NERDS RACING - North East Recreational Driving Schedule

This Sunday happened to be one of the first auto events that didn't have a wet spot. It was a nice change not to change tires, work or drive in the rain. However this event did not go-off without those "first-time-at-a-new-lot" glitches. The morning heat was constantly interrupted by either late arrivals, or by paint-ballers who were organized behind SJ's event location. However once the morning session was over, the event ran very smoothly. In the afternoon, Steve Ashcraft visibly sent cars a bit closer together, and as a result each competitor ran Jim Blanton's course eight times. Upon complimenting Jim, he expressed to me that he wasn't happy with his course design. Considering that this was SJR's first event @ Atco Raceway and considering Mr. Blanton had about 1/3 of the space he was used to working with, I think he did considerably well.

Looking from the paddock area to Jackson Rd. the course started from the left. Folks were seen jockeying their cars at the start for the straightest possible run towards the first left-hand turn. The course started heading across the lot, toward the right. Then a quick blip on the brakes before entering the first left turn. This led into a slight right turn that set up a four cone slalom. The slalom could be taken almost full gas-on, since the two turns previous were somewhat tight. The first real braking zone was after the slalom. Then competitors were treated to a clockwise oval skid pad. After one and a half times around, cars dashed straight to a tight-looking box leading to a very satisfying esse turn. This warranted a full mashing of the accelerator. Yes, it was fun! After the finish, times were displayed on a digital display positioned to the right. This was extra useful, since the drag racing exposed folk's ears to some open exhaust. In fact, it was so loud that one competitor left the event early.

- "Nice map Dave, and you're supposed to be an artist?"

- "Uhm yeah, but I was going for,... you know that raw energy, fine-art type feel?"

Top Subaru Challenge Drivers

The top five PAX finishers were, Jeff Hurst (STS), Tad Kaminski (STS) driving a Honda Civic Hatchback, Jim Blanton (CS) in a blue Miata, Steve Ashcraft (CSP) driving his street prepared Miata, and Steve Close (FS) rounding out the top five in his Ford Mustang GT. >>photo of top five<< Results: autoX4u.com.

Four NERDs All Dressed In Black

Sam Resnick, 1st in class (STX) and 6th in PAX.; Sam co-drove Arren Asuncion's Black Integra Type-R. Arren finished 12th in PAX

Mark Yeck, 2nd in (DS) and 15th in PAX; Mark drove his Black Mitsubishi GSX.

David Hess, 2nd in (CSP) and 17th in PAX; Dave drove his Black CRX Si, and shared it with Ray Cheslock during the afternoon.

Grace Huntzinger, alone (DSP) and 32nd in PAX; left the ITR home and drove her Black, VW Scirocco.

Proper Credit to Terry

Each of the 50 drivers were photographed by "Event Photo Now" photographer, Terry "TAZ" Zorich. Terry posted the photos online organized by make of car. You can purchase individual photos, or a whole CD from him online. However, both the preview pics and the offer expires on 7/31/03. Terry has graciously allowed both South Jersey Region and this site (nerdsracing.com), free use of his photos.

More Brown-nosing

Thanks to Jim Blanton, Steve Ashcraft, John Borden, Jim Tornetta, Ed Jenks, and even though he wasn't there, JD King, who hauled the trailer to Atco Raceway (it has all the autocross stuff in it). You guys ran an excellent event and kept things on schedule despite the morning traffic delays.

Also thank you to all the folks who stuck it out despite the bright sun, many morning interruptions and louder then normal engine (music?). Also last but certainly not least, to Sam Resnick who fed me names of the trophy winners from the timing computer.

Thank you to Subaru of America for being such an excellent sponsor and to Atco Raceway for the race space!

Photos | Results | SJ's Homepage | Schedule '03 | Atco

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If you have any questions feel free to email me, or post your question on the NERDS_racing yahoo group.