I was at the same meeting as Iain (aka Stall4king) and can echo his comments. As he also says, SV have run several 10th meetings since so hopefully the format of the meetings have improved and are now more in line with what 10th racers are used to and expect. With regards to the layout, the features can seem to introduce carnage as there is usually a specific line and/or speed - any deviation results in collision or crash.
One of the reasons people will travel is the almost unique experience of the surface. If you cover it with Astro, there is no pull on drivers who have a long journey as they can get that surface usually much closer to home.
Anything that keeps the tyre costs down has to be applauded. I think Rich gave some good and valid reasons why tracks are sugared for big meets in the US. I found the grip to be best when the track was slightly damp, not sure if that was just coincidence or if that to be expected. If the latter, how difficult is it to prepare the track so that it is damp all day? I understand that will mean watering it most likely and that it will need to be done several times a day and probably at different times to to negate any disadvantage/advantage gained as the track moisture evolves...maybe this is too unmanageable and the track just needs a quick sweep - again as Rich said, keeping out of the dust was key to getting the traction.
How about running a stock class to try and encourage clean and close racing?
Also on the tyres, it would be nice to see some kind of discount on the control tyre/brand...again encouraging people to attend.
Another thing to consider would be turning on the timing system on practice days, which was not available on the 2 times I have been to practice. To me, timing is a big part of the practice especially on a semi-fixed layout. Having something to aim for (e.g. track record) helps determine pace and distinguish setup changes from each other.
Its a good facility and nice to have another dirt track within 1.5 hours of me and if I was only closer I would like to go more often.
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