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Sandy
11-16-2005, 09:32 AM
While it is fresh on your mind, give us suggestions for next year. Please be reasonable. Address such issues as schedule, socials/entertainment/food, trophies, victory circle, Contingency program, entry fees, car classes, facility, local area issues, etc. Tell us what you would like to see continued, changed, included, deleted, etc. Please make it constructive suggestions. Sandy, Atlanta Region Treasure and Paddock Queen a/k/a Escort

lateapex911
11-16-2005, 10:30 AM
Combined classes, such as ITB and ITC get their own pace car and start.

Tech is as aggressive as possible, and pulls heads on top 3 in all IT classes, more if possible. A stock side housing set is procured (borrowed) and a rotary is actually torn down to really check porting.

SMs are part of the show, with SSMs being looked at as well.

Finally, the test day stays on the schedule.

Would a big screen with turn by turn coverage on the front straight be asking too much??/ Yea...thought so....oh well. ;)

Knestis
11-16-2005, 10:39 AM
I had to see it to really understand but the paddock issue really needs to be addressed. It was pretty appalling how much room was taken up by large boxes of air on wheels - enclosed trailers that sat empty next to race cars.

If I had one, would I love the shade, changing room, and convenience of having all of my "stuff" in cabinets right next to the car? Sure, but this is one of those cases where equity trumps the desires of a portion of entrants. When we raced karts, each racer got one, 10x10', marked pit space. If you teamed up with someone else who also had a kart, you could put a 10x20' awning over two adjoining spaces. We were all in the same boat, space-wise - rich, poor, or otherwise - and we all had to pick and choose what we wanted to put in our space.

It was crowded to the point of being dangerous, as drivers tried to get to the grid around blind corners with congested pedestrian and vehicle traffic. Make the access roads a little wider, give everyone 1/300th of the space available, and the entire situation would be more comfortable for everyone.

K

Sandy
11-16-2005, 11:21 AM
Paddock space is a real challenge. Your comments are well taken.

Catch22
11-16-2005, 11:42 AM
The $150 extra driver fee for the enduro is kind of ridiculous.

With a mandatory 2 stop race its a great opportunity to get friends and crew involved in the race, but at $150 each 3 drivers sends the entry fee up to $575.
Thats ridiculous.

The 13 hour race at VIR is only $750 and includes up to 4 drivers in that fee.

Atlanta is the only region that does this. The others charge from $0 to $50 for extra drivers.

Otherwise you guys did a great job Sandy. Paddock trouble and bitchy drivers had already started by Wednesday evening and you guys handled it perfectly. At the end of the day, its always going to be hard to stuff 300+ entries in that paddock.
Maybe in the future we can designate parking for non-support vehicles somewhere outside the paddock and run a couple of shuttles. I think if you get all of the street cars and spectator rides out of the mix things improve ALOT.

bldn10
11-16-2005, 12:05 PM
Start the "program" at the socials earlier. Everywhere I've been it is the same - after a long day of racing most people really just want to move on. Dinners are always earlier than people normally eat and many plan on going out anyway. By the time the worker give-aways started on Fri. and the awards, not to mention karaoke, on Sat., the place was emptying. The give-aways and awards should be to full houses so that workers, donors, and winners get their due.

gsbaker
11-16-2005, 12:11 PM
Originally posted by Catch22@Nov 16 2005, 11:42 AM
...Maybe in the future we can designate parking for non-support vehicles somewhere outside the paddock and run a couple of shuttles. I think if you get all of the street cars and spectator rides out of the mix things improve ALOT.

65522
Good idea, Scott. I'd gladly park in the south 40 if a shuttle were available. It could also be used by spectators to move around the various viewing areas.

Also, a Wi-Fi hot spot would be nice. I'm not suggesting coverage for the entire course, but even a single spot would obviate the need for some to dash back to their hotels just to send an e-mail. Not a "must have" for racers, but a nice touch for spectators.

dj10
11-16-2005, 12:47 PM
[quote]
While it is fresh on your mind, give us suggestions for next year.

Have Fletcher adjust his brakes before he gets to the grid. hehe :D

92AS
11-16-2005, 12:50 PM
Playing the National Anthem would have been nice. It's the only race I've ever been to where it wasn't.

Hotshoe
11-16-2005, 12:54 PM
Originally posted by lateapex911@Nov 16 2005, 02:30 PM
A stock side housing set is procured (borrowed) and a rotary is actually torn down to really check porting.

SMs are part of the show, with SSMs being looked at as well.

Finally, the test day stays on the schedule.

Would a big screen with turn by turn coverage on the front straight be asking too much??/ Yea...thought so....oh well. ;)

65512


Jake,

...I do not think that doing a complete tear down on a rotary engine is practical. Although, my engine is due for a freshening (obvious by my lack of power on the straights during the ARRC) so please protest me @ VIR in March ;) .

...The top three passed tech at the ARRC, but I guess that is not good enough. Congrats to ATTILA LUKACS for the win :smilie_pokal: . And special thanks to Kurt Jackson for all his help :D .

... I do like the BIG SCREEN idea... Maybe we could do a special fund?

... And last but not least.......... Thanks Fletcher...... For Making the first move. You do a heck of a job :023: !!!

... Rick Thompson
... 2000,01,02,04,05 SARRC IT7 Champion
... 2001 & 2005 ECR Champion / Co-driver
... 2005 ARRC Runner up IT7 & Track Record Holder @ 146.323 :cavallo: :cavallo:

Fleetcare
11-16-2005, 12:57 PM
[quote]
While it is fresh on your mind, give us suggestions for next year.

Have Fletcher adjust his brakes before he gets to the grid. hehe :D

65532



I know it is a large change but would it be possible to use the other side of the paddock? I personally like the infield but pit out might be a problem although the ALMS guys have that problem.

The other benefit is its also flatter but I could not say about total area.

Just an idea, but this years event really was good besides the spec miata black flag.. Oh well.. it happens

~Jonathan

p.keane
11-16-2005, 01:31 PM
I think it is a great idea to add the ALMS paddock. If you could only send a race group or two to that side it would help parking. I would like a split start for B and C. Otherwise. I think the 2005 ARRC was great. PK

charrbq
11-16-2005, 02:20 PM
Positive comment...the parking at the event went smoother this time than I've ever seen it.

Negative comment...it took hours before we could get in to park. We arrived in early afternoon after an 11 hr drive only to sit until after dark before we could get into the track.

Positive note...could you have the same weather steward do the same job next year...PERFECT! :happy204:

mlytle
11-16-2005, 02:31 PM
Originally posted by Knestis@Nov 16 2005, 02:39 PM
I had to see it to really understand but the paddock issue really needs to be addressed. It was pretty appalling how much room was taken up by large boxes of air on wheels - enclosed trailers that sat empty next to race cars.

65514

i agree to a point. booting all trailers would be extreme, but maybe limiting the size would help. it didn't seem right forcing all the open trailer folks to pull out and squish together (using a tape measure!) when there was a huge toterhome and massive trailer in the paddock that was supporting ONE car.

boot all the motor and toterhomes from the paddock and the space problem would go away...

OTLimit
11-16-2005, 02:46 PM
Originally posted by dj10@Nov 16 2005, 10:47 AM
Have Fletcher adjust his brakes before he gets to the grid. hehe :D

65532


Yes, but at least he apologized :)


or did it happen more then once :P


I am going to start a thread EARLY next year and see if we can coordinate transportation from (and to, if necessary) the airport. Even if we saved a couple of people trips to the airport I think it would be worthwhile, because I don't see me saving enough vacation (again) to come down early in the week, and the ticket price beats a 9-10hr drive.

R2 Racing
11-16-2005, 03:02 PM
I agree with Scott on the extra driver fee for the enduro. It seemed a little steep to me, especially considering our promised 45 minute qualifying session got cut back to about 15 minutes. We were counting on that time to get my co-driver out on track since he had never been out on Road Atlanta in a racecar before. Unfortunately I had to run the entire 15 minutes we were given just to qualify our car and seat time couldn't be given to my co-driver. On top of that, the practice day was a little "iffy" too. Again, for our ITC enduro car, we paid $100 for a promised 60 minutes from two sessions. Those two sessions got cut back to about a total of 30 minutes, if that. Then at the end of the weekend, I didn't see anyone running up to use trying to give us some of our money back since our promised 105 minutes got cut to about 45.

As for the paddock space, I thought it was handled ok, all things considered. My biggest gripe was how we showed up just a shade too late Wednesday night to get parked that night. I didn't have a problem with that since we were first in line to be parked the next morning. When the morning came, a rig that came in next to and much later than us got taken in first as we were told to stay put and we'd be taken in next. Of course once that first rig was taken in, a mad dash took place by anyone and everyone behind us to get down to the paddock area. After we got passed up by at least a dozen other rigs, we decided to not wait up there anymore as "we were told to stay put and we'd be taken in next". I think we'd still be sitting there if we actually did that.

If space is really that much of an issue, I think giving everyone equal paddock space is unrealistic. Trailers and tow vehicles come in all sorts of shapes and sizes. If something does have to be moved out, I'd start with the open trailers too. They aren't used to house tools and spares much and usually end up as wasted space when the car's off of it. Enclosed trailers and RV's end up fulfilling more of a purpose than that. If anything really needed to be done, it was the "crew and support" vehicles. They got parked anywhere and everywhere - on at least 5 occasions, I had to go looking for the owner of a car or truck that was parked right in front of my paddock spot. What if a sticker was placed on the windshield of tow vehicles alone upon initial entrance to the paddock? That way if a car doesn't have a sticker, it doesn't get admitted to the paddock, ever.

If the ALMS paddock were to be used, what if all of the SM cars were put over their or something? That would be about 50 cars and any of their tow rigs, support vehicles and whatnot out of the other paddock.

JamesB
11-16-2005, 03:18 PM
I didnt see the paddock first hand but some of you have been to the MARRS races at SP. space there is at a supreme primium to the point that they dont allow open trailers inside the paddock. Everyone has to park their opens outside by turn 10 or registration for the weekend. But it does work. If there is space elsewhere ask the the opens to unpack and park their trailers outside the paddock. encourage grouping like WDCR does. Its worked so far with minimal complaints.

dave parker
11-16-2005, 03:41 PM
James
You statement is not quite correct. An open trailer IS allowed to remain in the paddock at MARRS Summit Point events provided that the trailer, tow vehicle, and racecar can all fit in your 20 foot by 40 foot space. If you cannot fit all that into your 20' x 40' space then you must move your open trailer to the outside of T10. Or face the wrath of the paddock nazi's. Its all in the supplemental regulations, I KNOW all rookies read the supps, right?


I was unable to attend this year's ARRC but I can imagine that the paddock parking issues came close to rivaling the issues that we have at MARRS events at Summit Point (350 plus cars, everyone wanting to be on the pavement and the one guy who shows up with the tractor trailer rig, full 40'x 20' awning, and ONE little racecar).

cheers
"dangerous" dave parker
wdcr ITC->HP #97

JamesB
11-16-2005, 04:12 PM
Dave I got a different view from the supps and to me the meaning came over that sure if it can fit but we would prefer if you didnt and maybe even find someone to buddy up to so you can squeeze 2 cars into the same paddock spot.

Sandy
11-16-2005, 05:30 PM
Great comments... give me more, how about some of the other items I mentioned in my beginning email.

dave parker
11-16-2005, 05:36 PM
James
I agree with your thoughts. The Competition Committee DOES want MARRS racers to share paddock space. But the language in the supps is such that you MAY keep your open trailer in your paddock space if it all fits in the 20' x 40'.

Just wait until you get YOUR turn to play paddock marshal. :D :D :D

cheers
"dangerous" dave parker
wdcr ITC->HP #97

Zahniser1970
11-16-2005, 05:38 PM
The add'l enduro driver fee is a little stiff. $50 max is about right. We raced at VIR two weeks prior and did not have the add'l fee for the enduro or the Carolina Cup race. Just kind of not right to charge that much,

JamesB
11-16-2005, 05:52 PM
Originally posted by dave parker@Nov 16 2005, 05:36 PM
James
I agree with your thoughts. The Competition Committee DOES want MARRS racers to share paddock space. But the language in the supps is such that you MAY keep your open trailer in your paddock space if it all fits in the 20' x 40'.

Just wait until you get YOUR turn to play paddock marshal. :D :D :D




I dont know if I want that many enemies in my rookie year. I have a tendancy to rub people the wrong way. Ask my boss, hes always telling me to stop blugening our network operations center.

eho
11-16-2005, 06:14 PM
...

Edwin Ho
11-16-2005, 06:20 PM
I'm pleased to say that my paddocking experience went quite smoothly this year. A group of us had requested to paddock together. I was the last of our group to show up, and after a short (30 min.?) wait to get in, I just rolled in and unhooked. I know that it didn't go as smoothly for others.

Speaking of being spacially challenged, try fitting into a sub 20' x 20' paddock spot at my home track, Waterford Hills.

Ed.

RSTPerformance
11-16-2005, 06:22 PM
Originally posted by Sandy@Nov 16 2005, 09:32 AM
While it is fresh on your mind, give us suggestions for next year. Please be reasonable. Address such issues as schedule, socials/entertainment/food, trophies, victory circle, Contingency program, entry fees, car classes, facility, local area issues, etc. Tell us what you would like to see continued, changed, included, deleted, etc. Please make it constructive suggestions. Sandy, Atlanta Region Treasure and Paddock Queen a/k/a Escort

65507



I didn't go this yr but next yr will definatly be going!!

Something that I liked in the past is the trophies that had the medalion in them. (2003) Absolutly awesome!! Also it would look cool to hang another one next to it if I ever got the chance!

National anthem would be awesome!!

Tow fund that was picked randomly to gnerate more interest from other regions rather than just the east coast

All tractor trailers should park in the infeild area. They have the money for fancy 4 wheelers and stuff!! OK JK but seriously we should use the inside paddock for a few race groups. The reason I say the entire race group is because for that particular group they can use the infeild pit in as well. Keep it simple so people don't have to lug there stuff all the way around to pit lane.

socials earlier so that more people attned like someone else mentioned!

A BIG article in Grassroots motorsports and Sports car! Let's talk it up and give it more exposure than just this website!

Keep up the great work!

Stephen

gran racing
11-16-2005, 07:29 PM
I'm not into the idea of seperating people by the group they are racing in. It would also be nice to keep everyone in the same general area if at all possible. This is a social event and seperating people might detract a bit from that. I think you guy/gals did a great job with finding space for everyone! I've been to many other events where there was not nearly as much space.

Limiting people to a certain size is a nice idea. Maybe on the registration form include specifics on what the person's paddock needs are. This way things can be planned out a bit further ahead of time and would take some stress off of you (Sandy and Fletcher). The person should list the size of their trailer and what their tow vehicle is. Yes I stole the idea from what was done for the NER people but it seemed to work very well.

The practice day is a must in my opinion. It would have been extremely difficult for us newbies to the track to have any clue on how to drive the track without it. And I will certainly need it the next time I go as well.

RSTPerformance
11-16-2005, 07:35 PM
and Raymonds comments:

ITA/B/C/S (and teamate cars such as Anthony's EP car all with one rig) parks in the "traditional" paddock. The other racegroupes paddock on the other side and use the other pits/paddock. However if that is done a shuttle of some sorts will be needed for the pit/grid marshals as well as Timing and Scoring. Stewards are assigned to classes, so you could probably put the respective stewards in each area.

My HUGE pet peave about this event is that you list the sponsors on the webpage, but you don't list the contingencies... I REALLY REALLY think that it should be published upfront on the website in advance, not only so that we can see that X company contributes $1,000 and Y company only contributed $5.00 but it also might encourage more drivers to come. I think that the way the NARRC was advertized was great. On the positive note though, I do like that you can go to one trailer to get everything on race day, however it is far to much stuff to go over if you are race group one so you can either choose to run everything or nothing.

Split start for B/C is a must IMO.

FREE Wireless web access

$50 max for the double driver entry... It really doesn't make sense for two drivers to run one car, when you can just run two cars for a little more $$$ (entry fee wise).

Raymond

chumpy36
11-16-2005, 08:00 PM
Originally posted by JamesB@Nov 16 2005, 08:12 PM
Dave I got a different view from the supps and to me the meaning came over that sure if it can fit but we would prefer if you didnt and maybe even find someone to buddy up to so you can squeeze 2 cars into the same paddock spot.

65579


I thought things went pretty smoothly other than the fact it took a long time to register. That may have something to do with the new system being used for the first time but sitting out in the cold for 2 hours didn't improve my mood! :)

I would also like to see the contingency spread out among the field. More random drawings etc for prizes and or gear/money/tires. I don't like subsidizing the racing of others. Racing's too expensive. I think it would go a long way for a midpacker or backmarker to feel like they could get some contingency too.

I was concerned at times about the paddock situation becasue it was so close. Pedestrians don't look and racers sometimes go faster than they should. I'm not sure what would help this but using the other side of the paddock seems to make sense to me.

Thanks for everyone's hard work...

JAson

Rob May
11-16-2005, 08:02 PM
This is great Sandy. You spoke of victory circle. The enduro drivers got NOTHING of that. No victory lap, no podium, no pictures, no champagne, nothing at all. I heard more than one person say "if they aren't doing it for us, we're not coming back" Although I feel that is a little strong, I understand where they are coming from. All the other classes got it, why not the enduro? I think it would be magnificent if that could happen.

I second the part about the second driver enduro fee. Pretty pricey.....

I would like to say that the event just gets better and better with age. Thanks to all the help before during, and after that all the SCCA volunteers do!!! With the comments that are being given, we can take it to the next level!!

RSTPerformance
11-16-2005, 08:27 PM
Darn it... good points after my post...

Last year registration tried a "new method" as well and it was the worst experience I have ever had at any registration for any event racing or not. Seems like the region should try these "new methods" at smaller races first? I do have to admit though, they are trying and thank you for that...

Enduro podiums would be great even though they will be time consuming...

Raymond

mlytle
11-16-2005, 10:37 PM
follow the supps for car numbers!!!!

we were one of the first cars to register and were told several times before the event that we had the number we requested. the supps stated first come, first served on numbers and that local region reserved numbers would not be honored. when we got to registration, surprise, no number. it seems a later entry who was a "local" had the same number request and it was given to him. grrrrrr! we were then assigned a number that wasn't even our second or third choice, despite the fact that they were available.

registration did seem a bit convoluted. race registration is not a new science that needs to be reinvented. the wdc region has the process down cold. copy it!

the split qualifying for the enduro was poor, especially finding out about it an hour before the sessions. many folks planned on the 45min session for co-driver familiarization. we were going to have to race with the miata's anyway, why have a separate session for them to qualify and whack our track time by over 50%?

excessive double yellows - wow, felt like we were at watkins glen or something. seemed like every car that went off drew a double yellow and a few parade laps. sheesh, how about a local yellow and a quick hot pull? again, wdcr has this process down, copy it!

Fleetcare
11-16-2005, 11:58 PM
I will add 1 thing because it became a pain in the rear.

If your not a racer, no parking in paddock. You can walk through but no parking.
I spent 10 minutes trying to move 20 feet because someone was looking for a spot to open up. He then took another racers spot and some words took place.

Even though I was not a racer this time. I felt there was no need to park there. It was hectic enough!

RacerBowie
11-17-2005, 09:36 AM
What if all open wheel type cars went into the infield paddock, and all closed wheel cars stay in the standard paddock?

dickita15
11-17-2005, 10:06 AM
hmm, maybe the amount of the entry fee should be tied size of the paddock space used. :lol:

gran racing
11-17-2005, 10:30 AM
Registration was a bit funny. Everyone stood in one line (crew and drivers). One crew member said hey, there is a line specifically for crew. O.k. A herd of people go over there then get to the window. You're done here now you need to go in that line (no idea what that line was for?).

When we got to registration, there were a bunch of people working there which is awesome and appreciated. If organized a bit differently it could go much faster though.

Open / closed wheel areas...how many open wheel cars were there in total? It didn't seem like many but I could be wrong.

charrbq
11-17-2005, 01:43 PM
I may pee-ohh some people, but it won't be the first or last time. My understanding of the ARRC's original concept was to make up for the former IT Festival that the SCCA dumped on at the end of '93. The ARRC was to become an IT championship weekend. Now we have all sorts of NASCARS, Trans Am cars, relabled formula cars and sports racers, and pickups racing. I understand the need for Atlanta region to make all the money they can (who doesn't). I can even understand the need for the ground pounders proceeding at speed in single file for the entertainment of the fans. But, outside of their crews, does anyone really watch the fast plastic and wing things?
I know that things have evolved to a regional class format, even though I don't agree with that. But now, you can have a DSR racing a CSR with both relabeled to be ASR in order to race. Or an FM having to race an FA rebadged an FS because it's a regional class. Where's the competition in that? Wouldn't it be easier just to have some really nice trophies for those classes that are for sale at registration?
I'd simply like to see this weekend return to an IT only weekend, as it once was. Our track time would increase, opportunities to qualify would increase, paddock space would increase, racing format would increase, etc.

My thoughts. I'll stand back with a bat.

jinxcrx
11-17-2005, 02:53 PM
Originally posted by charrbq@Nov 17 2005, 01:43 PM
I may pee-ohh some people, but it won't be the first or last time. My understanding of the ARRC's original concept was to make up for the former IT Festival that the SCCA dumped on at the end of '93. The ARRC was to become an IT championship weekend. Now we have all sorts of NASCARS, Trans Am cars, relabled formula cars and sports racers, and pickups racing. I understand the need for Atlanta region to make all the money they can (who doesn't). I can even understand the need for the ground pounders proceeding at speed in single file for the entertainment of the fans. But, outside of their crews, does anyone really watch the fast plastic and wing things?
I know that things have evolved to a regional class format, even though I don't agree with that. But now, you can have a DSR racing a CSR with both relabeled to be ASR in order to race. Or an FM having to race an FA rebadged an FS because it's a regional class. Where's the competition in that? Wouldn't it be easier just to have some really nice trophies for those classes that are for sale at registration?
I'd simply like to see this weekend return to an IT only weekend, as it once was. Our track time would increase, opportunities to qualify would increase, paddock space would increase, racing format would increase, etc.

My thoughts. I'll stand back with a bat.

65698

jinxcrx
11-17-2005, 03:07 PM
Please heed the request to AT LEAST get a split start in the supps for B & C so we don't have to perform the cherade of a petition that has happenned since those classes were combined. This year the ultimate slap in the face was the stewards refusal to allow it when it was done for others less mismatched. This event was originally to replace the IT festival and as years have gone on we have added some pretty far-fetched classes to fill the car counts. I beleive it is time to start paring some of those groups to solve the overcrowding situation. There are a lot of ITC &ITB cars that stopped coming with the combining of our classes because of the loss of the true championship foundation. Maybe it is time to explore our roots and start back towards a true championship event.

R2 Racing
11-17-2005, 03:57 PM
Originally posted by gran racing@Nov 17 2005, 09:30 AM
Registration was a bit funny. Everyone stood in one line (crew and drivers). One crew member said hey, there is a line specifically for crew. O.k. A herd of people go over there then get to the window. You're done here now you need to go in that line (no idea what that line was for?).

When we got to registration, there were a bunch of people working there which is awesome and appreciated. If organized a bit differently it could go much faster though.

I'll chime in here on that too. Registration was for the lack of a better term, a joke. I had to stand in three different lines before getting myself and my crew registered. Huh? Three lines? One line was for making changes to your crew list (huh?), one line was just for your crew (huh?), and then the third (and retardedly long line) was for the drivers. Now why could I not do all of that at one window? Every other event I've ever been to, ever, does it that way. My crew and team stays together the whole time, my information only needs to be pulled once, much less confusion, and I'd imagine a ton less work for the registration people themselves!

Of course then there was also the two windows on the far left that were for Atlanta region members only. How nice for them, two fully manned windows with no line at them while there's a two hour wait for everyone else......who paid the same (if not more) to be there. Hmmm....

As I stood in line, I counted up something like 12 windows at registration. 3 of them were being used to register drivers - something that probably requires about 85% of the work. 25% of the windows to do 85% of the work, mmmkay. I just think that if you had 12 windows, 2 or 3 for workers, and then the rest for just good'ole "registration", everyone could've breezed through. This is how it is at Mid Ohio everytime; pick one line, write up your crew list right there, get the crew signed in, and get yourself registered - bame, one folder of information, done. I don't think I've ever waited more than 10 minutes at a Mid Ohio registration.

RussMcB
11-17-2005, 11:05 PM
Originally posted by R2 Racing@Nov 17 2005, 07:57 PM
Of course then there was also the two windows on the far left that were for Atlanta region members only. How nice for them, two fully manned windows with no line at them while there's a two hour wait for everyone else......who paid the same (if not more) to be there. Hmmm....

I'm pretty sure that statement can't be true. I'm an Atl Region member and I've never heard of it. I would be surprised if anyone in our region would think that would be okay to do. Generally, the people who work hard to organize this race go out of their way to make sure visitors enjoy the experience. It's not perfect and many things could be improved, but I was surprised to see this accusation.

lateapex911
11-17-2005, 11:26 PM
I raised an eyebrow to that too....to my recollection that wasn't evident in previous years.

R2 Racing
11-18-2005, 01:47 AM
Ok, I suppose I should say that information was relayed to me. Those two windows had no line at them and people would occasionally come up to them for something. So as I was standing in line, I asked what those two windows were being used for and was told by a couple of other people waiting out front that they were being used for registration of Atlanta region members. If that was wrong information, I appologize.

planet6racing
11-18-2005, 01:50 AM
Not competing this year, I had another gripe (and it's probably not something Atlanta region has any control over)...

The concession area:

1) If you're going to be open until 2:30 pm, then have food until 2:30 pm!! Also, 2:30 seems a bit early to be closing, especially for those thrashing hard on cars to get them ready.

2) How about an attitude adjustment? The people working in there were some of the most unfriendly people I have met.

3) How about a better selection, too? After travelling 900 miles, I don't want to have to worry about packing a lunch, but don't want to survive on burgers and hotdogs, either.

It is possible that I am spoiled by Road America, but I certainly expected better. I had forgotten how much this irritated me last year, until I was down there this year again...

gran racing
11-18-2005, 10:59 AM
Having some breakfast foods would be nice too! Maybe even coffee?

zracre
11-18-2005, 11:07 AM
Originally posted by gran racing@Nov 18 2005, 10:59 AM
Having some breakfast foods would be nice too! Maybe even coffee?

65847


We just need to bring more cooks!!!!! ours was working overtime with the jambalaya and gumbo...and i wont even tell you the lunch we had on thursday...you will just get jealous! coming back from practice and qualifying and the first thing you do is get out and smell the food.....

Catch22
11-18-2005, 12:11 PM
Of course then there was also the two windows on the far left that were for Atlanta region members only.

This is complete and total bullshit.
There is no such window. Never has been.

I am an Atlanta Region member and I registered at the far left window, after standing in line for over an hour with everyone else.

Things like this just piss me off. The behavior is so completely middle school thats its beyond my grasp that adults would even discuss it.

Volkswagen throwing money at the ITAC
Special registration windows
Secret Board meetings
A conspiracy against Florida drivers

Its all utterly ridiculous.

I have one thing to say to folks that believe stuff like this... "NASA"
Have fun.

Yes, I'm pissed.
Our volunteers work too goddamned hard to be accused of this crap by a bunch of whiners on the internet. If you don't like it or think you are somehow being cheated... Volunteer for a position and look at it from the inside.

I&#39;ve been on the Atlanta Region board and can promise you that nothing funny EVER happened. No conspiracies, no special registration windows, no playing favorites when getting your number for the ARRC (I didn&#39;t get mine last year). Or maybe they have these meetings and I just was never invited. <_<

Scott, who wishes some of you guys knew how silly you sound sometimes.

R2 Racing
11-18-2005, 01:12 PM
Originally posted by R2 Racing@Nov 18 2005, 12:47 AM
As I was standing in line, I asked what those two windows were being used for and was told by a couple of other people waiting out front that they were being used for registration of Atlanta region members. If that was wrong information, I appologize.


It seemed rediculous to me as well, hence why it was brought up. The question of "what didn&#39;t you like? what would you change?" shouldn&#39;t be asked if it can&#39;t be answered. It was an issue I had, it was apparently bogus information, and I already publicly appologized for it.

Catch22
11-18-2005, 02:28 PM
I wasn&#39;t responding to you in particular Kevin, just all of the silly crap that I&#39;ve seen in here lately in general.

I know several people who used vacation days to come to the ARRC and WORK for our silly asses. Its just totally unacceptable for people to make up silly conspiracy and favoritism tales as a "thank you" for taking time off work so we drivers can have fun.

As far as car numbers are concerned... Gwen is trying to assign numbers to 300 cars, some of which are running in 2 or 3 different races (ProIT, ARRC, Enduro) over the course of the weekend. She&#39;s trying to assign numbers so that people don&#39;t have to be changing them between races all weekend.
Folks who think there is some sort of number assignment favoritism there might try to volunteer to help Gwen assign numbers next year. Yeah... I&#39;m betting she won&#39;t have to fight off the crowd of volunteers trying to help her with that.

A whole bunch of people just need to grow the hell up.

dazzlesa
11-18-2005, 02:38 PM
back to the parking thing. i have no problem parking my open trailer somewhere else. It would be nice if i could park my pickup with all my stuff next to my race car. i felt a little homeless with my stuff piled up on the floor. the line for registration was a bit long. rick great track,nice people thanks to the volunteers

bobpink
11-18-2005, 03:11 PM
Originally posted by Catch22@Nov 18 2005, 06:28 PM
As far as car numbers are concerned... Gwen is trying to assign numbers to 300 cars, some of which are running in 2 or 3 different races (ProIT, ARRC, Enduro) over the course of the weekend.

Apparently the new online registration system that the Atlanta Region used for the ARRC worked pretty well, but the way it sorted the entries really threw her and T&S for a loop and created a tremendous amount of extra work. They all probably resembled 80s punk rockers by the end of the weekend after pulling their hair in fits of angst.

Greg Amy
11-18-2005, 03:32 PM
Originally posted by dazzlesa@Nov 18 2005, 12:38 PM
would be nice if i could park my pickup with all my stuff next to my race car.

65875

Hey, Rick, that wasn&#39;t a failure of Sandy and Fletcher, I&#39;d place that blame on myself. We were given a specific area to park all the Northeast folks; had we known you were looking to park your truck nearby we could have moved a few things around and made space for you... - Greg

dazzlesa
11-18-2005, 03:41 PM
Sorry my mistake. Greg the northeast parking deal was great. thanks for your efforts and those of Sandy and Flethcer for taking the time to make it happen. He could have parked us first come first serve and saved himself the effort.

mlytle
11-18-2005, 07:39 PM
Originally posted by Catch22@Nov 18 2005, 06:28 PM
I wasn&#39;t responding to you in particular Kevin, just all of the silly crap that I&#39;ve seen in here lately in general.

I know several people who used vacation days to come to the ARRC and WORK for our silly asses. Its just totally unacceptable for people to make up silly conspiracy and favoritism tales as a "thank you" for taking time off work so we drivers can have fun.

As far as car numbers are concerned... Gwen is trying to assign numbers to 300 cars, some of which are running in 2 or 3 different races (ProIT, ARRC, Enduro) over the course of the weekend. She&#39;s trying to assign numbers so that people don&#39;t have to be changing them between races all weekend.
Folks who think there is some sort of number assignment favoritism there might try to volunteer to help Gwen assign numbers next year. Yeah... I&#39;m betting she won&#39;t have to fight off the crowd of volunteers trying to help her with that.

A whole bunch of people just need to grow the hell up.

65874


silly conspiracy tales?
fact - one of first cars entered
fact - entered both arrc and enduro with same car
fact - told several times before the event that had first choice number
fact - got to registration and had no number on list at all
fact - were assigned a number that was not any of original choices
fact - the number we originally requested was used by a local car who only entered the enduro

supp quote
6. CAR NUMBERS: Will be assigned by the Registrar upon receipt of a properly submitted entry form. SEDIV permanent will NOT be in effect at this event. Numbers will be assigned on a first come basis. You will be contacted only if your first number choice is not honored.

conclusion - well, figure it out yourself.

i brought this up not to impune the workers who volunteer, it was brought up as a suggestion to follow the supps next time in how numbers get assigned. this thread is about suggestions, isn&#39;t it?

volunteer to help? i already do in my region thank you. events in this region regularly draw 300 cars.

before you go off spewing a bunch of "crap" you may want to "grow the hell up" yourself.... :)

gsbaker
11-18-2005, 07:53 PM
I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend. :)

Catch22
11-18-2005, 08:32 PM
Originally posted by mlytle@Nov 18 2005, 07:39 PM
silly conspiracy tales?
fact - one of first cars entered
fact - entered both arrc and enduro with same car
fact - told several times before the event that had first choice number
fact - got to registration and had no number on list at all
fact - were assigned a number that was not any of original choices
fact - the number we originally requested was used by a local car who only entered the enduro

supp quote
6. CAR NUMBERS: Will be assigned by the Registrar upon receipt of a properly submitted entry form. SEDIV permanent will NOT be in effect at this event. Numbers will be assigned on a first come basis. You will be contacted only if your first number choice is not honored.

conclusion - well, figure it out yourself.


65916


Thats all great and everything. I can understand because the EXACT same thing happened to me last year.

I ended up with a number that I didn&#39;t even request, and I registered on the FIRST DAY registration was open.
Why?

Because Gwen was trying to solve a puzzle. She was doing it with no permanent numbers to fall back on and lots of cars in multiple races.
I was registered for the enduro. So were 85 other people (uhhh... that means ALOT of number have to be assigned). So I had to take a number that was available in both my sprint race group AND the enduro group. Sure, I registered before the guy who got my number, but that number was available in BOTH groups he registered for, so it made sense to give it to him.

If there is any issue, its that the supps need to be changed to read that numbers will be assigned at the registrars discretion. To say that first come will get them is a pipe dream. Its not going to happen.

At any rate, there isn&#39;t any favoritism or atlanta region number conspiracy. Just a really nice lady doing the best she can to make things as easy as possible on everyone.

Don&#39;t accuse people of things if you don&#39;t understand whats happening behind the scenes. If you think its easy to assign a single number to (for example) an ITA car for three different race groups over the course of one weekend with 300 cars I challenge you to try it and see if you can do it without pissing someone off.

I have no idea why I even try. I&#39;m sure I just completely wasted 5 minutes of my life typing this.

Sandy
11-18-2005, 11:12 PM
To GS Baker, I had a great time. I never did see the IT motorhome come it. Did you park yourself? On the number issue, whew, the online registration would not number the cars for multiple race. Gwen had to do it manually. She was so stressed out. I think she had the numbering correct at one point, but.. oh I just know it was a mess! We are looking for another online system for next year. Someone told me there may be a national online system for all club racing coming. I&#39;m really sorry some of you had problems with your number and at registration. I think the two windows being discussed were maybe for workers; I can assure you they were not for just Atlanta Region members. R2 Racing has been forgiven. Give me some thoughts about the socials and entertainment. It looked as though there was little interest from drivers, mostly workers there.

OTLimit
11-19-2005, 01:23 AM
Sandy,
I know that from our point of view, the socials are a good idea, but we are in kind of a rut after all these years. Friday night we thrash on the cars, and then Bob Stretch and I make dinner (usually assorted seafood and chicken with veggies on the grill with other sides) and on Saturday we historically celebrate (lately just the end of a long hard day) with dinner in town. Between the two camps, we usually end up feeding 15-20 people or more, and have quite a party. Never started as intentionally not attending the other events, just happened over time.

Still not believing we have been going down there for 12 years....

R2 Racing
11-19-2005, 11:10 AM
We had a minor screw up with our registration and number assignment on our ITC enduro car but it was all good. We had exchanged a couple of emails before the event to try and get it squared away but it hadn&#39;t by the time we got there. It was nothing that a two minute trip to timing and scoring couldn&#39;t clear up though. No big deal - I know they handle a lot of entries; some running one race, some running three. All things considered, I thought it was handled pretty well.

As for the dinners/socials, I thought the food and beer were really good both nights. I had fun and enjoyed the live band and the bench racing Friday night. Saturday nights party was a little dissapointing though. I&#39;m going to guess that only about 2/3 of the award winners were even there - I just didn&#39;t know where everyone was. Then once the awards were done, the karaoke started. I personally am not a big karaoke fan. I also thought, and I&#39;m just being honest here, that with a crowd of mainly car guys, karaoke probably isn&#39;t going to take off real well. I took off once that started like many others to find another party.

chumpy36
11-19-2005, 11:23 AM
As far as the social goes...How to say this delicately?

I had zero interest in going to the social, awards banquet etc. They always run long, the food is generally not stellar, and I haven&#39;t liked the band.

I say this not to put down anyone and I appreciate the time and effort spent in setting these up. The fact is, it&#39;s just not my scene and not alot of other people&#39;s either.

Maybe have something a little more in tune with the demographic of the people attending the event would help.

I&#39;m not saying you need to bring in a dj from New York and serve tapas but something a little more interesting might get people out there.

Thanks....

SRX7#27
11-19-2005, 12:07 PM
Suggestions for next year? Not many.. I feel the ARRC was about as well run as an event of that size can be, and would like to offer my thanks to all of those who worked so hard to make it that way.. I&#39;ll be back for sure in 06..

Long lines at registration? Yeah I saw them so I kept driving and went to the Publix to pick up my beer (didn&#39;t need ice last weekend to keep &#39;em cold!) and came back later when the line wasn&#39;t as long.. Waited maybe 10 minutes, and by then the tech line had also died down.. Also, I registered at the far left window, and I&#39;m a WDC region Yankee, so I&#39;m pretty sure it wasn&#39;t ATL only..

As for the paddock.. I think putting one of the larger race groups like the Miata Armada in the ALMS paddock would probably work fine, but we&#39;d need extra workers to grid them in the other pit lane. Is it possible to paddock some cars (maybe the ones with RV&#39;s or monster enclosed trailers) in the ALMS paddock and have them drive the race cars to the front paddock for pit lane access?

I also agree with Marshal about the 2nd driver fee for the enduro. $150 is just too high. If the fee is lower next year, I&#39;m sure I can probably find a co-driver so I can participate.. And kick the asses of the defending Spec 7 enduro champs! :D

HONDA69
11-19-2005, 05:17 PM
Sandy:
Yes, there was parking space problems, as usual, only recommendation is limit the number of support vehicles in the paddock area to 1 for each registered driver! ENTRY FEES for second and third endro driver&#39;s way too high, $50 would be acceptable, $150 is getting ridiclous - needs to be revisited by Atlanta BOD.
Saturday Night, good, but could have used some heaters outside social area to keep all of the nicotine addicts from freezing, they are being polite and going outside to indulge addiction. Agree on [COLOR=red]ITB/ITC Mandatory Split Start in the Supps!! If the supps list 45 min for enduro qualifing, give the cars all the time scheduled, otherwise advise in supps that qualifying may be split based on the size of the enduro field.


HONDA69
2005 SEDIV ECR ITC Champ
2004 SEDIV ECR ITC Champ
2005 ARRC Enduro Survivor (and first Loser)

timrogers
11-20-2005, 12:58 AM
Originally posted by SRX7#27@Nov 19 2005, 04:07 PM
As for the paddock.. I think putting one of the larger race groups like the Miata Armada in the ALMS paddock would probably work fine, but we&#39;d need extra workers to grid them in the other pit lane. Is it possible to paddock some cars (maybe the ones with RV&#39;s or monster enclosed trailers) in the ALMS paddock and have them drive the race cars to the front paddock for pit lane access?


Next year, with Spec Miata going National, will they be allowed to come to the ARRC?
If not, will this allow the separation of ITB & ITC?

Regarding paddock space, if a 65&#39;x10&#39; hauler carries 4 cars which it then paddocks in a 20&#39;x65&#39; canopy space, it is taking up about 488 sq. ft. per car.
A 24&#39;x9&#39; closed trailer towed by a large van or pickup is going to take up the entire 40&#39; width of a small paddock "island." Add to that a 12&#39;x 20&#39; area to park the car and crew and it is taking up 600 sq. ft.
Just for reference...

mlytle
11-20-2005, 11:36 AM
Originally posted by timrogers@Nov 20 2005, 04:58 AM
Next year, with Spec Miata going National, will they be allowed to come to the ARRC?
If not, will this allow the separation of ITB & ITC?

Regarding paddock space, if a 65&#39;x10&#39; hauler carries 4 cars which it then paddocks in a 20&#39;x65&#39; canopy space, it is taking up about 488 sq. ft. per car.
A 24&#39;x9&#39; closed trailer towed by a large van or pickup is going to take up the entire 40&#39; width of a small paddock "island." Add to that a 12&#39;x 20&#39; area to park the car and crew and it is taking up 600 sq. ft.
Just for reference...

66038


true, it is less about the hauler size than it is about car density. haulers with lots of cars in them are good use of space (the formula scca folks did well). if you add crew cars and monster rv&#39;s to that hauler&#39;s space, utilization goes down fast. that same hauler with only one or two cars is a waste of space. for example, i didn&#39;t see it unload, but there was a huge toterhome with big trailer in the paddock that looked like it had only one its car parked next to it all weekend.

skrissel
11-20-2005, 07:57 PM
That was me with the toter and trailer. We had plans of 2 or 3 cars, but we did not get our other cars finished for the race. We did end up having 2 more cars pit with us for friday and saturday.

-scott


Originally posted by mlytle@Nov 20 2005, 10:36 AM
true, it is less about the hauler size than it is about car density. haulers with lots of cars in them are good use of space (the formula scca folks did well). if you add crew cars and monster rv&#39;s to that hauler&#39;s space, utilization goes down fast. that same hauler with only one or two cars is a waste of space. for example, i didn&#39;t see it unload, but there was a huge toterhome with big trailer in the paddock that looked like it had only one its car parked next to it all weekend.

66050

mlytle
11-21-2005, 01:46 PM
Originally posted by skrissel@Nov 20 2005, 11:57 PM
That was me with the toter and trailer. We had plans of 2 or 3 cars, but we did not get our other cars finished for the race. We did end up having 2 more cars pit with us for friday and saturday.

-scott

66096


of course, i am jealous scott..you have a very nice rig!!!
and i was wishing i had brought my its car down to run with you...

marshall

skrissel
11-21-2005, 03:59 PM
Marshall,

Thanks. You should have brought it, would have been fun. I&#39;m headed to Savannah for the BMW race in Dec, you should join us...Its always a good race weekend.

-scott



Originally posted by mlytle@Nov 21 2005, 12:46 PM
of course, i am jealous scott..you have a very nice rig!!!
and i was wishing i had brought my its car down to run with you...

marshall

66156

Sandy
11-22-2005, 10:21 AM
Thank you so much for your comments. I will cut and paste them into a single document for use at the next 2006 ARRC meeting. Some of your suggestions have already been adopted. One thing we do promise for next year: We will do our best to get information out and the ARRC website up months in advance; no last minute planning! As a matter of fact, we had our first 2006 ARRC meeting last night. As for the Atlanta guys, call me or send me an email and volunteer to help. A few of us are doing all of this work; we need you to help. Thanks, Sandy Pence, Atlanta Region Treasure, PRO IT Administrator, Trophy Buyer, and Paddock Queen