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May 2003, Pacific Raceways,
Auburn
| May 23rd through 25th I raced at Pacific Raceways in
Auburn.
For the final day, Amy and Rob Scheibe accompanied me, helping me keep
the car in running order, cheering me on...and taking photos.
At right, Rob waits with me in the paddock before the race begins. Most
valuably, he delivered a last-minute cup of coffee! |
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As a result of my finish in the time trials the previous
day, plus some strategic maneuvering by two other drivers, I was able to
start in the pole position.
At left, I'm following the pace car for a first lap before the race
starts. |
| Early in the race, for the first couple laps, many of the
cars remain fairly close together. Over the course of the race, they
tend to spread out. At right, a lot are bunched behind me in turn
three.
Pacific Raceways is a fun course to race, with numerous turns and long
hills on the back side of the track [below]. Unfortunately, most
race fans don't get to see the action along the best part of the track
unless they take a hike. |
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Rob is always a great help when he comes to the track. I
really appreciate his expertise and enthusiasm.
At left, he's checking my tire temperature immediately after I've
pulled off the track. Tire temperature is absolutely crucial and is
affected by tire pressure, pavement temperature, and ambient air
temperature. If tires are too cool, there isn't enough traction to hold
the car to the pavement, especially important in turns. If the tires are
too hot, they can get too sticky, and they also wear out faster—which means more expense. I'm still
working to find the ideal formula of temperature and pressure that will
allow a set of "slicks" to last as long as possible. |
| With all the clothes I have to wear, the helmet, and spring
and summer temperatures—not to mention the adrenaline—it gets pretty steamy in the car
[right]. This is despite the fact that a large hose blows air into my face
while I'm driving.
At Auburn this year I didn't win any races, but I finished well
considering the competition and was pleased with my performance. Thanks,
too, to Amy and Rob! |
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