Hoosier Tire FST Rounds 3 & 4 - Waterford Hills

[jsteeb]

Hi everybody…

Here is some basic info out about Rounds 3 and 4 of the US Hoosier Tire Formula First Series.

Waterford Hills is one of the best deals in racing, and it’s even better for us Formula First guys.

Online Entry is available here:
http://myautoevents.com/pls/mae/frmE...event_id=13152

Entry fee for SCCA members: $215 for the weekend.
Friday Test Day Pricing: $20 per session (gates open around 10AM, track is open from 12-4). There are usually four 20min sessions.

The projected weekend schedule is:

Formula First will be Group 2

Saturday morning - Practice with FV and F500
Saturday Mid-Day – Qualifying with FV and F500
Saturday Evening – Round 3 US Hoosier Tire Formula First Series – (Formula First only)

Sunday Morning – Qualifying with FV and F500
Sunday Mid-Day – Round 4 US Hoosier Tire Formula First Series – (Formula First only)
Sunday Evening – Optional Race - Combined with FV and F500. (No FST points or contingencies will be awarded for this optional race).

This is the same schedule as last year.

As always, the bigger the car count, the more the track will be willing to cater to us. So, bring your cars out. You will not find more track time for the money.

Waterford Hills is located on the grounds of the
Oakland County Sportsmen's Club
4770 Waterford Road
Clarkston, MI 48346-3453

Official website is:
http://www.waterfordhills.com/

Important Note for the new guys:
The operation of Waterford Hills does differ (very slightly) from the usual SCCA Regional/National. You will notice small variations in some of the paddock rules and how the weekend is run. If you guys have any questions feel free to post. I know there are a number of Waterford regulars on Apex, so ask away!

Usually, the biggest speed bump is that Waterford does require us to run a muffler. The maximum allowable dB limit, at the property line, is 75dB. The city is serious about this limit, and the track enforces the rule. Whether you meet that limit or not, you will need to have a, “commercially available,” muffler installed. I have seen GT1 Corvettes and Swift Formula Atlantics meet the limit. I know, at first look it seems like a hassle. But, it is a city ordinance, and how the track is able to get along with its neighbors. It is nowhere near as complex as it might seem.

Our little cars will not have a problem. Most guys (including myself) run one of the first 3 versions of a SuperTrapp. I know Jim at SR and/or Keith at Averill Racing Stuff can hook you guys up with the right bits. The main point here...Formula Firsts will be fine only running the baffles. You do not need any of the canister style mufflers.

There is some good info on last year's thread, so check it out as well (most of the above is a copy and paste).

Cheers!
Jason

[jsteeb]

Hi guys...

Another subtle difference is that there are reserved paddock spots for some of the Waterford regulars. I need to confirm a couple of things with my dad, Steve. He's really doing all the grunt work this year. Most of the FST rigs I am familiar with, would not fit a "standard" Waterford paddock spot. The track was pretty helpful last year, and I think they will be the same this year.

A couple more notes about the paddock (subtle differences between most tracks and Waterford).

• Each paddock spot has access to electrical plug-ins.
• No golf carts, ATV's, bikes, or mopeds are allowed (Small enough to not matter).
• 1 support vehicle is allowed per entry. that's usually your trailer.
• There is a water hose and compressed air inside the paddock.
• There is a concession stand inside the paddock
• All paddock roads are paved, and most spots are grass.
• There are showers, a changing room, and bathrooms in the paddock.
• You may sleep in your camper or trailer.
• You can see the entire track from a couple different spectator areas inside or outside the paddock. It's a great track for your family and friends!
• To get them in...it's $5 at the paddock gate. They will need to tell the front gate they are "crew".

Should be a great event! I'm looking forward to it!

PS...here is a quick pic/map to make it easier...



Uploaded with ImageShack.us

[steve everard]

Jason, Will you be driving ?????

Steve

[kea]

Jason,
What is the date (s)

[jsteeb]

Steve... I'm not 100% yet, but I can't imagine the FST series can get this close to my house, and I don't seize the opportunity joint the fun.

Keith.... Good point - thanks.

All.. I edited the original post to add the dates. Per some off line conversations, I also revised the projected schedule.

As a clarification - the goal is for this event to be 100% identical to last year's event.

Thanks - and please feel free to post ANY questions about the weekend.

Jason

[kea]

Jason,
I wanted the dates listed just in case someone in the area is looking to get involved and wanted to see them run. I enjoyed watching last time and look forward to this years event.

[dd46637]

Registered

[Jmader08]

Do we have to register for the friday practice sessions or just show up and pay for each session we want to do?

[kea]

Just show-up

[rgu]

As our series rules state, a muffler is not to me measured to determine overall length of the race car.

If you don't have one see Jim Schings post on the www.formula-first.org BBS. He is selling them very cheaply of you can borrow one it it can fit you pipe but act soon on the later deal.

[dblevins]

I'm registered.Can anyone recommend a decent motel ?

[stvstb]

Even though we live just over an hour away we stayed at a Holiday Inn Express Hotel at 4350 Pontiac Lake Road just 3 1/2 miles from the track one race weekend last year. Close, food on the way to and from the track, seemed clean enough to my wife... (248)674-3434 I think Doug stayed at a Comfort Inn - maybe he will chime in with another review for you! See ya in a couple of weeks. steve

[Doug FST 5]

I just registered. As i recall from last year we stayed at the Comfort Inn and it was nice. The breakfast was even pretty good.

Doug FST 5

[dblevins]

Thanks to all,motel reservations comfirmed.

[stvstb]

Hey Doug - was it this one?

http://www.comfortinn.com/hotel-wate...michigan-MI080

I've been told Waterford Hills has a "special rate" negotiated for the Vintage Weekend at the end of the month and if you mention Waterford Hills someone might screw-up and give you the special rate. Probably worth a try...

[teamclark]

All

With just over a week to go we only have 6 cars registered for Waterford. Once you have recovered from celebrating the 4th its time to get your entries in..... I figure we should have 12+ cars....with potential for as many as 15.

If your not going to make the meeting then post here so we can keep track.

Also don't forget to enter at the same time for Grattan!!!!

Yes
Jon Mader (entered)
Dave Dawson (entered)
Doug Seim (entered)
Reece Everard - (entered)
Rob Clark (entered)
Dave Blevins (entered)
Sam Farmiga
Doug Sharp
George Podgorski
Sam Farmiga
Jason Steeb
Jim Nash

Maybe?
John Stofka
Lance Renshaw
Randy Shinn
Jerad Smith
Butch Deer
Dennis Richardson
Tim Hensley
Bill Bonow
SR Racing Renter??

Definate No
Gary Grubb

[Doug FST 5]

Thats the one.

Doug FST 5

[jsteeb]

FYI guys.... it was 105deg on my deck today. I only mention it, because I live about 20mins from the track.

Like most of the country we've been having some crazy HOT days around here, and (right now) the forecast for next weekend is about the same. Be prepared for high oil and head temps. Waterdford is a tight track, and doesn't generate the much needed air flow through the cooling scoops. I would bring materials to get more air into the car - just incase. If you have bigger scoops, now is a good time to bring them out. If you've been putting off a bigger oil cooler, time to move.

FYI - There is also a great ACE Hardware down the street from the track - just incase.

Also.... When setting up your paddcok spot... The weather typically blows (sort of) perpendicular to the front straight. In the map above, it would come from the lower left corner-ish of the pic.

Cheers!

[teamclark]

Still a lot of drivers missing from the entry list for Waterford - don't forget its this weekend!!!!

Get your entries in pronto or let us know if your plans have changed.

Yes
Jon Mader (entered)
Dave Dawson (entered)
Doug Seim (entered)
Reece Everard (entered)
Rob Clark (entered)
Dave Blevins (entered)
Sam Farmiga (entered)
Doug Sharp
Jason Steeb (entered)
Jim Nash (entered)

Maybe?
John Stofka
Lance Renshaw
Dennis Richardson
Tim Hensley
SR Racing Renter??

Definate No
Gary Grubb
George Podgorski
Jerad Smith
Randy Shinn
Butch Deer
Bill Bonow

[Doug FST 5]

I call dibs on following Jason in qualifying.....just sayin'

[teamclark]

Long as I can follow you, following Jason, then ok

Going to be a fun weekend!

[teamclark]

Updated above with latest - 9 Entries, still looking for 1 or 2 more...

[kea]

If you guys want F/FST class to grow, then you better make the races !
This is the kind of event where others will see what the class is all about, be able to talk to those who are involved (because there is more than just one or two) and the easiest way for them to find out on how to make the next step and join the fun.
If you are waiting for fuel prices to drop lower, the daytime temps to drop (very nice in Michigan today), or the other guy to go and help the entry numbers, you are part of the classes growth problem.

I personally like the F/FST concept, so my feelings are biased.

[teamclark]

Keith

Given that empassioned plea for FST drivers to attend, and your stated support of the class can we count on you to rent a car for this weekend and put your $ where your written words are?

I know Jim Schings at SR has a Evolution just waiting for a driver.....

Seriously yes we want it to grow, but it needs to grow sustainably, people all have budgets to manage to we can't compel people to race, just the same as we can't compel people to buy/build/convert cars to FST. I would love to have 20 cars on the grid at Waterford, but I would rather have 10+ cars at every meeting and the a high proportion of the drivers racing next season.

The committee does a great job to organise an excellant series with good sponsor support in a crowded race market, and the competitors all make the racing fun, both off and on the track.

I hope that with 10+ cars likely to be in the field this weekend (more then any other single class entries at this point ) that people will see the class, talk to those that are invested/entered and understand the advantages it offers.

[kea]

I have not found a way to bring my trailer with "stuff" to a track and race too, thus I haven't raced for a very long time. But if I could I'd be willing to give F/FST a try!

[teamclark]

Keith

So if buying a car and running is not in your future, but you really support the class then maybe some sponsorship would be a great way to help us grow.....

Maybe the 'Averill Racing Stuff' FST Feature Race.....

[rgu]

The Waterford Hills Board of Directors has agreed to give ONE FREE RACE ENTRY for 2013 to any Showcase Race at our track that attracts more than eight (8) entries.

This FREE ENTRY is non-transferable and is to be awarded in a Random Drawing.

There------- we are already getting going on next year.

[kea]

Keith

So if buying a car and running is not in your future, but you really support the class then maybe some sponsorship would be a great way to help us grow.....

Maybe the 'Averill Racing Stuff' FST Feature Race.....

Come present your case for next year, I'll be there all weekend.

[teamclark]

Late breaking update, Bill Wise has entered in the SR Racing XTC, to bring our number to double digits 10 cars, still at least 1 more entry expected

Still have at least one SR car for rent....who's in

Yes
Jon Mader (entered)
Dave Dawson (entered)
Doug Seim (entered)
Reece Everard (entered)
Rob Clark (entered)
Dave Blevins (entered)
Sam Farmiga (entered)
Jason Steeb (entered)
Jim Nash (entered)
Bill Wise (entered)
Doug Sharp

Maybe?
John Stofka
Lance Renshaw
Dennis Richardson
Tim Hensley
SR Racing Renter??

Definate No
Gary Grubb
George Podgorski
Jerad Smith
Randy Shinn
Butch Deer
Bill Bonow

[jsteeb]

You guys are hilarious!

Assuming I even manage to get in front of Doug and Rob - you guys are welcome to "follow" me ALL weekend - especially during the races.

The offer stands for everybody.

LOL! See you guys on Friday. Should be a fun weekend!

Cheers!
Jason

[stvstb]

FYI - Saturday after racing at Waterford Hills we will (of course) have a beer keg (I expect to pick up Labatt's) and for a ten dollar mandatory donation (I didn't invent the wording...) we will have all you can eat Beef Brisket, Pulled Pork and Side Salads. There are also plenty of food places in the neighborhood if you prefer...

And although I tried very hard (I am the Director of Racing AND the Weather Steward!) I am afraid it will be high 80's - low 90's and a bit Humid. Chance of storms late in the day - turbulent air, you know! Bring lots of fluid, big scoops and cool suits / accessories if you have them.

steve

[teamclark]

Jason/Steve

What time is documentation/tech usually open on Friday?

Also is the Qualifying session on Saturday/Sunday a qualifying race or true qualfying session - cant remember from last year?

[jsteeb]

Hey Rob, et al....

Great question!

Waterford's format is to have a race. However... Our grid for the series race will be set by fastest lap time, not finishing position. So, eventhough we will need to go through the formalities of a race (grid, pace lap, 2 abreast start, etc)... we should all plan to treat this session as a qualifying session.

Friday Test Day
- Paddock gates open at 10AM (possibly earlier).
- Cars on course from 12-4.
- Open Wheel / Closed Wheel - typically 4 sessions
- $20 per session.

Saturday (as Bill Wise already posted...)
~10:30 Practice/Qualifying - These times set the "grid" for the mid day race.
~12:30 - 1:00 Waterford Hills Class Race - Lap time will set grid for Series Race
~5:00 - US Hoosier Tire Formula First Series Race #3 - 15 laps

Sunday
~10:30 - Qualifying "Race" - Lap time will set grid for Series Race
~12:45 - US Hoosier Tire Formula First Series Race #4 - 15 laps
~3:15 - Waterford Hills Feature Race - Optional for those who haven't had enough fun!

Please keep in mind the Vees and 500s will be racing for the Waterford Hills Series Championship, so avoid them if possible.

Thanks!
Jason

[jsteeb]

Hello...

I believe Tech and Registration are open Friday night between ~6PM and 8PM. See the above map for location.

They open Saturday and Sunday morning at 8AM.

Cheers!
Jason

[jsteeb]

For anybody who was there last year, you know how tight the paddock is. Regular WHRRI members do have some reserved paddock spots.

In the map below, I have blacked out the spots which are currently reserved. Please feel free to use any of the spots which are not blacked out.

Jim - shoot for spots 3-6 again. That seemed to work great last year. For everybody else. I suggest we try to group up near the entrance spots 77-81, and 62-66.

[Bill Bonow]

Here are the top 4 in Q 1 at Waterford this morning:

Reece Everard 1:14.0
Jason Steeb
Doug Seim
Rob Clark 1:14.5

Q 2 report shortly

[Bill Bonow]

Here is your afternoon race grid

1) Reece Everard 1:14.458
2) Jason Steeb 1:14.657
3) Doug Seim 1:15.316
4) Rob Clark 1:17.070
5) Jonathan Mader 1:17.286
6) Bill Wise 1:17.449
7) Dave Dawson 1:18.607
8) Dave Blevins 1:19.954
9) Doug Sharp 1:20.395

[Bill Bonow]

Early race results:

1) Steeb
2) Everard
3) Seim

Details to come

[Bill Bonow]

I've got Tracy Clark relaying all the details from Waterford. Sounds like the key issue in the race was heat. At the start of the race it was 98 degrees. Always great with air cooled cars on a tight/twisty (slow speed) track .

Sounds like the first three cars stayed very close for the entire race.

Here are the results:

1) Jason Steeb 1;14.169 (Fast Lap)
2) Reece Everard
3) Doug Seim
4) Dave Dawson
5) Jim Nash
6) Doug Sharp
7) Dave Blevins
8) Jonathan Mader
9) Rob Clark
10) Bill Wise

[steve everard]

We were all set for a grandstand finish with Jason and Reece fractions of a second apart when the last lap produced a full course caution and the last lap never happened, great racing. Can't wait for tommorrow. see attached images.

For those who remember last year when Reece was disqualified after finishng 3rd for being 1 lb under weight...this year we went taking a chances...we finished 1lb over


Tech guy came out with a classic statement " If you took a d..mp before the race it could have DQ'd you .