Jay Novak

[Brian.Novak]

It is with a heavy heart I announce the passing of my dad Jay Novak. 57 year SCCA member and car designer. Taught me everything I know. We won 3 national championships together, 2 in cars with his ground up design work, one in the late Don Sievenpiipers F1000. He was dedicated to formula car racing. Starting with his Super Vee, and then followed by a life in F440/F500/F600. Thank you to everyone who we worked together with in open wheel over the years. It was a great ride with him and I'm proud to have accomplished so much alongside my dad.

[E1pix]

We are very, very sorry to hear this, Brian.

We spent a good hour talking to you both, and Calvin, at the 2014 Runoffs — and the passions were obvious.

Sad times, very sorry you’re going through this. It’s always too soon.

Sincere Condolences.

[BLS]

I'm sad to hear of your loss. Amazing man with a fantastic life. Well done, may he rest in peace.

[GBugg]

I’m so sorry Brian. He was an amazing man.

I’m still driving (and loving) your original Rakavon.

[Mark_Silverberg]

This is very sad news. I think I first ran into Jay in 1992 when we were both looking at a very strange side/ mid engine FSAE car built by University of Illinois at the 1992 competition which was held at Ford in Dearborn. I messaged with him occasionally on Apexspeed on a variety of subjects - he was always helpful and straightforward.

If was obvious that he put considerable thought into his vehicle building and development efforts - but was also quite open in sharing information he felt to be of benefit. Moreover he was always very complementary of other design efforts he found to be of note.
His contributions were significant and he will be greatly missed.