The "Thruway" TRRS 2005/2006 Season

[NFalls]

"Thruway" TRRS announces it's schedule of events for our 3rd. season.

The 2005/2006 Schedule:

TRRS #1 – Oct. 15, 2005, Mike & Joe’s, Kenmore NY.
TRRS #2 – Nov. 12, 2005, North Gallery Raceway, North East PA.
TRRS #3 – Dec. 3, 2005, Pitstop Raceway, Rochester, NY
TRRS #4 – Jan. 14, 2006, Mike & Joe’s, Kenmore NY.
TRRS #5 – Feb. 11, 2006, North Gallery Raceway, North East PA.
TRRS #6 – Mar. 18, 2006, Pitstop Raceway, Rochester, NY

The Tracks:

Mike & Joe's Slot Cars
1530 Military Rd.
Kenmore, NY 14217

Contact: Axel Wrzos (716) 874-7222


North Gallery Raceway
15 East Main Street Suite 202
North East, PA 16428

Contact: Dan Ebert
Phone # 814-725-0705


PitStop Raceway
370 Medley Centre Pkwy
Rochester, NY 14622

Contact: Peter Varlan (585) 328-7867

The Classes:

Junior GT-1 & Open GT-1-

4" Flexi chassis, 28 tooth 48 Pitch with handout deathstar motors (9 tooth Pinion) GT-1 bodies Closed cockpit sports cars. (see the list)

LMP (Group 10)-

Group 10 cars 16D balanced motors,any gearratio, open cockpit sports

cars.

GTP -

4" flexi chassis, any gears, super 16D or C can contender , challenger,

sportsman etc, ultimate bodies

For exact details, rules and approved equipment specs., visit the web

site @ http://trrsweb.com/

Come on out!

[PitStopGuys]

PitStop Raceway's address has changed... but we haven't moved.

The old Irondequoit Mall is now the Medley Centre, which is (I guess) easier to spell.

We have the same phone number (585-328-7867) and a brand new web site at psraceway.com

Directions to PSR are on the site.

[NFalls]

This year all entry fees will be one low price ($7.00). This includes the GT-1 handout motor races. The motor fee has been cancelled for this year.:D :D :D

[NGRDan]

Don't be fooled by the name of the town. North East, PA is in the Northwestern part of the state. North East is just off the shores of Lake Erie right off of Interstate 90 between Buffalo and Cleveland. About a hour and 45 minutes from either City. So come and join us at our 2 TRRS races this year.

Dan Ebert
North Gallery Raceway in North East, PA

[PitStopGuys]

Originally posted by NGRDan
So come and join us at our 2 TRRS races this year.


We'll be there.. unless there's another freakin' blizzard!

[NFalls]

...for the first event of the season.

We have even been visited by some of the Canadian bunch already and even the juniors are building and tuning for the new season.

There's also a bunch of new guys at Mike and Joe's who haven't seen an event yet. Come on out and give it a try. The locals always have the home track advantage!

[Mike Wyatt]

I predict another blizzard. maybe sooner, maybe later, but for sure.:D

[PitStopGuys]

Finding Buffalo in a blizzard is easy for western New Yorkers... we do it all the time. PA, on the other hand, is new turf.

[PitStopGuys]

Are we running 8 or 9-tooth pinions in GT-1? Last year we used 9s, as I recall... but 8 has appeared a couple of times lately in emails and posts.

So which is it?

[NFalls]

... 8 Tooth steel pinions after the first event at Pitstop. At the Pitstop event we re used motors from the previous season with 9 tooth pinions.

This year will be 8 tooth pinions again for all events. It costs too much in time and money to change them back and forth.

Remember this year the handout motor fee has been eliminated for both GT-1 classes!:)

All races will be $7.00 but you have to be a TRRS member to race. Memeberships will be available at each event. $10 for Seniors and $5.00 for Juniors (under 14 by Oct 15th , 2005).

[Mike Wyatt]

You guys will be pleased with the performance using 8 tooth pinions. Even on the longer tracks, the cars make up for the gearing by being faster on the back of the track. They run cooler, and- the lower gear ratios make the motors SEEM more equal to me- less top end variation.

[PitStopGuys]

After spending 4 hours testing at my track I can confidently state the following:

1. The higher-revving motor spanks the lower-revving motor just as badly on my Engelmann simply because the cars spend more time at top revs.

2. I can discern no appreciable difference in motor temperature on my track... most likely because even at 9-28, a Deathstar is wound out pretty tight at PitStop.

3. The advantage to the Parma square-bushing chassis is pronounced and, in a word, unfair to those people who prefer T-Flexes and Cheetah 7s. With the 'ajusta-bushings' in the rear/top position an .840 tire can be used on a Flexi 4 (and most likely the new F5 as well) at minimum clearance. The same tire on a stock Cheetah 7 will result in enormously excessive ground clearance, with a resulting disparity in handling... ceterus paribus. The fitment of a tire giving correct ground clearance on the Cheetah would result in a considerable penalty in top speed.

4. Not having made the stop at North Gallery, I can't say what would occur... but what I do know of the Kingcobra tracks leads me to surmise that the above would hold true there as well.

I'll refrain from the mathematics of this.

However, in my NSH opinion, "seems to me that...." is not a very sound basis for establishing policy.

See everyone at Mike & Joe's!

[Mike Wyatt]

Your Series can run any pinion you want- the Rules state only that the pinions come on the motors. But the Series Director makes his best decision for the good of the Series.

These are Series-owned motors, and the Series Director has to make a decision that won't have him buying motors in March to finish the season. 9:28 just has to be harder on a motor than 8:28. At 8:28, they don't seem to fail, from our experience.

The guy with bigger tires is faster if everybody runs the same gearing. But the guys running .845's would also be faster at 9:28 than the guys running .790's at the same gearing. This fact is simply one more variable that racer has to consider when choosing his chassis.

I also think it's logical that lower gearing would offset the variances in the motors to some extent. Like if everybody drove their 1:1 cars around in second gear, wouldn't HP variations be less noticable? Seems logical to me. But I'll listen to somebody with better knowledge of gearing than me.

We in Eastern Lakes run the 8's, but we have generally shorter tracks. However, we were surprised how well the 8-tooth pinions ran, even on the Kings.

And we had only one motor failure all year- a commutator 2 hours into the enduro, after that motor may have had 6 events X 200 laps= 1200 laps, PLUS half of the enduro - another 1500 laps- on it. I attribute our motor reliability at least partially on the gearing.

[PitStopGuys]

It's interesting what causes the majority of failures in Deathstars. When PitStop was first open, the Deathstar class was not 'sealed'... of course, brushes and springs were changed, timing was advanced, and gearing pushed to 10/26, 10/27, etc.

Motors overheated (of course) and the smoke cloud of a heat-related failure was not unusual.

Since the 9/28 rule was put in place here we have not lost a motor to overheating, but we have lost a few to exploded commutators. Those that have failed were, without exception, the motors capable of the highest rpm. It is unlikely that an 8 pinion would have prevented such a failure... but again, I am speaking only of a longer, higher speed track such as mine.

Testing has shown to my satisfaction that the 8/28 gear set offers no advantage with regard to cooling AT MY TRACK. It would seem logical that cooler running temperatures would be achieved on a lower speed circuit such as an LTD or UK Black (to name two that used to be in our series) but I have no data on that.

As for the difference in handling v. EFFECTIVE gearing, it may be that you missed my point. It is correct that two cars with the same gear set and the same tire diameter will have the same top speed, given that the cars were the same weight and powered by identical motors. My observation was that the Parma square-bushing arrangement allows a lower CG with larger tires, thereby offering an opportunity to run the minimum legal clearance with considerably larger tires... and considerably taller EFFECTIVE gearing.

While I'm perfectly willing to set up a track-specific or rules-specific set of chassis for my customers and vary them specifically for each track, I doubt that this is good policy for a series that caters to the beginner to the extent that it uses handout motors to equalize speed potential.

Try as I might, I am unable to rationalize handout motors and spec gear ratios with the ability to run .840 (or larger) tires at minimum clearance on one or two chassis and not the rest.

The math is simple. If we posit that the .765-equipped car has the 8/28 (3.5:1) spec gear, then, for the cars to have equal effective gearing, an 8/31 would be required on the .840-equipped car (30.8 teeth, to be more exact, but that's unlikely to be on anyone's gear shelf).

Allowances would have to be made for rotating mass, 'unsprung' weight, and so on... but the built-in inequity exists when the effective ratio is considered alongside the more advantageous weight distribution offered by the chassis with the larger axle drop.

Food for thought... no more.

[NGRDan]

Racers and TRRS members,

The 8 tooth pinion is the logical way to go maintenance wise. This will lessen the chance of motors melting down. We have two thirty two foot straightaways on our track you would think the 9 tooth would be a better choice, the 8 makes for a much better handling and reponsive car in the turns, but the 8 does run tenth or two slower. The 8t is a better choice for the series and beginner racers.
As for using the larger tires for an advantage, we tried that trick a couple of times during last years TRRS. We found what we gained in the straights we lost in the turns. Using an old saying we use here in Erie, PA. "I have never been knocked out or nerfed in the straightaway" Which translates to making your car faster in the turns and giving something up in the straight so you don't have the chance of getting overrun in the turns.

Dan Ebert
North Gallery Raceway

[Mike Wyatt]

No offense taken at all- I have learned a LOT from exchanges on this board about these technical types of issues.

A little story about how TRRS GT-1 Class originally came about, including the 8:28 gearing: (and this might make you laugh).

In 2001 (I think) we at Shifter's were running a GT-1 class locally, using the old Cheetah 7.95 motor, any 48 P gearing. Most were running 10:28. It was our most popular class. Our second most popular class was a Deathstar class w/ any gearing.

When the Cheetah motors were no longer available- it was the middle of the season. We found ourselves facing a problem: how do you keep racing a class if no new motors are available? And how do you avoid a "black market" - Cheetah motors from guys' boxes being sold for $25 because no new ones are available?

So- we started testing, and after about 4 hours determined that, on the Orange, 8:28 gears using a Deathstar produced identical lap times to the same car using a 10:28 Cheetah. The Deathstar accelerated better, braked better, but the Cheetah did the corners better. (The chassis was a Flexi 1, and the body a JK Audi R8C.)

We made it optional- run either the Cheetah w/ any ratio, or the Deathstar at 8:28. Our season continued unabated as the Cheetahs died a natural death and the Deathstars took over. We also found, by accident, that the Deathstars ran a LOT better w/ 8:28 than they did at 9:29 (what most were using in the other class.)

Later, when Tom Marsteller and I were putting together the TRRS, we selected the 8:28 formula for the entry-level Class- the TRRS GT-1. It has been super successful, in TRRS and for raceways as a class to run locally. So much so that Parma even has a RTR version.

We THOUGHT that guys would leave the GT-1 Class, and run the more advanced classes- wrong: to this day the GT-1 normally makes up 40-50% of total entries.

Why? I would be interested in everyone's opinion.

[NFalls]

...Mike. Some times it's good to know the logic behind a decision ( even if it is flawed :p ;) :D ) )

Peter does have one point, his Engleman is a power track with long straights and fast sweeping turns so maybe a slightly larger tyre suits it better, especially if you're experienced enough to make it throught the S bend and 180 right behind.

Dan's right too about his track. I remember the race well, leads taken on the straights disappeared while going around the donut.

Basically 8 - 28 was selected because its std TRRS GT-1 gearing and there is some sense (not much, but some) in trying to keep the rules the same series to series. It's a proven ratio to keep the motors running for an entire season.

Finally as I said in my response to the original question, there is considerable time and expense in changing pinions back and forth to suit tracks. We also eliminated the handout motor fee to pass savings along to the racer so we don't need extra expenses.

By the way the change to 8's also allows us to change to steel pinions which wear much better over the series than the original brass pinions from the manufacturer.

Now, on to the next subject! anyone got one?;) :D

[NFalls]

...When is 5/8" less than 0.625"?

Answer- when you're slot racin' ;) ;) :D

Now where did I park my camel, it's almost time for lunch!
:eek: :D :D :D

[NFalls]

... Long time TRRS racer Tom Fritz has agreed to be the technical director for the GTP class this season.

This means he will be responsible for all technical matters concerning this class and will be in charge of both pre race tech and the race itself.

His contribution is very welcome as it will help to keep a busy season runnning smoothly. Many thanks to Tom!

:D :D

If any one else out there is interested in helping out a similar position is available for any of the remaining classes. Your help would be much appreciated and all you really need to do is commit to the upcoming schedule for that class. You can still race any of the classes. ;) :D

If you are interested see the website http://trrsweb.com/ for details on how to to get in touch with me.

[NFalls]

...Ben Tup, aka Ben Harms, another long time (since the beginning) TRRS racer has also stepped forward and will be the tech director for the "Thruway" Open GT-1 series.

As before the help is truly welcome and I know Ben will make a great contribution.
:rolleyes: ;) :D

Thanks Bent!

[NFalls]

As many of you have heard TRRS has secured a place in the upcoming “Chicago 24 hr. Enduro” for a TRRS team.The race is to be held at Mike Swiss’ new Chicagoland raceway in a suburb of Chicago (host next year’s wing car nats).

What some of you may not know, is that we presently have 3 team members confirmed and up to 5 spaces open for new team members . The minimum team size is 4 members with the maximum being 8. The only qualification we have is you must be an active TRRS member to race(any division). This shouldn’t be a problem, I know someone who can make that happen;-).

So now is the time for all of you to make a decision. This is your chance to participate in a “World Class” event and race with and against famous racers such as Mike Swiss and Ron Hershman. There is something extra at stake as well since it’s not only an enduro race but an attempt to set an official Guinness world record for 1/24 scale cars in one event. All teams lap totals contribute to the total.

The date will be Oct. 22 -23 for the race and count on at least a day each way for travel (4 days total). Please check out the Chicago 24 thread in the OWH Race Annoucement thread for all the details and rules of the event http://www.oldweirdherald.com/slotcartalk/showthread.php?threadid=12747.

There is a hefty reservation fee due up front so if you want to come please be prepared to make a commitment that you can keep. After that, only death or imprisonment will be an acceptable excuse for not showing up. Travel arrangements, car pools, motel rooms etc. can be arranged after team roster is completed . We can also discuss the race car and all the spare parts required at that time.

You are all welcome to come along and enjoy the party as we try to make a bit of Slot Car history. So if you’re interested have a look at the postings on OWH, see how it fits your schedule and send me an email if you want to go. This offer is on a " first come first served" basis so contact me as soon as you can, Use a OWH personal message or see the TRRS website for details on contacting me http://trrsweb.com/.

Rob Garner, "Thruway" TRRS Director

[NFalls]

....and counting.

Just one month to the start of the season and all tracks indicate increased interest since Labour Day.

We have the new handout motors for GT-1 and will complete breaking them in in the next little while.

After due consideration and some discussion with the various track owners, it has been decided to use 9 tooth pinions this year as an experiment in reliability. The Spur gear size remains at 28 tooth, 48 pitch.

This means more speed on those high speed tracks at Pitstop and North Gallery.

So everything is good to go for the first race @ Mike & Joe's in Kenmore NY, on October 15 th.

See you there...:D ;) :D

[Mike Wyatt]

The new Rules are posted on the website:

TRRS Online (http://trrsweb.com)

Changes are in BLUE , to make it easier for you to"scan" for what you need to know.

Here is the rest of the communications plan for 2005-06:

1. Finalize Schedules Done- posted 9/12
2. Finalize Rules Done- posted 9/12
3. Prepare raceway packets,
mail to raceways Scheduled within 2 weeks
- Class Flyers
- Updated schedule sheet
- TRRS Rules hard copy

[PitStopGuys]

Thanks, gents... well done.

[Doppler Bob]

Will the "black" tire rule be in effect, or can we use any color tires? If allowed to use the sweet red or brown tires, that would save a poor college student a great deal of money (considering they are half price), and I usually have better luck with them.

See you all October 15.

[triggerman]

The TRRS Rules section 2.7.1
Rear Tires: black, minimum .750 diameter, max. width .800"

[Doppler Bob]

LOL, I actually found the link for the TRRS site just after I posted that question, and found the answer for myself. After a couple hours of sobbing, I came to the conclusion that I will now need 2 more jobs, which may include slinging drugs on the corner to support my slot car habit. But no sweat, I mean a jail term has to end sometime, right?

:D

Thanks for the answer triggerman!

[NGRDan]

Wow,

Just a couple of weeks away for the first big TRRS race. I better get off my lazy butt and get building some fast stuff or I will be scrapping the fish rubber off the front of my car like last year.
I don't like the taste of fish rubber LOL. NGR will be sending at least 4 racers for sure and possibly 8.

So boggity, boggity, boggity boys let's go racin
Dan
North Gallery Raceway

[PitStopGuys]

Dear Doc,

Perhaps you can get away with coloring your red tires black with a Sharpie?

Fear not. The Moose will be dragging his usual portable machine shop along and, with a modicum of good fortune, will get your sorry butt moving. The Moose also advises you to avoid running your new ride into anything stouter than a marshmallow. Don't leave that Mossetti home!

Cheers!

[Doppler Bob]

Your Mooseness,

A swell idea on the marker, but I can't color very well. I actually failed art in first grade, and have yet to advance. I'm in the process of taking out a loan for some new tires as we speak.

As for the extras, you can be sure I'll bring everything I own there, and besides, I need to keep you busy with something! :D See ya Friday.


Dr. Norman Warmfront

[NFalls]

The "THRUWAY" TRRS Chapter announces the First Event

of the 2005/ 2006 Season At:


Mike & Joe’s Slot Cars
1530 Military Road
Kenmore, (Buffalo) NY 14217
Axel: (716) 874-7222

Tentative schedule:

Raceway opens @ 8:00 am.

Junior GT1 Tech opens @ 10:00am, closes 10:45am. Concours event & Race @11:00am.

Open GT1 Tech opens @ 12:30 pm. Closes 1:15 pm. Concours event & Race @ 1:30 pm.

LMP (Gp 10) Tech opens for 30 min after GT1 event.

GTP Tech opens for 30 min after LMP event.

TRRS rules in effect. Handout motors for all GT1 classes.
Rear clearance 1/16" (0.0625")

ALL Events - $7.00 entry fee.

You must be a member to race! Memberships valid at any TRRS chapter race for 2005/06 season!

Junior Memberships (14 & Under as of Oct.15, 05) - $5.00
Senior Memberships - $10.00 (any age)

For more details and dah Rules! please visit our web site at: www.TRRSweb.com.

See you at the race!

[Mike Wyatt]

The September edition of TRRS News was e-mailed last weekend, along with a copy of the TRRS Rules, to all Members from last year where we had a valid e-mail address.

If you were a TRRS member last year and did NOT receive the News, and changed e-mails, or got an e-mail (or even if you were NOT a Member and want to get the packet)- send an e-Mail to:

Mike Wyatt (mdwyatt@adelphia.net)

[NFalls]

... Why don't you guys come on down for the first race at Mike & Joe's next Saturday. You can race all day on Ernie's old track!

See the previous posts for all the details.

The season starts next week, Be there!

[NFalls]

....Hope to see you there!

TRRS # 1, 2005-2006

Mike & Joe's Slot Cars

1530 Military Rd.,

Kenmore (Buffalo) NY.

Raceway opens @ 8 am.

1st race starts at 11 am.

For more details look above.

Just show up and have fun!:) ;) :D

[NFalls]

Saturday's event was well attended with lots of racing action and good food too!

For details and results please check out the race report on the "Race Results" thread.;)

If you missed all the action:eek: :( don't worry, we're gonna do it all again on Nov 12th. Come on out and race TRRS # 2 @

North Gallery Raceway
15 East Main Street Suite 202
North East, PA 16428

Contact: Dan Ebert
Phone # 814-725-0705

Stay tuned for further details!
;) :D

[NGRDan]

TRRS Race #2

We are getting everything ready for some quality TRRS racing on the 155 foot King Cobra track here at North Gallery Raceway. We look to have quite a local turnout for all three classes. So I hope to see our Thurway series regulars, plus maybe some visitors from the Eastern Lakes series. The Cleveland. Akron and Youngstown areas are all under 2 hours for the drive to North East. E-mail or call with any questions on the race or track, info below.

Dan
Check our website for details
www.Northgalleryraceway.com

[NFalls]

.. But there's still time to show up and practice at North Gallery Raceway.

Looks like some of the Buffalo bunch have made the trip out for some of the weekly racing.

Well worth the effort.It will pay off on raceday. (Nov 12 th.):cool: ;) :D

[NGRDan]

For TRRS Race 2 North Gallery Raceway will stay open on Friday as late as humanly possible to accomodate any racers wishing to practice and test. Saturday morning we will open our doors at 7:00 AM for those early risers wishing to get a jump on the competion. The Coffee will be on and the donuts and muffins ready for consumption. The track power will remain on all day for practice { when allowed } the fee for a track pass will be $4.00 for Juniors and $7.00 for Adults. This fee will include lunch for those wishing to stay at the track. On the menu: Pizza and Subway Subs.

See you at the race,
Dan

[NFalls]

... I'll probably be down Friday night.

How about a breakfast place recommendation? Fast, cheap and open early?

Saturday's official schedule will be the same as the last one.

Raceway opens @ 7:00 am.

Junior GT1 Tech opens @ 10:00am, closes 10:45am. Concours event & Race @11:00am.

Open GT1 Tech opens @ 12:30 pm. Closes 1:15 pm. Concours event & Race @ 1:30 pm.

LMP (Gp 10) Tech opens for 30 min after GT1 event.

GTP Tech opens for 30 min after LMP event.

TRRS rules in effect. Handout motors for all GT1 classes.
Rear clearance 1/16" (0.0625")

ALL Events - $7.00 entry fee.

You must be a member to race! Memberships valid at any TRRS chapter race for 2005/06 season!

Junior Memberships ( 14 & Under as of Oct.15, 05) - $5.00
Senior Memberships - $10.00 (any age)

For more details and dah Rules! please visit our web site at: www.TRRSweb.com.

Eastern Lakes TRRS members welcome too!

For Details call:

North Gallery Raceway
15 East Main Street Suite 202
North East, PA 16428

Contact: Dan Ebert
Phone # 814-725-0705

See you at the race!

[PitStopGuys]

Originally posted by NFalls

Junior Memberships (Under 14 as of Oct.15, 05) - $5.00



I think we have a problem. The following is from the TRRS web site:

4.0 Classes:

4.1 Junior TRRS GT-1- is for racers age 14 and under as of October 15, 2005.

So which is it? Under 14 or 14 and under?

[NFalls]

... the line is corrected.

The rule book as posted on the web site is always the authority.:o :D

[Mike Wyatt]

How about a Masters Division 56 and older? Then adding one year each year (so I am always the oldest?)

I would come to North Gallery if I could get somebody to drive me. (Us older folks typically are a hazard on the public roads.)

[Doppler Bob]

I have yet to see a 14" tall racer! I bet that would make seeing the car really hard!!!!

[PitStopGuys]

... the guy who walks into a bar with a box under his arm. He sits down at the bar and opens the box. A foot-tall fellow in a tuxedo climbs out and the man at the bar lifts out a small grand piano.

Cheers.

[NFalls]

You are welcome to come and race, just remember to pack enough "Depends". When does your state require yearly driving tests?

:p ;) :D

You could try to set up one of them "carpool" things. You eastern guys would like this track, it's almost as old as your racers(just like at home) ;) :rolleyes: :D

If you have to give up the Mustang let me know I'll give you an offer!
:cool: :D

[NGRDan]

Rob and others stopping to eat,

Still searching for a place that is close that will be open that early.
Right now, just Mcdonalds at I-90 and Rt 20. I hope to have more options for all later today

Dan

[NGRDan]

Racers,

The track is prepped, the batteries charged and the braid cleaned.
If Tuesday's race was any indication the racing should be clean and fast. Several racers from Buffalo came in again to test and prepare for the race, We got a nice base of rubber down on the track after it was cleaned before the race. I am looking for some fast lap times and high lap totals. Here is a challenge for you Eastern Lakes guys make the trip over to PA and let us Thurway Racers show you what some real HORSEPOWER looks like. If you don't like challenges just come to have some fun and race on the Cobra.

Dan
www.Northgalleryraceway.com

[NGRDan]

The rubber dust has settled and the racing over for TRRS #2 at North Gallery Raceway. From all of us at NGR we wish to thank all the racers that made the trip to Penna. Special Thanks go out to
Eagle Distributing and Ron H.'s Outasite Designs for going beyond the call with great race prizes. They helped make for a super day of racing at NGR and the TRRS series.

See you all in Rochester for TRRS #3,
Dan and Sandi Ebert

[PitStopGuys]

Thanks for a great day of slot racing! We'll do our best to be as hospitable here at PitStop.

Thanks again,

[Doppler Bob]

Hey Penn guys....

When you come to Rochester, can you bring the gas prices with you? They are ridiculous there! I had a great time in GT1 (although Axle clearly used a 10 tooth pinion, lol)... and I can't wait for stop #3 on the home turf. See you all in a couple of weeks...

[PitStopGuys]

180-foot Engelman with our infamous "esses" located between the last two turns. Black epoxy paint surface. 2 deep-cycle 8d batteries w/75 amp power supply. Four taps. SRT timing/scoring system. 1 monitor for each bank of 4 driver stations.

Driving directions are on our website: www.psraceway.com

We're located on the upper level of the Medley Centre near the Sears store.

Hasta luego!

[NFalls]

... the party's over, for this month. But next month's race is only 3 weeks away. Just enough time to digest your turkey and get back at it .

Thruway # 3 , Dec 3 2005 @

PitStop Raceway
370 Medley Centre Pkwy
Rochester, NY 14622

Contact: Peter Varlan (585) 328-7867 or check out the Pitstop website for directions (see above thread).

The Classes:

Junior GT-1 & Open GT-1-

4" Flexi chassis, 28 tooth 48 Pitch with handout deathstar motors (9 tooth Pinion) GT-1 bodies Closed cockpit sports cars. (see the list)

LMP (Group 10)-

Group 10 cars 16D balanced motors,any gearratio, open cockpit sports

cars.

GTP -

4" flexi chassis, any gears, super 16D or C can contender , challenger,

sportsman etc, ultimate bodies

For exact details, rules and approved equipment specs., visit the web

site @ http://trrsweb.com/

Come on out!

It's a g..g.. gas!
:cool: :D ;) :cool: :D ;)

[PitStopGuys]

You can take "flexi" to mean any current group 10 stamped steel chassis such as T-Flex, Cheetah, Cheetah 7, Astro, and so on.

And we don't mind if you turn the pans around on your Cheetah 7 (but don't let us catch you cutting them to do it).

Tonight's action: GT-1 podium - 1st place, John D with 153 laps. The Binkster and Mr. Briggs with 151 each (de Bink took it by 10 feet).

Cheers

[Doppler Bob]

Hey Pete,

What were the "hot laps" like? Would I hold my own or what?

[NFalls]

...are posted on the other thread (race results)

Short turn around time this month in order to keep away from all the Xmas events.

See you on Dec 3 rd.!

[PitStopGuys]

Hey, Bobidity,

Yor vehicle would have been right in there... although, as I couldn't get enough time and energy together to clean the track and it was a bit tacky, you might have had to go back to that skinny bar.

BTW, I found the problem with your drag car.

Cheers!

[Centipede]

Hey Doppler Bob!

Where have you been hiding? I hear your a hot shoe now. I cant wait to race right next to you on December 3rd. It should be a blast!

Centipede Bob

[Doppler Bob]

Centipede, long time no see! I've been over at Pitstop obviously, considering its about 5 minutes away, it makes a lot more sense, especially with gas prices and the whole poor college student factor! I'll try to make it over there sometime before December. See you soon!

[Doppler Bob]

By the way Centipede....

I wouldn't give me "hot shoe" credit quite yet.... maybe a bit more experience but we'll see, I guess it all depends on the weather conditions...LOL

Pedro.... you fixed the problem you say, I can't even imagine how stupid of a problem it was.... but did I gain back my 60's and drop the ET a few hundredths???

[PitStopGuys]

For those interested, we race GT-1s on Monday nights. Bring your own sealed (and STOCK) Deathstar. All TRRS rules apply... except that we'll take any kind of a driver/interior.

Our American Sports Car class is very similar to LMP and races Thursday nights. We allow .500" fronts and you can cut the back of the body out.

We're open from 10am to 9pm on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday. 11am to 6pm on Sunday.

Food situation...
In the mall: Pizza Stop, Cindy's Cinnamon Rolls (also serving soup and sandwiches), Beans Coffeehouse, Flavors of the '50s Ice Cream, The Flaming Wok, Great American Steak & Potato, Cookie Nook opening soon.

In the immediate area: IHOP, Appleby's, Taco Bell, Popeye's, Karpathia (Hungarian), DiBella's Subs, Starbuck's, Tim Horton's.

Bob-O: As you've no doubt found out by now, the drag car is record material.

[NGRDan]

PItstopguys,

Some of our guys are talking about coming up Friday before the race. Could you give us some Hotel recommendations that are within 5 to 10 minutes to the track and an easy drive so we don't get lost. Also anything racing going on that Friday night that we may be interested in. { Drag racing, warm-up race, enduro, anything }

Dan and the NGR crew

[PitStopGuys]

Dan,

There's a Holiday Inn Express that adjoins the mall parking lot. It's about 500 yards from the mall itself. Address is 2200 North Goodman St.

Also

Comfort Inn West
1501 W RIDGE RD
Rochester, NY 14615

(the mall is at E Ridge Road and N Goodman St.)

[PitStopGuys]

We'll be open until 10pm on Friday. We didn't schedule any racing just in case some folks came in from out of town... but we could organize something pretty easily depending on who's in the raceway around 7:30 or 8 and what they have with them.

Cheers!

[NGRDan]

Hey,

You name the class and we will be there. 4 inch Nascar, 4 1/2 Nascar, Boxstocks we have them. I would prefer to stay away from the classes that we will be running Saturday. But any decision you make will be fine. I am looking at 3 to 4 racers coming up Friday.

Dan from NGR

[PitStopGuys]

Dan,

I took a look at your web site and went over the 4" NASCAR rules. Sounds like a good bet to me. Practically everybody here has something that will be legal.

So I'll make the announcement...

Friday, Dec. 3rd
PitStop Raceway
4" NASCAR class per NGR rules on NGR web site
8:00 pm

See ya!

[Doppler Bob]

Nascar eh? That means I have to learn how to drive :( Haha sounds like a good time, we'll see you guys Friday. Maybe we can all go visit the Greeks at EFR afterwards....

[PitStopGuys]

What Bob refers to is the Eastridge Family Restaurant. An all-night place (pretty nice) that was founded by a Greek guy. Don't know who runs it now, but Greek would be a good bet.

[Centipede]

Pete,

Are Erie 4" nascar rules the same rules as Parma rules or "AKA Rodgers rules"?? It sounds like a blast so, I just might attend.

Centipede

[PitStopGuys]

Originally posted by Centipede
Pete,
Are Erie 4" nascar rules the same rules as Parma rules or "AKA Rodgers rules"?? It sounds like a blast so, I just might attend.
Centipede

Bob... go to northgalleryraceway.com and check out the rules. They ain't Rodger rules OR Parma rules.

Essentially it's a group 10 chassis with a sealed Deathstar OR a sealed SpeedFX 16D.

[NGRDan]

Here are the rules from NGR,

4 inch Nascar or Nastruck

Chassis – Stamp Steel Chassis only, Parma Flexi 1,2,3 and 4, JK Scorpion and Cheetah, Champion Astro and Turbo, Mossetti . Weight may be added, but no cutting or trimming weight from the chassis. Pin tubes may be added to attach the body to the frame. Motor can be soldered in and axle oilites too. Axle frame uprights may be braced and a motor brace can also be added. Must maintain steel pans {no aluminum or brass pans}

Motor - Must be a sealed Deathstar 16 D or PS 2000 motor, no modifications are allowed. No American wound arms are allowed.

Axle and Gears - 1/8 axle with 48 or 64 pitch gears any ratio, no hollow axles or ball bearings

Bodies - 4 inch approved bodies only, JK, Parma, Kelly and Outsight
Chevy Monte Carlo and Lumina, Ford Taurus and Dodge

Body must maintain entire front grill area and/or 1/8 inch of the front bumper

Also a 1/8 inch of the rear bumper must be maintained. A painted full driver interior must be included on the body. Sponsor decals are encouraged, three large numbers, one on the roof and one on each door. No holes may be punched in the body for aero or lightning purposes.

All other general rules apply

Dan from North Gallery

[NFalls]

Thruway # 3 , Dec 3 2005 @

PitStop Raceway
370 Medley Centre Pkwy
Rochester, NY 14622

Contact: Peter Varlan (585) 328-7867 or check out the Pitstop website for directions (see above thread).

The Classes:

Junior GT-1 & Open GT-1-

4" Flexi style chassis, 28 tooth 48 Pitch with handout deathstar motors (9 tooth Pinion) GT-1 bodies Closed cockpit sports cars. (see the list)

LMP (Group 10)-

Group 10 cars 16D balanced motors,any gearratio, open cockpit sports

cars.

GTP -

4" flexi style chassis, any gears, super 16D or C can contender , challenger,

sportsman etc, ultimate bodies

For exact details, rules and approved equipment specs., visit the web

site @ http://trrsweb.com/

Come on out!

It's a g..g.. gas!
:cool: :D :rolleyes: :D

[PitStopGuys]

Getting it ready for you now.

Note to those who have been here before: the back doors are not an option this trip as the mall security people are keeping them locked during the Christmas shopping season.

As previously mentioned... you'll have to come in through Sears or the lower level entrance to the mall.

Call me if it gets confusing.

585-328-7867

[NFalls]

...So don't forget to show up and have a good time;) :D

[PitStopGuys]

I want to thank everyone who braved the weather to attend our event. We had a great time and met some really great folks and we'll see them again as we travel to Mike & Joe's and North Gallery in 2006.

Merry ChristmaHanuKwanzaa.

And a prosperous 2006!

[NFalls]

... and lots of great racin' action until well past 9 pm. That's over 12 hours of exciting action.

The racers want to thank Pete Varlan and his crew for hosting the show. It was good to see some of the old guys came out as well.:) :cool: :D

The result's will be posted on the Race Results thread by this evening.

Time now for the Holiday break but we'll be back at it for "Thruway" # 4 on Jan. 14, 06 at....

Mike & Joe's Slot Cars
1530 Military Rd.
Kenmore (Buffalo), NY 14217

Contact: Axel Wrzos (716) 874-7222


The Classes:

Junior GT-1 & Open GT-1-

4" "Flexi" ( Stamped Steel) chassis, 28 tooth 48 Pitch with handout deathstar motors (9 tooth Pinion) GT-1 bodies Closed cockpit sports cars. (see the list)

LMP (Group 10)-

Group 10 cars 16D balanced motors,any gearratio, open cockpit sports

cars.

GTP -

4" flexi style chassis, any gears, super 16D or C can contender , challenger,

sportsman etc, ultimate bodies

For exact details, rules and approved equipment specs., visit the web

site @ http://trrsweb.com/

Have a Great Holiday Season!
See you in Buffalo!

:D :D

[NGRDan]

We had a great time and enjoyed racing on the track. Even though I never really got the hang of the ess turn. The track was really fast and with the ess turn it added the twist of driving skill and good timing to the layout. I look forward to the next trip to Rochester with a better selection of cars in my box.

See ya in Buffalo
Dan

[NFalls]

...and have a Merry New Year !

To all our TRRS racers.

Just don't forget.... We will be back at it for "Thruway" # 4 on Jan. 14, 06 at....

Mike & Joe's Slot Cars
1530 Military Rd.
Kenmore (Buffalo), NY 14217

Contact: Axel Wrzos (716) 874-7222


The Classes:

Junior GT-1 & Open GT-1-

4" "Flexi" ( Stamped Steel) chassis, 28 tooth 48 Pitch with handout deathstar motors (9 tooth Pinion) GT-1 bodies Closed cockpit sports cars. (see the list)

LMP (Group 10)-

Group 10 cars 16D balanced motors,any gearratio, open cockpit sports

cars.

GTP -

4" flexi style chassis, any gears, super 16D or C can contender , challenger,

sportsman etc, ultimate bodies

For exact details, rules and approved equipment specs., visit the web

site @ http://trrsweb.com/

Have a Great Holiday Season!
See you in Buffalo!



:D :D ;) :D

[NGRDan]

That's right the February 11th TRRS race we will have a bunch of Hot Dogs for Lunch. It's Erie vs Rochester for the Hot Dog Challenge. Erie's Smith's brand against Rochester's famous White Hots. I guess the Judges will be the guys from Buffalo with those iron stomachs from eating Buffalo Wings. So in addition to the great TRRS racing bring your appetite to see which town will have the boasting rights for the regions best Hot Dog.

Dan
North Gallery Raceway

[triggerman]

Have them bring a pack of Salens. Might as well settle it once and for all!

[NFalls]

Oscar Meyer mobile?:confused: :D ;) :D

You could run them with Gp 12 motors and call them Red Hots! :( :o ;) :p :D

Anyway Bump!

[NFalls]

..... the second half begins Jan . 14 th. @ Mike and Joe's in Kenmore (Buffalo) NY.

Was Santa good to you and brought you lots of good slot stuff?

Come on out and try in out!;) :D

[NFalls]

Originally posted by NFalls
..... the second half begins Jan . 14 th. @ Mike and Joe's in Kenmore (Buffalo) NY.

Was Santa good to you and brought you lots of good slot stuff?

Come on out and try it out!;) :D

[PitStopGuys]

Originally posted by triggerman
Have them bring a pack of Salens. Might as well settle it once and for all!

Hebrew National because "we answer to a higher authority."

[NFalls]

.... The second half of the season starts on this Saturday!

Jan 14 th @

Mike & Joe's Slot Cars
1530 Military Rd.
Kenmore (Buffalo), NY 14217

Contact: Axel Wrzos (716) 874-7222

Track opens at 8 am.

See the thread above for more details or phone Axel!

Come on out ! ;) :D

[Centipede]

Rob,

I had a great time in Buffalo and the Erie race is coming up soon but, I have not seen any official results or updated standings. Whats the deal?


Centipede Bob

[NGRDan]

Racers,
Don't forget to mark your calendars for Febuary 11th. TRRS racing to coming to Northwestern PA at North Gallery Raceway.
The doors will open at 7 Saturday morning and for anyone coming in Friday we will stay open late for open practice. $ 7:00 will cover track practice and Lunch on Saturday. Lunch will be Hot Dogs and ? The great Weinie Challenge between Smith's of Erie, Saleen's of Buffalo and Rochester's White Hots will be decided during lunch.
So bite into some great racing and the best Hot Dogs in the USA on Feb. 11th at NGR.

For more information or Directions
Contact Dan Ebert Ngalleryraceway@aol.com
or visit our website Northgalleryraceway.com

[PitStopGuys]

Dear NGR Friends,

The MoosePower Flying Squad will be arriving Saturday morning. Expect a few more grumpy Rochesterians than last time!

Cheers!

[NFalls]

Come on out and race TRRS # 5 on Feb 11 /06 @

North Gallery Raceway
15 East Main Street Suite 202
North East, PA 16428

Contact: Dan Ebert
Phone # 814-725-0705

Or see his previous posts on this thread. Same for classes and rules.

It ain't gonna snow this time :( :eek: :confused: :D

[NFalls]

It's tomorrow!

Don't think about snow, just come on out!:eek: :( ;) :D

I don't beleive it first post in two weeks. Keep on getting errors or just times out.

[PitStopGuys]

A great time at NGR as usual! Hope to see you all here at PitStop on the 18th of March.



Rob: I had a tough time posting here for about two weeks, too. Kept getting "Web site not responding" messages.

[NGRDan]

A big Thank you to all who attended the race at North Gallery and a special thanks to Koford Engineering for the great race prizes.
The racing was great especially in the GTP class where the the top three were separated by less than 15 feet at the finish.

Thanks again
Dan and Sandi Ebert
North Gallery Raceway

[NFalls]

Thanks to Dan and Sandi for a good time and a full day of racin'.

I think North East won the hot dog competition, although there wasn't a Buffalo entry at all!

Next month is the last regular race on March 18, 06 at Pete Varlan's Pitstop raceway in Rochester.

After that it'll be the big season ender at the Raceway of the year location TBA after the next event.

So remember to come on out to Rochester on the 18 th. For details contact Peter @

PitStop Raceway
370 Medley Centre Pkwy
Rochester, NY 14622

Contact: Peter Varlan (585) 328-7867

or see the earlier info and rules on this thread.

[PitStopGuys]

The Moose is planning a surprise or two.

[NGRDan]

The only thing I like better than surprizes are twos. I can't wait for TRRS 6

Dan

[triggerman]

Who won the Weiner Roast-Off? Or do we have another roast off in Rochester? I vote we go to Irondiquoit Hots!

[NGRDan]

It was decided that contest was a draw, because the contest was the Erie Red Hot vs the Rochester White Hot. So I guess for now, the Weinie Capitol is still undecided. Until we can pit the Red hots against each other.

Dan

[NGRDan]

Did you lose a motor at TRRS 5, North Gallery Raceway. Please respond with the make, wind, any other markings on the motor.
And the name it answers to. I will return the lost motor to it's owner at the next TRRS race or mail it if needed.

Dan,
Keeper of lost cars and motors

[Ben Taxel]

hey Triggerman, I hate to burst your bubble but Irondequoit hots has been closed for a couple months, sad but true...

[triggerman]

That is too bad! I wonder if their receipe for their Hot Sauce is for sale?

[NGRDan]

Did you lose a motor at TRRS 5, North Gallery Raceway. Please respond with the make, wind, any other markings on the motor.
And the name it answers to. I will return the lost motor to it's owner at the next TRRS race or mail it if needed.

Dan,
Keeper of lost cars and motors


__________________

[PitStopGuys]

OK, folks...

PitStop Raceway will be open until 9:30pm on Friday, March 17th. The mall closes at that time and they Zamboni the floors so everybody needs to be out by 10:00.

We'll open at 8am on Saturday the 18th. I promise not to total my car on the way to the store this time around, so I should be on time.

I will also do everything I can to expedite the proceedings and get my good friends from the far west home at a respectable hour.

Now, if we could get some results posted... Rob, if you're having a problem posting again (I am at times) why not send an email to everyone?

Moose out.

[Centipede]

No doubt!

Besides actually racing, results and standings are the main reason I race!

Earth to Rob ??:(

[PitStopGuys]

The weekly GT-1 race at PitStop was won by "Flippo" aka "Mister Bag" aka Mike Sanfilippo with a record-tying 156 lap total over class regulars K9 Briggs, Fast Frank, Ric The Shoe, Centipede, JohnD and some guests. For anyone who wants to know, the winning car was a Cheetah 7 with the pans in the regular position. Rear tires were .770 plastic hub JKs, gears were a Sonic 9T and a ProSlot 28T. Body was the same JK Porsche that won the GT-1 concours in North East.

Motor Legally tuned by MoosePower (spring tension and brush radius).

.\_\__/_/
. . ]00[
. . (oo)

[NFalls]

... if anyone is still awake.

Just see the Race results "Thruway " thread.

And don't forget "Thruway" # 6 is coming up on March 18, 06 @

PitStop Raceway
370 Medley Centre Pkwy
Rochester, NY 14622

Contact: Peter Varlan (585) 328-7867 or check out the Pitstop website for directions (see above thread).

The Classes:

Junior GT-1 & Open GT-1-

4" Stamped Steel chassis, 28 tooth 48 Pitch with handout deathstar motors (9 tooth Pinion) GT-1 bodies Closed cockpit sports cars. (see the list)

LMP (Group 10)-

Group 10 cars 16D balanced motors,any gearratio, open cockpit sports cars.

GTP -

4" "flexi type" chassis, any gears, super 16D or C can contender , challenger,

sportsman etc, ultimate bodies

For exact details, rules and approved equipment specs., visit the web

site @ http://trrsweb.com/

Come on out!

It's a g..g.. gas!

[NFalls]

... the final regular scheduled event for this season, March 18, 2006.

"Thruway" TRRS #6

@ PitStop Raceway
370 Medley Centre Pkwy
Rochester, NY 14622

Contact: Peter Varlan (585) 328-7867 or check out the Pitstop website for directions (see above thread).

All of Rochester needs to turn out and race to help out with their "Raceway of the Year" point total.

The winner gets to host the final event of the year which includes the awards presentations.

See you there!

[PitStopGuys]

I regret to say that all of Rochester will not be at PitStop Raceway this Saturday... but most of the good citizens of our fair city can't drive a slot car so what's the loss?

See www.psraceway.com for directions to the mall (now called Medley Centre).

There's a lower level entrance to the mall between Sears and The Bon Ton. Straight through the doors to the escalator, up the escalator and there you are. If antone gets lost call 585-328-7867 and we'll send out a search party.

Track opens at 8am. All day track pass is $5.00.

They get a little tense if I serve food (we have a populated food court now) so lunch is not on the program (sorry).

Friday night we'll be running our regular "Can-Am" race. The class is for Falcon-powered Group 10 chassis cars. 1/8" axles, 48-pitch gears, 1960/70s Can-Am bodies.

Cheers!

[NGRDan]

See you Rochesterites tomorrow. I'm not quite in the box yet, but with some heavy thrashing at the track tonight I should be in good shape. It looks like the usual five suspects will make the journey to Pitstop Raceway. I hope you took the Esses out of the track so I can make some hot laps. Is the Cinnabun place still open I will be looking for Hot Coffee and a sticky cinnamon bun.

See ya in the AM
Dan

[PitStopGuys]

Cindy's Cinnamon stuff is still open.

[PitStopGuys]

To all who attended and made a record 70-car turnout possible.

Congratulations to Anthony C who won Junior GT-1 and GTP; To Alex who won LMP; To The Binkster who was the winner in Open GT-1.

See all of you at Mike & Joe's for the season finale.

[NFalls]

...after 6 races have been posted on the Race Result thread.

Have a look!

[NFalls]

The winner of the "Raceway of the Year" competiton is Mike & Joe's Slot Cars so they get to host the season ending finale!

For detailed scoring of the competition please refer to the Race Results thread.


Soooo....

Thruway TRRS # 7 and Awards Presentation

To be held on April 8, 2006, @

Mike & Joe's Slot Cars
1530 Military Rd.
Kenmore (Buffalo), NY 14217

Contact: Axel Wrzos (716) 874-7222

Come on out and have some fun.

There will be an awards presentation for the final standings in each series.

Everyone who has raced in any of our events will receive a prize. If you can't attend we will send the prizes back to your local raceway and you can pick them up there!

Lunch will be provided, so don't be late!






:) :D ;) :D :D ;) :D

[The Binkster]

:(


sorry I wony be at the last race I don't came back from florida until late on the 8th. I thought it was the following week. well, all have fun and good luck.


the binkster

[Centipede]

I had a great time at Pit Stop Raceway and I hope the talent pool continues to grow. The competition is unreal! I hope I can attend the last race at Mike and Joes. Keep up the good work everybody!

Centipede Bob

[NFalls]

...to come out to the last event of the Thruway calendar for 06.

The "Raceway of the Year" bash and Season awards presentation
is going to be held at Mike and Joe's Slot Cars in Kenmore (Buffalo) NY on Saturday April 8, 06.

There will be fun and prizes for all who race. We will be providing a free lunch as well.

So don't be shy it's the last chance to race with us until the 06-07 season.

Just check the above threads for contacts and details. Raceway opens at 8 am. Program starts at ten. Jr race at 11 am.

See you there!

[NFalls]

...and that's no April fools..:D ;) :D

Come out and race that last event of the season .

It's at Mike & Joe's on Military Rd in the village of Kenmore:rolleyes: :D (more like downtown Tonawanda) see the above thread for details:cool: :D ;)

[PitStopGuys]

... a great-grandchild is on the way and this may affect my travel plans.

[NFalls]

... but if you aren't there we will understand Peter!

Good luck to your family, I trust all will go well !

Why not just lend your car to the other guys so they can all come down with out you? Not a good idea?:( :( ;) :D

[NFalls]

...But the final results for Thruway #7, and
all the series "final " standings can be found on the Race Results thread.

I'd like to thank all the racer's who turned out throughout the season. We had a great time.

Record turnouts show the "Twice around" schedule to be a great success. It really brought the home track advantage into play and tightened up several of the series point races.

I'd also like to thank the suporting raceways for their hard work in staging these events and for going the extra distance to arrange for the extra race prizes and free lunches too.

Also thanks to Eagle, Koford, Parma and all the other companies who contributed the race prizes . I know the guys sure appreciated them.

Every thing looks good for next year so stay tuned to this thread. We will keep you all up to date on anything that happens and you should expect to see some schedule details for next season sometime in August.

So long for now and have a great summer.

Support Your Local Summer racing series! :eek: :D ;) :D

[Centipede]

Hats off to everyone involved in making the TRRS happen IE: Track owners, Drivers, Rob, Friends and families. It was a great season. Also, Im sorry I could not make Erie but , I will try this fall.

Cetipede Bob

P.S.

Rob

Is Auburn coming aboard next year? A couple of guys from Auburn came to PSR in March and seemed interested.

[NFalls]

.. to come and race with us any time.

Once they re-open their raceway they are welcome to apply for track membership. I'd really like to try out that orange sometime!

[NGRDan]

TRRS Racers,
Sorry I didn't make the race in Buffalo, I had a prior commitment to attend. I don't know if any discussion took place about next years series, if not let's get the ball rollin. I am hoping to see some changes take place. Refine the time line for the race day,
streamline the tech in procedure and some rule changes in the classes. With changing the time line and tech we should be able to shave hours off the day of racing. So with that said, let's see some suggestions from the racers, so the series officers and track owners can make some changes to grow this already successful race series.

Dan Ebert
North Gallery Raceway

[Centipede]

Dan

I agree!

For the most part this past year was great but change can always make things better. In GT-1 we should just go back to the way it used to be. You grab a motor, you put it in with your own iron, you give it back to tech to inspect and in-pound. Also: The motors are not that equal and its supposed to be the luck of the draw. When the motors are chosen, the numbers should be hidden on the bottom side at all times. Most racers will look at the numbers and know right away if they had a bad motor or a good one from a previous race. So for instance: If we are able to see the numbers, we will steer clear of certain ones and draw a number we liked or did not have before. It was evident at some of the races. Racers should just point to the motor they want and its thiers! Another suggestion, shorten practice time a little bit and make it so racers can run only the designated class of that time 1/2 hour before tech closes. All too often when you go to hook up your controller, its a full track but guys are running other class stuff. Im shure I will have a few more things to add but, this is my 2 cents worth for the day.

Centipede Bob

[PitStopGuys]

1) The GT-1 motor selection REALLY needs to be changed. I was yakking with Lester Lucas last week and he suggested drawing a number out of a box, hat, sack, or whatever and that's the motor you get. Sounds good to me.

2) I'm not hot on the idea of letting the motors leave the tech area for installation. Why not just spend a few bucks on some soldering irons so that we have four or five at tech?

3) Bear with me on this one. So far we've split the classes into separate mains, paid out the prizes to separate mains, and then handed out the points based on lap totals regardless of main. I have a small problem with that. The philosophy behind the handout motors is to even out the competition by eliminating some racers' ability to tune a motor better than the next racer, right? OK, then why do we segregate the racers by perceived experience or ability? That equates with speed, doesn't it? Let's draw the racers' names out of a hat for the A, B. and C mains and equalize the distribution of driving talent (and crash-involvement), too. That seems to be a simple matter of fairness to me.

4. I think we can do without the enforced lunch break.

5. I think having tech open for more than 1 class at a time might be worth trying.

And here's a really novel idea... how about getting the track owners to kick in a few bucks to the TRRS for track membership? That way you could set the rules proposals (if any) down on paper and only the paid member track owners could vote on them by email or US Postal Service? I'll happily fork over the amount it would cost me to drive to Fremont, OH for the privilege of voting as things stand now.

NOTE WELL: No offense is intended to the city of Fremont or Bear, or Bear's track. It just doesn't look too much like a central location for a meeting.

Cheers to all.

[NFalls]

.... 18 to 30 entries per class just makes it a long day no matter how you cut it! It's a great problem to have.

We do need to trim some time though..

I'll suggest..

1. Start earlier, Jr GT-1 starts at 10am.

2. I agree, you're on your own for lunch, grab what you can when you can. Maybe even try a picnic!

3. A couple to 3 soldering stations but it should remain on one table so it can easily be monitored. (How about a few volunteer Tech Marshalls. ) More than that and it'll be too hard to watch it all, it would be easy to pull the ol' switcherooo.

4. Like NGR tried, timed practice sessions when the time's up we race!

5. Racers, practice installing your motor. It should only take a minute or two. You don't need to take apart the whole back end.
And a few burns on the fingers is a cheap price to pay!;) :p :D

[NGRDan]

It sounds like everyone so far has agreed to the earlier start and lunch elimination. I think if we get some input from the Buffalo crowd, we could put that plan into action. Rather than paying a Track owners fee, I would gladly donate one to two soldering stations in lieu of the fee. With added soldering stations GT-1 tech would speed up. I have more ideas listed below.

1. Tech in for Open GT-1 would open at 10:00 with the start of the juniors race and close at 11:00 with the race starting at 11:15 or directly after the junior race { if later than 11:15 }

2. Tech in for LMP and GTP would open at 11:00. LMP tech would close 15 minutes after the conclusion of the last GT-1 and the race or races 15 minutes after tech closes. GTP closes 15 minutes after the last LMP race and races start 15 minutes after tech closes. This allows for tech in for most of the day for the two classes and cuts down the time between races.

3. GT-1 becomes a 4 inch Nascar class or American sports car
with Corvette and Viper bodies

4. LMP uses either open or closed cockpit bodies

Just some ideas to use, change or disgard,
Dan

[PitStopGuys]

"3. GT-1 becomes a 4 inch Nascar class or American sports car
with Corvette and Viper bodies"

I ran that idea (and others) past my racers over the last week or so. They are of one mind on the NASCAR suggestion and "you gotta be kidding" about sums it up, although one guy did allow as how a NASCAR class might be fun for the juniors.

They were also unanimous in getting the show on the road earlier and ditching the formal lunch break.

[jmac]

One other change I would like to see happen would be to expand the list of excepted components. I think you could use the current list that the USRA has published. As the rules are now many of the motors (setups) bodies and other items we run every week are not legal to run in TRRS.
John

[NGRDan]

Has anyone heard anything from the other series, the Mayhem race, the Raceway owners meeting? Nothing has been posted from the Eastern lakes in some time. Has a newsletter been sent out in recent months?

Looking for answers to these questons and more,
Dan

And don't tell me I should have went to the meeting!!!

[PitStopGuys]

Originally posted by NGRDan
Has anyone heard anything from the other series, the Mayhem race, the Raceway owners meeting? Nothing has been posted from the Eastern lakes in some time. Has a newsletter been sent out in recent months?

Looking for answers to these questons and more,
Dan

And don't tell me I should have went to the meeting!!!

OK, I won't. BTW, I wasn't there either (but you knew that). Maybe nobody went.

So as long as we're (OK, I'm) bitching, shouldn't we have a meeting somewhere convenient to the Thruway principals to decide what's in our and our racers' interest? We had 63 and 70 entries at the PitStop TRRS races last season and my unscientific analysis tells me that outstanding turnouts such as those, along with the handsome turnouts at our other events, indicate a pretty healthy series that only needs some procedural fine tuning and a little marketing to become a serious player in this hobby.

Can I get some thoughts on that?

[Mike Wyatt]

There was no meeting-- I told all you guys we would re-think and try to have something more centrally-located. So there has been no meeting and you were NOT left out.

I have been talking with Rob about our best strategy for the transition--I personally think it best to hold off the Owner's Meeting until closer to fall- say August. That way, we will have new directors, and everyone's enthusiasm should be higher than it is now. I think most racers are "thinking summer".

However, to try and get together to discuss among yourselves without involving BOTH Series (Thruway and Eastern Lakes) will just lead to a separation of the two Series'. We need to keep them together, and go forward--as a single TRRS.

But first THE problem:

Directors for next year. No directors- everything else is a moot point. If there are no directors- the TRRS series is dead.

Some general comments:

BOTH Eastern Lakes and Thruway had record turnouts this year. The TRRS Series is fundamentally sound.

EVERYBODY in TRRS wants to race GT-1- it has the most entries by far. Why? Easy to race and maintain, durable cars, and low cost tight competition. To argue about changes in the GT-1 class-- the most popular, most competitive, fun part of the whole TRRS series, makes no sense.

While it is great fun (and easy) to argue the Rules, criticize the volunteers, and snipe at the way things are going-- it is not addressing any real issues.

Pete said:

"my unscientific analysis tells me that outstanding turnouts such as those, along with the handsome turnouts at our other events, indicate a pretty healthy series that only needs some procedural fine tuning and a little marketing to become a serious player in this hobby."

He's right. TRRS is as solid as anything in the hobby.

We need to get away from the "things aren't going well- we need to change the Rules" mentality. It never solves the REAL problems with the hobby:

a. Not getting kids involved in enough numbers.
b. Adults who buy cars/equipment play for awhile, rarely get serious about racing, and soon put the cars in the closet.
c. Raceways have a 3-year cycle before the (limited) market seems to run out, and they close.

These are what we ought to be discussing-- not whether or not to change bodies (again) on another TRRS Class.


Regarding TRRS News:

I plan on a year-end issue. But-- I need articles. So far this year-- NO articles from anybody. If you want just lists of standings-- we have those- on this board. So- somebody write some accounts of the racing, summary of the year-- anything.

[NGRDan]

I can't remember getting that message on the meeting change.
As far as the the two series separating, I think that has already happened since all series activity that happens outside of the regular racing is planned at Eastern Lakes venues. As a track owner I would prefer to have the series dates set up as early as possible so I can plan my upcoming schedule for my raceway. No one is argueing changes in GT-1, simply throwing out suggestions that were given by racers, track owner and a series officer. Your suggestons: working on saving the hobby. Save that one for all the experts on this Board. Don't waste my time traveling to a meeting for that one. I will go to a meeting where the dates and locations will get set, a joint TRRS racing event at a location that will be well attended gets voted on. Where decisions get made on possible rule changes, that will have written proposals in order to be voted on at that meeting. Where suggestions are made to streamline tech procedures, the race day and provide our
volunteers with the knowledge and tools to do an effective job.
I am not saying that jobs or rules need changed because they were ineffective. Some change and evaluation of what we are doing is needed to grow and make the series a better success.

You can take this as criticism or take it as someone who is just giving an honest answer on his feelings.

Dan Ebert
Owner, North Gallery Raceway

[PitStopGuys]

And I don't recall getting anything about the meeting change either. I'm not implying that nothing was said... only that I missed it.

My present concern is to get some information out to my racers about where the TRRS is going. A little information is far better than silence or my having to say "I'm sorry, but I don't know the answer." We have some issues with tracks here in NY (opening or closing) that will affect our scheduling... but let's set some dates and then assign them to raceways later. At least that will give us some dates to work around.

I am trying to run a slot track the way I think it ought to be run. That is to say that the racing should be low in stress and high in fun and relaxation. I'm interested in forging friendly relationships with other tracks and other racers in this region to further that goal. Those are the things I'm interested in. I am completely uninterested in trying to save "the hobby" especially as no two cliques in this game have the same definition of what "the hobby" is. If we look to our own house we will serve ourselves AND slotracing best.

I do see this series as a great alternative to the (IMO) esoteric and newbie-unfriendly USRA scale racing... not that there's any of that around here. NOTE: USRA scale nationals... average entries per class (13 classes) = 19. Forgive me for saying so, but that's not very impressive given the fields we generate (repeatedly) with our little 3-track Thruway series.

[Mike Wyatt]

We can set dates-- I can do that, or Rob. Or really any raceway owner-- the dates actually become pretty limited when you avoid holidays (USA and Canada), and stick to a once a month format.

The issue is (still) the lack of Series Directors.

The reason the two TRRS series need to stay together is for reasons of the website, newsletter, and Rules (all 1 instead of 2). And- we are far more likely to be seen as significant if we cross several states instead of just one. As an aside, I have some in Indiana wanting to re-start the Ohio Valley Series as well.

We (still) have ideas of a single BIG TRRS event encompassing both series. We tried the "Runoffs" idea as a sort of Nats in fall, 2004 - but only a few attended, probably because we were bucking the season by doing it in September. The raceway owners at the meeting in June that year (at Parma Nats) wanted to try it in September as away to get their business started sooner. Didn't work.

We can set an August date for the Owner's meeting, or sooner if you like. I just don't see the point if we don't have the 2 new Directors.

[PitStopGuys]

For my information, please... on the dates: I suppose we need to avoid the weekend of/after Thanksgiving (US & CAN), Christmas & New Year week. Nothing else comes to mind that would fall on a Saturday.. so if I'm forgetting anything, let me know (I'm really bad about holidays).

As for Directors: I'm of the opinion that Dan Ebert and myself could come up with a few candidates for the head man position in the Thruway series after a few minutes discussion. It would then be a relatively simple matter to contact the nominees until we got a "yes" answer. I have not moved in that direction (and I'm sure Dan feels the same way) because we are unsure about the Buffalo and potential Weedsport situations. Nonetheless, anyone given the job should have as much lead time as we can provide in order to have a smooth transition from Rob to whomever, and to clear their own schedule for the dates we race.

Thanks for any enlightenment you can shine my way.

[Mike Wyatt]

The Eastern Lakes and Thruway Series are in exactly the same situation. Both need a Director, and the raceways for next year are somewhat up in the air. Those are the reasons why I still think delaying the meeting until these are ironed out in BOTH Series' makes sense.

Once that is done- we'll set a date and location for the Meeting, and get whoever shows up and make decisions. Then Rob and I are gone, and the new Directors can start out preparing for next season.

(By the way- I was not suggesting we solve slot racing's problems at a TRRS Meeting. I was saying that I think TRRS has very little- if anything- wrong. A meeting may not even be necessary.)

If you and the other Thruway raceway owners can come up with a Director that easy, you should do it. The sooner the better. (But, again- I would avoid a "committee"- because then really "nobody" is in charge.)

It is easy to get the dates, it is hard to get a person to commit the time and energy to running it. I still think THAT is what you should be working on.

Dates: Assuming:

1. Avoid holidays and important observances (eg: Mother's Day weekend)
2. About 4 weeks apart
3. Middle of the month (required because of the big holidays being at the end and beginning of November, December and January)

If the dates are critical to your advance planning as a Raceway Owner/ Manager (as indicated), these are your basic choices. Anyone (literally) can make the decision, pick the dates, and you will have them.

October: 14, 21
November 11,18
December 9,16
January 13, 20
February 10, 17
March 10,17,24
April 14,21,28
May 12, 19

[NGRDan]

The dates should follow the same weekends as last year with exception of Dec. December should fall a week later to clear Thanksgiving weekend and the first week of hunting season.
I would like to see a 6 race schedule with race 6 being the final points race and the series championship race. This eliminates a track receiving more races then another. { Each track has 2 races} October to March for the series races with a TRRS Nats scheduled in April. The top three or four points leaders from their series in the class would receive byes to the semi mains. All others would race their way into the semi's from consi's. A track wanting the Nat's would write a proposal to the TRRS Nat's committee with their offer. I think we really need to add an event like this to Series to grow more interest within the series and outside of established TRRS venues. On Series Director, we have at least one person interested in taking over on the Thurway Series. So waiting for someone to take over shouldn't stand in our way from planning to moving ahead to next year. We aren't talking of changing the TRRS concept. We need to talk about the following:
1. Speeding up the raceday program so the day isn't so long
2. Refining Tech-in to help the tech inspectors and help shorten the time involved teching cars. { which helps shorten the day long program}
3. New Products and approving products now in use at participating raceways, but are not on the TRRS approved list
4. A TRRS Nats
5. Setting up Committees and Series Support Staff
6. What responsibilities and duties do we or the new directors
have that we are unaware of.
7. Prelim. planning of the TRRS Nats'

This is what needs to be addressed as quickly as possible, so all involved will prepared and on the same page for the upcoming season.

Dan

[PitStopGuys]

At the moment, the TRRS Thruway has two venues... North Gallery Raceway & PitStop Raceway. Time will tell about any others.

Dates could easily be fixed at the second weekend in each month. Easy to remember. 10/14/05, 11/11/05, 12/9/05, 1/13/06, 2/10/06, 3/10/06, and maybe hold a "TRRS Championship" at a central (and I mean central) location in April on, say, 4/14 or 4/21/06.

A Thruway Director is as good as in place as far as I'm concerned. If someone steps forward in the Eastern Lakes series, that would be good news, indeed.

Re: track owners' meeting -- These things tend to be lightly attended and highly inefficient. We can be those things right here or we can establish a discussion group someplace.

Personally, I'd prefer a discussion group with limited access. Does anyone else feel that to be reasonable?

[NFalls]

Originally posted by PitStopGuys


Dates could easily be fixed at the second weekend in each month. Easy to remember. 10/14/05, 11/11/05, 12/9/05, 1/13/06, 2/10/06, 3/10/06, and maybe hold .....

Personally, I'd prefer a discussion group with limited access. Does anyone else feel that to be reasonable?

I think you got your dates a bit mixed. Seems to me you're working on the 2006/07 season.

And I agree this discussion should move off line until things are all arranged.

[NGRDan]

Since no one has responded from the other series, and no input from racers. I guess it would be time to move the discussion to another forum where all the details can be worked out. My only concern with Buffalo out of the picture is with any new tracks east of Rochester joining. I can forsee travel problems coming to PA with racers from that area. After this post all my communications on these topics will be by E-mail to the appropriate partys.

Dan

[Centipede]

Where is Buffalo in all of this?? Did they drop out of TRRS or did they go out of business

[jmac]

I received an e-mail recently that indicated Paul was closing and that everything was up for sale.
John

[NGRDan]

Unless a local buyer is found for the track, it looks like no racing in the Buffalo area this coming race season. Right now the track is up for sale with hopes that someone locally will purchase. Which leaves us with a hole in the middle of our 3 raceway TRRS series.

Dan

PS Another closes, maybe it's time to think a little harder about supporting your local raceway.

[PitStopGuys]

Originally posted by NGRDan
Which leaves us with a hole in the middle of our 3 raceway TRRS series.

Yes, it does. And if we gain a track to the east of Rochester it won't improve your guys' traveling situation at all. That's really too bad.


Originally posted by NGRDan
Another closes, maybe it's time to think a little harder about supporting your local raceway.

I suspect (and it's just my opinion) that lack of support from the racers wasn't the reason for Paul's decision to close.

[Mike Wyatt]

Eastern Lakes TRRS will be directed by one of the 4 raceway owners, on a rotating basis- year by year. Year 1- Eastern Lakes 2006-07 will be directed by Bear Overmyer, of J&B Raceway in Fremont.

Rob and I are looking for a date for a raceway owners meeting.

We very much want two things:

1- TRRS continues, and
2- TRRS stays as a large series with common Rules.

The meeting is to develop "consensus" about Rules, a "Nats", the growth of the Series, etc. (consensus means- "I can go along with these decisions-- even if I personally might have done something else.")

Eastern Lakes would like to get the meeting done by end of June.

I think Erie would be a fine location for the raceway owner's meeting, if we can work out the date and get an invitation from Dan.

Potential Dates (Saturdays):

June 3- No good (Rob has conflict)
June 10- ditto
June 17- I have a conflict
June 24- OK by our calendars

Remember how adamant you guys were that the meeting be centrally- located-- so you could have a voice?? As important as this indicates TRRS seems to be, I would think getting together once a year should be worth the effort, vs. not meeting because it is inconvenient.

If we do not have a meeting, then the discussion of important issues has to be done via e-mail, or worse, in a public forum like this one.

Another opportunity might be a conference call among all. The last one I did cost $200 for about an hour. Still- a decent way to get everyone together, if all pony up their fair share of the costs. Call it $ 40 a raceway, cheaper than driving.

Payment would have to be in advance, and everybody needs to pay even if you don't participate in the "meeting". $ 40 X 5 raceways gives us a budget of $200.

Let me know what you think.

[NGRDan]

Mike, Rob, Track Owners and concerned partys,

June 24th would be a good date for me, If all are agreeable we can hold the meeting at NGR in the ballroom at the back of the building. I will spring for the pizza and refreshments.
As far as rule changes, I am not looking for any rule changes. My thoughts to be more specific are changes in race day procedure.
Also setting up the series race calendar and setting up a " TRRS Nats ".

Dan

[PitStopGuys]

June 24th. No conflicts here so I'll be there.

[NFalls]

Originally posted by NGRDan
.... If all are agreeable we can hold the meeting at NGR in the ballroom at the back of the building. I will spring for the pizza and refreshments.

Dan

Sounds great to me :D I've never been to a ballroom before, but
I'm not dancin' with Pete ! :eek: ;) :confused: :D

I suggest a start time of 1 pm. to give us lots of time to get home before dark (and Dan can have his weekly race).

[Mike Wyatt]

TRRS had an excellent Track owner's meeting on Saturday, June 24, at North Gallery Raceway, North East, PA. The meeting was attended by 2 of the 3 Eastern Lakes raceway owners, and by both Thruway TRRS owners (special thanks to Pete Varlan for closing his raceway for the day to attend).

Thanks also to Dan Ebert of North Gallery for hosting the meeting and providing pizza and refreshments.

The most significant changes are two new TRRS Directors; Bear Overmyer will run Eastern Lakes TRRS, and Lester Lucas will run Thruway TRRS for 2006-07. They officially took over as of the meeting on Saturday, so comments and questions should be directed their way.

Bear and Lester are replacing Rob Garner and myself, who are not continuing after several years running the show. We will still be around, and glad to answer any questions as well, but Bear and Lester are THE MAN, starting NOW.

The Minutes from the meeting are now published on the TRRS website as a "News" item. The few changes in the Rules that came out of the meeting have been incorporated into a draft and the draft is also posted (under "Rules") also on the TRRS site. The main changes are (a) a new Points System, and (b) changes in the race-day schedule, starting racing at 10 AM instead of 11 AM.

Priorities of the new Directors:

1. With Raceway owners, they are working on scheduling both Series' seasons.
2. Thruway TRRS needs at least one more raceway- they have 2 possibles.
3. Finalizing the Rules and Class spec sheets for 2006-07.

I am sure that I can speak for Rob and myself: we extend our best wishes to TRRS and all Members for the future, and thank all who helped make TRRS the success it has been. A special thanks to Parma International, and to Old Weird Herald for their help and support, as well.

Good luck to everyone!!!

TRRS Online (http://trrsweb.com)