TC at Watkins Glen — Wow!

We started early today for Byron's TC race, it was hot before 8 when we went to pre-grid. Byron was in the 15th position out of 17 cars. The BMW does not have to power that the other (highly evolved) touring cars do. The SCCA has started talking about changing the rules for next year, and if they do his car will be right where it should be. For this year it might run a little slow.




That did not stop him from a 7th place finish and the Hard Charger Award. First, in practice, a Mazda hit the wall and was out, then today saw 5 cars go down. In an amazing crash at the exit of the last turn 4 (all three cars from BimmerWorld) cars got smashed up in a big way. All four drivers were fine, but three cars don't look to be repairable. There were also a few stop and go penalties that factored into Byron's run to the front. More than half the race went under the double yellow, but it's a must see on SPEED.

The Evo is Out :-(

During the am testing session this morning the car had some issues and was down on power. We have decided to pull it out of the race to protect it until we can work and test some more. Heat has been a factor today, mostly for the humans used to the cool Salt Lake City spring. It hit 95º today with what felt like 90% humidity. Byron had a 2pm session which was really tough.

We're still glad to be here, learning a lot and making progress with the cars. The Evo has gotten a lot of attention. I've got to run to Byron's qualifying session. We'll try again at Mid Ohio.

Testing in Watkins Glen

Today went very well, considering we all got about 4 hours of sleep last night. I just love watching all the pro drivers they come in late after their cars are all prepared, drive and leave early. I know this because I have been there working the whole time! It took forever to get parked. then we had to figure out Byron's new canopy. It makes us look much more professional—along with two killer cars.

Both cars ran well today for the two sessions we were allowed. We hope that all the work Vesko and Joe did last week solved the problem, but it's too early to tell. It's true what Vesko says about this track, make a mistake and your car is done. We saw one Porsche go down today. It's a fabulous location and a beautiful time of year to be here. We just did a golf cart tour of the track. Really makes me wish I were driving. I did get a day in at Mid Ohio this week and that was a lot of fun. I highly recommend that track.

Sorry, no pictures. I'll get on that tomorrow. Right now we all need to eat!