Back on Track: UMaine’s Black Bear Racing Makes Triumphant Return to National SAE Competition
The University of Maine Formula SAE team, Black Bear Racing (BBR), recently returned to national competition at the Michigan International Speedway. It marked their first appearance in Detroit since 2013. While the team did not compete in dynamic events, they persevered through rigorous technical inspections that drew praise from judges and seasoned competitors.
Upon arriving at Michigan International Speedway, the Black Bear Racing (BBR) team immediately set to work preparing their car. They successfully navigated the initial technical inspection, a demanding process involving over 100 checks, a notable achievement for a “rookie” team that impressed judges and competitors alike. While subsequent challenges, including a tilt test and a full day spent on noise restriction modifications, demonstrated the team’s adaptability, they ultimately ran out of time to complete the final brake test, preventing them from participating in dynamic driving events. Despite this, the team’s spirits remained high. No other rookie team passed all four technical inspections, and even some experienced teams fell short, underscoring BBR’s significant accomplishment. The team gained invaluable technical and managerial knowledge, benefiting from advice offered by judges and other teams.
Looking Ahead to the 2026 Racing Season
The 2025 season represented a rebuilding effort for Black Bear Racing. With limited resources, the team incorporated components from the 2013 car into their new design. Their success in bringing a running, driving car to the international competition is a feat many first-year teams, and some second-year teams, do not achieve. Judges praised the quality of UMaine’s car, noting its polish compared to other first-year entries they had seen.
Energized by their Michigan experience, BBR is highly motivated for the 2026 racing season. The team plans a complete redesign of the formula car, aiming to integrate new technologies and ideas prevalent in the SAE International world. Their goal is clear: return to Michigan and improve upon this year’s performance putting UMaine in the national spotlight.
Support Black Bear Racing’s Journey
The UMaine Formula SAE team is dedicated to providing hands-on experience in design, manufacturing, and project management. Their journey is made possible through the support of individuals and organizations. If you’re interested in helping Black Bear Racing achieve their 2026 goals and beyond, you can make a contribution, helping the team acquire materials, tools, and resources needed to build a competitive vehicle. Contact Seth Dixon, Black Bear Racing President at seth.dixon@maine.edu to learn more about sponsorship or material donations.