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Reviving the Spirit of Cannonball Glory
Born in the 1970s as a rebellious test of speed and endurance, the Cannonball Run Challenge has long been a proving ground for daring drivers and extraordinary vehicles. Inspired by the legendary cross-country races, Nik Krueger, Wes Vigh, and Christopher Michaels have written a new chapter in this storied history (Let’s remember their previous success in this domain as well.). Together, they piloted a 2008 Saab 9-5 Aero to set a new two-way (Double transcontinental record) Cannonball record of 61 hours and 59 minutes, reclaiming the title with unmatched precision, skill, and determination.
A Team Effort Across 5,620 Miles
Starting from the iconic Red Ball Garage in Manhattan, the team faced challenges reminiscent of the original Cannonball pioneers. From traffic jams and mechanical hiccups to weather delays and icy detours, every obstacle tested their resolve. Yet, through seamless teamwork and a meticulously prepared Saab, they powered westward to the Portofino Inn in Redondo Beach, clocking an impressive one-way time of 31 hours and 39 minutes.
But this wasn’t a moment to rest. After just a three-minute pause, the team turned back east, embarking on a return leg fueled by their shared passion and unwavering drive. Relying on each other’s strengths, they navigated the night, pushed the Saab’s turbocharged engine to speeds exceeding 155 mph, and met the challenges of fatigue and relentless time pressure.
A Record Cemented in History
By mid-morning Sunday, the Saab roared back into Manhattan. Guided by spotters strategically placed across the city, the team returned to the Red Ball Garage, completing the two-way journey in an astonishing 61 hours and 59 minutes. This record not only shattered the previous mark by more than three hours but also reinforced Saab’s legendary reputation for durability and performance.
The Saab That Made It Possible
The 2008 Saab 9-5 Aero, purchased by Krueger in 2020 with over 160,000 miles, became the heart of this historic feat. Extensively modified for the challenge, it showcased Saab’s engineering brilliance, proving once again that the brand’s legacy endures long after production ceased.
The car’s reliability across 5,620 miles of grueling speeds and conditions was a testament to its design and the team’s meticulous preparation. Nik said about this: “It was very much a group effort, and only possible because of what a great car the Saab is.”
Building on a Legacy of Speed
In 2022, Nik Krueger, alongside a different but equally determined team, etched his name into Cannonball history by setting a two-way record of 65 hours and 28 minutes in his 2008 Saab 9-5 Aero. That achievement smashed the previous benchmark by over eight hours and proved the Saab’s unmatched durability and performance under extreme conditions.
Though their record was broken just a week later, it laid the groundwork for an even more ambitious attempt in 2024, as Krueger and his new team of Wes Vigh and Christopher Michaels set their sights on reclaiming the title—and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in Cannonball lore.
Cannonball: A Celebration of Community and Passion
This record is more than just a milestone; it’s a celebration of teamwork and the bonds formed in the pursuit of greatness. The Cannonball community, often called the “Fraternity of Lunatics,” shares a camaraderie as deep as the passion of Saab enthusiasts. For the drivers, spotters, and everyone involved, this journey wasn’t just about breaking records—it was about embodying the spirit of adventure that defines Cannonball’s legacy.
A New Standard for Cannonball Legends
As the Cannonball community looks to the future, this new two-way record sets a towering standard. It’s a triumph of innovation, resilience, and the power of a great team united by a shared mission. Saab may no longer produce cars, but its enduring legacy continues to inspire feats that defy limits.
Supported by a skilled crew of spotters who mapped the route, managed fuel stops, and scouted police locations, this record-setting attempt proved a masterpiece of planning and execution. The Cannonball community, known affectionately as the “Fraternity of Lunatics,” shared in this historic feat, mirroring the close bonds of the Saab community.
This new record reinforces that, despite the dominance of German cars in Cannonball history, Saab remains a force to be reckoned with. For now, it seems that team’s incredible journey will stand as a shining achievement, reminding us all of Saab’s enduring legacy.
