Teams

Packard Burger Express

Garage Headquarters: Northhampton, MA

Driver: Robert E. Mc Govern Jr

Mechanics: Ed Malinowski, Kendra Turlow, Rachael Bruno, Sage King

Nuts and Bolts:

“The restaurant business is a collection of people dedicated to having fun,” says Robert E. Mc Govern, Jr., who is better known as “Bob” to diners at the popular Packard’s eatery in Northampton, Massachusetts. “I, for one, at age 61 feel like a kid – and most say I act like one!” As owner and manager of an establishment famed for its delicious hamburgers, Mc Govern is channeling his inner child in preparing to drive a burger-shaped racecar at Red Bull Soapbox Race.

He’s got a free-spirited crew to help him in the effort. Rachael Bruno, Sage King, and Kendra Turlow are enthusiastic young employees at Packard’s, while Edward Malinowski is a longtime pal of Mc Govern’s who shares the restaurateur’s zest for living. They’re building their bodacious burger out of chicken wire, foam, and aluminum tubing – not the most appetizing ingredients, but lightweight and easy to shape for a group of people who have never before attempted anything remotely like this. “The biggest challenge is the actual frame,” Mc Govern comments. “Welding!” Fortunately, the team is confident of their skills in the skit department, and they promise to put on a great show for the crowd at College Hill. “Expect the unexpected!” Mc Govern crows. “We are good!”