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Bruce Jenner Racing Pontiac Firebird #72 (1987) Later updated to Camaro Bruce Jenner, a New Zealand racing driver, competed in the SCCA Trans-Am Series during the mid-1980s under his own team, Bruce Jenner Racing. He primarily drove a Pontiac Firebird Trans-Am and later a Porsche 944. Throughout his career, Jenner participated in various events, including races at Portland, Summit Point, Mid-Ohio, Mosport, and St. Petersburg, achieving several top-10 finishes. Trans-Am Series Career: Bruce Jenner’s Trans-Am Series career starts from 1985 to 1988 and reflects the challenging nature of motorsport for private entrants. Competing primarily under Bruce Jenner Racing, he drove a Pontiac Firebird in 1985-1986 before switching to a Porsche 944 in 1987-1988. 1985: Trans-Am Season (Pontiac Firebird) • Best Result: 7th at Mosport (Sept 8) 1986: Trans-Am Season (Pontiac Firebird) • Best Result: 22nd at Road Atlanta (Oct 12) 1987: Trans-Am Season (Porsche 944) #42 • 3rd Place at Long Beach (April 4) and Portland (June 7). • Top-10 Result: 9th at Memphis (Sept 13). • 11th at Road Atlanta (Oct 11). 1988: Trans-Am & Endurance Season (Porsche 944) #42 and #11 • Best Result: 18th at Cleveland (July 2). Pontiac Firebird #72 (1985 - 1986) Bruce Jenner’s career in the Trans-Am Series showcases the journey of a driver balancing ambition, perseverance, and the challenges of privateer racing. His early years with the Pontiac Firebird highlighted reliability struggles but glimpses of mid-field competitiveness, especially in 1985 with consistent Top-15 finishes. Switching to the Porsche 944 in 1987 marked a turning point. Jenner’s two 3rd-place podiums at Long Beach and Portland demonstrated his ability to perform at a high level when equipment matched his skill. However, consistency remained elusive as mechanical issues plagued subsequent seasons. By 1988, Jenner’s racing program faced clear challenges, with frequent DNQs and DNS results signaling difficulties in maintaining competitiveness Bruce Jenner’s time with the Porsches represents the peak and decline of his Trans-Am career. The #42 Porsche 944 in 1987 demonstrated his potential, with two impressive podiums against seasoned competitors. However, the struggles with #11 Porsche in 1988 reflected the challenges of sustaining competitive. Despite setbacks, Jenner’s podium finishes remain a testament to his skill and determination in one of North America’s most demanding racing series. Porsche #42 Porsche #11 Crew Chief Max Crawford, a highly skilled and respected New Zealander, played a pivotal role as the crew chief for Bruce Jenner during his competitive years in the SCCA Trans-Am Series from 1985 to 1988. Crawford brought an exceptional blend of technical expertise, leadership, and hands-on experience to Jenner’s team, contributing significantly to the car’s reliability and performance on the track. Max Crawford: The Crew Chief Behind Bruce Jenner’s Trans-Am Success https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crawford_Composites Drivers: 1987 - 1988 Chris Kneifel https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chris_Kneifel Bruce Jenner Racing fielded cars in the Trans-Am Series with drivers Bruce Jenner and Chris Kneifel competing. Below is a focused breakdown of the Chris Kneifel results under Bruce Jenner Racing: 1987: Trans-Am Series Car #72 and #11 – Pontiac Firebird & Porsche 944 Bruce Jenner Racing’s involvement in the Trans-Am Series was fielding Chris Kneifel in both the Pontiac Firebird (#72) and the Porsche 944 (#11). Despite flashes of competitiveness, such as a 3rd place at Sears Point in 1987 and a 6th place at Cleveland in 1988, the team struggled with reliability and consistency. The transition to the Porsche 944 hinted at aspirations for improved performance but proved challenging, with multiple DNAs signaling difficulties in qualifying and race readiness. Kneifel’s ability to secure podium results under Jenner’s banner demonstrates the team’s potential when conditions aligned, though these moments remained infrequent amid a fiercely competitive Trans-Am field. Key Highlights Podium Performance: • 3rd place at Sears Point (1987, Pontiac Firebird) – Strong showing under Bruce Jenner Racing. Top-10 Finish: • 6th place at Cleveland (1988, Pontiac Firebird) – One of the better finishes during the season. Challenges: • The team faced multiple Did Not Qualify (DNA) and Did Not Start (DNS) issues, particularly in 1988. • Results fluctuated, with frequent mid-to-lower pack placements due to mechanical or competitive struggles. 1988 SCCA Trans Am At Mid Ohio (Full Race) Chris Kneifel 72 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UfjKi8vdwuk 1988 Trans Am Road America (Full Race) Chris Kneifel 72 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5jou5K2DZ_I 1988 Trans Am Lime Rock Park Chris Kneifel 72 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoaA_XAOQX0 1988 SCCA Trans Am at Niagrara Falls Chris Kneifel 72 (in car) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2FAZQJWzdWU&t=8s Gene Felton https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gene_Felton Gene Felton, a distinguished American race car driver, participated in the Trans-Am Series event held during the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach on April 4, 1987 . Driving for Bruce Jenner Racing , he piloted a Pontiac Trans-Am. In the qualifying session, Felton secured the 12th position with a lap time of 1:20.952. Mechanical Expertise: Felton was not only a skilled driver but also an adept mechanic, earning the IMSA Mechanic of the Year award in 1979. George Robinson George Robinson, an American race car driver and owner of 74 Ranch Resort, began his professional racing career in 1987, participating in the IMSA GTU series. In 1988, he joined Bruce Jenner Racing, competing in the SCCA Escort Trans-Am Championship behind the wheel of a Pontiac Firebird Trans-Am. During his tenure with Bruce Jenner Racing, Robinson participated in two Trans-Am races. Although he did not secure podium finishes in these events, his involvement in the Trans-Am series provided valuable experience and exposure in professional motorsports. Trans-Am in New Zealand: 1992 The Camaro Trans-Am in New Zealand: 1992 and Beyond In 1993, Bruce and Pam Jenner’s Pontiac Trans-Am became part of New Zealand’s motorsport history, where it was raced under the recognisable AC Delco livery. This period marked an exciting effort to bring top-tier American Trans-Am machinery to the Kiwi racing scene. The Pontiac arrived in New Zealand alongside a Porsche, both vehicles representing Jenner’s commitment to introducing high-caliber American Trans-Am and European racing cars to the country. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scott_Lagasse Scott Lagasse Sr., a well-known American professional racer, had a storied career in the Trans-Am (TA) series, alongside significant success in other racing disciplines. His visit to New Zealand, along with fellow American driver Chris Kneifel, formed part of Bruce Jenner’s effort to bring top-tier Trans-Am cars and drivers to the local motorsport scene. Scott Lagasse Scott Lagasse and the Pontiac at Wigram – A Notable Performance The Lady Wigram Trophy Race meeting, held on January 16th and 17th, 1993, at RNZAF Base Wigram in Christchurch, New Zealand, marked a chapter in the career of American racing driver Scott Lagasse Sr. and the iconic Pontiac Trans-Am car. Entered under the sponsorship of Bruce Jenner and Autonews Magazine, Lagasse’s participation at Wigram highlighted his skill as a driver and showcased the competitive edge of the Pontiac-turned-Camaro in the TraNZam series. The 1993 Wigram event consisted of three races for the TraNZam class, culminating in the traditional ‘Flying Farewell’race. Scott Lagasse, driving the Pontiac Trans-Am, delivered a commanding performance across the weekend. Drivers Practice and Qualifying: • Lagasse posted a top speed of 191.01 km/h during practice, narrowly trailing local driver Kayne Scott in a Ford Merkur (191.16 km/h). • His pace demonstrated the Pontiac's competitiveness and his ability to quickly adapt to the unfamiliar Wigram circuit. Race Results: • Lagasse dominated all three 8-lap races, securing victory in each and showcasing the Pontiac's speed, reliability, and handling. • His consistent performance placed him ahead of notable rivals, including: • Kayne Scott (Ford Merkur), who finished second in Races 1 and 3. • Kierin Wills (Mazda RX8 V8), who secured second place in Race 2. Performance Highlights: • Lagasse’s victories solidified his reputation as a world-class driver and demonstrated the Pontiac's engineering prowess. • His ability to fend off strong local talent in a competitive TraNZam grid underscored both his skill and the car’s fine-tuned performance. The Legacy of Wigram Scott Lagasse’s dominance at Wigram added another milestone to the Pontiac's storied history. His victories against local favorites like Kayne Scott and Kierin Wills highlighted the car’s capability on New Zealand circuits. Scott Lagasse’s performance at the 1993 Wigram TraNZam races stands as a testament to his driving talent and the engineering success of the Pontiac Trans-Am. Under Bruce Jenner’s initiative, the car not only brought international flair to New Zealand motorsport but also cemented its legacy as a competitive force in the TraNZam series. Lagasse’s clean sweep at Wigram remains a celebrated moment in the car’s rich and storied history. The Jenner Pontiac at Manfeild Track: Manfeild, located in Feilding, New Zealand, was a key venue for motorsport throughout the 1980s and 1990s, hosting international drivers and iconic race cars. Driver: Bruce Jenner’s involvement with the car during this era cemented its significance, as the Pontiac competed against both local and international talent. Legacy: Photos from Jud Chapman provide crucial insight into the car’s racing livery, modifications, and competitive status during the early 1990s. These photos, courtesy of Jud Chapman, are a valuable addition to the historical archive of the Jenner Pontiac, showcasing its impact on the New Zealand motorsport scene and its enduring legacy. Liveries Through the Years 1987 1988 - 1990 1987 The Pontiac Trans-Am livery featured bold, clean designs typical of Jenner Racing’s U.S. campaigns. 1988–1990 – The car retained its Pontiac body but transitioned to blue with Auto News 1990 Transition to Camaro Bodywork Upon arriving in New Zealand, the car underwent its most significant transformation. Under the expertise of Brennan Racing Ltd, the original Pontiac bodywork was removed and replaced with a later-model Camaro body. • This was strategic decision to update the car for improved downforce and aerodynamic performance. • The Camaro body allowed the car to better compete in New Zealand’s local championships in the early 1990s. After the Camaro body was fitted, the car received its iconic AC Delco livery, which became synonymous with its New Zealand campaigns. Under drivers like Bernie Gillan, it continued to make a mark in Kiwi motorsport. Once the Camaro bodywork was fitted, the car entered a new chapter under the Bruce Jenner Racing Team banner. It was during this period that Bernie Gillan race the car in the iconic AC Delco livery. Custodians of the Jenner Camaro Paul Williams 1996 Paul Williams purchased the Camaro shortly after its final updates, which included the Camaro bodywork for improved downforce and competitiveness. Upon taking ownership, Williams continued the car’s racing journey, keeping its legacy alive and cementing its place in New Zealand motorsport history. Paul Williams and the Bruce Jenner Camaro: OSCA Success After purchasing the Bruce Jenner Camaro from Bruce and Pam Jenner in the early 1990s, Paul Williams entered the car into New Zealand’s Open Saloon Car Association (OSCA) series, a popular and competitive championship for high-powered saloon cars. The Wellington Street Race Williams also entered the Camaro into the prestigious Wellington Street Race, a highlight of New Zealand’s motorsport calendar. The challenging urban circuit tested both the car’s handling and his driving precision. The Camaro’s updated aerodynamic design, coupled with its V8 power, allowed Williams to remain competitive in a field of high-caliber local and international entries. A Steady Competitor Paul Williams’ time with the Bruce Jenner Camaro in the OSCA series and at events like the Wellington Street Race highlighted both the car’s versatility and its ability to adapt to new challenges. His ownership continued the Camaro’s legacy in New Zealand motorsport, ensuring it remained a competitive and well-regarded entry in the local racing scene. The OSCA Campaign Under Paul Williams’ ownership, the Camaro underwent further refinements to align with the demands of local racing. The car, now equipped with a 6-litre Chevrolet engine and updated Camaro bodywork, proved to be competitive against a diverse field of saloon cars. At Ruapuna Speedway, Williams’ consistency and driving skill led to strong performances, with victories that demonstrated the Camaro’s capability to perform reliably under race conditions. Despite OSCA regulators requiring him to replace the 5-speed Wiseman gearbox with a 4-speed transmission—a move intended to balance the competition—Williams reported that the change had minimal impact on the car’s overall pace. The Ownership Journey After Paul Williams Following Paul Williams’ successful tenure with the Bruce Jenner Camaro, the car was sold to local Christchurch based owner who took it out for a test session. However, after the initial outing, they decided the car was not suitable for them and quickly sold it to John Harcourt. Andy Greenslade 2004 Derrin and Andy Greenslade The car’s next chapter began when Derrin Greenslade acquired it from John Harcourt. While Derrin appreciated the car’s potential, he encountered challenges with getting in and out of the car through the window access, a common feature in Trans-Am cars. Finding it impractical for himself, Derrin decided to sell the car to his brother, Andy Greenslade. Under Andy Greenslade’s ownership, the Camaro achieved significant success: • Andy raced the car competitively, winning the NZ North-South Series, which earned him the prestigious 1NZnumber—a title awarded to the national champion. • During this period, the car was repainted into its well-known blue and white livery, marking a new visual chapter in its history. Andy Greenslade’s success solidified the Camaro’s place as a prominent contender in New Zealand motorsport, bridging its American Trans-Am roots with its celebrated achievements on Kiwi circuits. Video Footage of Andy Greenslade Racing the Camaro Manfield, New Zealand in 2006: Andy Greenslade Racing the Camaro (Manfield, NZ, 2006) The Camaro's next Chapter: Chris Hatton Since acquiring the iconic Bruce Jenner Camaro Trans-Am in 2007, Chris Hatton has established himself as a successful saloon car racer. Through a combination of skill, dedication, and the Camaro’s enduring performance, Hatton has achieved consistent success across numerous championships, securing titles. The Hamilton 400 was a standout event for Chris Hatton and the iconic Camaro Trans-Am, as he competed in the GT1 class on one of New Zealand’s challenging street circuits. Racing at Hamilton for three years—2009, 2010, and 2012—the event became a key highlight in Hatton’s motorsport, showcasing both his driving skill and the Camaro’s ability to perform on demanding urban tracks. The Hamilton circuit, with its tight corners, unforgiving walls, and high-speed straights, provided the perfect stage for the Camaro’s raw power and refined handling. Each year, the event drew large crowds, with spectators captivated by classic cars competing among New Zealand’s top modern saloon cars. For a closer look at Chris Hatton and the Camaro at the Hamilton 400, you can view the following videos: 2012 South Island OSCA Championship In addition to his Hamilton 400 campaigns, 2012 was a significant year as Chris Hatton competed in the South Island OSCA Championship. The series, known for its competitive and diverse saloon car fields, saw Hatton and the Camaro participate across multiple New Zealand circuits, adding another chapter to the car’s storied racing history. The Hamilton 400 and the South Island OSCA events remain standout highlights in Chris Hatton’s racing career, underscoring his dedication to the sport and the enduring presence of the Camaro Trans-Am in New Zealand motorsport. Spanning over 17 years, these events showcase Hatton’s dedication to keeping the Camaro’s legacy alive, competing on both classic circuits and prestigious street races across New Zealand. 2007 - Current Owner 2009 - Hamilton 400 2012 - Hamilton 400 2007 - OSCA North vs South Replica of the Jenner Camaro The 1998 Camaro Replica: A Replica of the Bruce Jenner Camaro The 1998 Camaro replica was built with the approval of Paul Williams, who was involved with the original Bruce Jenner Camaro. Lindsey Dodd and Wayne Moore, recognizing the car’s significance, agreed to construct a replica of Jenner’s Camaro to match its specifications as raced in the AC Delco livery Key Details of the Replica • Builder: Wayne Moore • First Owner/Driver: Lindsey Dodd • Construction Year: 1998 • Livery: Raced in the LJ Hooker livery during its competitive outings in New Zealand. The car retained many similarities to the original, including the chassis design and overall layout. However, it also incorporated some refinements, such as aluminum panels and fabrication improvements, which made it more practical for maintenance and modern racing demands. Ownership Timeline • 1998: Built and raced by Lindsey Dodd. • 2008: Passed to Steven King-Turner, who continued its racing history. • 2023: Acquired by Chris Hatton in March, who began restoring the car with Lyn Hatton. comments debug Comments Write a comment Write a comment Condividi i tuoi pensieri Scrivi il primo commento.

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The Jenner Porsches at Brainerd Watch Trans-Am race on YouTube https://youtu.be/2odMgf3vYt0 Throwback to 1987 Trans-Am at Brainerd: Bruce Jenner and Elliott Forbes-Robinson in Action Bruce Jenner’s Porsche Performance Bruce Jenner, competed in the Trans-Am Series driving a Porsche 944 Turbo. Jenner’s move to Trans-Am showcased his dedication to mastering road racing, where he competed against some of the toughest drivers on the circuit including the actor Paul Newman. The Porsche 944 Turbo, renowned for its balance and handling, gave Jenner the ability to challenge the powerful American muscle cars that dominated the series. 1987 Trans-Am at Brainerd: Elliott Forbes-Robinson Wins in Bruce Jenner’s Porsche 944 Turbo The 1987 Trans-Am Series at Brainerd International Raceway remains a standout moment in the championship’s history, not only for the intense competition but also for an unexpected and memorable victory. Driving Bruce Jenner’s Porsche 944 Turbo (Car #11), Elliott Forbes-Robinson secured a remarkable win, showcasing both his driving prowess and the capabilities of the German-engineered machine.