For those entrenched in the world of high-speed thrills and automotive passion, the South Dakota Open Road Challenge (SORC) stands as a beacon. It’s a place where drivers can legally push their machines to the limit, testing both car and driver in a unique and exhilarating environment. Among the many dedicated participants is Dan Rohrbach, an auto body shop owner and operator from Aberdeen, SD, who embodies the spirit of open road racing. As he gears up for his sixth year at SORC, we delve into what drives this seasoned racer, offering insights that resonate with any true car & driver enthusiast.
From Auto Body Pro to Open Road Racer
Dan’s journey into open road racing is a testament to the allure of speed and the open road. Having heard about SORC from fellow automotive aficionados Tommy Dale and Leroy, Dan was immediately intrigued. His car of choice for the past two years has been a distinctive 1969 Chevrolet Caprice, a deliberate departure from the more common high-performance vehicles seen at such events. “It’s fun and different from most of the other cars,” Dan explains, highlighting his penchant for standing out from the crowd and bringing a unique flavor to the race. Beyond the Caprice, Dan has also showcased his versatility by participating in SORC with a ’95 GMC Sierra and even a 2014 Corvette, proving his adaptability across different vehicle types.
Dan Rohrbach 3rszd
The Allure of Open Road Racing for the True Car & Driver
What sparked Dan’s passion for open road racing? The answer is simple yet profound: “Being able to run the cars hard on fun roads (legally) just couldn’t be passed up!” This sentiment echoes the core desire of many car & driver devotees – the opportunity to experience the full potential of their vehicles in a safe and controlled environment. For Dan, SORC provides that perfect outlet, a stark contrast to the constraints of daily driving. His racing endeavors aren’t limited to open road events; he also enjoys “random days at the drag strip and open road course days,” further fueling his need for speed and car performance.
Family, Navigation, and the Thrills of Triple-Digit Speeds
Family plays a significant role in Dan’s racing life. His kids are enthusiastic supporters, eagerly anticipating the day they can join him as navigators. The broader family’s sentiment is humorously cautious, with reminders “not to drive stupid…Ha.” While currently, no other family members participate directly, Dan is hopeful his wife will take on the navigator role, adding a new dimension to his racing experience. The importance of a navigator is paramount in open road racing. “Pretty important to keep track of where you are while just being able to concentrate on the road,” Dan emphasizes. This partnership between driver and navigator is crucial for safety and performance at high speeds.
For those who haven’t experienced triple-digit speeds, Dan offers straightforward, critical advice: “Eyes on the road!” This underscores the intense focus required when pushing cars to their limits. Even seasoned racers encounter heart-stopping moments. Dan recalls a “scariest moment” on the L2L course where his car “came off the ground or at least really unloaded the suspension last year in an uphill curve.” This experience served as a stark reminder of the inherent risks, prompting him to adjust his approach, proving that even for experienced drivers, caution and control are key.
Reflections and the Future of a Car & Driver Legacy
Looking back, Dan’s only regret is not starting sooner. “Should have entered the first year I heard about it,” he reflects. This speaks to the captivating nature of open road racing and the community it fosters. When asked about advice for newcomers, Dan’s humility shines through: “I don’t think they need my advice, I’m still losing. Ha.” Yet, his continued participation and enthusiasm speak volumes. As for the future, Dan envisions a family legacy in racing. “I could see both kids doing it, hopefully I can still wear a helmet beside them!” he exclaims, highlighting his desire to remain involved and share his passion with the next generation. Beyond the racing itself, Dan cherishes the camaraderie at SORC, particularly “hanging out at Grazers and bs’ing with the other racers,” emphasizing the strong community spirit that defines events like the South Dakota Open Road Challenge. Dan Rohrbach’s story is a compelling snapshot into the world of open road racing, embodying the passion and dedication of a true car & driver.
