NHMS Rational

[JLawton]

Registration for the Granit State Rational is up.

Patullo in GT1 with an RX7???

Denise will be there in her new Integra!!

Who else?

[StephenB]

I am in! Going to register now :)

Stephen

[itracer]

I don't think I'll be ready. I don't think I will be able to do the test day either - due to work. Grrrr.

[mossaidis]

someone is excited...

[wepsbee]

I will be there.:eclipsee_steering:

[CRallo]

I never saw anyone so excited to drive a Mmm ahh... m mmm M...iata

[Jeremy Billiel]

I never saw anyone so excited to drive a Mmm ahh... m mmm M...iata

Chris - Everyone has to at least try being gay once in their life...

[Greg Amy]

Chris - Everyone has to at least try being gay once in their life...
Chris already knows that.

[JLawton]

Chris - Everyone has to at least try being gay once in their life...

Actually, it's the sesond time.................... I raced a MINI last year!!


next up?? VW Beetle!!

[Ed Funk]

You should see his DD....Honda Element!

[BruceG]

i never saw anyone so excited to drive a mmm ahh... M mmm m...iata

spec pinata........lol

[CRallo]

Chris - Everyone has to at least try being gay once in their life...


Chris already knows that.

Well Greg keeps telling me this anyways. I think he is trying to talk me into something... He also said, "Don't knock it til you try it" and "How do you know you are not gay if you won't try it?"


Actually, it's the sesond time.................... I raced a MINI last year!!


next up?? VW Beetle!!


LOL I think Jeff is trying to tell us something...



spec pinata........lol LOL indeed

I'll use my weight advantage and push him around! :D


You should see his DD....Honda Element!

I thought it was a PT Cruiser...

[Tim Dugan]

i'm in with the VW Corrado! Look out ITS here i come :smilie_pokal: Hope this year goes better than last year. Way to many tranny issues last year not enough track time!

[gran racing]

Jeffy babe, we should do a coming out party together! Baby Samantha is about to be born. Go Ahead - Hit Me in the Bumper!

[benspeed]

I am in :-)

[Magical Trevor]

FYI, apparantly Dick's GT1 registration is just as a test for the site.

[ner88]

FYI, apparantly Dick's GT1 registration is just as a test for the site.
That's not what I hear! :shrug:

[StephenB]

I know the truth! and to find out you should come to the race!!

Stephen

[CRallo]

I know the truth! and to find out you should come to the race!!

Stephen

That's just not cool man!

[JLawton]

How cool is that in ITR we have a 968, an RX8 and a Type R Teg? I can't wait to watch that race!!

A little disappointed with the ITA turn out so far................... What's up with that?

[mossaidis]

Maybe those ITA guys are now building STL cars... or better yet, Spec B... teehee

[Andy Bettencourt]

A little disappointed with the ITA turn out so far................... What's up with that?

It's simple! Now that you have the car that can't lose, with a motor from a builder who builds better than Chuck Norris, driven by the original 'Shut Up and Drive' guy, NOBODY wants a piece!!!!

[Dano77]

Could also be that life is in the way. Thats my excuse. Dont worry Jeff, we will all show up eventually. There are fewer races so more potential for higher entry counts. Supply and Demand at its best.

See you at the Memorial Day Race.

[wepsbee]

How cool is that in ITR we have a 968, an RX8 and a Type R Teg? I can't wait to watch that race!!

A little disappointed with the ITA turn out so far................... What's up with that?

There is still time left oh great Obiwan:rolleyes:

[gizmo83]

Any 'mentors' going to test day Friday?

[CRallo]

How cool is that in ITR we have a 968, an RX8 and a Type R Teg? I can't wait to watch that race!!

A little disappointed with the ITA turn out so far................... What's up with that?

We are lurking in the shadows lol

And honestly, I feel little need to race at that track. It is the only one I actually RACED last year... time for another track.

[JLawton]

Any 'mentors' going to test day Friday?


I think you've been doing this long enough where you should be the mentor!

I'll be there but I betcha I have a steeper learning curve than you!! :eclipsee_steering:

This is a new build, right? Have you had Matt go through the suspension and do the set-up? As long as you've done that, as we said to Dan, I don't think it's going to be all that different than the Escort........ except it will be faster!!

[gizmo83]

I beg to differ...
I do know the track and racing line, I will agree with you there, but...
As everyone has been saying, there are a lot of Integra drivers out there and they are willing to unload a ton of information regarding suspension set-up.
I was hoping that someone in that category might be available to answer questions as we get in the integra for the first time and try to get the set-up correct.
Jeff, You have been a front of the pack driver since I have been involved in racing, I have never been all that close to even the middle! I'm still not convinced my finishing position wasn't driver and not car.
I feel I still need mentors to learn where I lack skill and knowledge.
Hopefully I haven't used up my alloted mentoring yet!

[StephenB]

If anyone is good with DL1 stuff and wants to hang out Saturday night to teach me let me know what your favorite beer is and how much you want! I may stay over at the track if you're willing to hang out! Onething I am trying to figure out is how to get my dash 3 to work with my CAN adaptor. I should call Jeremy but I haven't had any time to do so while plugged in with the car, and sadly I have very little time before the race weekend.

Stephen

[gran racing]

I feel I still need mentors to learn where I lack skill and knowledge.

Don't we all? I'm sure as hell looking forward to getting some mentoring and coaching this year.

[Andy Bettencourt]

Don't we all? I'm sure as hell looking forward to getting some mentoring and coaching this year.

It's a collaborative environment! We all help each other.

[mossaidis]

It's a collaborative environment! We all help each other.

Andy will show the line you should take. I will show the line you should not take :D

[wepsbee]

Andy will show the line you should take. I will show the line you should not take :D
Mickey,
I am not sure of that statement based upon your success as a driver!!!
You must be doing something right!:)

[Ed Funk]

It's all car...

[wepsbee]

It's all car...
Then I should quite well this year!!!:rolleyes:

[rhygin]

Gonna try and make it...
Life can get complicated and make having fun tough.

I think i am going to need to find some new tires, or some power, or some talent with all the evolutions in the NER ITA group!

I am hoping it is about 100 degrees and 90 percent humidity. Sweat it out and see you at the end of the 45 min!

As always... Free tequila shots to all registered racers on Saturday night, on me!

[moto62]

Won't be there for this one. Looks like first time out for me will be the Mem weekend.:(

[jimalley]

Not sure but I think April 21st may be optimistic:(

[rhygin]

Jim, what is up with the car? Was a rocket last year... Late season crash?

[jimalley]

Brad, No it was time to freshen up the body and I decided to have the dings and dents taken out and have it repainted. The shop is only 6 weeks behind promised delivery:shrug:

I also decided to have the motor checked out and freshened, and need to install it once I get the car back. I planned to have all this completed by the end of February, but here I am:D

[JLawton]

Brad, No it was time to freshen up the body and I decided to have the dings and dents taken out and have it repainted. The shop is only 6 weeks behind promised delivery:shrug:

I also decided to have the motor checked out and freshened, and need to install it once I get the car back. I planned to have all this completed by the end of February, but here I am:D


Ugh! That's too bad..............................




Can I borrow your tires?? :D



.

[Tkczecheredflag]

So I called my Mom and asked her to change the date of her 80th birthday party so I could go race but she gave me her Hall and Oates reply - "I can't go for that - no can do". :shrug:

I'm hoping for some racing inspiration, and some pesos so, I can join you all for Memorial Day. Be safe and have fun.

[Ed Funk]

In...group 5

[JLawton]

Anyone want to share a garage?

[JLawton]

Anyone want to share a garage?


Bueller?? Bueller?? Is it me?? (don't answer that!!) or is it that no one really needs a garage??

I assume it's still $150 for a full bay?

[jimalley]

Jeff

I am in if you still need someone.

[JLawton]

Jeff

I am in if you still need someone.

Sorry Jim, Craig Swineheart e-mailed me shortly after I posted. Glad to see you got the car back together though!! :023:

[CRallo]

Sorry Jim, Craig Swineheart e-mailed me shortly after I posted. Glad to see you got the car back together though!! :023:

awh... that woulda been cute! :p

[Greg Amy]

Long-term outlook is wet all weekend...

[CRallo]

40% chance of showers Saturday, 10% Sunday according to weather.com. :shrug:

[Greg Amy]

...according to weather.com. :shrug:
Weather.com is the "Highlights magazine" of weather forecasting...I can see why you use it...:happy204:

We'll see how it goes.

GA

[CRallo]

Weather.com is the "Highlights magazine" of weather forecasting...I can see why you use it...:happy204:

We'll see how it goes.

GA

I knew you'd say something like that...

[benspeed]

I'm out. Broke something in the rear during testing. Same weird thing from WGI. Shop needs to step up and sort this out!

[Greg Amy]

I knew you'd say something like that...

Weather.com is a TV channel. They are EXCELLENT at telling you what your current temperature is, and PERFECT at telling you whether it's raining outside. And the thing they're best at is to give you pretty video with someone hanging on to a utility pole in a hurricane. But in the end they're an "ok" macro-weather forecasting agency that spends most of its time trying to entertain you.

My preferred consumer-level weather service - if you don't want to get into the nitty gritty data yourself - is accuweather. Not perfect, but the models they use tend to be, in general, better in longer-range forecasting.

But in the end, micro-weather forecasting is a wizardry art, especially more than 24 hours out.

If you have any interest in being a weather geek, Weather Underground is a good place to start. I think the place is RUN by weather geeks. And if you want to participate in the "RRAX of Weather" try americanwx.com; try to participate in the northeast forum when we have a snowstorm coming and the posts are flying so fast you simply can't keep up...

Regardless, forecasting weather a week out is folly. At best you can look at the forecasts of the macro-weather (fronts, air masses, highs/lows, etc) and use computer models (I like GFS) of what those will do. Watch the trends as the days progress and use judgement to make predictions based on what's happening.

When I'm not interested in delving deep into the models I'll jump to Accuweather, look at their extended forecast for the day(s) in question, and then look at two days prior and subsequent. What you see within that 5-6 day window is a general idea of what to expect. But don't bet on it. Two days out it's pretty accurate, but not a week or more.

We're in a transition period here in the NE. You've seen this week's weather in the middle of the country, but those aren't making them up here simply because the air masses are breaking up before they get here. We've got another not-as-powerful front moving across mid-week that should break up, but these are getting closer and closer to us each time. The one we're seeing next weekend is powerful enough to make it here...the question is whether it will get delayed in the Midwest again; if it does then we're good for Sunday and we'll get hammered with rain Monday; if not then we'll see rain on Sunday.

GFS is about 50/50 on when that front will make it through. It's showing rain with thunderstorms for the latter part of next weekend/Sunday in to Monday, with that low sticking around off shore for a day or two. Once that "seal is broken" we'll see more air masses make it through more easily.

I'm trying to decide what tires to put on the car before I put it into the trailer today. Unless something changes with today's forecast I'm going with dry tires to bed them in during the Friday test day, I'm waffling for Saturday, but I'm making sure my rain tires are in good shape for Sunday, just in case...

GA

[Andy Bettencourt]

I'm out. Broke something in the rear during testing. Same weird thing from WGI. Shop needs to step up and sort this out!

What testing?

[CRallo]

What testing?

At LRP.

[CRallo]

Thanks for the info Greg!



Weather.com is a TV channel. They are EXCELLENT at telling you what your current temperature is, and PERFECT at telling you whether it's raining outside. And the thing they're best at is to give you pretty video with someone hanging on to a utility pole in a hurricane. But in the end they're an "ok" macro-weather forecasting agency that spends most of its time trying to entertain you.

My preferred consumer-level weather service - if you don't want to get into the nitty gritty data yourself - is accuweather. Not perfect, but the models they use tend to be, in general, better in longer-range forecasting.

But in the end, micro-weather forecasting is a wizardry art, especially more than 24 hours out.

If you have any interest in being a weather geek, Weather Underground is a good place to start. I think the place is RUN by weather geeks. And if you want to participate in the "RRAX of Weather" try americanwx.com; try to participate in the northeast forum when we have a snowstorm coming and the posts are flying so fast you simply can't keep up...

Regardless, forecasting weather a week out is folly. At best you can look at the forecasts of the macro-weather (fronts, air masses, highs/lows, etc) and use computer models (I like GFS) of what those will do. Watch the trends as the days progress and use judgement to make predictions based on what's happening.

When I'm not interested in delving deep into the models I'll jump to Accuweather, look at their extended forecast for the day(s) in question, and then look at two days prior and subsequent. What you see within that 5-6 day window is a general idea of what to expect. But don't bet on it. Two days out it's pretty accurate, but not a week or more.

We're in a transition period here in the NE. You've seen this week's weather in the middle of the country, but those aren't making them up here simply because the air masses are breaking up before they get here. We've got another not-as-powerful front moving across mid-week that should break up, but these are getting closer and closer to us each time. The one we're seeing next weekend is powerful enough to make it here...the question is whether it will get delayed in the Midwest again; if it does then we're good for Sunday and we'll get hammered with rain Monday; if not then we'll see rain on Sunday.

GFS is about 50/50 on when that front will make it through. It's showing rain with thunderstorms for the latter part of next weekend/Sunday in to Monday, with that low sticking around off shore for a day or two. Once that "seal is broken" we'll see more air masses make it through more easily.

I'm trying to decide what tires to put on the car before I put it into the trailer today. Unless something changes with today's forecast I'm going with dry tires to bed them in during the Friday test day, I'm waffling for Saturday, but I'm making sure my rain tires are in good shape for Sunday, just in case...

GA

[lateapex911]

Thanks for the info Greg!
kiss ass!
lol

But he's right: Weather.com = AOL which = the McDonalds of the internet.

Also, I assume u have the radarscope app for ur iphone/ipad, Greg?

[Greg Amy]

I assume u have the radarscope app for ur iphone/ipad, Greg?
But of course, on your recommendation!

It's a VERY useful app as you can see the various "tilts", composites, and velocities of the RADAR, enabling you to see just how high (how much of an angle) and how mixed/bad the returns are. If you're only getting returns on Base Reflectivity 1 and 2 and velocities are low, then "meh" it's a low-tops summer rainshower and you'll probably hear Cessnas flying over at 3,000 feet (inters). But if you're still getting return at "Tilt 4", and it's heading your way, and you haven't heard an airliner fly over in the last 15 minutes, then it's time to convert those EZUps into EZDowns and find some shelter...you won't be racing.

Really the best micro-weather app I've found and well worth the $10. - GA

[jimalley]

Not sure but I think April 21st may be optimistic:(

A few weeks can make a difference. Looks like I will be ready for Rational.

[rhygin]

Wow... Looks great!

Been a lean year for #13. No tires, no paint, and will not be able to get a set-up on the car in time. Should be interesting? Did find a missing set of vacuum hoses and now the car idles below 2200 rpm.

See y'all on Sat!
BB

[JS154]

I'm out. Broke something in the rear during testing. Same weird thing from WGI. Shop needs to step up and sort this out!

Get ythe car up to German Performance Service in Brighton MA. Marc knows Porches (race engineer for Black Swan last two years)

I was hoping to convince you to run STU/National...

[Andy Bettencourt]

Saturday

Partly cloudy with a chance of rain in the morning, then overcast with a chance of rain. High of 84F. Winds from the ENE at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 70% with rainfall amounts near 0.2 in. possible.

Saturday Night

Overcast with a chance of snow. Low of 32F. Winds from the NE at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of snow 50% with accumulations up to 1 in. possible.

Sunday

Overcast with a chance of rain. High of 70F. Winds from the NE at 10 to 20 mph. Breezy. Chance of rain 70% with rainfall amounts near 0.5 in. possible.

Ummmmm. No.

[lateapex911]

Saturday

Partly cloudy with a chance of rain in the morning, then overcast with a chance of rain. High of 84F. Winds from the ENE at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 70% with rainfall amounts near 0.2 in. possible.

Saturday Night

Overcast with a chance of snow. Low of 32F. Winds from the NE at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of snow 50% with accumulations up to 1 in. possible.

Sunday

Overcast with a chance of rain. High of 70F. Winds from the NE at 10 to 20 mph. Breezy. Chance of rain 70% with rainfall amounts near 0.5 in. possible.

Ummmmm. No.

ok i thought Andy made that up. Nope thats the wunderground forecast!

[Greg Amy]

Ummmmm. No.
Wuss. ;)

GFS is still not really stable, but I'd concur with that forecast. We're basically going to be between a high parking up in Quebec and a low down in the southeast. As these move east they're going to be squeezing a front coming across the upper Midwest between them, and it looks like New Hampshire is right in the middle of that gauntlet. And because the high is north and the low south, their rotation is trying to push them back to Ohio, so it's not going away quickly. So starting around Friday morning we'll start to see the wet air mass getting pressed eastward between the two, channeling light rain right over New Hampshire Motor Speedway into Saturday. Looks like we might get dry track in the AM to bed in tires and brakes, rest of afternoon is mixed.

Expect rolling rainstorms through the night Friday.

Saturday morning the low down south is forecast to weaken and move southward, allowing that air mass to expand all across the eastern seaboard. That energy will dissipate somewhat, but we'll get lifting action from the sun and may see a squall mixed in with the light rain. Expect more rain squalls Saturday night.

Right now, GFS is showing some pretty good rainstorms early Sunday AM into dawn, maybe moving off and back to light rain by warm-ups time. Then again mixed for the rest of the day. The drive home will be rainy.

If it's any consolation, looks like it'll all move off by work time Monday AM...

Can't even get away from the rain this weekend if I chose to go do the double at VIR instead...<sigh...>

I don't mind racing in the rain, it's just that it makes a mess of the car and it's difficult to relax at day's end drinking with your paddock mates. The one bright side is that it doesn't appear to have a lot of lift, so except for Sunday AM it's probably just a rain event, so bring your umbrellas and EZ Ups (and we'll probably drink anyway...)

GA

[lateapex911]

Get ythe car up to German Performance Service in Brighton MA. Marc knows Porches (race engineer for Black Swan last two years)

I was hoping to convince you to run STU/National...

Ben's in Joisey. Puuuulenty of good P car shops in the NY and CT metro area

[lateapex911]

Wuss. ;)

GFS is still not really stable, but I'd concur with that forecast. We're basically going to be between a high parking up in Quebec and a low down in the southeast. As these move east they're going to be squeezing a front coming across the upper Midwest between them, and it looks like New Hampshire is right in the middle of that gauntlet. And because the high is north and the low south, their rotation is trying to push them back to Ohio, so it's not going away quickly. So starting around Friday morning we'll start to see the wet air mass getting pressed eastward between the two, channeling light rain right over New Hampshire Motor Speedway into Saturday. Looks like we might get dry track in the AM to bed in tires and brakes, rest of afternoon is mixed.

Expect rolling rainstorms through the night Friday.

Saturday morning the low down south is forecast to weaken and move southward, allowing that air mass to expand all across the eastern seaboard. That energy will dissipate somewhat, but we'll get lifting action from the sun and may see a squall mixed in with the light rain. Expect more rain squalls Saturday night.

Right now, GFS is showing some pretty good rainstorms early Sunday AM into dawn, maybe moving off and back to light rain by warm-ups time. Then again mixed for the rest of the day. The drive home will be rainy.

If it's any consolation, looks like it'll all move off by work time Monday AM...

Can't even get away from the rain this weekend if I chose to go do the double at VIR instead...<sigh...>

I don't mind racing in the rain, it's just that it makes a mess of the car and it's difficult to relax at day's end drinking with your paddock mates. The one bright side is that it doesn't appear to have a lot of lift, so except for Sunday AM it's probably just a rain event, so bring your umbrellas and EZ Ups (and we'll probably drink anyway...)

GA

But what do the birds say. Greg?

[Greg Amy]

But what do the birds say. Greg?
"Stay home and drink beer."

[Andy Bettencourt]

Greg's site has been spot on historically. With only a few weekends available for me due to other commitments, I'm bagging it and trying to get to NJMP soon.

[Greg Amy]

With only a few weekends available for me due to other commitments, I'm bagging it and trying to get to NJMP soon.
Yup. If I wasn't committed to qualifying for the Runoffs in as few events and as locally as possible, I'd be doing the same... - GA

[CRallo]

... trying to get to NJMP soon.

NJMP?!?!?! :p

[mossaidis]

"soon" might mean May 11-13 or perhaps August 18-19 :shrug:

[Andy Bettencourt]

Yup, driven Lightning, like it.

Need to get to WGI and the Runoffs.

[mossaidis]

cool - so IT is going National... wow! ;)

[Terry Hanushek]

Mickey


cool - so IT is going National... wow! ;)

Close ... IT is going Rational

Terry

[JLawton]

cool - so IT is going National... wow! ;)

In Andy's world, the NARRC Runoffs are the only Runoffs.......... :p

[benspeed]

Looks like a fix has been found and a cheap fix too! We will see if they get it done. Some bolts backed out in the right rear hub.

[Greg Amy]

...and weather is looking "better", somewhat. Still some chances for mid- to late-afternoon light showers Friday (may not make it to the ground), and then waffling for the next 12-18 hours, not as heavy rain as predicted yesterday. Saturday is looking like one of those days when you'll have to choose tires last minute...drier early.

Sunday could be a soaker. Looks like mid-Atlantic seaboard weather is building overnight heavy rainstorms, moving north-northeast; early Sunday races look like showers but late-morning on could be heavy rains, possibly 2-3" in southern New England, NY, northern NJ...developing...

[CRallo]

Mickey



Close ... IT is going Rational

Terry

Good one Terry!



In Andy's world, the NARRC Runoffs are the only Runoffs.......... :p

I was ASSuming he meant NARRCoffs...

AB needs to make it to ITFest and the ARRC!! I REALLY wanna see him represent at Road Atlanta! If you do it Andy, I will too!

[Andy Bettencourt]

Ya, you won't see me at the Runoffs until IT goes National or the S2000 can run in STL, LOL

The NARRC Runoffs is my favorite event for sure. Trying to chose between the summer or fall WGI dates.

[wepsbee]

The fall WGI event is somewhat undersubscribed I think given the venue and the great fall scenery. Mickey is always there though kee[ing things interesting.

[Andy Bettencourt]

The fall WGI event is somewhat undersubscribed I think given the venue and the great fall scenery. Mickey is always there though kee[ing things interesting.

Yes, the only downside is that it's usually right after LRP. But that does usually get you the short course.

[Greg Amy]

BIG change from this morning's 12Z forecast...actually looking a lot "better"*. Looks like the low down south is breaking up so the whole system is not nearly as channeled. Friday forecast is becoming dry all day, Saturday through noon possibly dry, PM mixed. Saturday overnight rain, Sunday morning possibly dry, Sunday afternoon mixed...

GA


* Relatively speaking. The area could really use some good rains right now...

[Greg Amy]

I give up. The models are changing hourly and don't agree with each other, even just 24 hours out. This is one interesting weather pattern - to those that have interest in it.

It might rain. It might not. Might be cold. Might not. Anyone have any dice?

Anyone know if we can get into the track tonight for tomorrow's test day? If so, will we have to pay the $25/head to do it?

See y'all in the AM!

GA

[ner88]

Greg, I know last year the track did allow people Thursday access.
I would call the track and confirm just to be safe.
See ya tomorrow, rain or shine!
Jerry

[mossaidis]

The fall WGI event is somewhat undersubscribed I think given the venue and the great fall scenery. Mickey is always there though keeping things interesting.

I should just finish a race, but that would be just boring. BTW, I am 0 for 2 in my last races - which makes it hard to get those BIG corporate sponsors...

[wepsbee]

Yes, the only downside is that it's usually right after LRP. But that does usually get you the short course.

Andy,
I have run LRP Runoffs every year and also WGI fall event every year and I have never run the short course, this year will be my 5th.


I should just finish a race, but that would be just boring. BTW, I am 0 for 2 in my last races - which makes it hard to get those BIG corporate sponsors...
:happy204:Perhaps but rooting for you from the stands during the Pro-IT races gives all of us a fun time.:026:

[JLawton]

Greg, I know last year the track did allow people Thursday access.
I would call the track and confirm just to be safe.
See ya tomorrow, rain or shine!
Jerry


Just checked with the track and you CAN get in tonight to drop trailers. No fee unless you're staying with the trailer.

[JS154]

ANyone know if NHMS requires pit crew to wear helmets if they go over the wall?

Thanks

[Jeremy Billiel]

anyone know if nhms requires pit crew to wear helmets if they go over the wall?

Thanks

yes

[itracer]

yes

Any bike helmet will do.

[Andy Bettencourt]

Track records falling like flies this morning...before the water gets there, everyone has a shot!

[lateapex911]

Track records falling like flies this morning...before the water gets there, everyone has a shot!
you there? Records? As in Q times are below records...but records can't fall unless in a race, right?

[CRallo]

you there? Records? As in Q times are below records...but records can't fall unless in a race, right?

as in it is a Rational, races have been run and records have fallen. And if the rain holds off for your race, you get a crack at it too!!!

[Andy Bettencourt]

you there? Records? As in Q times are below records...but records can't fall unless in a race, right?

HP, STU and EP all this morning.

[lateapex911]

Oh....wait...isn't the EP record the EP record, whether it's set in a National or Regional or rational race? Not sure I follow how being a Rational has anything to do with it.
(I expect a duh moment to follow, but I'll ask the dumb question anyway!)

[Greg Amy]

Yes, in the first race three new lap records were set: EP, HP, and STU. However, this really wasn't an "optimal" day, with a slick track from rains overnight; my perception is that it has much more to do with the drivers taking their programs up a few notches.

My wife and I bailed after they broke for lunch, but for this forum Eric Heinrich (JS154) won STU and set that lap record, and I won STL (no lap record, which is still held by "Mr. NHMS" Glenn Lawton in this ITS RX-7!) Eric started on pole with Jonathan Leitner next to him, and I was behind Eric in P3. I managed to eek out P1 going into T3 and held that through T9...where I then looped the car in front of the field coming out of T10. While I always "clip" the T10 curbing (aka, Richie Hunter Berm) going through there, this time I grabbed a tad too much asphalt and it sent me spinning off driver's right. Fortunately the field behind me was full of talent and missed an errant spinning Integra, at which point I collected my wits and undies and jumped back into the fray DFL. My "man, is this thing 30 laps?" attitude changed to "man, this thing is 30 laps!" and I was fortunate to eventually reel in my competitors (but not without a fight).

The only other news I'm aware of is that Jeff "Really! I'm not gay!!" Lawton won ITA in his new Miata in a dry and misting but seriously-threatening-rain Group 5, and given the weather we drove through on the way home southbound, I'm wagering Groups 6-8 were a bit moist...

A fun weekend. Great to hang out at the track again. - GA

[CRallo]

It was a reference to the race format. real races that count had been run.

speaking of which, to quali races count to set records? I'd thought not.

[Andy Bettencourt]

speaking of which, to quali races count to set records? I'd thought not.

A qual 'race' I bet does, but regular qual does not.

[Terry Hanushek]

Chris


speaking of which, to quali races count to set records? I'd thought not.

A qualifying race is a race - lap records can be set in them.

Terry

[StephenB]

Their was a really really fast ITA miata that was black flagged for sound. Not sure on his name but it was his race to lose. I guarantee if he knew where to "lift" for sound he would have won. That being said Lawton also did awesome with a pretty large field.

ITB started great but then Paul Curren had a flawless run and pulled away. It was great to see the funky guy make the "c" car into a "b" car!

ITS was lame... No entries

ITR just as lame... 1 entry

The AS race was amazing and had me at the edge of my seat! Mike and Brian could probably help SCCA sell tickets!

I had a great weekend working tech rather than racing. It really was more fun than I ever imaged!

Stephen

[StephF]

Everyone make it home okay? I guess it would be NH if it wasn't cold, wet, and putrid in April. :happy204:
Real glad I was group 1 and had dry track for the first trip out in '12. The tow home was a bit special once we got into the back roads of NH with little to no visibility though.
Great to see everyone. Greg, Brad, Jeff, on, and a ton of others I know I am missing; great job!

[JLawton]

Quick review of going from a FWD beast to driving a Miata. I never realized how many poor habits I had picked up to get the Saturn to turn. You whip the wheel and stomp on the gas........ if the wheels start spinning, keep your foor in it. Every input was quick and hard to upset the rear end to get it to come around........ Which is the TOTAL opposite of driving the Miata!! It was easy to jump in and run fast but I need to work on smooothness from full brake to full gas and trust in the car. I spent a lot of time sideways going through the corners!! I was also really surprised at how easy it was to put it anywhere on the track I wanted. I missed very few apexs all weekend.

Oh, and anyone who says they are down in power is either a) ignorant, b) BSing or c) has the wrong engine builder............ :shrug:

During the first qualifying on Saturday I was called for sound so i didn't get many laps in. Most of the fast times were set in the morning because the afternoon got hot and the track was greasy. We worked on getting the exhaust pointed in the right direction and had no problems in the second qualifying......... but the next day when it was cool and a lot of moisture in the air I added some extra baffles for the race.............

I qualified third behind Abhi and Dan in Geoff's old Integra. It took me a few laps to get around Dan and by then Abhi had pulled away. Abhi then got called for sound and proceeded to miss the flags for five laps............... With mist coming and going I was VERY conservative. We had bumped up the tire pressures which helped in the beginning but I think the rears got over heated by mid race. I was really babying the throttle coming off the corners. It wasn't a pretty win but a win is a win. :D

Props to Dan and Denise in their new cars. Both did awesome.

Also, there is a new video (not of me) that may become as iconic as the "I was Seventh" video. I hope someone posts it!!!

Anyone have any in-car video of the begining of the race? My GoPro didn't record. Not sure if it's me or the camera but it only seems to work half the time...........

[gran racing]

Congrats Jeff and Abhi! Not bad for the first time out in a new car. ;)

Bet Abhi will now be motivated to fully convert it into an ITA Miata. lol

[JLawton]

Congrats Jeff and Abhi! Not bad for the first time out in a new car. ;)

Bet Abhi will now be motivated to fully convert it into an ITA Miata. lol


Abhi's car is NOT an SM. It's a well developed (although not 10/10ths) ITA car.



Does anyone know who the photographer that was shooting during the race? He was at turn 2 and turn 3.

[gran racing]

From what we talked about last week, it sure sounded like there was plenty of room left with that car. Doesn't it still have the SM suspension and SM engine? I also didn't say it is an SM car right now either Jeffy. Don't worry, I'm sure yours will be just as fast or faster.

[Andy Bettencourt]

Great recap! Power is relative. Compared to a 150whp Teg on a big track, ya you won't like that. But it's a great balance of power, weight and handling...and Matt will tweak out some better power. We will drag race on Memorial day!

Good to see more ITA versions and the new Teg owners!

[gizmo83]

Andy we missed you. Hope to see you in May!
Congratulations to Jeff , Brad and Dan!!
Dan did in an awesume job first time racing in the proven Integra!! Second place qual, started front row and held on for third!!
Living the Dream after 5 years in the Escort trying to get mid-pack!
Many trials and tribulations for me most of the weekend, including a minor 112 pound underweight disqual after second qual on Saturday!! Started last but able to improve my position by 8 and beat me best Escort time by 2 seconds! Pretty happy for first time out.
Once again the SCCA atmosphere of 'all for one' in time of need amazes us.
See ya all in May!!??

[StephF]

^^^^ 100+ lb under?
Denise...eat more donuts! :D

[mossaidis]

^ I have 75 lbs of lead if you want some... :) congrats to all those who raced!

[Abhi]

Their was a really really fast ITA miata that was black flagged for sound. Not sure on his name but it was his race to lose. I guarantee if he knew where to "lift" for sound he would have won.
Stephen

That would be me that got black flagged for sound. After the race, it was explained to me where to lift in turn 10. :)

Now I know.....

And I should have turned the exhaust tip away from the sound meter

Abhi

[gizmo83]

Steph,
I was hoping for brownie sundaes but he went and bought weights for ballast instead! I thought this was my chance, darn.

[Abhi]

Abhi's car is NOT an SM. It's a well developed (although not 10/10ths) ITA car.



Does anyone know who the photographer that was shooting during the race? He was at turn 2 and turn 3.

The car is my SM car from last year with the following:

Stahl Header
ISC Racing Intake
Megasquirt ECU

And some serious tuning by Matt (Grumpy) Kessler.

Still running the SM suspension.

For the next race, I will have an ITA cylinder head that Matt is working on. At that point I should have the same HP and Torque as your motor. (Per Matt)

Watch out then :D:D

(And a new muffler :) )

The photographer was my buddy Yusuf. Send me a PM and I will send you his contact info and website. He got some really good pics of you. He is non-commercial for racing stuff (meaning he gives them away for free.)

I am lobbying to get him designated as our track photog, so he can get better access for shooting angles. He ususally shoots thousands of shots a weekend.

Regards
Abhi

[Raceman77]

Yes Jeff i do have a video of the beginning of the rest. i need to figure out how to cut and paste it.

[jimalley]

Congrats to all of the ITA cars and drivers. Sounds like I missed a weekend of good competition. I am excited as it appears ITA will have a large showing with alot of well prepared cars this year.

[rhygin]

I think I have some video... I too want to see if Dan was as sideways at the start as I think he was!

Come on Jeff... Over inflated the tires.... Greasy? It was 48 degrees out! You were starting to succumb to the chase! It is cool...

[wepsbee]

i think i have some video... I too want to see if dan was as sideways at the start as i think he was!

Come on jeff... Over inflated the tires.... Greasy? It was 48 degrees out! You were starting to succumb to the chase! It is cool...

me too!!!!!!!

[JLawton]

Come on Jeff... Over inflated the tires.... Greasy? ...




Yup!!

And I kept my foot in it the whole time!!

[JLawton]

THere was another photographer there besides the one that took this. During the group 5 race he was at the turn 2 flag station and at the turn three, drivers right flag station behind the wall. He got some good shots of me so I REALLY want to track him down. Anyone???

[Andy Bettencourt]

Yup!!

And I kept my foot in it the whole time!!

So you were slower than in the Saturn...by a TON...but you had WAYYYY more fun!!!!!!!!

[StephF]

That's not the fast line through 3 Jeff.....:D

[CRallo]

THere was another photographer there besides the one that took this. During the group 5 race he was at the turn 2 flag station and at the turn three, drivers right flag station behind the wall. He got some good shots of me so I REALLY want to track him down. Anyone???

besides Ahbi's buddy?


That's not the fast line through 3 Jeff.....:D

and Ahbi doesn't scare that easily... LOL Though I bet he DID say something about that! :p

[Abhi]

and Ahbi doesn't scare that easily... LOL Though I bet he DID say something about that! :p

All I was thinking of was how grumpy Matt Kessler was going to get if Jeff and I brought back two broken cars.

It was right after my 1 minute conversation with the official on pit road, and so I was determined to unlap myself. Something about black flags....:shrug:

Abhi

[CRallo]

All I was thinking of was how grumpy Matt Kessler was going to get if Jeff and I brought back two broken cars.

It was right after my 1 minute conversation with the official on pit road, and so I was determined to unlap myself. Something about black flags....:shrug:

Abhi

ahhh.... that WOULD be a problem...

what black flags? :p

[Andy Bettencourt]

So Lawton says he's in for the Memorial Day Triple...I'm in, is this going to be a full on ITA throwdown with the new Teg owners, a 240SX some CRXi, and Abhi, Jim, Black Betty etc?

[mossaidis]

:rolleyes:

[CRallo]

I'll go if you can get Shane up there... :D

but probably still not. Planning to spend my few dollars racing places I've not raced at yet. Plus Lime Rock... maybe :)

[Abhi]

So Lawton says he's in for the Memorial Day Triple...I'm in, is this going to be a full on ITA throwdown with the new Teg owners, a 240SX some CRXi, and Abhi, Jim, Black Betty etc?

I am in
Abhi

[JLawton]

That's not the fast line through 3 Jeff.....:D


I was trying to use the "shock and awe" on Abhi!! ;) For the previous laps i actually thought it was Brad running me down. The first time I realized it was Abhi was going into the braking zone in 3 of that lap. I think I was so relieved it was "Sound Boy" and not Brad I got a little too excited.


I don't know about a "throw down" for Memorial Day. Andy banging out 15s while the rest of us are doing 18s.......... :p

And yes, after looking at the data, I see 17s in my future!!! LOL Seriously, I'll be very happy if I can reach the low 17s!!

Now that I have a Miata, i hope to do more socializing at the events!! Get back to having fun at the races! Denise and Dan, Krista wants me to make sure I get a garage near you guys! LOL

[Andy Bettencourt]

:rolleyes:

Sorry Mick! I didn't think you liked to run NHMS!!!

[Ed Funk]

Mickey likes to run anyplace his car doesn't break....kinda like us.

[Andy Bettencourt]

Mickey likes to run anyplace his car doesn't break....kinda like us.

I like that strategy!

[wepsbee]

I was trying to use the "shock and awe" on Abhi!! ;) For the previous laps i actually thought it was Brad running me down. The first time I realized it was Abhi was going into the braking zone in 3 of that lap. I think I was so relieved it was "Sound Boy" and not Brad I got a little too excited.


I don't know about a "throw down" for Memorial Day. Andy banging out 15s while the rest of us are doing 18s.......... :p

And yes, after looking at the data, I see 17s in my future!!! LOL Seriously, I'll be very happy if I can reach the low 17s!!

Now that I have a Miata, i hope to do more socializing at the events!! Get back to having fun at the races! Denise and Dan, Krista wants me to make sure I get a garage near you guys! LOL
Sounds like a good plan. See you there!

[CRallo]

Sorry Mick! I didn't think you liked to run NHMS!!!

neither do I... :shrug:

[Seabee]

Jeff, you have done so well drinking from the cup. Keep drinking.

[Andy Bettencourt]

neither do I... :shrug:

Well it's all relative. Not my favorite track but great facilities and IMHO the BEST value of any weekend on the calendar. 1 qual and three races.

[mossaidis]

Sorry Mick! I didn't think you liked to run NHMS!!!

No worries though you're not far from the truth. Last time I was at NHMS, I over-reved in July's 2010 NARRC race, which lead to engine disaster at WGI later in that month. I did get my novice permit there in '09, which was nice. Before that, I
ran with COMSCC since 05-08 and did at least 10 weekends there, all having to tow from albany or NYC (ugh). The COM folks are awesome but that NHMS surface!!! and that rough, tire eating, brake eating turns and all we get is a large autocross-like track... $$$$ to only have you Andy run 15's... ok, I am depressed now. :(


Mickey likes to run anyplace his car doesn't break....kinda like us.

If that's the case, I will let Teresa know it's time to move out of the Northeast cause I refuse to drive POCONO only! I wonder if there's any good jobs in southeast area where the restaurants are as good as NYC... Bueller?

I am committeed to NARRC in 2012... as long as I can keep the car from overrevs, walls, large objects, curbs, etc. :D


I like that strategy!

Ed is definitely a contender. Like Lawton, I would be happy with 17's at NHMS. FYI, I hope to stick around Monday and run open like-track format with COM.

[Andy Bettencourt]

Then that weekend is going to be awesome!!!

[Ed Funk]

I'll be there in the B car, or maybe C, or maybe HP, or maybe all three! But there ain't no way the new A car will be ready!

Steph is this years Trophy Person, so I'll be honored to present the beer mug to the winner of this bash. (Prolly shouldn't have said "bash")

[gizmo83]

Ed,I have yet to find a track where the car doesn't break!
Jeff we are in North garage 17!

I finally get to the 19's and now everyone is running <17's???
Still two + seconds away!!:(
Well at least I had fun:happy204:

[mossaidis]

Denise... YOU of all people know about progress:

http://www.mylaps.com/results/showrun.jsp?id=1099258

Keep CHARGING ahead!

[lawtonglenn]

Finally my video uploaded :) ... sorry I didn't have more for you Greg ... next time!

http://vimeo.com/lawtonglenn/videos

remember... if jumpy from old PC or slow internet, cycle HD off

.

[Magical Trevor]

Then that weekend is going to be awesome!!!

You're right Andy! You can all start signing up now, too! (http://www.ner.org/rr/event/20120526_regional-racing-nerrc-triplenarrc-double) (MotorsportReg link toward the bottom)

[Greg Amy]

Finally my video uploaded :) ... sorry I didn't have more for you Greg ... next time!
Shah!! I saw you swapped your entry for Sunday and I was all like, "hell yeah!" and "g-d sonofa...!" all at the same time... :happy204:

We'll do it again. Soon.

[Magical Trevor]

So, a question: did anyone touch wheels to the new (what looks to me - after viewing video but not in person - like) pavement on the right over the top of the hill on the way toward turn 9? Or was it some kind of dark gravel? Looks like a prime lap-distance-shortening opportunity (the white lines are already ignored at several other points around the track).

[Greg Amy]

So, a question: did anyone touch wheels to the new (what looks to me - after viewing video but not in person - like) pavement on the right over the top of the hill on the way toward turn 9? Or was it some kind of dark gravel? Looks like a prime lap-distance-shortening opportunity (the white lines are already ignored at several other points around the track).
Yup. I did, and I saw several folks in front of me do it. TONS of gravel spray, quite annoying. One could make a four-wheel-off-driver's-right Bonzai run, but I really doubt you'd be able to get the car settled down in the subsequent track mess you create.

Short answer: the gravel they put there discourages the practice.

[Magical Trevor]

Yup. I did, and I saw several folks in front of me do it. TONS of gravel spray, quite annoying. One could make a four-wheel-off-driver's-right Bonzai run, but I really doubt you'd be able to get the car settled down in the subsequent track mess you create.

Short answer: the gravel they put there discourages the practice.
Hmm. We'll see how the LeMons handle it. Maybe the loose stuff will have blown off by Memorial Day.

[JLawton]

Hmm. We'll see how the LeMons handle it. Maybe the loose stuff will have blown off by Memorial Day.

Trevor, I don't think there was any new pavement added. I just think they replaced the white "windsheild breaking" marbles with some dark stuff. I don't think they had finished the grading yet in that area. During the test day they made a point to say that the track surface had not changed.


White lines??? What are these white lines you speak of??? :)

Hey, if they ain't gonna black flag you for driving on a certain piece of pavement, then it's fair game. Just ask Timmy with his Klavana rain line in the Up Hill at LRP. Short story: Tim's line scared the sh*t out of flag station at the top of the hill. Flag station called in to have Tim black flagged. Control denied request. Flag station filed a protest.

Classic!!

[Magical Trevor]

Yep, I remember all that. Classic SCCA.

Though I would say that the boundaries are a bit more clearly defined at LRP, since it's not been a constuction site for the last 20 years (though Skip has tried... :rolleyes:)

[lateapex911]

Trevor, I don't think there was any new pavement added. I just think they replaced the white "windsheild breaking" marbles with some dark stuff. I don't think they had finished the grading yet in that area. During the test day they made a point to say that the track surface had not changed.


White lines??? What are these white lines you speak of??? :)

Hey, if they ain't gonna black flag you for driving on a certain piece of pavement, then it's fair game. Just ask Timmy with his Klavana rain line in the Up Hill at LRP. Short story: Tim's line scared the sh*t out of flag station at the top of the hill. Flag station called in to have Tim black flagged. Control denied request. Flag station filed a protest.

Classic!!

Wasn't the flagger a driver too?

[Magical Trevor]

I believe it was Rich Alexander from MoHud, a former Vee racer.

[dickita15]

no it was Pete Watson although Grant was there too.

[wepsbee]

Has anyone been able to locate any video on the start of the ITA race?

[dpc]

Tim was found not guilty....

[JLawton]

Some great pictures:


http://www.otmpix.com/ (http://www.otmpix.com/)

[JLawton]

More good pictures. Mostly from Group 5.

http://abudiphotography.com/scca-racing/new-hampshire-motor-speedway/

[Abhi]

More good pictures. Mostly from Group 5.

http://abudiphotography.com/scca-racing/new-hampshire-motor-speedway/

Jeff,

Love that picture of you getting sideways in front of me in Turn 3. I really thought I was about to collect you. Wow...that would have led to some awkward silences in our garage. :shrug:


BTW, if anyone wants a copy of the pics, email Yusuf from the website. He does not charge for the pictures. He will email them to you. He shoots in super high resolution so you can have it printed in poster size.

Yusuf would like to shoot for all the run groups and provide the pics to SCCA members at no cost. However to get better shooting angles, he probably needs photographer credentials to shoot from the corner stations.

Jerry....Any way we could do this ? He only has a crew license.

Abhi

[wepsbee]

Jeff,

Love that picture of you getting sideways in front of me in Turn 3. I really thought I was about to collect you. Wow...that would have led to some awkward silences in our garage. :shrug:


BTW, if anyone wants a copy of the pics, email Yusuf from the website. He does not charge for the pictures. He will email them to you. He shoots in super high resolution so you can have it printed in poster size.

Yusuf would like to shoot for all the run groups and provide the pics to SCCA members at no cost. However to get better shooting angles, he probably needs photographer credentials to shoot from the corner stations.

Jerry....Any way we could do this ? He only has a crew license.

Abhi

Some really nice pics:happy204: Hope he will be able to continue!!

[dickita15]

Jerry....Any way we could do this ? He only has a crew license.

Abhi

Should be easy particularly if he is willing to donate some submissions to Pit Talk and NER.ORG

[CRallo]

Should be easy particularly if he is willing to donate some submissions to Pit Talk and NER.ORG

:happy204:

[YusufA]

Dick,

This is Yusuf, who Abhi was referring to.

I would be more than happy to donate some submissions to either the website or Pit Talk.

I will be at all of the NER/NAARC races except the June LRP one.

Should I come and find you on Saturday to arrange it ?

BTW, I just put up the pictures from the 2011 NAARC runoffs on the website if anyone is interested.

Regards

Yusuf

[Abhi]

BTW, I just put up the pictures from the 2011 NAARC runoffs on the website if anyone is interested.


http://abudiphotography.com/scca-racing/lime-rock-park/lime-rock-oct-01-2011/

About half way down the first page, there is a great series of pictures of Jim Alley pretending he is at Six Flags Water Park. :)

Didn't know a Miata could move that much water.

Abhi

[StephenB]

Yusof,

I am on my phone so I cant check...

all you really need to do is talk to the operating steward of the event, the cheif of flagging, and attend the flagging and communications meeting early in the day.

Stephen

[dickita15]

Dick,

This is Yusuf, who Abhi was referring to.

I would be more than happy to donate some submissions to either the website or Pit Talk.

I will be at all of the NER/NAARC races except the June LRP one.

Should I come and find you on Saturday to arrange it ?

BTW, I just put up the pictures from the 2011 NAARC runoffs on the website if anyone is interested.

Regards

Yusuf

yup, see you Saturday

[YusufA]

yup, see you Saturday
Sound great. I will see you then.

[YusufA]

Yusof,

I am on my phone so I cant check...

all you really need to do is talk to the operating steward of the event, the cheif of flagging, and attend the flagging and communications meeting early in the day.

Stephen
Thanks for the info Stephen.

[StephenB]

Thanks for the info Stephen.

Dick trumps anything I say! He will get you all set up!

[YusufA]

Dick trumps anything I say! He will get you all set up!
Thanks again. You know this means I can use this as an excuse with the wife to buy a new lens. Now I have to find other excuses for the other six lenses I would like to have.