This summer is adding new events to all the many things to do in Billings – two speed races for “street” cars, which is being produced by The Order of Chosen Friends. It is hoped that the events will attract the participation of a wide range of vintage cars, according to Lyndon Scheveck, a member of “Chosen Friends,” a nationally registered Fraternal Order that was originally founded in 1876 and resurrected in 2022.

Scheveck explained that “Burn the Point”, which is today a popular parade of vintage cars, used to be a race for “street” cars, but somewhere along the line the race was dropped. He and fellow members of Chosen Friends hope to establish a return of the race and hope it will become an annual event – the True Street Throw Down.

There will be two speed races – two True Street Throw Down events —  one on June 28 and another on August 30. The events will be at the corner of Molt Road and Buffalo Trail Road from 3 pm to 11 pm.

“We don’t want full blown race cars but the kind of cars you would drive to work,” said Scheveck. And, they especially hope to see a wide variety of vintage vehicles – vehicles from the 50s, 60s, 70s, etc.

True Street Throw Down is a memorial race dedicated to Josh Whitcomb, who was an avid race car driver and “a great member of the community and even better friend,” said Scheveck.

Participating vehicles must be driven to the race site – not brought in on trailers. The winner will win a thousand dollars.

“Buy ins” to race are $50 (to help pay for insurance and other costs) and spectators are $20, with those 12 and younger free. All of the proceeds will be donated to School District 2 and the Career Center, in support of the trades – training young people to become welders, mechanics, electricians, plumbers, etc.

Community involvement is the purpose of Chosen Friends, with special focus on getting the younger generation into the trades. It is especially a passion for Scheveck, who believes the youth need more opportunities to become engaged and to help them discover interests and opportunities. He most specifically hopes to divert them from the very dangerous escapades of racing on public streets.

Chosen Friends have gained approval of the County to use the county roads for the speed race, having presented a safety plan and guarantees of insurance, security etc. Detours around the “race track” will be designated. There will be a parking area and bleachers, and vendors. It is meant to be a wholesome fun event for all, one that will serve the community as well as entertain.

For more information contact Lyndon Scheveck at lyndon@schevecklaw.com.