Our history
1964
Blackhawk Valley Region Is Founded
Blackhawk Valley Region was officially approved as an SCCA region on April 7, 1964, created by combining members from the Iowa, Milwaukee, and Chicago Regions. This marked the beginning of an independent motorsport community in Northern Illinois.
1964
First BVR Event Held
The region’s first event was a gymkhana held in a Sears parking lot, marking BVR’s entry into what would evolve into modern Solo/Autocross.
1965
Competition Auto Show Begins
BVR launched the Competition Auto Show in 1965, an annual charity-focused gathering that ran successfully for fifteen years and helped fund local causes.
1967–1968
Blackhawk Farms Raceway Opens
The region’s first event was a gymkhana held in a Sears parking lot, marking BVR’s entry into what would evolve into modern Solo/Autocross.
1968
BVR Moves to blackhawk farms
After using Wilmot Hills, Lyndale Farms, Meadowdale, and Greenwood, BVR officially shifted operations to Blackhawk Farms Raceway, which quickly became the region’s home track.
Late 1960s
Early Standout Drivers Emerge
Drivers such as Jim Dunkel, Kurt Reinold, Jerry Dunbar, Jerry Knezic, and Bob Blankenship represented BVR at Regional and National SCCA events, helping establish the region’s early competitive identity.
1974
Rockford Speedway Slalom
In the 1970s, BVR maintained an active Solo program. One 1974 Slalom event at Rockford Speedway saw 49 entrants competing in cold, rainy conditions, showcasing the region’s dedication and enthusiasm.
1975
“Smoke Signals” Wins National Award
BVR’s monthly newsletter, Smoke Signals, earned SCCA’s prestigious “First in Class” award under editor Phil Pash, becoming a defining publication for regional motorsport news.
BVR History
1980s
Timing & Scoring Modernizes
The region transitioned from manual processes to using the innovative Chronomix timing system, improving race accuracy and operational quality and paving the way for today’s digital timing tools.
1990s
Solo II Continues to Grow
Into the 1990s, BVR held Solo II events that drew a wide mix of competitors and cars, continuing a decades-long tradition of autocross in the region.
1999
Women of SCCA Host Double Regional
BVR hosted a historic Women-of-SCCA–run Double Regional, where all chief positions — Course Marshal, Chief Steward, Registration, Sound Control, Timing & Scoring, Pit Marshal, and more — were staffed entirely by women.
1990s
Solo II Continues to Grow
Into the 1990s, BVR held Solo II events that drew a wide mix of competitors and cars, continuing a decades-long tradition of autocross in the region.