Scott, you forgot to mention that the Firebird East Road Course SoloII event in
Phoenix this summer/fall(?) was the most fun we've had in a LONG time! The
85-90mph left hand sweeper coming into the finish section was my favorite turn!!
;-)
DY
Scott & Glenda Meyers wrote:
> Interesting topic, and many good thoughts.
>
> To the wag who suggested that I may fear falling out of bed, I've won two
> Divisionals in D Stock in the past three years - how goes it for you? ;-)
>
> Let's state clearly that San Diego was never an intended target (their events
> are very well organized and a pleasure to attend) - the concept of seemingly
> an slow transition to faster and faster courses is my issue. Like "lifting the
> bull each day until it's full grown" (yeah, I read that one), we may noteven
> notice the evolution if it is slow enough.
>
> In summary:
>
> * Cornering at 75 mph is VERY different than cornering at 50 mph. Things go
> wrong geometrically as speed increases, remember. And even cornering at 'only'
> 65 mph in a lowly Neon is equally different than 45 mph :-).
>
> * Our mission should be to create a SAFE challenge for everyone. This includes
> anticipating what might go wrong. If we set up courses that knowingly exceed
> actual highway speed limits, and do not require the proper safety gear, is
> there any liability? Better think a little on that one before moving on.....
>
> * 75 mph is not in and by itself unsafe. How it happens, where it happens,
> course conditions and angularity are at least as important (off-camber
> situations). How a series of corners are connected can add an element of
> unsafe to any course.
>
> * "Fast" is a relative term - if you are only impressed with 75+ mph then you
> are in the wrong place. I submit Solo 2 is NOT that. Taking a 45 mph corner
> faster than anyone else is a real thrill. Putting a series of corners together
> so that your car dances 'on the edge' is a very good feeling.
>
> As we construct courses in the future, just keep in mind that "we" - those in
> charge - are ultimately responsible for what happens. In addition, the future
> of our sport depends greatly on our past safety record.
>
> Just give it some conscious thought.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Scott Meyers
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