Barksdale enters BPCC 100

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Chad Warren
  • 2d Bomb Wing Public Affairs
BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. --  The Logistics Officer Association here is raising money to enter the upcoming Bossier Parrish Community College 100 race Oct. 8-9.

The BPCC 100 is a NASCAR style race presented by the BPCC Foundation, Inc., with the purpose of raising money to provide scholarships to BPCC students. Participants race around the speedway in customized go-karts, competing for the title of the fastest team with all proceeds going directly to fund the scholarships.

"Participating in this type of community outreach event helps educate individuals about our organization," said Maj. Grant Meadows, 2d Maintenance Operations Squadron commander. "While at the same time, giving us an avenue to get involved in our local community,"

According to Major Meadows, the BPCC 100 is an excellent opportunity for the wing to get involved in the local community.

"There are several members of team Barksdale, be it active duty, civilian or dependent, that attend BPCC," said Major Meadows. "They could directly benefit from the funds generated by the BPCC 100."

The LOA hosted two bowling tournaments this year, each with a fundraising drawing, in order to raise the $2,800 necessary to purchase the golf-kart and pay the entrance fee to the event. A third drawing will be held following the Mission Support Group golf tournament on Sept. 10 to help reach their goal. These events are open to all wing personnel, and will allow Airmen to take a break from their everyday job while contributing to a good cause.

"It provides an opportunity to build morale and camaraderie," said 2nd Lt. Ryan Morris, 2d Maintenance Group training officer. "They are also helping Airmen in the long run since many of the scholarships are given to military members."

The race itself will be a two day event on the BPCC campus, including several qualifying races leading up to the main event Oct. 9. Teams for the race will consist of six members: a driver, a back-up driver and four pit crew members. In addition to competing for the fastest car, teams will also be competing for best looking car, best dressed and fastest pit crew.

Future races will not require the same level of fundraising since the golf-kart is a one-time purchase. In the years to come, the team will only have to raise the $1,500 entrance fee.

"The biggest hurdle we had to overcome this year was raising enough money to cover the registration fee and the purchase of the car," said Major Meadows. "Once the car is purchased this year, it will be ours to keep and use again in the years to come."

For more information on the BPCC 100, please contact Major Grant Meadows at 456-3611.