It was in the same location as last year, but it definitely wasn't the same IASCA. After all, the sound-off sanctioning body is now under the direction of its new sole owner Paul Papadeas, who has reworked the show over from the ground up. But, before most everyone arrived at the event, people were wondering if the show was going to be a success or a deserted waste land. Any concerns over attendance were quickly laid to rest. The IASCA crew did a month's worth of local promotion prior to the show, which pleased and reassured the exhibitors.
When the Finals weekend arrived, things started off with a bang. Friday night everyone received the big news at the competitors' meeting concerning the rules for the '03 season. There was quite a buzz among competitors as to what happened during the meeting. These things by nature tend to stir up controversy. It was no surprise that there were some unhappy competitors, especially in the "sponsored" Amateur Street category, as they were all thrown into the same class with the pro guys. This is an issue that won't die soon.
A new "rookie" class is going into effect along with an "e-mobile" class. Next year should make for some interesting and much needed changes, but the big question is this: what is it going to take to get fresh, new, young enthusiasts involved? Old school car audio legend Harry Kimura was also on hand and judging in the lanes. Is he looking to make a comeback? And while we're talking about rumors: word is that Mike Mineo of Brooklyn's Best is also looking to come back and in new physical form.
The other (constant) controversy had to do with judging, of course. One Pro's comments were that we need more judges -- one way to do this is to judge the Pros on Friday and judge the Amateur class on Saturday. This sounds like a plan! This way young competitors can have some great interaction with the top guys and get critical feedback and advice as to how to develop a system for high-level competition. Plus, let's just look at who these current judges are. What cars have they built and/or competed in? Are they sound engineers? How do they qualify as judges? For that matter, how does anyone qualify for judging?
All in all it was a great weekend. Notwithstanding the disagreements and the issues that are still unsettled, competitors and spectators alike enjoyed an intense and fun weekend. It's great to see people who are passionate about the sport and music and gear! The future of IASCA and sound competitions seems secure -- how much it will grow will depend on many factors, not the least of which is how well the sanctioning bodies promote it. For now, it appears to be in good hands.
On the other side of things, we got to hang out with a couple of maufacturers during the evening hours to talk shop (for instance TWD Audio and Diamond Audio).
First reader to show me all the competitors up on their walls will win some manufacturer T-shirts -- yes, you might have to buy two copies of the mag to get them all up, but so what, we're talking about T-shirts with a value of $10 dollars each!!!
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Natan BudionoPro Street 1-600 |
Rusty & Allison GreggAmateur Ultimate 1-300 | 
Todd Gaskell Novice Street 1-600 |
Steve CornellPro Ultimate301-600 | 
Aland Hutchins Amateur Street 601+ |
Gary BiggsPro Ultimate 601+ | 
Jayson GoldNovice Street 601+ |
Markey DietrichPro Ultimate 1-300 | |