Mini Driver Killed at Willow Springs

[Richard EVO]

Sad to report that Joe Drey, an avid Mini owner and HPDE track driver from San Diego was killed when he rolled his Mini at Willow Springs International Raceway on Sat. May 24, 2008. Joe was 75 and retired. I have been trying to find out what kind of safety equipment was in the car, but there is a lot of conflicting info on the internet now. I was at the event on Sun., but not on Sat. when the crash happened.

[Racerhead2]

I was there for both days on the other side. Streets of Willow.
I was helping out with running of the Speedtrial event and saw the helicopter and rescue vehicles rushing towards turn 9.
When I looked over, the Mini was in the infield and not looking good at all. They airlifted the driver out.
Later on in the day I heard from one of our friend who was competing that day at the NASA event (Sat.) that the Mini driver had dropped 2 wheels off on the left on turn 9 and hooked it into the infield, and then rolled. He had 4 point harness, and no roll bar or cage. Then the seat failed too.
(Again, this is from what our friend said so it might not be accurate)

Feel very sorry and condolences for his family. We in the Motorsport community always feel bad when something happens to one of our own.

Stay safe out there and respect turn 9.

[mini racer]

That is tragic!! I was at Willos with my Dad about a month ago at an event. I take my hat off for the family. we Mini owners need to stick together.