Lompoc-based Central Coast Streetrods, Inc., car club recently gave the Santa Maria High School Race Team a $500 donation. Club treasurer Richard Bouman awarded the funds during a visit to the Santa Maria High Saints’ garage.

“This will help us offset race costs, purchase instructional materials and supplies,’’ said Matt Almaguer, auto shop teacher and race team advisor.

The team, which started in 2008, has about 14 members, including one from Righetti High School. The team has two race cars and a dragster. The school’s auto program has more than 100 students.

In April, the team’s 1968 Camaro made it to the second round of eliminations during a drag race at Famoso Raceway near Bakersfield.

— Kenny Klein for Santa Maria Joint Union High School District.