The Puget Sound Region Chapter’s annual E30 Picnic is billed as the world’s largest E30-only event and we think that’s a true statement. We had about 210 E30s this year along with perfect, sunny weather and 80 degrees. These 210 E30s trekked from seven states and two Canadian provinces. The event has settled into a location that really feels like home. That location is the LeMay Family Foundation’s Collection, housed in a converted boys’ school. The event takes place on a big grass field surrounded by mature trees that’s just the perfect size for the group.
Lance Richert, E30 SIG Impresario, is the idea guy behind the event and its success. Lance always picks some featured cars and interviews the owners. This year featured:
Owen Craft’s ’87 E30: Owen is the young man behind the Respect Your Elders video, which has a half million views on YouTube (he was told to expect 4-5,000).
1985 Baur: This rare Baur-bodied convertible was one of three Baurs onsite. This particular car was owned by Stan Schafeitel, who has stuffed an M3 drivetrain into what started as a 325e (eta).
HISE30 Lance’s 1988 M3: Lance showed HISE30 (that’s the license plate), which is a completely stock 1988 M3 of which he is the 3rd and 5th owner, to contrast with the next E30…
1988 M3 Evo II in Nogara Silver: This rare bird is the road version of Group A car which was recently imported from Europe and is owned by a noted local collector.
PRO3 car in Watson’s Livery: Celebrating our very successful Pacific Northwest BMW racing series, PRO3, an example owned by Bruce Boyd and Dave Bennett was shown. Hired gun Bill Spornitz was enlisted to educate the great unwashed about the wondrous opportunity afforded by PRO3 racing.
Two food trucks dished up lunch for the 500+ people in attendance. The raffle was a hit, as always, and generated funds for a good cause. A good time was had by all and most pledged to be back next year.
For more information on the Puget Sound Chapter, visit their website at www.BMWPugetSound.com.
