2009

Four starts, three times on the podium. The balance of the 2009 race year in the SCORE International Off-Road Series is impressive. Again, Armin competed alongside team owner Martin Christensen in their Class 1 Unlimited Buggy fielded by the All German Motorsports squad.

At home in Germany, Armin, as initiator, built bridges with the Baja 300 Powerdays Germany between four different offroad sports and many stars. The premiere of the new offroad event in July was a resounding success. But more about that below.

On the first weekend in June, the situation was truly hot. Armin and his team colleague in the second AGM Buggy, Armin Kremer, led for a good 200 km in formation flight on the first leg of the Baja 500. After almost 900 km, their teammates Martin Christensen and Andy Aigner brought the Buggies home second and third respectively in their class. Just two minutes separated them from the winner. Later at the team party there were lots celebrations – and the misfortune of the season-opener was forgotten at last. In January a faulty power train had signalled an early end to AGM’s charge at the Laughlin Desert Challenge (22-23 January).

Mid-September saw Armin contest the Primm 300 with a feverish influenza. He warned his teammate Martin: “I might fall out of the car after one lap.” But things turned out differently: Schwarz put his foot down, Christensen followed suit – and AGM won the Class 1 in outside temperatures of 42 degrees. Third in the overall classification rounded off the event perfectly.

The Baja 1000, the crowning final for the season in mid-November: Again Armin sets a blistering pace in his Buggy. He drives the first stint and hands the car over at the half-way point to Martin Christensen leading his class. Martin puts on his usual great performance but is hampered by an oil leak from the gearbox which requires express repairs. At the finish line AGM celebrate their second place – and their vice-championship honours in the 2009 SCORE.

Baja 300 Powerdays Germany. A fascinating concept: American offroad racing, WRC cars, cross bikes and freestylers congregating in one place at one time for a mega show. Add stars – right up close. Armin Schwarz & Friends turn this idea into reality on 24/25 July 2009. The Lausitz area set the stage. Over 20,000 fans came and enjoyed the spectacular hp-show as much as the chance to chat with their heroes. It quickly became clear that it had to continue – but be even better. Because in motorsport there’s only one direction: ahead.