I see Valerie Thompson recently fired up the afterburner on the American Eagle, so they are one step closer to making a qualifying run of 300+ mph, necessary before they go for LSR.

The Brits are working to complete their new LSR beast. They hold the record now at 763 mph (yes, they broke the sound barrier).

The American Eagle should be able to crack 900 mph and the Brits are trying to engineer for 1,000+ mph.

2013 is going to be very interesting on the Salt Flats.

I like speed, but that is F'ing nuts. Even imagine what a rush that must be.

You can see the Brit's run with the Thrust SSC which set the current record at 763 mph on youtube. They try to follow it with a helocopter, and by mile one it is pulling away from them like they are standing still.

Some of the video from the mile cameras is breathtaking because you can't even hear it approaching, and then it is past in a split second, just a blur.

From the side, from a helicopter back a ways, taking video through a telephoto lens, it looks like it is moving along slowly.

Watched a show on tv years ago about Spirit of America and some of the other top vehicles. Absolutely amazing what they can accomplish. Someday I hope to make it out to Bonneville, even if it as a spectator.

Jet or rocket-powered LSR vehicles are rather boring. They're basically airplanes without wings. Wheel-driven record racers are much more interesting to me, especially the two-wheeled variety.

Watched a documentary on Troy Bayliss last night...OMG....the work they have to put in to end up on top.Insane.Fully deserved tell ya that....so many have tried...come and gone.Rossi and Edwards....another crazy pair.Just amazing really.

Danno wrote:

Jet or rocket-powered LSR vehicles are rather boring. They're basically airplanes without wings. Wheel-driven record racers are much more interesting to me, especially the two-wheeled variety.

I pretty much agree with you. I'm more impressed by an ancient Indian breaking 200 mph than a jet on wheels breaking the sound barrier.

Having said that, I am still in awe of the fact they actually think they can go 1,000 mph on land. Based on previous runs, at 700 mph, I'm guessing one of the two teams will do it next year.