Reno-Fernley in June ~ 4.1 Mile Track!!!

[Bonster]

Come on out and enjoy one of the West's longest tracks on June 23-24! Reno-Fernley boasts a 4.1 mile, 25-turn track. It's like a huge autocross on the top, and a horsepower festival on the bottom. Cost for this event will be $200 for one day, $375 for two days. As always, the event will include a supply of bottled water and Gatorade, healthy snacks, catered lunches, instruction, and at least TWO HOURS of track time! Go to our website at www.team-racing.org and click on the "schedule" link to sign up. :)

BW

[Kevin M]

The weekend after an autocross and before an SCCA PDX... I'm probably in. :)

[MikeK]

In!

[wrxkidid]

anyone wanna let me ride along with them? im not 18 so i cant run on the track :(

[zpeed]

I might go too. Just to seat my racing pad. :)

[Bonster]

Glad I apparently timed this one right. ;) It was going to be a NASA event, but Jerry let me know that he'd cancelled, so I took it on. What is a pdx? A racing pad? Hey, I might be a seasoned veteran, but I learn new stuff all the time. ;)

BW

[sperry]

PDX is SCCA's new name for level 1 time trials, which is really just an untimed HPDE.

I'll probably be out there getting in some practice before the time trials event, assuming I have tires at the time.

[Kevin M]

anyone wanna let me ride along with them? im not 18 so i cant run on the track :(

I don't know what Bonnie's policy is, but generally you can get ridealongs with instructor-qualified drivers. Most organizations, such as the SCCA, frown on ridealongs with "student" drivers because of insurance reasons, among others.

[dknv]

PDX is SCCA's new name for level 1 time trials, which is really just an untimed HPDE... and doesn't it stand for something like Performance Driving eXperience?

[MattR]

Boy, whoever set the Reno SCCA schedule rules! :lol:

[MikeK]

... except that trackmasters and audi club RFR events are on autox weekends :(

[sperry]

... except that trackmasters and audi club RFR events are on autox weekends :(
Yeah.. booo! MattR is lazy! :P

[MattR]

Matt R Sucks.

[Bonster]

We'd need permission from a parent or guardian before allowing a minor in the car. And yes, we prefer to only let this happen with an instructor or trusted advanced group driver. Reno-Fernley has teen car control clinics, by the way. You should check it out! :)

BW

[Bonster]

The link to the teen car control clinic, by the way, is at http://www.procontroldriving.com/car_control_clinic.htm

BW

[zpeed]

I took the mini car control. I don't like it.

[Bonster]

Thanks for letting us know how the RFR school is, zpeed. I've only instructed there, and that was with a different group several years ago. Car control clinics I think are more for new drivers. Experienced track drivers might fall asleep. ;) Our event does not have specific car control exercizes, but we do have classroom time in between sessions to help further the experience. The combo of driving and classroom time have proven to be a great formula. Hopefully RFR will have some facilities by June other than the old trailer that used to be at Thunderhill. :)

BW

[Bonster]

Just in case you were wondering, we're now up to twelve drivers already! The driver list is up online at www.onemain.com/~bonster/driverlist.html Sure would be nice if Michael had some company from his fellow Subie folks. ;)

BW

[Nick Koan]

Mike, be sure to put the hurt on that Ferrari :p

[MikeK]

I'll cut his brake lines before we go on track.

[tysonK]

I should sign up, this is on my birthday, afterall.

[Bonster]

Hey now, be nice to that Ferrari. It sounds suWEET! And yes, Tyson, you should sign up. It's a great excuse being it's your birthday and all. I'll even buy you a Gatorade. ;)

BW

[100_Percent_Juice]

Will there be a "last day" to sign up for this or just when you run out of spaces?

[WRX06TR]

Damn, that would be a great experience. Too bad my wallet nor my stock tires are up to that. Maybe next year after I have a few autocross events under my belt.

[doubleurx]

I will probably do this day as well. I just have a bunch of things going on right now so I cannot commit right now. I do have it in my calendar though. I had a blast last time; with so much track space you have all the room you need - and I need plenty.

[MikeK]

with so much track space you have all the room you need - and I need plenty.

You just need a little extra paving near turn 6 :P

[doubleurx]

You just need a little extra paving near turn 6 :P

A little? - maybe 20 feet or so would have done it.

[MattR]

You just need a little extra paving near turn 6 :P


Bwahahaha!:lol: Well said

[MattR]

Oh, BTW, I just signed up for both days, A group. I don't want to miss this event.

WOw, looks like Carrie is going to come out in the Mini too!!!

[MikeK]

Awesome! Which group is Carrie going to run in?

[Bonster]

Will there be a "last day" to sign up for this or just when you run out of spaces?

Well, pricing goes up by $25 on May 31st, but we'll most likely fill long before then. RFR is finally getting popular even in California. Best thing would be to watch the drivers list at www.onemain.com/~bonster/driverlist.html We just had two more entries in addition to the twelve we already have. I've never seen so many sign-ups this far out, so I wouldn't procrastinate for long. This looks to be the first year we'll actually fill. I'm sure the track will be pleased. :)

BW

[Bonster]

doubleurx . . . stop that. You're a great driver and you know it. Or at least, you *should* know it. :D

BW

[Bonster]

Awesome! Which group is Carrie going to run in?

***Carrie has signed up for the Novice (C) group. Matt is in the Advanced (A) group. There ya go! :D

BW

[MattR]

Awesome! Which group is Carrie going to run in?

For now she's going to plan on C-Group, depending on how many days she can get in before the team event...She hasn't been on the track in a couple of years, so I think she wants to start out slow. ( I know that won't last too long though:lol: )

[Bonster]

That track has changed so much since it opened a few years ago that I might even hang out in novice group. :p

BW

[Bonster]

So Matt, does Carrie need an instructor, or do you think she's okay to go solo? I ask because you spoke of her having previous events. We have plenty of instructors, I just don't want to insult her by giving her an instructor if she doesn't really need one. Got you both up on the drivers list just now, btw. :)

BW

[MattR]

Carrie's experience is mostly on Buttonwillow and Thunder Hill, so I think it will definately benefit her to have an instructor. She's been around RFR with me a couple of times, but not enough to matter.

[Bonster]

Thanks, Matt. We'll get one of our expert instructors in the car with her to help her learn the line. :)

BW

[Motoring]

Thanks, Matt. We'll get one of our expert instructors in the car with her to help her learn the line. :)

BW


Sounds like a plan - it's been awhile, I know I need a "tune-up". ;)

[Bonster]

Just in case you all might be curious, we already have 16 drivers signed up for this one: www.onemain.com/~bonster/driverlist.html If anybody needs help with the line, but you are an intermediate or advanced level driver, all ya gotta do is ask. :)

[doubleurx]

doubleurx . . . stop that. You're a great driver and you know it. Or at least, you *should* know it. :D

BW


I have had a couple "moments" on turns 5/6 once before that Mike got to witness from pretty close. I'm a pretty cautious (slower) driver. But the A group last time had so much room, that I usually just went out last and had most of the track to myself.

[sperry]

I'm in. :)

[tysonK]

Looks like I better buy some brake pads for the evo.

Cause I'll be out there also.:|

[Bonster]

Yup, Tyson's in. Scott is in. Reno/Sparks folks are definitely showing us Californian's up. Good deal! You guys and gals are all assigned to show us how to drive the track. Just teasin'. :D

BW

[MattR]

Don't follow sperry too closely....he hit me with the 'Spy-Hunter' getaway oil slick last season :lol:, but he's still fast.

[doubleurx]

Don't follow sperry too closely....he hit me with the 'Spy-Hunter' getaway oil slick last season :lol:, but he's still fast.


Not to mention the open window after lunch..........geeeez!

[Bonster]

Well, six of you are from Nevada, anyway. One guy is coming all the way from Idaho! We might get another Idaho resident to join us, as well. We are already up to 17 drivers, 11 of which will be there both days. At least it won't seem like a ghost town this year. I'm hoping we get at least 45 drivers per day -- we'll finally get to pay the track full price! The past couple of years, they cut us some slack. I doubt they'll do that again -- even if they did, I'd feel bad. If we ever wanna see this track make improvements, we gotta get a lot of drivers. So far, it's looking really good! :D

BW

[sperry]

Well, six of you are from Nevada, anyway. One guy is coming all the way from Idaho! We might get another Idaho resident to join us, as well. We are already up to 17 drivers, 11 of which will be there both days. At least it won't seem like a ghost town this year. I'm hoping we get at least 45 drivers per day -- we'll finally get to pay the track full price! The past couple of years, they cut us some slack. I doubt they'll do that again -- even if they did, I'd feel bad. If we ever wanna see this track make improvements, we gotta get a lot of drivers. So far, it's looking really good! :D

BW
RFR is maybe the most welcoming track in the US to enthusiasts. Since Jeremy took over day-to-day operations, he's bent over backwards time and time again to cater to groups like TEAM, the Audi Club, Trackmasters, etc to get them out there. Hell, RFR even worked with ET and TnL to get SECCS out there for our own track day a while back. Not to mention all the work they do to help the SCCA out with their Time Trials program.

RFR gets a huge +1 from me for all their work. Plus it's a fun track (even if Jeremy won't put in a chicane on the front stretch so I'm not so scared going 130 mph into the esses). :lol:

[doubleurx]

I've met the guy from Idaho at several track events. My brain, not what it used to be, can't remember his name. I believe he drives a Miata and used to own an STI.

[sperry]

I've met the guy from Idaho at several track events. My brain, not what it used to be, can't remember his name. I believe he drives a Miata and used to own an STI.
Sounds like Jim. He's a bit of a track hound, drives a silver STi.

[doubleurx]

Sounds like Jim. He's a bit of a track hound, drives a silver STi.

The guy I'm thinking of used to drive a blue STI. He was at the last event Bonnie had at RFR. He trailered his Miata from Idaho. He drove in our group............if you recall on one of the upper sections just before the downhill turn from hell, all three of us were just about side by side before the turn- my fault of course.

[sperry]

The guy I'm thinking of used to drive a blue STI. He was at the last event Bonnie had at RFR. He trailered his Miata from Idaho. He drove in our group............if you recall on one of the upper sections just before the downhill turn from hell, all three of us were just about side by side before the turn- my fault of course.
Never mind then... though Jim's been out to RFR a few times, came to the NORPAC convention a few years back to show his car, been out to Laguna Seca enough to turn his gold Brembo's brown... :lol: I figured it wouldn't be unusual for him to turn up again in Reno.

[Bonster]

You guys are talking about the guy who brought two little Yorkie Terrier doggies with him, right? Nah, not Jim. That's Todd Hayden. He has both a WRX and a Miata. In either car, he's a great driver.

BTW, we now have 20+ drivers! See www.onemain.com/~bonster/driverlist.html We are getting an average of 2 new drivers a day at this rate. THANKS to all of you for recommending us to your pals. It would really be great to finally get to pay the track full price (they gave us a break the last couple of years because we didn't have enough drivers). I hope to see lots of you out there!

BW

[doubleurx]

You guys are talking about the guy who brought two little Yorkie Terrier doggies with him, right? Nah, not Jim. That's Todd Hayden. He has both a WRX and a Miata. In either car, he's a great driver.

BTW, we now have 20+ drivers! See www.onemain.com/~bonster/driverlist.html We are getting an average of 2 new drivers a day at this rate. THANKS to all of you for recommending us to your pals. It would really be great to finally get to pay the track full price (they gave us a break the last couple of years because we didn't have enough drivers). I hope to see lots of you out there!

BW

Yes Todd was his name. Very nice guy. I first met him at an Audi track day at Laguna when he was driving his blue STI.

[Bonster]

Cool. Todd signed up for both days the other day with his Miata. :)

[Kostamojen]

I think I need to sign up for this one...

But would I be stuck in the Novice group with only two track days under my belt


*goes back into hiding*

[Bonster]

K-man . . . we could work something out. You'd just have to change out run group i.d.'s (now an event bracelet). We'd want an instructor to sign you off to go into the Intermediate group first, though, which is no problem. Roseville, eh? I lived there for 5 years, worked there for 8. I now live in Natomas. I miss the old Roseville, when there weren't so many dang houses and people driving around. I still miss living there, though. From Roseville, the RFR track is about two and a half hours. Even closer than Laguna Seca! :D

BW

[tysonK]

I think I need to sign up for this one...

But would I be stuck in the Novice group with only two track days under my belt


*goes back into hiding*


Is there something wrong with the Novice group? I'm sure the track will be big enough to let everyone have fun.

Besides unless you have run there before I'm sure most people would be a hindrance to the Advanced drivers, the course is way more technical then it used to be.

It's not like most people become robert kubica all the sudden and destroy their run group.

[Kostamojen]

From Roseville, the RFR track is about two and a half hours. Even closer than Laguna Seca! :D

BW
I'd plan on spending the night before hand up at the cabin to make the drive shorter. I still havent decided which day to sign up for yet, but ill email you when I have everything ready to go.

Right now I wish I was living up in Reno, my allergies are killing me :( Stupid trees...
Is there something wrong with the Novice group? I'm sure the track will be big enough to let everyone have fun.

Besides unless you have run there before I'm sure most people would be a hindrance to the Advanced drivers, the course is way more technical then it used to be.

It's not like most people become robert kubica all the sudden and destroy their run group.
I guess you havent been stuck behind a corvette driver who only goes faster than you in the straights and insanely slow in the corners... It seriously can ruin a lot of your track time :(

Assuming the Novice group has no passing in the corners of course...

If everyone in the Novice group is half decent, its probably not a problem. But who knows... I'd like the option of bumping up just in case.

[zpeed]

I will also afraid the samething. First time I went out get stuck behind Prosche 930. On the straight turbo pull away really bad but in the turn I close up to the bumper til I have to back out. I was start in Novice Group in both times at RFR then in the afternoon I did bump my self to the intermediate. With the approved of instructor of course.

Can I sign up in intermediate class? (more than 10 years of racing both auto-x and gokart but only 2 track days) Or sign in as novice with an option to move up to intermediate class?

[Bonster]

Because RFR is such a huge track, we'll have no problem bumping folks up a group if they get signed-off with an instructor. Please come find me so that I can set this up for you when you come up. I have a tip for you, though. RFR is a huge track, agree? Well, just show up early in the hot pits to make sure you are first out. It's not likely you'll pass anyone in the 20-25 minute session on such a large configuration (4.1 miles). Our first and last session is 20 minutes long, the four sessions in-between are 25 minutes. I think you'll be happy if you just start out up front. :)

BW

[Bonster]

Hey . . . I've noticed a LOT of autocrossing posts here. You know, the racetrack event is just like a huge autocross. Why not try it out? :) I started out autocrossing, and now I'm a professional racer. Hmmm. Maybe you all might wanna try it out? I promise you won't be disappointed, and we have instructors for novices. Just thought I'd pop that one in there. Autocrossers typically make outstanding track day drivers. :D

[MattR]

Autocrossers typically make outstanding track day drivers. :D


Why thank You!:lol:

[Bonster]

Well, Matt, I have had literally thousands of students . . . it's just doing the math. I am not saying they are perfect out of the box, but knowing the limits of the car, the terminology, etc., really makes my job as an instructor a LOT easier. Can you still get your helmet on that head of yours after this? ;)

[MattR]

Hahaha...No I do agree with you entirely, the car control learned at any level of autocross is very useful in moving to track applications. It's a great starting point.

[sperry]

What's funny however is that track folks tend to make crappy autocrossers... partly because they're not willing to toss the car hard enough, and partly because they're too nice and friendly. Autocrossers are a-holes. :P

[Bonster]

Lol, Scott. I don't know about the a-hole part, but you are right about trackers not necessarily making good autocrossers. I was a track addict first, and decided to hang out and see what was going on at the autocrosses. There was a time when I couldn't afford to just go to the racetrack every weekend, so I started autocrossing. At first, I was the SLOWEST car in my class. Two years later, I was second place in the CSP class with a local club (there were about 15 or so regulars, a total of 29 overall entries for the season). I occasionally autox using someone else's car, as I no longer have a car that I would autox (Spec Miatas are difficult to autox). I just pay their fees and buy them lunch, and I get to autox. Surprisingly, as rusty as I am, I am still quite competitive. I get teased by my road racing pals about autocrossing, but I still think it is a blast. :) If I knew how to design a course, and if I had cones, and if I had a timing trailer, T.E.A.M. would likely host an autox series, as well.

[sperry]

Lol, Scott. I don't know about the a-hole part, but you are right about trackers not necessarily making good autocrossers. I was a track addict first, and decided to hang out and see what was going on at the autocrosses. There was a time when I couldn't afford to just go to the racetrack every weekend, so I started autocrossing. At first, I was the SLOWEST car in my class. Two years later, I was second place in the CSP class with a local club (there were about 15 or so regulars, a total of 29 overall entries for the season). I occasionally autox using someone else's car, as I no longer have a car that I would autox (Spec Miatas are difficult to autox). I just pay their fees and buy them lunch, and I get to autox. Surprisingly, as rusty as I am, I am still quite competitive. I get teased by my road racing pals about autocrossing, but I still think it is a blast. :) If I knew how to design a course, and if I had cones, and if I had a timing trailer, T.E.A.M. would likely host an autox series, as well.
It's been my experience that autocrossers tend to have the biggest egos of any competitors in motorsports... probably because a mistake at an autocross doesn't mean death or bodily harm like it does at the track... so it's easier to be cocky. However I've also found Reno Region to be the exception. We have very few big egos at our races, lots of n00b friendly programs including a Novice program and yearly autocross school, and plenty of members that bend over backwards to help out new folks. But if you go to National Tour events, or larger regional events, you run into a ton of cocky, secretive, overly-competitive people. Watch that Forza Challenge show, the autocrosser guy is by far the most abrasive person on the show... he's kinda par for the course. :lol:

Track folks just don't seem to be quite like that. Usually the fastest people on track end up being the nicest and most willing to share/teach off track. It's probably a chick/egg situation... the nice modest folks are able to learn more because they're willing to listen and learn, which in turn makes them faster and later more willing to teach. At least that's what I've noticed at TEAM, TM and UL events. The a-holes at the track seem to be the people with ridiculously fast cars and tons of track time that are still driving slowly in the novice group because they refuse to learn anything.

As far as track drivers being bad at autocross... I don't really mean they just not good at it, I just mean that when making the transition, track experience doesn't count as much towards autocross speed as autocross experience counts towards track speed. Basically, it's easier to go from the parking lot to the track, than the other way around. On the track being violent with the car is a good way to find yourself spinning in the dirt... at autocross being violent is sometimes the fast way around, since you have so much more available traction at 30 mph than you do at 90. However, the one thing I've noticed about being one of those autocrossers turned trackers is that I have an unnatural fear of being loose on track... I'm really scared of spinning at speed. I'm not sure if that's because of my autocross experiences or just because my car just tends to spin instantly with little warning. :lol:

[doubleurx]

However, the one thing I've noticed about being one of those autocrossers turned trackers is that I have an unnatural fear of being loose on track... I'm really scared of spinning at speed. I'm not sure if that's because of my autocross experiences or just because my car just tends to spin instantly with little warning. :lol:

Yah Scott, you are always so slow at the track...........what gives?

[sperry]

Yah Scott, you are always so slow at the track...........what gives?
I'd be faster if I was willing to let the back end slide around more... I'm just chicken about it. I need to get some seat time in a Miata or S2000... something that can handle a ton of slip angle w/o spinning... and get some practice. I know my WRX gets about .5 deg of slip and then it's spinning. :eek:

[dknv]

It's been my experience that autocrossers tend to have the biggest egos of any competitors in motorsports... probably because a mistake at an autocross doesn't mean death or bodily harm like it does at the track... so it's easier to be cocky. However I've also found Reno Region to be the exception. We have very few big egos at our races, lots of n00b friendly programs including a Novice program and yearly autocross school, and plenty of members that bend over backwards to help out new folks. But if you go to National Tour events, or larger regional events, you run into a ton of cocky, secretive, overly-competitive people. Watch that Forza Challenge show, the autocrosser guy is by far the most abrasive person on the show... he's kinda par for the course. :lol:


... However, the one thing I've noticed about being one of those autocrossers turned trackers is that I have an unnatural fear of being loose on track... I'm really scared of spinning at speed. I'm not sure if that's because of my autocross experiences or just because my car just tends to spin instantly with little warning. :lol:It's been my experience that opportunities to make or lose money tends to bring out the a-hole trait in alot of people. :lol: So is it bad to be overly-competitive? I would say yes, if it makes you cry, or makes you throw your helmet on the ground.

I share your unnatural fear of being loose on the track -- and it wouldn't be so bad if the spinning action were kept horizontal to the ground, it's the idea of getting vertical that makes me lift. :lol:

[Kostamojen]

I'd be faster if I was willing to let the back end slide around more... I'm just chicken about it. I need to get some seat time in a Miata or S2000... something that can handle a ton of slip angle w/o spinning... and get some practice. I know my WRX gets about .5 deg of slip and then it's spinning. :eek:
You missed out on that Mazda zoom zoom event awhile ago... It was interesting auto-x'ing the miatas and experiencing that slip angle you mention. Its pretty fun, however, driving that way gives you less room to make a mistake, because once you commit to getting the back end sliding out like that on that kind of car you cant correct that much, you just have to stick with it...

Anyway, about the Auto-X vs. Track driver thing, I think it has more to do with reaction time, memory, and "space" than anything else. In auto-x, you have very little room to work with (but its safe) and a very short amount of time to react between corners, along with having to memorize a track design quickly. These translate over to road course driving very well.

I still remember the first lap I took at Thunderhill and was like "OMG, I have sooo much room here!" IE being able to go from one side of the track to the other. It took just a lap or two in order to figure out where the racing line was and memorize the basics of the track, but it took much MUCH more time/laps to figure out what speeds to use since tracks are at such higher speeds...

For a track driver trying to go to an auto-x, its more difficult. Quick reactions like during an auto-x are not required driving on a track as you have TONS of time to think about what to do for each corner, so I presume a track driver might take quite awhile to get used to reacting so quickly and having to sacrifice accuracy in each corner for just actually turning quick enough to make the corner :p As for the space difference between the two, it must make a track driver feel claustraphobic at an autox event having so little room to work with. Also, for memory, a track driver could technically get away with having a poor memory, as you really only need to look one or two corners ahead and never remember that much other than where to enter/exit the track, and you have several laps of course to memorize everything, while an auto-x'er needs to memorize the layout a bit before hand and at most during the first run in order to be as quick as possible...

Now, i'm not saying one or the other is better, none of us are, but there is definatly a different learning curve for each kind of driver learning either event.

Oh, and I'm just going to sign up for the Novice group... The field looks more interesting in that group. I plan on signing up in a week or so after I order my brakes :)

[Bonster]

I think I can summarize the difference between autox and track driving in one simple sentence. At an autocross, hitting cones means X amount of seconds added to your run time; at the track, hitting cones means (oh crap!) you just went off the track and might be headed for trouble. ;) I actually started autocrossing because I thought it would make me more brave at the track. Oh well, the brain just got in the way. There's nothing wrong with self-preservance and not wanting to spin -- having fun is where it's all at. :D

[tysonK]

I'm equally bad at track and autocross.

[sperry]

Also, for memory, a track driver could technically get away with having a poor memory, as you really only need to look one or two corners ahead and never remember that much other than where to enter/exit the track, and you have several laps of course to memorize everything, while an auto-x'er needs to memorize the layout a bit before hand and at most during the first run in order to be as quick as possible...

From a time trials perspective, I can tell you that memorizing the entire track is critical. With the exception of corners that exit onto extremely long straight, every corner exit directly determines the next corner's entry, which effects that corner's exit, and so on.

So you find the corner before the longest straight, and figure out what entry maximizes speed down that straight. Then take the corner before that corner and figure out what line maximizes your entry into the most important corner, and so on all the way around the track.

Then you memorize the line to the point where as you make that 1st turn at the end of the longest straight, you're actually driving to maximize speed off the turn 15 corners from now. If you forget where you are, it can snowball putting you more and more off-line as you go around the track... especially on very technical tracks that lack long straights.

RFR's B configuration is quite like this. Starting at the esses there is only one short straight at the back of the track where you can collect yourself and get back on-line. The rest of the track's corners are all closely linked, and with all the blind apexes at the top of the hill, you better remember where you're going or your throwing away tenths at each corner.

[Bonster]

Being as I was organizing the event last year, I didn't get but one opportunity the whole weekend to get out on track. When I finally did, I got LOST, literally. I had no idea where I was going until I rejoined the old part of the 2.3-mile track. :D

[Forgotten]

Well it looks like I'm in. I just ordered some track pads and I am going to sign up for the C group in the next couple of weeks. I can't wait for my first track day. :D

[wrxkidid]

im not gonna lie pete. i hate you.

im so mad i cant get some track days in. I have to wait till next year. :/

[Bonster]

Forgotten . . . get that registration in before June 1st so that you don't get stuck with late fees. :) Wrxkidid . . . sorry to hear that you'll have to endure a tough, trackless year. But that just means you'll have twice as much fun next year, right? ;)

[ddub]

I've never raced my car but am really thinking about signing up for this. Questions: How well will my Falken Ziex tires hold up on the track (are they track worthy)? I have stock rotors with access ultimate pads, will they be alright? What are the limitations for signing up (I would be in the novice group i'm assuming)? How does the novice group run (Follow the leader)? How hard can you push it?

[sperry]

I've never raced my car but am really thinking about signing up for this. Questions: How well will my Falken Ziex tires hold up on the track (are they track worthy)? I have stock rotors with access ultimate pads, will they be alright? What are the limitations for signing up (I would be in the novice group i'm assuming)? How does the novice group run (Follow the leader)? How hard can you push it?
The tires, rotors and pads will take a beating at the track. Tires will probably be alright if you're not pushing too hard, but RFR is tough on braked. Axxis Ultimates will overheat, and then start ruining rotors... I know from experience. Better to get some EBC Yellows that will last all day in the heat, and not break-down into rotor eating bricks.

[Nick Koan]

I'd bet that the Ziex tires will take a beating. But, like Scott said, if you aren't pushing it too hard, it'll probably be alright.

[MattR]

My Moshimoto ZX tires held up fine!

[Dean]

For an absolute novice, street tires and brakes are often sufficient. But if you plan on both days, by the end of day 2, you will wish for better pads. Tires properly inflated and not overdriven should be fine.

:omg: Did Scott just recommend EBC??? The world really is coming to an end today...

EBC Greens might hold up to a 2 day novice workout and be more streetable. Once you get into this, you need to realize that tires, pads and rotors are part of the price of admission.

[sperry]

The Yellows seem to work pretty good on stock brake setups according to the people around here that have used them. Personally, I run something a bit more aggressive, Hawk DTC-70's, but I'm hauling the car down from quite a bit higher speeds than a novice on street tires would be.

When I'm not out there pushing hard, I've run the Porterfield R4's, but the reviews of the new Yellows are promising more pad life, better cold bite, less rotor wear, and they cost a lot less, all for similar performance and feel. Since StopTech's stopped rebranding the Porterfields as their "Club Spec" pads, and seems to be pushing the expensive Pagid line these days, I may opt for some yellows in the future for non-trials days at the tracks. But, much like going to race tires, once you've gone to the expensive kick-ass TOTL stuff, it's hard to dial back... those DTC-70 pads are awesome when they're up to temp!

[doubleurx]

My Moshimoto ZX tires held up fine!

Hey you must be from the street racing gang!

[ddub]

Thanks for the info, I will probably be fine since I won't push my car to hard.

[Bonster]

Hey you guys (and gals, of course)! I just spent a weekend with Track Masters instructing and driving the 4.1 mile track. It is SUCH a blast! Last year, when we put on an event, I didn't get anywhere near enough time to really get to know the new portions of the track. This time I DID, and it is so COOL! About fifteen of our regular instructors were there, as well, so now they can better help the novice/new-to-this-track drivers get around and have fun. This is not a sales pitch -- you will LOVE this track! Word got out over the weekend about our event, so I suspect I'll be seeing a bunch of signups. Don't be left behind -- you really don't wanna miss this place. :D

[MikeK]

I think I am ready! I just finished swapping brake pads, fluid, endlinks, softened my rear swaybar, put my new tyres (http://www.seccs.org/forums/showthread.php?t=5363) on, I have a full tank of gas, half a packet of cigarettes, it's dark and we're wearing sunglasses.

[MattR]

Heck Yeah, I did the same today...took all the Autocross settings and tweaked them for the track...Put the track pads back in, R Comps on and we're ready to roll.

[wrxkidid]

its next weekend right? i wanna cruise out there and maybe ride along with some people if i can just to check it out and since i wont be here for the PDX on the 30th

[Kevin M]

Yep.

Come on out and enjoy one of the West's longest tracks on June 23-24!

[sperry]

Cage is painted, the passenger seat is adjusted and padded so a human will fit in there safely. I just need to check the brakes (they're probably okay) and get some fuel before next weekend.

[GST Mike]

I think I am ready! I just finished swapping brake pads, fluid, endlinks, softened my rear swaybar, put my new tyres (http://www.seccs.org/forums/showthread.php?t=5363) on, I have a full tank of gas, half a packet of cigarettes, it's dark and we're wearing sunglasses.

:lol:

I am 70% that I will be up there, just a couple more things to fall inline and I will be 100% just wish I could bring my little jalopy up there but I think the new setup will have to wait a week to debut at Infineon :(

Mike

[Dean]

Scott, Mike, other's who will be there early and with significant space?

Bonni is in need of assistance in acquiring beverages and transporting them out to RFR.

If need be, I will trailer my car out and use my truck, but somebody who was already planning on it would be better.

She is asking for:

(32) 8-packs (16 oz) of Gatorade -- please get red, orange, antifreeze
yellow (ha!) and maybe an off flavor like grape or whatever your favorite
is.

Either: (21) 12-packs (20-oz) bottled waters
Or: (11) 24-packs (20-oz) bottled waters

And she will gladly reimburse you for the beverages.

[sperry]

I'm hauling out there w/ my truck already. I'll see if I can't grab Lisa's Costco card and pick this stuff up sometime this week. Should be no issue getting it out there, I'll have room in the truck.

[Dean]

Thanks...

I can pick the stuff up since I have nothing better to do and will take you or Matt if he offers up on hauling if I don't end up bringing the trailer.

Since you guys did an event recently, what is the ratio of water to ice bags of what size in these parts?

And is Costco the best deal, or is Walbogs? Bonni seamed to think Wally World was better...

[Bonster]

Dean . . . from my past experience, WalMart is actually cheaper. I once had one of our instructors bring up stuff in his Lexus . . . I was amazed that stuff was actually more pricey at Costco! It might be different up there, but here in Cali, WalMart is cheaper. Gatorade is Gatorade, etc., might as well save a buck or two. :)

[sperry]

I just figured Costco would have the stuff in bulk, Walmart might be better. I don't really know.

If it's hot, you'll need *lots* of ice out there. I think I grabbed 8 of the big bags for ice on Sunday. Carrie got a bunch of the little bags on Saturday (10 of 'em?), and we ran out.

[MattR]

Yes, each ice chest needs about 10 lbs of ice per with a full load of water, that will usually last through the day. Soon Walmart will be open in Fernley, which will be a huge help, but for now, I suppose we'll need to bring it from Reno.

It looks like I will be trailering also. I drive my car around on it's track tires and camber set for track and it's not fun on the street, so I'll have roo too. I won;t have a chance to get to the store this week, but I can bring whatever in the Titan.

[doubleurx]

I really want to go. You will all have so much fun out there. It's looking like high 80's and low 90's for the weekend, so the mornings should be nice and cool. Have a blast!

[Joeyy]

I don't have the money to run, so I did not register. Anybody have any room in a passenger seat for me. I've lost 11 pounds this month, so I should not hurt your times to mad.

[cody]

Dude, eat a sandwich. You're already thin.

[Joeyy]

Dude, eat a sandwich. You're already thin.

My only hunger is for more PAX points!

[Dean]

Ride Sat. and Drive Sunday is always an option or vice versa.

I'll be able to give rides and currently don't have an assigned student, so can coach any of you solo folks that might want it.

[sperry]

I spent a ton of time getting my passenger seat sorted, so I should be able to take people out... but I'm not an instructor, and not really interested in becoming one on the track (at least not for a while, I still have too much to learn, and I'm too scared to ride in a student's car). So, don't expect to learn much from my passenger seat, though it should be a fun ride.

[MikeK]

I think from memory at last year's TEAM RFR event drivers in the A group could take passengers anytime except the first run group of the day.

[sperry]

I think from memory at last year's TEAM RFR event drivers in the A group could take passengers anytime except the first run group of the day.
That's correct according to the handbook.

[wrxkidid]

can a snag a ride then scott/dean/both? :D

do i need a helmet or do they have loaners?

[sperry]

I don't know if there are loaners... I know the SCCA bus won't be out there (this event has nothing to do w/ Reno SCCA) so the normal supply of loaners won't be available... so if you can find a helmet bring it!

[wrxkidid]

sweet ill see if i can snag one. i was thinking about buying one anyways.

[cody]

I got mine for ~$100 @ Summit Racing.

[sperry]

Make sure it's an SA2005. No sense in getting an SA2000 which is the minimum for the event this weekend.

[wrxkidid]

tahts what id get. i want a full face one though dont ask why i just do haha.

[sti deede]

Can you wear open face helmets on the track? I can't recall.

[Kevin M]

Yes.

[sti deede]

thank you!

[Dean]

Charge up your FRS/GMRS radio(s) and throw them in the car/truck.

If a bunch of us are caravaning at some point, it might be nice to have communication.

Scott, what was the "official" SECCS channel? 7:07?

If you don't have one, go spend a couple bucks on a decent GMRS radio somewhere or a couple more bucks on a rechargeable one.

If you absolutely can't afford one, myself or someone may have a spare you could borrow or actually have. I have at least a couple old FRSs I don't use any more.

[sperry]

I've got like 6 or 7 radios, but I doubt any of them have been charged since I moved in November... I'll have to remember to plug 'em in tonight.

Also, when and where for caravaning out there? 6am at the Chevron on the East edge of town?

[MattR]

I can meet y'all at the Chevron/ McD's on Vista just say what time.

[Dean]

I've got like 6 or 7 radios, but I doubt any of them have been charged since I moved in November... I'll have to remember to plug 'em in tonight.

Also, when and where for caravaning out there? 6am at the Chevron on the East edge of town?Track opens at 7:00, Right???

So yes, Scott you should be at Chevron/McDs at 6:00, maybe 5:30...

The rest of us will be there before 6:30. :lol:

I was going to pick up ICE for Bonni at 6:00 at Walmart on McCarren and Mae Anne and head out. The one at 395 and McCaren is just a PITA and I can't think of anywhere with cheap ice at 0600 on a Sat. on the east side...

[Kevin M]

I think the WalMart on Kietzke is open by then.

[Dean]

I think the WalMart on Kietzke is open by then.But a further drive...

[Kevin M]

I reckon it's closer to Fernley than Mae Anne, but suit yourself.

[Dean]

I reckon it's closer to Fernley than Mae Anne, but suit yourself.If I had my sky crane maybe. The distances from either to RFR is less than 0.7 miles difference according to google maps, but 7th st. (Mae Anne store) is way closer to my house.

[wrxkidid]

well if anyone has a helmet i can borrow i would appreciate it :/ i couldnt get the money together for a helmet o well though. i might be out there. i might not :/

[Dean]

Whoever gets there first, try and stake out at least 6 wide... Next to that crossover where we kind of were at the last SCCA day was pretty good.

I know we have at least three trailers(Scott, Matt and I), Mike, Tyson and who all else?

People are welcome to use my enclosed trailer as shade. with the top vent and side door open it stays fairly nice.

I'm all loaded except for electronics and cooler items I think. (Crosses fingers)

Did we pick a meet time? I vote to be rolling out of the Chevron McDs at 6:20

[MattR]

Whoever gets there first, try and stake out at least 6 wide... Next to that crossover where we kind of were at the last SCCA day was pretty good.

I know we have at least three trailers(Scott, Matt and I), Mike, Tyson and who all else?

People are welcome to use my enclosed trailer as shade. with the top vent and side door open it stays fairly nice.

I'm all loaded except for electronics and cooler items I think. (Crosses fingers)

Did we pick a meet time? I vote to be rolling out of the Chevron McDs at 6:20


Be there in time to leave at 6:20...If not, I'll call you guys and meet you on the road. I'm going to load the car now.

Matt

[Dean]

Wow, great weekend... Thanks Bonni.

To all of you who didn't go, you missed killer event.

Matt, sorry you couldn't make day 2. We had a blast, especially in the last session. I was the rabbit in the front, Mike was the fox in the middle, and Scott was the wolf coming up from behind. Great fun.

As a preemptive strike to what is sure to become my new avatar, I refer Mr. Perry and others to his previous what was then turn 12 off in my WRX. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W0_rdnt6rmQ) ;)

Seriously, Scott, I'm really sorry for throwing rocks at you when I dropped some portion of my tire(s) off pavement while you were following me. Just goes to show you that no matter how old one gets, he who drives in gas horses can still throw stones? Sorry, that was a reach. :)

Again, great weekend all.

Big thanks to Mike and the rest who helped me schlep coolers, ice and drinks. SECCS provided the manpower behind the refreshments for the weekend, and I donated the Sunday drinks and ice supply to Bonni for putting on such a great show.

You gotta do the next one folks. Start your track day savings fund today...

[MikeK]

Start saving your track day savings fund today...

And spend some of it on race tyres! (which are addictive, but in a good way like crack)

[sperry]

Dean, I'm just busting you about the rocks 'cause I can (I think you dropped a tire 4 or 5 times that session in front of me!), but it's really not a bit deal. What are a few (more) rock chips on a car with it's fenders beat to hell anyway?

BTW, here's my G-G plot from my fastest Sunday lap (on street tires) vs. my fastest Saturday lap (on race tires). You can see, I don't spend much time in the bottom left/right edges of the traction circle, and you can tell I'm not at all traction limited when accelerating. At least I'm getting a noticeable gap in the 0 to -.5 G area, so I'm not slacking under braking too much, but I'm not accelerating as had as I should be able to according to the plot.

[sperry]

And here's Dean getting his money's worth by using all the track, and then some:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B6atNrncjSo

[Dean]

And here's Dean getting his money's worth by using all the track, and then some:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B6atNrncjSoAgain, I'm sorry. :oops: It was not intentional and there was no good reason to be that far over at that moment either. It was a senior moment. :)

Though I would still contend that at no time did 100% of my tire tread width leave the track(would have to see original video frame by frame to be sure). And except where I threw rocks, I'm not sure they left the track at all. I think the other puffs are just dust at the edge of the track lifting from my tires. Yes, I use the whole width of the track. ;)

Seriously, I'd love a decent copy of the laps with me in front of you. I never get to see my own car. In what you posted, I think I only missed a couple rumble strips and was pretty happy with my corner entry and exit locations.

I'll post a bunch of video later after I pull it in off the miniDV, I was having capture problems last night probably because I was tired and doing something wrong I hope. I have all the stuff off the forward facing camera already.

[MPREZIV]

And here's Dean getting his money's worth by using all the track, and then some:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B6atNrncjSo

I love the "AWW MAN!"

Looks like you guys had a great time! sweet!

[Dean]

BTW, here's my G-G plot from my fastest Sunday lap (on street tires) vs. my fastest Saturday lap (on race tires). You can see, I don't spend much time in the bottom left/right edges of the traction circle, and you can tell I'm not at all traction limited when accelerating. At least I'm getting a noticeable gap in the 0 to -.5 G area, so I'm not slacking under braking too much, but I'm not accelerating as had as I should be able to according to the plot.That is really cool data. I may have to get one of those gizmos. Does it do normal GPS stuff as well or is it just dedicated to data collection? Fixed or movable mounting for some or all of it?

[sperry]

That is really cool data. I may have to get one of those gizmos. Does it do normal GPS stuff as well or is it just dedicated to data collection? Fixed or movable mounting for some or all of it?
It doesn't do trip mapping type GPS stuff, but I think the competition's product might do that.

Here's the website for the one I have: http://www.g2xtreme.com/main.htm

It comes with a cigarette plug power adapter so as long as you can mount it at the same angle in each car, you can easily move it around to several cars to compare laps (though the cigarette power plug won't deliver RPM data, you need to wire it with the hardwire kit for that to work).

The thing that's killing me is the software for viewing the data. It's hard to use and takes some learning to view the data the way you want. It's not AXWare bad, but it could be so much better, plus it has the occasional bug where it locks up while opening files. But I've done a lot of user interface programming in the past, so I'm kinda particular about that sort of stuff.

I will eventually pull all the video off my DV camera w/ the USB (the YouTube video was just dumping composite off the camera into my TV card, so it's about as low quality as it gets) so we can check out the tire drop. One thing to note, you were in the dirt like 4 or 5 times in the 1st two laps of that session. :P Most the time, it was just an inch of tire over the burm, but damn man, why use so much track on the out lap?! :lol:

[kidatari]

Thanks again for the ride-along, Mike :D

I'll try to get some pics posted up soon :)

[MikeK]

No problem, thanks for coming out and being the unofficial photographer!

[Pat R.]

Let's see some of those unofficial photos!

[Dean]

I will eventually pull all the video off my DV camera w/ the USB (the YouTube video was just dumping composite off the camera into my TV card, so it's about as low quality as it gets) so we can check out the tire drop. One thing to note, you were in the dirt like 4 or 5 times in the 1st two laps of that session. :P Most the time, it was just an inch of tire over the burm, but damn man, why use so much track on the out lap?! :lol:My rear facing camera's tape ran out about 4 seconds after I kicked up the big chunks, so I only have rear facing footage until then, but it is enough. Apparently I didn't rewind that tape and I didn't notice when I put it in.

It will be interesting to see your good video. listening to the sound, I am still claiming all the other puffs before that are dust in the grooves of the rumble strips and on the track. I have no rock sounds at all and lots of rumble during each that has a rumble strip.

[Bonster]

Dean -- you are the BEST!!! Everyone needs to yet again applaud you for delivering the drinks and snacks. Our event would not have been so great without your incredible efforts. :D I really hope you can make it next year!

[sti deede]

I'm surprised that Josh hasn't post yet, but the pictures all came out blurry. The only ones that weren't blurry were taken while the cars were parked. Sorry guys.

[tysonK]

Dean -- you are the BEST!!! Everyone needs to yet again applaud you for delivering the drinks and snacks. Our event would not have been so great without your incredible efforts. :D I really hope you can make it next year!

He's a pretty good instructor also.

[Bonster]

Yes, that is what I have heard as well, Tyson. But let's not give him too many compliments or he'll be stuck having to buy a larger helmet.

So anyway, are you folks going to come join us again next year? I was thinking the Father's Day weekend . . . does that sound like a good time? I wanna tell the track early this time so that I make sure we get the weekend we really want. We might even do two weekends next year.

[Dean]

He's a pretty good instructor also.That's me... Waterboy and part time instructor. :)

[sperry]

Yes, that is what I have heard as well, Tyson. But let's not give him too many compliments or he'll be stuck having to buy a larger helmet.

So anyway, are you folks going to come join us again next year? I was thinking the Father's Day weekend . . . does that sound like a good time? I wanna tell the track early this time so that I make sure we get the weekend we really want. We might even do two weekends next year.
It's hard to plan now, since we don't know next season's autocross schedule, which will greatly determine turn-out.

[Bonster]

Yeah, that's the catch-22 Scott. I have to request my dates even before I know what's going on next year. That's what makes it so hard to plan. I've actually missed wheel to wheel races because of my own events.

[dknv]

...But let's not give him too many compliments or he'll be stuck having to buy a larger helmet.Wait, do you know what size helmet he already wears? hee hee hee....
Seriously, that in-car video was great, Dean's line looked really good (except for the gravel). :lol:

[Pat R.]

Wait, do you know what size helmet he already wears? hee hee hee....


Here's a picture of Dean from last St. Patrick's day: