SPEEDY BEETLE: Racing team co-owner Jim Graham of Felton rests on the fender of a Desert Dingo Racing Volkswagen Beetle in need of a paint job. The team has called for applications from area artists who’d like to redecorate its two cars.

Felton racing team seeks car artist

A local team that calls itself Desert Dingo Racing is holding a contest to find an artist to paint its two Volkswagen Beetles for entry in the 1,300-mile Tecate SCORE Baja 1000 race in November. Co-owner Jim Graham of Felton said the cars will get worldwide visibility, with TV coverage and an anticipated 130,000 in-person spectators. His team has entered to promote World Diabetes Day, which coincides with the Nov. 14 race day.

To enter, an artist must submit a proposed design and three examples of previous work. Deadline is Tuesday, Aug. 7. The team will pay $100 and promote the artist’s work in media interviews and on its Web site.

“Diabetes is a global problem and affects people of all ages,” said team co-owner Mike Aquino, who has Type 2 diabetes. “Half the people who have diabetes don’t realize it, and we want to use the race to draw attention to this growing health issue.”

The team’s two cars are a 1967 Beetle used for advance promotion and a 1969 Beetle that will be raced but is dismantled at the moment.

At a glance info: Desert Dingo Racing, 234-4337 or www.desertdingo.com .