Slideshow of the event by Chris Marks

Gasoline was the only thing that could quench the thirst for the race car drivers and spectators during the 39th Annual Duel at De Anza auto cross event hosted by the Auto Tech Club on Sunday, May 21.

The De Anza parking lot B was converted into a racing track, almost in the shape of a kidney bean. Hundreds of cars lined up as the drivers eagerly waited to push themselves and theirs machines to the limit.

“It’s exciting,” said Edin Smith, the owner of 2005 Acura RSX Type-S. “It’s an adrenaline-rush.”

Ralph Schubert, the owner of BTM Motors’ 1977 Porch 911, says this experience helps people come together under a good environment.

“I’m glad De Anza continues to put this together,” said Schubert. “It’s good for the community and students.”Schubert and many other drivers believe racing events like these help the community by allowing people to legally drive fast and race without getting a ticket.

“It keeps students off the streets,” said Smith.

Charles Cox, a race car enthusiast and participant in the Sports Car Club of America, drove a 2001 Mazda Miata that was missing a roof, passenger seat and windshield.

His car was completely stripped of any excess weight and contained a red roll cage in case an accident should occur.

“All the internals were done,” said Cox. “Customs cams, custom pistons, [and] light crank shaft.”

“I got a battery that weighs 75 pounds because it runs all the electronics and everything. I don’t run anything off an alternator.”

With his bright red 2005 Chevrolet Corvette displaying the words “AUTOXER” from his licensee plate, Heth Emerson, number 24, waited to test his American muscle car on the track.

But this event wasn’t all for men.Jean Han, driver of a Scion tC, was one of four female race car drivers for the event.

“I get a lot of attention from guys,” said Han. “Both the good and the bad.”

Michael Brandt, the coordinator of Duel at De Anza and a automotive technology instructor for 30 years, was pleased that the races went smoothly. The cars ran with out any major problems, which is usually a frequent problem, Brandt said.

Brandt also believes events such as Duel at De Anza helps students because they get involved more with a community of other car enthusiasts.

“[It] allows them to show off their skills,” said Brandt. “Takes the bluffing and bolstering away.”