Monday - the 'off' day

For an 'off' day, it was a busy one. Going through registration at the Bridgestone tent (Bridgestone is one of the major sponsors of this event besides the Tire Rack), trying to get into the Test N Tune that was first come first served and half the tickets had already been pre-sold before we arrived. The numbers didn't look good. Approximately 600 competitors for the 1st two days and only 180 spots available each day with 90 already pre-sold. By the time we get to the line for this practice tickets, there is a line that is in excess of 90 competitors. It didn't look good. You do the math.

Both of us were able to get into the Test n Tune (they ended up adding two more sessions running until 7pm). Dale also made it into the Evo Test N Tune, but I didn't. We unpacked the car and got ready for the practice. Dale went first and Dale found that the car was pushing in turns all day. I hadn't driven yet and couldn't comment on the handling. My practice session came at 3pm and the car wasn't as nimble as previous testing at El Toro, but I didn't feel that it pushed badly. We left the setup alone.





After practice, dinner was served at the Smith Collection, which turned out to be a very nice collection of racing history. We saw everything ranging from this 'garage' setup



to Arie Luyendyk's race car



and lots of motors of various vintages, a large collecton of lunch boxes, posters and toy cars. I think this place would be like a CP pilgrimage to the holy land. Even if you are not in to American muscle, there's enough here to warrant a visit.



It was a long day and with racing starting tomorrow, we went to back to the hotel to rest.