[Ernie P.]

Sorry about the change, Guys; but I've agreed to change the date of the big race at Thunder Road; to avoid going "back-to-back" with another race.

The "2004 Virginia Oval Championships" will be held on December 4th; at Thunder Road RC Speedway, in Gordonsville, VA.

Classes will be 19-Turn Open; Stock; Spec; Legends; Mini-T Stock; and Mini-T Modified. We will be running *strict* ARCOR rules for all classes except Mini-T's. We'll run local rules for the Mini-T's.

Be aware ARCOR rules require SPEC tires for both SPEC Class and Legends. And watch the minimum roof height for all classes.

Our Mini-T classes are Stock and Modified. Stock means *STOCK*; as in the way the danged thing came out of the box!!! And yes, that means you run the stock body, transmitter and 4 AA batteries, too.) Modified means that you basically "run what ya brung"; 6 cell battery max. No stiff "rollover" antennas in any class.

I'm putting up over $600.00 in GUARANTEED prize money; or 1/2 of race entry fees, whichever is GREATER; plus trophies and plaques; and door prizes.

Race entry fee is $30.00 for the first class; $5.00 less for each successive class. IOW, $30.00; $25.00; $20.00; etc.

The first 35 entries are guaranteed a pit spot. Sign up ahead of time, or arrive early. After that, you may wind up working out of your car.

I have also scheduled our first ARCOR race, the "Snowbirds Warmup", for Saturday, January 15, 2005. The "friends" race for those who help out in the re-hab is still on.

For details, contact me on this forum or at [email protected]. More later; Ernie P.

 

[Ernie P.]

Go to: http://www.thunderroadrc.com/ for the flyer and the entry form. Thanks; Ernie P.

 

[Ernie P.]

Response to Jimmy

Jimmy; glad to hear it. I'll have some hotel/motel info up in a day or so. Check the Thunder Road website for details. Thanks; Ernie P.

 

[Ernie P.]

Thunder Road is (temporarily) closed!

Just as a reminder, guys; Thunder Road is now closed until we have completed the rehab. We hope to be open for business by November 6th, possibly sooner; and I'll keep you posted. Thanks for all your past support, and we look forward to seeing all of you at Thunder Road in November; practicing and getting your setups tuned for the 2004 Virginia Oval Championships on Decenber 4th. Thanks; Ernie P.

 

[Ernie P.]

Thanks

I want to thank the racers who showed up at Thunder Road this weekend, to help with the rehab. Your help was greatly appreciated. We made a lot of progress; and I think the rest of you will be pleased when you see what we have done. Thanks; Ernie P.

 

[Ernie P.]

Paypal Accepted!

Okay, guys; I have arranged for a Verified Paypal Account for Thunder Road. You can now pay for your advance entry via Paypal; by logging into paypal.com, and making payment to "[email protected]". Why enter in advance? Because pit positions will be assigned as entries are received. IOW, the permanent, and newly refurbished, pit positions will be assigned as entries are received. If you choose to enter on the day, you may wind up pitting in a temporary pit position. So enter early, if you want to be assured of a better pit position. Thanks; Ernie P.

 

[Ernie P.]

2004 Virginia Oval Championships Concours

Guys; just to get the word out, there will be a Concours event at the 2004 Virginia Oval Championships on December 4th, at Thunder Road RC Speedway, in Gordonsville, VA. Rules follow:

(1) Concours will be judged prior to the first heat.

(2) Concours entries will be limited to those cars and bodies actually participating in the race. Any entry in Concours which fails to compete will be disqualified. Any damage resulting from practice will be ignored.

(3) All Classes will be judged together. Plaques will be presented to the winner in each Category.

(4) Cars will be judged in three Categories:
(A) Best NASCAR Replica. The entry should be an exact replice of a given current or past NASCAR entry. Photos or representations of the actual NASCAR entry are allowed and encouraged.
(B) Best in Appearance. The entry will be judged solely on appearance; and need not be a representation of an actual past or current NASCAR entry; but must be a NASCAR Theme.
(C) Racers Choice. The entry will be judged by the voice or hand vote of the assembled throng; with no discernable criteria beyond whatever seems to motivate the masses.

(5) All decisions of the judge are final; with no protest allowed.

(6) Ernie P. will be, or will appoint, the sole judge; and may/may not seek counsel from any person or resource available.

Thanks; Ernie P.

 

[Ernie P.]

Mini-T Stock and Mod Rules

As a result of the proposed ARCOR rules for the Min-T's, the following rules will be used for Mini-T Stock And Mini-T Modified for the 2004 Virginia Oval Championships. Specific questions should be addressed to me at thunderroadrc.com or [email protected] hotmail.com. Thanks; Ernie P.

MINI-T STOCK

Mini-T Stock Class will be run as a box stock class. The *ONLY* option we will allow is (in the interest of economy) a rechargeable battery pack, rather than four individual cells. The optional battery pack offered for the Mini-T's is a *five-cell* 1200 mAh pack. We'll allow that mod; just to keep people from having to buy individual, non-rechargeable, cells; or to purchase a special purpose charging setup.

MINI-T OPEN MODIFIED

The Mini-T Open modified class will have no limitations on motors, electronics, or replacement parts, to include any after-market part designed for the Mini-T. Motor approval for the Mini-T Open Modified class is not necessary. Batteries will be limited to a maximum 6 cells for the Mini-T Open Modified Class.

1. CHASSIS: Modifications and/or hop up chassis replacement chassis allowed. Graphite chassis are allowed.
2. STEERING: Titanium or steel turnbuckles, end balls may be changed from the original as supplied with the Mini-T RTR. Original equipment servo saver may be changed from that supplied with the Mini-T RTR
3. Ball bearings may be used on the front and rear axles.
4. RADIO/ELECTRONICS: May be changed from original equipment.
5. SHOCKS: Replacement oil shocks may be used, that are specifically manufactured for the Mini-T RTR
6. ELECTRONIC CONNECTORS: Motor or battery plugs are not required, direct soldering is allowed.
7. BODIES: Original truck body or any body designed specifically for Oval racing to include sprint cars, EDM cars Coupes or Sedans associated with Legends type racing. No changes allowed from the trim lines, except for 1/8” tolerance around wheel openings. Body must be painted and all windows clear. Bodies may not be excessively trimmed. All windows will be clear and remain intact. Tracks may allow different body styles to run together.
8. No roll over or stiff antennas are allowed. Antenna may be mounted under the body.
9. TIRES and WHEELS: Any tire or wheel specifically designed for the Mini-T will be allowed.
10. MOTORS Any after-market motor allowed, including the brushless motor system.
11. BATTERIES: Maximum 6C ONLY AA size batteries, these may be Alkaline, Ni-Cad or NiMh rechargeable.
12. GEARS: Any gearing
13. REVERSE: Not normally allowed, it should not be required, but can be a track option.
14. RACE LENGTH: 4 minute races.
15. DRIVE TRAIN: Any replacement parts allowed.

 

[Ernie P.]

Chris; Thunder Road will be happy to allow you to bring your own tables and chairs, but there probably isn't a need. We have a lot of tables and chairs. We will be open on November 27th for our regular racing schedule; and all day on December 3rd for practice before the race on the 4th. If you have a number of racers who want to practice, we can talk about opening on the evening of the 26th; but that isn't on the schedule right now. It can be put on the schedule if need be, however. Thanks; Ernie P.

 

[Ernie P.]

Well, the rehab is now complete. Thunder Road will be open for racing, starting this Saturday, the 6th of November. We will open at 9:00 A.M. for practice; with racing beginning promptly at 3:00 P.M.

You have exactly four weekends to practice before The 2004 Virginia Oval Championships on December 4th; so start working on your setups now.

Many thanks to those who worked so hard, and long, to make the rehab a go. Thunder Road's facelift goes 'way beyond simple cleaning and painting. We think you'll like the new look; the new pit facilities and the new electrical system. Come see and judge for yourselves. Thanks; Ernie P.

 

[Ernie P.]

Accomodations for 12/4

The Orange, VA Holiday Inn Express is offering a special discount to racers attending The 2004 Virginia Oval Championships. Their rate will be $69.00 vs the normal $80.00/night. Contact info is:

Orange Holiday Inn Express
750 Round Hill Drive
Orange, VA 22960
(540) 672-6691

The Holiday Inn is located just North of Orange, Virginia; about ten miles from Thunder Road RC Speedway. Just tell them you are racing in The 2004 Virginia Oval Championships; and they will apply the discount. All the normal fast food establishments are near the Holiday Inn; as well as some full service restaurants. We are trying to work a discount with a very good local restaurant near the track. More later; Ernie P.

 

[Ernie P.]

Racers

I can't speak for other people; and I won't name names. But I have received at least a dozen inquiries in the past few days. I think it's going to be busy and fast. Thanks; Ernie P.

 

[Ernie P.]

Fast B Main

I will be more than happy to write your name on the check, Bill. But I think there are more than a few others who have designs on that particular piece of paper.

Looking at the racers who have committed to making The 2004 Virginia Oval Championships race at Thunder Road on December 4th, it occurs to me we're going to have one fast "B" Main. All you hot shoes can't fit in the "A". At least it will be a fun race to watch! Thanks; Ernie P.

 

[Ernie P.]

Any visiting racer planning on picking up an easy (and big) check at The 2004 Virginia Oval Championships had best have your best stuff ready. Jesse Bean, a local racer, just set a new Stock Class Track Record of 66 laps last night. Its going to be *FAST* on December 4th. Thanks; Ernie P.

 

[Ernie P.]

Fyi

We're looking forward to seeing you guys this weekend and on the 4th as well. We'll try to be good hosts. The below is posted elsewhere as a response to a direct question.; but just to make sure every one gets the word:

The procedure for pit tables is very simple; and exactly the way it was first announced. "The first 35 racers to enter are guaranteed a pit space. After that, you may be pitting out of your truck". I intend to be fair to EVERY ONE; and that means every one will follow the exact same procedure.

Let me clarify that. The first 35 racers to give me a signup sheet with payment, are guaranteed they will have a place to pit and electrical power. After that, it may get interesting; and I'm not guaranteeing any thing to any one. In fact, I'm betting I'll have 35 posted entries after this weekend. Go to thunderroadrc.com and you'll find a downloadable entry form; the [email protected] e-mail address; and, yes, I take Paypal. I also take checks and (at the track) Visa and MC.

On the day of the race, it's going to be first come, first served. Smart racers will be there practicing on Friday night; and just leave their stuff on the table. Thats fine with me. But it will be your stuff in your pit spot. Not your stuff in two adjoining spots in case your two friends decide to show up on Saturday. I'll be making a list and checking it twice; and I ain't Santa.

I have around 25 nice pit spots in the shop, with plenty of light and power; and I have room to set up a couple of 8' tables. I have, in the adjoining area, temporary table space for probably another 18 racers; working off extension cords. Not nearly so nice; but workable. After that, it's going to be cigarette lighter/power plug time; while you mutter something about "Shoulda signed up. Shoulda signed up. I was warned. Next time..."

Be advised: I will be very fair, very balanced, and I will treat every one the same. But my momma told me I was also a "Hard nosed SOB". Momma always did understate things.

I hope that clarifies things. Thanks; Ernie P.

 

[Ernie P.]

11/27/04 Race Report

11/27/04 Race Report
Thunder Road RC Speedway

The Stock Class Racing was fast and furious at Thunder Road on Saturday night. After spending a long time stuck in traffic, Matt Tyson and his running mate, Bill Auchterlonie, arrived at the track later than most. But, once there, there was nothing slow about either one of them. Three hard fought Heat Races behind them, the racers lines up for the Mains.

In the C Main, Charlie Johnson had an easy run; his only problem being trying to dodge Johnny Barnett’s evil handling car. Johnny had made some improvements in handling throughout the evening, but a hard crash seemed to destroy his car’s handling ability. After that, he would look smooth for a couple of laps; them something would suddenly send his car careening into whatever was closest. All too often, that was Charlie!

The B Main had some folks in it that were more used to running for the A Main win; but that’s the kind of competition the evening offered. At the end, Big Clay suddenly looked better than he had all evening; cruising to a relatively easy win. Behind him, Lin Vaughan had to fight off a suddenly and all too competitive Kevin Randolpf. Kevin had looked squirrelly all evening; but he seemed to find something in the round three heat race; and looked even stronger in the B Main. He had started the evening running in the 4.9’s; and ended up running 3.9’s. A great comeback effort for Kevin! Steve Downs struggled all evening; and finished a distant and decidedly unhappy fourth.

The A Main was a torrid affair from the start until the last lap. Matt Tyson was never headed; although he was chased pretty hard by Bill Auchterlonie, Jesse Bean and Chris Rhinehart. At the flag, Matt still held onto a half lap margin. Jesse Bean held off Bill Auchterlonie until a few laps from the end, when Bill went under him as they both moved to lap a struggling Chris Rhinehart. Jesse’s current lap record held up; although it was under assault by Matt Tyson all night long. At the finish, Matt missed setting a new record by only a couple of thousandths of a second.

A number of racers served clear notice that Jesse’s lap record would not stand beyond The 2004 Virginia Oval Championships on December 4th. Still, Jesse seems to be in a good position to crack his two week old record himself. Whether any one else will get a look, remains to be seen.

Track Owner’s Note: I was really impressed by the caliber of racers who ran last night. Even more, I was impressed by the courtesy and gentlemanly conduct of all the racers. Even in this crowd of nice people, Chris Rhinehart and Bill Auchterlonie managed to stand out as two of the nicest people you could ever hope to meet. Hard driving competitors thought they may be, they are both also very nice people. Thanks, guys. Ernie P.

 

[Ernie P.]

New Undertaker Chassis

I forgot to mention that both Matt Tyson and Bill Auchterlonie were running the new Undertaker chassis. It looks like RIP's newest chassis is going to be a hit among the graveyard set. Thanks; Ernie P.

 

[Ernie P.]

Thanks!

Thanks, Chris. You're welcome back any time. Bring lots of friends! This weekend is going to be a barnburner!! Thanks; Ernie P.

 

[Ernie P.]

2004 Virginia Oval Championships

Thunder Road will open on Friday at 09:00; and close when the last racer goes home. A number of racers have asked us to stay open late, so they can practice for The 2004 Virginia Oval Championships; so that's what we'll do.

Saturday, we'll open at 08:00. Entries will close at 2:00 P.M.; Concours will be at 2:30; and the racing will start at 3:00.

After 12:00, we reserve the right to regulate practice time by class; to make sure someone practicing for 19-turn Open doesn't have to share the track with a Stock Class Mini-T. We'll play it by ear.

Entries have been steady; and we're looking forward to hosting the fastest group of racers on the East Coast. Drive safely on the way, guys. Thanks; Ernie P.

 

[Ernie P.]

Thanks to our sponsors

The very first thing I need to do is thank the companies who were so generous in providing door prizes for the race. Literally EVERY ONE who was signed up to race went home with a door prize.

Phantom provided some of their great Stock motors; and some really nice T-shirts.

Associated provided a large sampling of their front end parts, and various other bits and pieces from their huge catalog. A *LOT* of bits and pieces!

SMC provided a big box of their stokin' battery packs; with some really nice numbers on them.

And Jaco gave away enough tires to stock a small hobby shop!

That kind of support is important to the success of any race; and Thunder Road appreciates their generosity. Thanks to all of you. Ernie P.