Wynn and Lonny found garage

space between the Willard and Lambert crews. In a

few minutes they had unloaded the racer. A crowd

gathered around the strange triangular car.

Looks like a typical Zink, Ted Willard remarked. Neat, clean, and homemade.

A short, bulky fellow followed by two taller men

pushed his way to the front of the crowd and looked

around. Who owns this pile of junk? he asked. We do, Wynn replied, and he stared down at

the shorter man. And its not junk. This is my garage and youd better get it out of

here, the man said angrily. Im Pete Lambert and this is where Im parking my trailers. Now move it! Lambert started pushing a tire.

Get your hands off that car! Wynn said. Hit him, Pete! one of his cohorts suggested. Hold it, Lonny said. The chief pit marshal told

us all the trailers had to be left in the field behind the

scoring stand. You cant put them here even if we leave!

Willard stepped between Wynn and his opponent.

18

The kids right, Pete, so you might as well drop the subject. Come on, Ill help you move your trailers over there.

Willard walked away with his rival. In a moment,

the garage was empty except for a tall man with a

movie camera under his arm.

Hi, Im Alan MacDonald, with Safeways Films, he said. Call me Mac.

Wynn shook hands with the stranger, but fie was

still fuming over the Lambert incident.

Lamberts not an easy man to get along with, Mac went on. Those two drivers are cut of the same mold. Mighty tough cookies. They always try to

psych out their opponents before a race. Id say theyve honored you by trying to rough you up. They must think that thingll go.

It will, Lonny said, and introduced himself. This volcano youre shaking hands with is Wynn Redford. He only erupts once a day, though, so

youre safe for a while. Pleased to meet you, Wynn said finally. Those

goons Lambert was with are drivers? Yes. Stan Bartkohes the one who wanted

Pete to hit youand Charlie Blue. Theyre pretty good, but they dont take care of their cars as they should. Theyve been in this series for years, but never seem to learn anything.

How about McQuirt? Lonny asked.

19

He and Snavely are Lamberts professional drivers. Bartko and Blue are independents who line

up with him. They bought their cars from him, and

hes their only source of spare parts. Thanks for the information, Mac, Wynn said,

as the photographer turned to leave. See you later. In the afternoon, Wynn qualified the new Zink .

in the fourth row. His time was one and a half

seconds slower than that of the pole-winning driver,

Sven Rosen.

Wynn and Lonny locked the racer up in the

garage and piled into Beetle Bomb to seek out a

restaurant. Two steaks later, Wynn sat back in the

dark booth and thought about his qualifying

position. Lonny worked on his note pad, listing the

adjustments he wanted to make on the car before the

race next day.

From the booth just behind, Wynn heard a

familiar voice. It was Stan Bartko. They timed me wrong, I tell you. I turned the track two seconds

faster than they gave me credit for. I cant start thirtieth and stand a chance of winning!

Lonny, Wynn whispered, Did you? Shh! Its unfair, Bartko went on. Im going to put

my car up in the front before the green flag

tomorrow, because thats where it belongs! Right, another voice said. And Ill make sure

20

theres room for you when you get up to me and that Redford fellow. Know what I mean?

The men laughed, and a moment later left the

booth and walked out of the restaurant.

Bartko and Blue, Wynn said. Bartko said he was going to jump the start!

While Blues taking care of you, Lonny added. At the track the next day, the incident was all but

forgotten. Lonny was busy making the minor

modifications he had planned during dinner. Wynn

spent his spare time talking about Super Vee driving

techniques with the more experienced men in the

series. Sven Rosen, the superstar, was very helpful.

Wynn sat with him, Jay Tappett, and Roger Bear in

the luxurious Ted Willard motor home, discussing

tactics.

At this track you must not let the guy in front of you pull away, Sven said with a lilting accent. Drafting makes you both go faster, and we spend much time running at top speed. A good draft can

give five-hundred RPMS on the straights. Yes, said Tappett, and if the car in front of

you is driven by Sven Rosen youll find it doesnt have a draft! Hes stingy!

The group broke up in laughter. Rosen had never

been beaten at Daytona.

What about the start? Wynn asked. Can you draft when you take the green flag?

21

The group agreed that you could, providing you

were not overly ambitious. The cars were too close

together, and touching wheels would lead to

disaster.

Wynn suddenly recalled what he had heard the

night before. A chill went down his spine. What if someone says hes going to jump the start? he asked. What can you do about it?

Nothing, Rosen replied. In the Gold Cup series, were supposed to be professionals. We shouldnt cheat, and we must not endanger one another with foolish driving. I dont believe anyone would jump the start. Daytonas too dangerous, with the outside wall being right at the trackside for start

jumping. Wynn wondered. Was it possible that Bartko and

Blue had been talking for the benefit of the listeners

in the next booth?

A few minutes later the group broke up. The

drivers got ready for the race.

Put your suit on, Lonny called. Macs going to take some still pictures of us on the starting grid. We

can use them to promote Altadyne. As the other cars were pushed onto the grid,

Wynn and Lonny posed next to the sleek blue Super

Vee. The manufacturing firms name was boldly painted on the sides and nose. Wynn then walked to

the back of the grid and looked for Stan Bartko. I

22

heard what you said in the restaurant, he said. What are you talking about, rookie? Look, Bartko, Wynn said as his anger flared up

again. If you jump the start youre liable to cause an accident, and a lot of people could get hurt. Use

your head. I think you better watch your mirrors, Redford.

Now go away, Im busy. Wynn went back to his racer and stepped in.

Lonny helped him with the straps.

Did he say anything? Lonny asked. Not really, but I think hell do it. Id like to have

a picture of his start. Ill bet Mac will shoot it for us! Lonny

exclaimed. When the straps were tight, he began to

look for their new friend. In a few moments it was

agreed that Mac and his colleagues in the

photographers tower would watch for backmarkers jumping the start.

The pace car took the racers off slowly. As they

reached the infield straight, they began weaving

from side to side in order to warm up their tires.

On the inside of the fourth row, Wynn sawed his

steering wheel back and forth in a steady rocking

motion. Beside him, Charlie Blue kept pace.

In the hairpin Blue drove up next to Wynn and

shook his fist. It was the racers way of saying, Watch out for me, Im coming through.

23

The string of cars gathered speed on the back

straight. Up front, Rosen and McQuirt let the pace

car gradually pull away, giving the racers room to

maneuver. Lonny watched from the pit wall. The

contestants were tightly grouped as they came into

view off the north turn. The pace car pulled into the

pits at over 100 miles per hour. Still, the starter did

not show the green flag. The snarling pack grew

closer!

Look, look! Lonny shouted to the people around him. Somebodys jumping the start!

A dark green car could be seen sneaking along

the wall, passing row after row. Then the starter

waved the green.

The race was on, with McQuirt and Rosen side by

side, heading for the first turn. The second and third

rows dissolved as the cars began edging by each

other in search of positions. Wynn slammed the

throttle to the floor. The Zinks engine caught and he rolled forward quickly. Beside him, Charlie Blue

began to crowd down away from the wall.

Wynn dropped off the shallow tri-oval banking

onto the apron and shifted into third gear. Blue was

no longer a threat. The young driver felt he could

pass the car in front of him before the first turn,

thanks to his good start and low track position.

But glancing into his mirrors, he saw a horrifying

sight. Two cars were tumbling through the air, end

24

over end. One struck the outside fence high above

the ground, then slammed back down onto the track

upside down! Bartko had carried out his threat!

The yellow flags were waved as Wynn drove

through the first turn in sixth position. By the time

the cars reached the next flag station, the red was

displayed. Slowly, the racers returned to their pits.

Everybody saw it! Lonny said as he helped Wynn remove his helmet. MacDonald got it on film, and so did every other photographer in the

tower! Are the drivers hurt? Who are they? Wynn had

just caught a brief glimpse and it had looked ghastly.

Four cars are disabled, and Bartko is in the track hospital. He was unconscious when they pulled him

out, but hes talking to the doctors now. I think hell be okay.

After a short break to clean up the track, the cars

formed a single file to restart the race. Wynn was

still sixth. This time the start was orderly. Wynn

latched onto a tow from two of the Willard racers

and the three soon moved into the third, fourth, and

fifth spots. Rosen led, with McQuirt, Jay Tappett,

Roger Bear, and Wynn close behind.

At the halfway point, Wynn noticed in the mirrors

that two competitors were closing in on him. They

were Charlie Blue with Tim Snavely in his draft. In

a few more laps, the third- through seventh-place

25

cars formed a line that wiggled like a snake. On the

bankings the drivers pulled out to pass, and ran two,

three, and even four cars abreast.

Wynn held his position without taking

unnecessary chances. Soon he found Snavely and

Blue trying to pass him on the low side of the fast

north turn. Without warning, Snavely swerved into

Wynns lane! His right rear tire hit the side of Wynns car, pushing it up toward the wall!

Frantically, the boy struggled to keep steady. Too

late! He drove onto the loose dirt and gravel that

always accumulated next to the wall and made the

upper lane dangerous. The Zink began a spin that

Wynn encouraged, since it took him away from the

wall! It brought him across the track onto the grassy

infield. Several hundred yards later, the car stopped.

Wynn considered restarting, then noticed his flat

right front tire. Reluctantly, he climbed out. His race

was over.

Lonny jumped from the back of the emergency

truck that came to the rescue and would tow the

racer in after the checkered flag.

Who won? Wynn asked. I quit watching just before the end.

Rosen, Lonny replied. After you spun, Snavely and Blue worked their way past the Willard

guys and took off after him. He made them look

silly and won by five seconds.

26

Wow. Thats driving. Makes me feel pretty dumb, spinning out like that, but Snavely cut me

off. Tell the chief steward about it at the Board of

Inquiry meeting, Lonny suggested. What inquiry? IMSA is checking into rumors that Bartko

planned to jump the start. Some of the

photographers have been talking about what they

saw, and IMSA wants all the drivers there. When? Wynn asked. Next weekend in Atlanta, when Bartko gets out

of the hospital. Nothing like this ever happened in

IMSA before. I can hardly wait, Wynn said. I want to talk to

his buddy Blue, too!

27

CHAPTER III

A Flapping Wing

The Board of Inquiry met on the second floor of the

Road Atlanta control tower. Benches normally used

by volunteers who timed and scored the races were

filled with drivers from the Gold Cup series.

Chief steward Billy Glenaire opened proceedings.

Stan Bartko, the charge has been made that you planned to jump the start, and warned other drivers

to watch out for your coming through. We also have

photographs that show you passing well before the

flag. What do you have to say? Bartko looked nervous and pale. Although the

room was cool, he was perspiring freely. He stood

up. I only warned people to look out for me because I know I had a faster car. I thought the flag

had dropped, and I started passing. Its hard to see the starter from back in the field.

Wynn elbowed his partner to get his attention. I

28

cant believe it. Hes lying through his teeth! he whispered.

Bartko turned to the driver who had started next

to him and who was also involved in the accident.

Tommy, there wouldnt have been any trouble if you hadnt tried to follow me. I started too soon, but when I realized the green flag wasnt out yet, I slowed down. I tried to get back in line, but you hit

me from behind. Tommy Heyman had crashed into Bartko and had

been flipped into the air. Wynn had seen both

drivers tumbling end over end in his brief glance at

his mirrors.

If you had a bit more experience, Bartko went on, it wouldnt have happened.

Tommy Heyman jumped to his feet. Thats not true! I hit you after you bounced off the wall, not

before! Bartko walked toward the smaller man and

stopped just short of grabbing him. Dont you call me a liar! Ive been in this series a lot longer than you have, rookie!

The chief steward quickly moved over and

separated the two. Enough of that. This is an inquiry to determine the truth, not a free-for-all. Sit

down, Bartko! The disgruntled driver returned to his seat next to

Charlie Blue and Ian McQuirt. Pete Lambert and

29

Snavely were behind them on the second row of

benches.

Glenaire looked around the room. Everyone was

silent. Now listen here, he said at last. Every photographer took pictures of the back of the field.

They knew somebody was going to jump, and I

want to know who told them! The men looked at one another. A buzz of

conversation filled the air. Wynn and Lonny stood

up together. I warned them it would happen, Lonny said.

I asked him to, Wynn added. The room was still. Stan Bartkos lower jaw

gradually dropped open.

We overheard Bartko and Blue talking in a restaurant the night before the race, Wynn said. Bartko claimed the timers had made a mistake. He felt he should be up front, and he was going to get

there before the green flag fell. Bartko jumped to his feet and charged across the

floor. Youre lying! I never said any such thing! Yes, you did, Lonny said. You and Blue also

agreed that he would make room for you to get back

in line by crowding Wynn out before the first turn. Lonnys remark brought Blue to his feet. Before

he could say anything, though, Glenaire said sternly,

This is an inquiry, not a fight. Sit down and be quiet before I suspend you all for the rest of the

30

season! Order restored, the chief steward resumed his

questioning. Wynn, were you crowded off the track at the start? Is that why this picture shows you on

the apron? He held a photo out for Wynn and the others to see.

Yes, but it wasnt bad, and I did get a good start from down there.

Glenaire looked at the photo thoughtfully. Then

he turned to another, which showed Bartko

advancing through the field before the green flag.

This is not a court of law, he said at last. Its my own personal way of getting at the truth. I think I

have, and theres no need to ask any more questions. He stared out the window at the rolling green hills. After a moment his shoulders dropped,

and with a long sigh he faced the drivers.

Racing is a dangerous sport, he said. Every year there are accidents. People get hurt, and

valuable cars are destroyed. Occasionally, someone

is killed. Its our mutual responsibility to make it as safe as possible. Thats why we have helmets, seat belts, fire extinguishers, and other safety equipment.

And thats why we have rules to follow. Glenaire looked at Bartko, and the driver stared at

the floor. This accident would not have happened if you had obeyed the rules, Stan. Im suspending you for thirty days. Thatll keep you out of the next two

31

races and should give you enough time to build a

new carand get your head together. This meeting is over.

The drivers filed out silently. Bartko waited for

Wynn and Lonny. You won this round, hillbillies, he hissed. But Ill get evenon the track! With that terse threat, he turned and stalked up the hill.

Hes going to cause a lot of trouble before the year is over, Lonny said. I hope that new car of his isnt very fast.

A pleasant surprise was waiting in the pits when

the boys returned. Nancy-Rae Eubanks and Inky

Larsson had driven down from Clayborne. The girls

had raced a Baby Grand car in IMSA the year

before, but had sold it and were not participating this

season.

Pigtails! Wynn cried to the pretty blond Inky. I thought you retired from the circuit. Good to see you, Nancy-Rae.

Dont start being a smarty, Inky replied, wrinkling her nose. Because if you do, we will work for someone else.

Were timing and scoring for the independents this year, Nancy-Rae explained. We talked to the GT drivers and got a lot of offers.

No doubt the Super Vee racers will find our services valuable in qualifying, too, Inky added. Well just charge each team a little bit, and well be

32

completely impartial. Lonny sat down on the fender of Nancy-Raes

jeep. How can you keep track of so many cars at once?

With two electronic stop watches. They have built-in memories and you can program them for

constant operation. Whenever you punch the button,

the total elapsed time is recorded. When you get a

break between cars, you recall the times and write

them down. With two of us we can handle the entire field,

Inky said. Want to sign up? Us? Lonny exclaimed. Are you going to

charge your very best friends? Have a heart! Business is business, Inky replied with a

twinkle in her eyes. But if you treat us to dinner, well give you a discount.

You all go ahead, Lonny said. I have some work to do on the car tonight. Bring me a

hamburger. Whats up? Wynn asked. Wings. The Willard and Lambert teams all

showed up at tech inspection this morning with

wings on their cars. Everybody said they were

illegal, but IMSA ruled they were okay since the

European Gold Cup drivers use them. Whats the big deal about wings? Nancy-Rae

asked.

33

They give the car more downforce in the turns, Lonny replied. One on the front will hold the nose down, and one on the rear holds the rear tires to the

ground. You can go around corners a lot faster that

way. And you dont have any wings, angel? Not yet. I called Ed Zink when we got the word

they were legal, and hes making us some for the next race. But Im going to build a temporary set out of fiberglass tonight so we can use them tomorrow.

Id better stay, too, Wynn said. You girls can have a rain check on dinner.

Nancy-Rae got up from her seat on the toolbox,

and stretched her bad leg. She had injured it in a

childhood accident and still had a slight limp. She

shook her flaming-red hair and turned to Inky.

Lets get a bagful of hamburgers. Looks like a long night in the Georgia woods for all of us.

By practice time the next morning, Wynns car sported wings front and rear. The rough fiberglass

was coated with bright-blue paint, and as he rolled

through the paddock to the grid, Wynn was

confident they would do the job.

Most of the other cars were waiting for the

qualifying session to begin. Looks like you guys were busy last night, Pete Lambert said in a friendly manner.

We were, Lonny agreed. Theyre rough, but I

34

think theyll work. Maybe you should check out some of the wings

on our cars, Lambert offered. If you like them, Ill sell you a set before the next race.

Thanks, we will, Lonny said, and the boys walked up to examine the factory-made airfoils.

The nose wings are supported internally with a steel tube at each end, Lambert explained. We can adjust the angle by raising the rear tube. That

changes the downforce, and gives more or less

traction up front. The rear wing was supported by two struts

attached to the frame at the suspension pivot points.

Lonny admired the craftsmanship that had gone into

the assembly. Ive attached the wing we made last night to the transmission housing, he said. We didnt have a convenient frame mount, but I think the transmission will hold with no problem.

Oh, Im sure it will, Lambert said. But the way we have it is the way all the Europeans do it,

and I think its best. The starter blew his whistle and ordered the

drivers to their cars.

Thanks, Pete, Wynn said. Well talk to you about a wing if Ed Zink doesnt have ours ready before the next race. With that friendly parting, the boys hurried to their car.

Cant figure that guy out, Wynn said. First he

35

doesnt want us to have a garage, and now hes as friendly as can be.

In a few moments he had buckled on his helmet

and fastened his safety harness. He followed the

other cars onto the track, and the qualifying session

began. The wings paid off immediately. For the first

time Wynn was able to take the corner before the

start/finish line without lifting off the throttle. He

also found he was able to pass in the esses, so great

was the extra traction provided by the new wings.

After six laps, he noticed a strange vibration on

the back straight. Within moments, the car was

fishtailing violently from side to side. The rear wing

had broken loose!

Flapping wildly by the one support still holding it

to the car, the airfoil slapped against the ground and

spewed small chunks of blue fiberglass into the air.

Wynn slowed to a crawl and drove into the pits. At

the stewards tower, Glenaire motioned him to a stop.

Take that thing off and dont come back out with it, he ordered. You should know better than to take a chance like that.

Lonny met the car in the paddock with a pained

look on his face. It broke, huh? I guess so, Wynn replied. It started vibrating

on the back straight on the last lap, and came

halfway off before I could slow down. Glenaire said

36

to get rid of it. Lonny pulled on the remaining strut. A slight

twist broke it off completely. Lets remove the front wing, too, and set the car up to race without

them, he said. Next time well make them stronger.

Thirty minutes later the drivers formed up for the

start. Wynn was in tenth position, behind several

other independents and all the factory drivers. It

would be a tough race.

The pace car pulled away slowly and the Super

Vees fell in behind, performing twisting snakelike

maneuvers as the drivers heated their tires. On the

back straight the speed picked up to just under 70

miles per hour. As the pace car crossed under the

Road Atlanta bridge, it darted left and into the pit-

lane entrance. The tightly bunched racers continued

down the hill and into the right hand turn just before

the start/finish line.

The starter jumped high into the air as he waved

the green flag! The drivers punched their throttles

and eight of them quickly pulled away from the pack

to lead by 30 yards into the first turn. Wynn found

himself running with the lead group as the cars

streamed into the turns in single file. Counting

quickly, he saw he was eighth in line, and the only

one without wings.

He held the leaders! Inky exclaimed from the

37

timing stand built atop several empty oil drums in

the pits.

Lonny paced nervously back and forth, pausing

occasionally to look up the hill where the group

would appear at the end of the first lap. Wynns the only one in the top bunch without wings, he said. Hes going to be at a disadvantage in the turns, but he should be a little bit faster on the straights. The

wings cause extra drag that slows a car down. Well have to wait and see how it goes.

Wynn kept his Zink tucked in behind the car

ahead as the pack struggled through the last slow

turn onto the back straight. The group rapidly strung

out as the first racers picked up speed. Halfway

down the straight, he pulled out of the draft and

attempted a slingshot pass to the car in front. Inch by

inch he advanced. At the end, however, he was only

half a length ahead when he had to stand on the

brakes and shift down for the turn under the bridge.

When he crossed the start/finish line, he was still in

eighth place, and the leaders had pulled away

slightly.

Dejected, Lonny turned away and sat down on the

rail. He cant do it, he said at last. Hes got to have a car with wings that wont break off. Ive let him down.

Dont give up yet, Nancy-Rae said. If I know Wynn, hell figure some way to pick those guys off

38

one by one. Her prediction proved correct. On the third lap of

the twenty-lap race, Wynn used the draft to pass the

seventh-place car at the end of the pit straight. On

succeeding laps he worked his way into sixth, then

fifth. At the checkered flag, he was alone on the

track. Ahead of him, too far for him to catch, Roger

Bear won with Tappett second. McQuirt was third,

while Snavelys engine broke down on the last lap, moving Wynn into fourth place. The Zink pulled

into the paddock and stopped next to the trailer.

Lonny placed a block of wood behind the rear wheel

to prevent the Super Vee from rolling, while the

girls helped Wynn out.

I tried everything to get around those guys, but just had to wait for the slingshot, Wynn said as he gulped the water Nancy-Rae offered. By the time I passed Blue, I was too far behind.

Lonny was strangely quiet as Wynn and the girls

discussed the race. After a moment, he pulled his

partner aside.

Somebody sabotaged us, Wynn! The wing supports were cut!

39

CHAPTER IV

Overloaded Circuits

What? Wynn was incredulous. He glanced at the rear of his racer, where the stubs of the support

struts were still attached to the transmission housing.

See, Lonny said, they were cut in half with a hacksaw so they would break completely under the

stress of racing! He removed the stubs and examined them carefully.

We left the car alone twice, Wynn recalled. Once early in the morning after we installed the wings, and again on the starting grid when we went

with Lambert! The discussion was broken by a familiar voice.

Excuse us, fellows, Inky said. We hate to interrupt such an intense conversation, but its important!

She and Nancy-Rae had verified the race results

for their Super Vee clients and were about to begin

40

timing the GT event.

Oh, sorry, Wynn replied. We were just a little worried about the car, thats all. He had decided to keep the sabotage incident a secret even from the

girls. He was afraid they would worry too much

about it.

We just left the timing tower, Nancy-Rae said. They had a message for you.

What is it? Wynn asked and the girl handed him a folded telegram. It read:

Hope race successful. Return to Newgate

with car immediately. Require your services

for two weeks. Jeff Kuralt.

There goes our next outing, Lonny said. Wonder what the problem could be? Wynn

said. Well, lets get on the road, Lonny. Thanks for the message, girls. Hope your GT timing is

profitable. Inky waved as they headed toward the track. See

you in a few weeks at Mid-Ohio! The boys quickly loaded their tools and

equipment and secured the Super Vee on its trailer.

Lonny began to take the tent down as Wynn headed

for the IMSA registration building to withdraw from

the next event.

Where you going, rookie? McQuirt asked as

41

Wynn walked by the Lambert teams tent. How come you couldnt keep up out there?

Snavely added. Something go wrong with your car?

The remark brought a howl of laughter from the

other drivers and mechanics in the area. Everyone

had seen the Altadyne teams wing fall off during qualifying.

None of your business, Wynn replied as he continued walking.

Ill sell you a good wing for next weeks race at Watkins Glen if youre ready to do business, Pete Lambert said.

Thanks, Wynn replied, but I dont think well be there. Weve got a lot of work to do on the car.

Bull, Snavely said, stepping in front o Wynn. You hillbillies are just chicken. The Glens a real drivers course, and youre afraid somebodys going to beat you bad again, like we did today!

A roar of approval came from the onlookers.

Wynn struggled to keep his temper. Thats not so, he replied evenly. Now get out of the way!

Snavely looked at the tall boy, and smiled

maliciously. All right. All right. I never argue with, the kindergarten teams.

Wynn started to reply, then changed his mind and

walked on. It would do no good to let anyone know

why they were leaving the circuit for two weeks.

42

Nor could he accuse Lamberts crew of sabotaging his car without proof.

As he strolled away from the tent, he noticed

Hubert Huff standing in the dark back corner. He

was engaged in a quiet discussion with a mechanic.

Wynn canceled the entry and met Lonny and

Beetle Bomb at the gate. Lamberts goons started in on us again, he said as they turned onto Interstate 85 North. Huff was there, too. He stayed in the background, but I think hes up to something.

Dont worry about it, Lonny said. Well figure some way to catch whoever sabotaged the car later.

Now lets see what Jeff Kuralt wants. As Beetle Bomb headed into the North Carolina

mountains, the boys talked about racing and the

mysterious call that was taking them back to

Newgate. Kuralt had not been any more specific

when Lonny called from a roadside diner to report

the results of the race. He had simply said it was

important that they bring their car to the plant right

away.

I guess he has some new instrument he wants to put on it, Wynn reflected as he drove the back roads leading to the plant. He turned onto the old

lane by the small Newgate airport.

In a short time they arrived at Altadyne. Kuralts office was located in a small building next to the

main plant. It was decorated with pictures of the

43

boys previous race cars. A giant trophy Wynn had received for winning the Road Race of Champions

stood in one corner.

Jeff Kuralt closed the door and greeted his guests.

Sorry to be so mysterious about this, but I need your help, he said. We have developed a very important device for the military. And I would like

to try it out on your race car. What could possibly fit on a Super Vee that the

military would be interested in? Lonny asked. First, Kuralt said, I must tell you that

everything we discuss is absolutely top secret. Ive run a complete security check on you two, and

youve been granted clearance. Okay? Okay. Fine, Kuralt said. Now look at this film. He

dimmed the lights and started a projector concealed

in a projection booth. The movie showed two tanks

running across a sandy desert. A puff of smoke from

the lead vehicles cannon indicated it was firing at some unseen target.

This footage was taken during the nineteen seventy-three Arab-Israeli war by a news-service

photographer, Kuralt said. Now watch what happens.

The tanks had started down a slight hill, when a

cloud of heavy white smoke came from the engine

compartment of the lead vehicle. Almost

44

immediately it coasted to a stop. In a few seconds,

the crew could be seen jumping out and running

away from the crippled tank. Seconds later it was

engulfed by a tremendous explosion. The second

tank picked up speed and moved off across the

desert.

The film strip ended and Kuralt turned on the

lights.

Wow, Wynn said, what was that all about? That tank should never have been lost, Jeff:

said. The two were engaged in a running battle with some Arabs. You saw one fire its cannon. In

the excitement of the fight, the first driver let his

engine wind too high going down that hill. It blew

up.

And then the tank was a sitting duck for the Arab gunners, Lonny said. Is that it?

Exactly. That mistake nearly cost the crew their lives. It did cause the loss of a tank. Kuralt reached into a lower desk drawer and took out a briefcase.

He placed it on the desk and opened it. An electronic

device with a transistor heat sink and several loose

wires was inside.

This is our latest invention, Jeff said as he handed it over for examination. It will positively prevent over-revving of a tank engine, and the Army

wants to test it. We call it the Altaguard. Where do we fit in? Wynn asked.

45

No engine is subject to more abuse than a race cars. I want you to install this unit on your Super Vee and demonstrate it to the Army at Aberdeen

Proving Ground this week. They have a test track

for Army vehicles, and it will prove to be an

interesting course for your car. When do we get started? Lonny asked. I want you to test the instrument here today, and

leave tomorrow. Report to the Army Test and

Evaluation Command, TECOM for short. Contact a

civilian by the name of Grant Foster when you get

there. Hell take care of you. The Altaguard tested out perfectly on the

improvised track at the plant. Altadyne technician

had installed radio transmitters on the car, which

would monitor and transmit performance

information during the test.

Two days later at nine in the morning Beetle

Bomb and the race car pulled up at TECOM

headquarters. A light rain was falling. They were

met by a military policeman at the gate and escorted

to Grant Fosters office. Hello, Foster said with a friendly smile. Sorry

about the rain this morning, but welcome to

TECOM. Thanks, Wynn said and the boys shook hands

with the man. Foster appeared to be in his middle

thirties. He was a small man with a nervous twitch

46

in his face, and seemed genuinely glad to meet the

two youths.

I want to give you a quick tour, he said, then you unload your car over at the track. It stopped

raining, so it should be dry by the time we get there.

I reserved it for two hours this morning and two

more late this afternoon. Thats when the big brass will be over to see how it works. Think thatll give you enough time?

Sure, Lonny replied. Lets get going. Fosters tour took in all but the secret areas of the

TECOM facility. The boys were surprised at the

variety of items undergoing evaluation.

Its important that American troops have the best equipment we can provide, Foster said as they examined a row of metal plates sitting out in the

open. These are being tested for weather resistance.

Nearby, a group of soldiers had established a

camp in the woods. These men are testing new uniforms and backpacks for combat use. The

materials must be able to withstand severe use, and

still be lightweight. The soldiers biggest personal problem in the field is the weight of all the

equipment he must carry. The tour ended at the experimental motor vehicle

garage. Foster helped the boys unload their Super

Vee, then introduced them to the tank-testing

47

commander.

Major Tynan, these young men are Wynn Redford and Lonny Morris. Theyve brought up the race car for testing.

Welcome to Aberdeen, Major Tynan said. Are you all set to go?

Yes, sir, Wynn replied. The Altaguard installation had been thoroughly

checked by Army technicians. Wynn settled in the

cockpit and set the instruments cutoff for 5,000 revolutions per minute.

Theres an indicator in the tachometer we call a tell-tale, Lonny explained to Tynan. If he runs over five thousand RPM, it remains at the highest RPM

the engine reaches. We can do the same with our test instruments,

the major said. The little black box weve attached to your roll bar will transmit a record of the engines performance. Itll be put on tape in our electronics truck and well know how the Altaguard is doing all the time.

Wynn slid the gearshift into first and started out.

The course was about a mile long and contained no

particularly challenging turns.

After about ten minutes Wynn was pushing the

car hard. The Altaguard seemed to be working

perfectly, as the engine would accelerate to exactly

5,000 RPM and no higher. Wynn would then shift

48

into the next higher gear and the engine would

spring back to life as strong as ever.

As he considered how much longer Major Tynan

would want the test to continue, the engine note

suddenly rose to a scream! The Altaguard had

failed!

Wynn looked at the tachometers tell-tale. It was stuck at 8,000 RPM! With a sinking feeling he

pressed the motor up to the 5,000 RPM mark again

and again. It continued to pull strongly and showed

no signs of damage. But the Altaguard was not

functioning! After three more laps with the broken

instrument, Wynn pulled in.

It quit working, he said as Lonny leaned down to help him out of the car.

I know, his partner replied. Tynan and Foster are looking at the tapes now to see what happened.

Did you feel anything break? No. The cars running fine and all the things I

could think to check are okay. Tynan and his men came out of the electronics

trailer and took the cover off the Altaguard. After a

few minutes, they turned to the racers. It appears that when the engine got up to operating

temperature, the Altaguards circuits overloaded and melted, Tynan said. Obviously, it would never hold up under combat conditions on a military

vehicle.

49

You had best leave it with us, Foster added. Maybe our technicians can improve it.

The boys hesitated. If they left the device at the

proving grounds, and some other electronics firm

copied it, Kuralt would have no protection.

Altaguard was not yet patented.

No thanks, Wynn said after a brief talk with his partner. Well take it back to North Carolina for further development.

Well, thats your decision, Tynan said with a frown. But next time you come up here, dont bother us with some piece of tomfoolery that doesnt work. Check it out on your own time!

50

CHAPTER V

Good-By Camera

When he heard the news, Jeff Kuralt was mystified.

It just doesnt seem possible, he said with a frown. That instrument passed every test we gave it!

Wynn and Lonny could offer no clues as what

had happened. The Altaguards circuits were hopelessly melted, as though the unit had been

subjected to an open flame.

And it worked fine for a while, Jeff, Wynn said. Even Major Tynan agreed to that.

Well, okay, Kuralt finally said. I think we should all take the weekend off. Well start fresh on Monday morning. When we get to the bottom of

this, well go back to the Army with an improved product.

Wynn and Lonny headed for their apartment.

Once there, Lonny flopped on his bunk and stared at

the ceiling. Wynn picked up a racing magazine and

51

idly thumbed through it. Neither boy spoke.

Finally, Lonny broke the silence. Altadyne could be in financial trouble if the Altaguard doesnt work. I was talking to a salesman, and he said a lot of

companies would buy Altaguards if the Army

TECOM accepted it. I know, Wynn replied glumly. Early in the morning, the phone rang. Get down

here with the race car right away! Jeff said. I think weve found the trouble!

Wynn and Lonny piled out of their bunks and

began a frantic search for their clothes. The alarm

clock, set for six thirty, said they had half an hour

yet to sleep. Wynn grabbed the car keys and in two

giant strides was down the stairs and into the garage.

Lonny took a bit longer. He stopped to pick up his

electronic stop watch and calculator, then joined his

partner. Moments later the Super Vee trailer was

connected to Beetle Bomb and they were on their

way to Altadyne.

It came to me last night, Jeff said as they bolted through his office door. Take a look at this!

The room lights dimmed and the projector

displayed an x-ray slide on the screen. It showed a

small section of the Altaguards melted circuit board, with several flaws in the printed circuit

clearly visible.

The circuits were overloaded, Kuralt explained.

52

The loads we put on them here at the plant were not as severe as those imposed by your racing engine, so

everything worked fine. But when you ran it on the

car, two things happened.

The slide changed. With so much electricity flowing, Jeff continued, the metal of the circuit changed structure. You might say it corroded. This

reduced its ability to carry current even further. Again the slide changed, showing a close-up of

the melted portion of the circuit. Finally, it was completely overloaded, and it blew, Jeff said.

Why didnt you find it sooner? Lonny asked. Because we werent looking for corrosion, Jeff

replied. We expected to find a short circuit, but instead there were two metals in the circuit with

different activity levels on the ionization table.

Putting current between these two in the presence of

a slight amount of water vapor caused corrosion of

the less-active metal. The circuit corroded itself out

of existence. Then the other circuits melted. Thats right, Wynn said. It was raining the

morning of the test. Kuralt nodded. Ill have a new Altaguard for you

to test in a short while. Stick around. Several hours later, Wynn strapped himself in the

Super Vee and started driving slowly around the

parking lot and service roads. The course was very

short, but he was able to get the engine np to 5,000

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RPM several times each lap. The hastily built

Altaguard worked perfectly for almost an hour.

Then it quit, just as it had at Aberdeen.

Kuralt and his chief engineer looked at the broken

component and frowned. Were going to need more time to redesign the circuits, the engineer said.

How long will that take? Kuralt asked. About a week, the man said. Kuralt turned to Wynn and Lonny. They had

fastened their racer to the trailer once again. Would you be able to go to Aberdeen again next week? he asked.

Sure, Wynn replied. We can make the race at Mid-Ohio, and then go straight to Aberdeen. Well be there on Wednesday after the race.

Before leaving for Ohio, the boys stopped at the

Newgate bus station. Ed Zinks new wings were waiting.

Well be able to run with the best of them now, Wynn said.

The Mid-Ohio track near Lexington, Ohio,

wound 2.4 miles around a lush green infield. Unlike

Daytona, Talladega, or other super-speedway tracks,

there were no grandstands. Most spectators sat on

blankets and brought their outdoor grills for family

style picnics.

The boys parked Beetle Bomb at the registration

shed and took their place in line. In a few moments,

54

their friend from Daytona, Alan MacDonald, came

up to say hello.

Nice to see you two back on the trail with us vagabonds, he said. We missed you at the Glen.

We had some other business and couldnt make it, Lonny said. Who won?

Tim Snavely, Mac replied. Lambert cooked up a trick engine, and Snavely managed to keep it

between the guardrails. Wasnt a very good race, really.

Snavely beat Rosen? Wynn asked. No. Rosen went home. Hell finish the year

racing in Europe mostly, and here only when he has

time. MacDonald reached into his camera bag and

pulled out a metal clamp. Know what this is? Looks like a mounting bracket, Lonny replied. Right. How about letting me mount a movie

camera on the back of the car, low down? Ill get some fantastic pictures of all the cars behind you. It

could be really great! Lonny turned to his partner. What do you think?

It wouldnt slow you down, would it? I dont think so. Lets do it. Wynn ran the practice and qualifying sessions,

then brought the car into the paddock to have the

equipment installed. Macs camera was a special lightweight radio-controlled 16 mm unit, which

55

would be turned on and off and focused by remote

control. Lonny helped him mount it to the cars frame, with the lens extending beyond the end of the

transmission and exhaust pipes.

We should really get some good footage if this works, Mac said. If it doesnt, Ive spent four thousand dollars on a piece of junk!

Later that afternoon the official qualifying sheets

listed Wynn in the front row of the grid, next to Tim

Snavely.

Congratulations, champ, Nancy-Rae said as the four checked the results. Looks like you stand a chance of winning for a change.

Wynn smiled broadly. It was his best

performance of the year!

A surprise awaited Wynn and Lonny when they

returned to the track the next morning. Pete Lambert

had protested the use of a camera on a car during the

race. Glenaire came over to examine the mount,

with Lambert, Snavely, McQuirt, and Charlie Blue

close behind.

Its dangerous, Billy, Lambert said. If it falls off, somebody could get hurt. I dont want it in the race.

Glenaire examined the mounting bracket

carefully. It was made of stainless steel and held the

camera firmly with two small bolts. Rubber

bushings insulated it from vibrations that could

56

damage the mechanisms.

I think itll be all right, Glenaire said at last. If it comes loose, well back flag the car out of the race.

When the race started, Wynn found he was

unable to keep up with Snavely on the straights, but

could close in on him in the corners. Working hard,

he managed to stay near the quicker car through the

halfway point of the race. Most of the others strung

out to run their own races. Only Ian McQuirt was

able to stay up with the leaders. Ted Willards two cars, driven by Roger Bear and Jay Tappett, were

fourth and fifth.

With three laps to go, Snavely was blocked by a

slower car. Wynn closed on the faster machine and

looked for an opening. McQuirt pulled up behind,

and the three ran inches apart! The crowds in the

turns were on their feet as the battling trio prepared

for a showdown!

Entering the last lap, Wynn saw his chance.

Snavely went to the right to pass another car and

was again blocked. Wynn and McQuirt ducked to

the left and took over the lead positions!

Snavely pulled abreast of his teammate on the

next straight. The two drivers exchanged glances,

and Snavely pointed to the back of Wynns car. McQuirt nodded and pulled in right behind Zink. As

the shutoff markers for the next corner came up,

57

McQuirt steered his cars nose right into the camera! Wynn felt the bump and glanced into his mirror.

McQuirts helmet was barely visible behind him as the two cars entered the braking area nose to tail,

still touching. As Wynn backed off the throttle, the

Scot hit his brakes hard and swerved to the side. His

cars nose hooked the camera lens! The instrument broke loose, bouncing off the track and high into the

air!

Wynn wasted just a second watching the debris

spreading across the track behind him, then stood on

the brakes hard. He made the turn despite the

incident, but Snavely passed him on the inside to

recapture the lead.

Yellow flags appeared around the track as the lap

unfolded. Wynn had no chance to pass, and Snavely

took the checkered flag first. Wynn was second, and

moments later he rolled into victory lane behind

Snavely.

Pete Lambert leaned down to shout in Wynns face. You almost wrecked my car with that dumb trick, he complained. Im protesting the race. You should be disqualified.

Wynn was numb. Lamberts shouting did not bother him. He knew McQuirt had hit him

intentionally. He was worried about the loss

MacDonald would suffer with the ruined equipment.

Leave him alone, Lambert! Lonny said as he

58

arrived from the pits. McQuirt caused this accident, and Glenaire has already made his ruling. Youre lucky he didnt crash!

In a few minutes, Wynn was caught up in the

excitement of the victory ceremonies. A race queen

handed him the second-place trophy and gave him a

quick kiss. Photographers tried to attract his

attention, and even Snavely was smiling, with the

victory laurel wreath around his neck.

When the celebrations were over, Lonny

approached Wynn. I think it was deliberate, he said.

Wynn nodded. That was the first time I got into the lead, he said as he examined the broken camera mount. They must have decided before the race that if I got there, one of them would bump me off the

track. Right, Lonny agreed. And McQuirt did it

because Snavely had a faster car and could get by

you after the bump. The young racers decided there was nothing they

could do about the situation. None of the corner

workers had reported intentional contact between

the cars. To prove their charges, someone from

outside would have to confirm the incident.

Before the start of the GT race, Wynn and Lonny

walked back through the pits to find Alan

MacDonald. They finally located him, talking with

59

Inky and Nancy-Rae.

Well, congratulations, Inky said as they approached. You finally earned some real prize money.

I just wish it were enough to pay for your camera, Wynn said to Mac. Im very sorry about it.

Mac looked at the ground and drew the toe of his

black cowboy boot through the dust. Dont feel bad. I think the lens can be repaired, and I saved the

film. The camera is smashed, but it didnt break open.

You have the film? Wynn asked with surprise. Why yes, Mac said. There should be some

very good footage on the last lap, but Mac, the film might show whether or not

McQuirt and Snavely exchanged signals to hit me! Mac nodded. Let me develop it and then well

know more. He turned and bumped into another driver, who had come up to the group.

Excuse me, Mac said and left. Inky waved to the newcomer, Wynn, Lonny, I

want you to meet Marcel Dulion, from Quebec. Hes driving a Lola and were timing for him.

Yes, Dulion said, I have the red-and-white car with the maple leaf of Canada on the side. You

passed me on the last lap, and I saw what happened.

You were intentionally bumped.

60

Oh, great! Wynn said. Then you can testify for us.

Dulion shook his head. I think its better if I dont say anything at this point.

61

CHAPTER VI

The Charge: Espionage

The boys were speechless. Nancy-Rae broke the

silence. Marcel, if you dont say anything, the same thing could happen again. Somebody will get hurt

before its over! The Canadian looked at the young timer, then

turned to Wynn and Lonny. It would not be wise to draw more attention to your team until the Altaguard

is fully developed. Wynn stared. What do you know about the

Altaguard? he asked. I am in the electronics-manufacturing business.

We produce microcircuits for use in space satellites,

computers, calculators, and other precision

instruments. Some of our components were used in

the Altaguard. Wynn listened suspiciously. Jeff Kuralt had not

mentioned the use of imported components in the

62

device. Was Dulion telling the truth?

You see, the Canadian went on, if this connection becomes known, my testimony would be

interpreted as partial, a favor to the firm I do

business with, which happens to sponsor you. Do you know the purpose of the Altaguard?

Wynn inquired.

I was not told. But the electronic devices we sold to Altadyne were to be used under high-

temperature conditions. They had to be heat and oil

resistant, and were made of special materials for this

purpose. From this and from rumors I heard, I

assume the instrument has some military

application. What else do you know? Wynn asked. Not much, Dulion said. But I have heard

through my friends in the industry that you have a

problem with it. Apparently, it has blown up in

testing at Aberdeen Proving Ground. Wynn was flabbergasted. How could Dulion

possibly know about that?

I would like to meet Jeff Kuralt, the Canadian continued. Perhaps I could solve the problem. My experience with the components and my

understanding of racing could be of help. I dont know, Lonny said. Were out here to

race and promote Altadyne. Its not up to us to bring anyone into Kuralts business projects.

63

It seems to me that Jeff needs all the help he can get right now, Nancy-Rae said.

Shes right, Inky said. If he doesnt want to meet Marcel, he can say so. But you should offer to

introduce him. Wynn and Lonny agreed to call Kuralt. If he was

interested, a meeting could be arranged. Dulion

introduced himself on the telephone and identified

his company. After a lengthy conversation, Kuralt

invited him to come to Newgate. Dulion agreed to

fly to North Carolina in about ten days.

The boys said good-by to the Canadian and the

girls, and left for Newgate. Early the next afternoon

they pulled into the Altadyne parking lot. Jeff came

out to examine the racer.

No visible damage, he said. I heard you were bumped.

How did you know? Wynn asked in surprise. The story was on television Sunday night after

the late news. Great piece of film, apparently shot

from the back of your car. Shows this other car

closing in on the camera, then hitting it. After that it

bounces around a lot, but theres one final scene that they held for a minute. It shows the winning car

passing you. Best footage on racing Ive ever seen. MacDonald sold the film! Lonny exclaimed.

Maybe thatll pay for his camera. Was there any indication on the film that the

64

bumping was planned? Wynn asked. A signal between the winner and the car behind me?

Jeff shook his head. Not that I remember. There goes our proof, Lonny said. Too bad.

The youths quickly related the events of the

previous day. Kuralt listened attentively, particularly

when they described their encounter with Marcel

Dulion.

Hes part owner of the company that supplied me with certain components, Kuralt said. He might be of help. Grant Foster is working with

several of our engineers right now. Hes very interested in the Altaguard, but cant convince Tynan until it works perfectly. We still have a

problem with the metals in the circuits. In the next few days, the boys stripped their racer

down to the bare chassis and began a methodical

rebuilding. Lonny felt the incident at Mid-Ohio

could have caused hidden damage to the suspension

or chassis. The rebuild included x-raying vital parts,

inspecting the rivets in the chassis for looseness or

cracking, and replacing other parts that appeared to

be worn.

By Tuesday of the following week, the car was

reassembled and tested at the plant track.

Wednesday, Dulion arrived. He met with Kuralt and

his staff for several hours, and Jeff seemed pleased

with their progress. Next morning the instrument

65

was tested again on the improvised track around the

plant. It worked! The men made a few more

modifications, which they felt would improve

performance. Then the boys, Kuralt, and Dulion

drove to Aberdeen, where they conferred with

Foster and his engineers on the improvements.

When it was time to test, Dulion asked to drive

the Zink with the Altaguard installed. Perhaps it will give me a better understanding of what was

going wrong at exactly what speed, he said. Go ahead, Kuralt told him. It wouldnt hurt to

get the opinion of a driver whos familiar with electronics.

Wynn was reluctant to hand over the car, but had

no choice. Weve set it to work at five thousand RPM, he told Dulion, as he strapped him into the blue racer. All you have to do is be prepared to shift when the engine stops accelerating. Youll have full power up to the cut-off point, and it will

pull strongly again as soon as you shift gears. Watch the edge of the road, Lonny reminded

the new driver. Theres a drop-off down to the grass, and if you put a wheel over the edge youll have a hard time getting it back on the track.

Dulion nodded to the instructions, selected first

gear, and drove off. After two slow laps to get used

to the car and the track, he began to go faster.

Immediately, he was in trouble. As the Zink

66

emerged from the last turn onto the short main

straight, the engine reached 5,000 RPM and the

Altaguard held it there. But Dulion was not prepared

for the sudden loss of acceleration. The car spun out,

slithering off the course backwards and onto a red

clay dirt bank.

The Super Vee was stranded atop the bank with

its rear wheels completely off the ground! Grant

Foster kicked the pavement in disgust. Some driver, he said as he watched the TECOM safety crew pull the hapless Canadian from the car. I wonder if his electronic components are any better

than his skill behind the wheel. You two better

watch out for this guy. I dont like him one bid Wynn silently agreed, but did not let on. He and

Lonny ran to examine the car. There was no

apparent damage, but they knew they would have to

strip it down again to recheck it for hidden trouble.

Dulion was embarrassed about the incident. It was my fault, he said. The power quit and I was not ready.

Jeff Kuralt soothed the flustered visitor. No matter. Ive asked Grant Foster to give you a tour of the facilities when youre out of your drivers suit. Later, well discuss the project some more.

Wynn and Lonny were relieved. Having seen

their competitors technique, they were in no hurry to let him have their car again!

67

Now I know why that guy finishes races so far down, Lonny said as they placed the Zink on its trailer.

Foster doesnt like him, Wynn said. Neither do I. I wonder if hes on the level.

Oh, I think hes okay, Lonny said. And Jeff must be impressed enough to bring him here.

When the boys returned to Fosters office, Kuralt was there. Grant took the Canadian on a tour through the TECOM facilities, he told the youths. They should be back shortly. Meanwhile, some more bad news. The Altaguard melted again. It may

have happened when Dulion spun. Just then Foster burst into the room. Hes

missing! Who? Kuralt asked in surprise. Dulion! I was with him in an assembly room

when the operator called me to the phone. When I

came back, he had disappeared! Foster grabbed a red telephone and spoke a few

words. In a moment, the wail of an alarm system

could be heard throughout the test area.

Im going back to the assembly room, Foster said. You wait here until you hear from me.

Wynn slammed his fist on the desk.

Unbelievable, he said. We invite this guy over here and first he almost crashes our car. Now hes missing in a high-security area.

68

In a few minutes the door opened. Foster, Dulion,

and two armed MPs entered the room.

Im sorry to have caused this disturbance, Dulion said. I was in the assembly room and became interested in the electronic test devices. Im afraid I was behind one of the larger units,

examining it, when Grant came back from his phone

call. Foster looked at the Canadian with a penetrating

stare. He said nothing. Dulion looked about the

room, then moved over to stand dejectedly next to

the boys. He had had a rough day.

Well, I guess we should be on our way, Kuralt said. He put on his coat. But a shrill ring from the

red phone interrupted the departure. Foster answered

it, and after a moment turned to the MPs. Someone has broken into a lab in the classified area, he said. Im afraid well have to search our guests.

Dulion looked nervous, but made no move to

resist as the MPs conducted their search. In a few moments they finished and began to inspect the

others.

Im very sorry about this inconvenience, Foster said as the MPs frisked Jeff Kuralt. But whenever something of this nature occurs, we must take

precautions. You understand. One of the MPs suddenly grasped Wynn firmly

by the arm. The other turned to Foster and handed

69

him a small roll of developed film. Probably microfilm, he said. It was in his coat pocket, sir.

Wynn was dumfounded. How could the roll have

gotten into his coat?

Foster held the film up to the light and examined

it carefully. Then he turned to Wynn. This film is from the secret laboratory. Youre under arrest for spying!

70

CHAPTER VII

The Secret Code

The two MPs had a grip like steel. There was no

chance for Wynn to run even if he had wanted to.

Jeff Kuralt was furious. This is impossible! he shouted. Wynn was nowhere near any secret lab all day!

Foster flushed slightly. Im sorry, Jeff, but well have to keep him for a few days.

I dont know anything about that film, Wynn said in protest. I took my coat off and left it here when we went out for the test. Honest, Im innocent!

The MPs let him go long enough to finish frisking

Lonny. Then they took Wynn by the arm and led

him down the hall to a security station.

This is outrageous! Kuralt stormed. Let him go or Ill take the Altaguard right now and never come back!

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Foster relented. All right, Jeff. Take it easy. Well work this out with the chief of