April 7, 2017: Watkins Glen Green Grand Prix

[brucepick]

Originally Posted by Grant-53

Local forecast is for precipitation in the form of snow with day time temperatures around 40 F. No chance of accumulation just a wet track so adjust tire pressures accordingly. Also it gets windy on top of the hill so dress warm.

YES.
I will bring my winter parka. I'm not messing around. Probably will have a lighter weight jacket too.

I'm considering bringing my slightly under-size Nokian winter tires, and a small jack and wrench. I can switch them on in case of real snow or ice in the afternoon and evening. Probably just the two front tires. I've never read anything good about RE92 Potenzas in snow.

[svt98t]

I have a full set of winter tires, but I'm putting on my Marauder wheels. A little bit better footprint and improved handling.


-ryan s.

[brucepick]

Originally Posted by Grant-53

Local forecast is for precipitation in the form of snow with day time temperatures around 40 F. No chance of accumulation just a wet track so adjust tire pressures accordingly. Also it gets windy on top of the hill so dress warm.

Grant-53, is there any chance of you driving with us this year? Two of our EcoModder drivers have dropped out.

[Grant-53]

I plan to show up for the drivers' meeting at 9:20 am if not sooner. I am available to do what ever I can to help out. I talked Bob G earlier this week about volunteering with organization functions but I am open to other roles as well. Live on the south side of Elmira and most of my work is with human powered vehicles.

[sheepdog 44]

I'm offering to let someone drive my CVT Insight in the ggp.

[Grant-53]

The 2017 Green Grand Prix aka the White Grand Prix was run today with high winds and blowing snow. As expected the pavement was wet but not snow covered. The autocross was held in the afternoon and saw some vigorous driving. Everyone seemed to enjoy the event and the camaraderie. Mike D. driving a 2017 Chevy Volt posted best fuel economy (116.4 mpg) and fast time in the autocross (37.5 sec.) from what I could see. A big thank you to Bob G. and the SCCA members who made this a success. Support from WGI, Toyota dealers, and the Doris Bovee Foundation made this possible. Students from Pennsylvania College of Technology, Alfred State University, and Broome Community College put in impressive performances.

[svt98t]

I've been home for a few hours now. I just finished my celebratory beer; because my transmission is on the floor, completely removed.
It was great meeting everyone and finally putting names with faces. We need more participation next year so we can take more trophies!!
Safe travels to anyone else who is heading home tomorrow.


-ryan s.

[Grant-53]

No one entered stock 6 cyl. gas. Any takers?

[sheepdog 44]

What we really need is someone driving a Prius. They get rewards for 4 cyl Hybrid and for the Generation of Prius. Each year, either a local or the Toyota Dealership guys take it when we have 3+ Insights competing against each other. It seems though that the new years Prius model always raises the bar over the old ones.

Anyone who drives an electric car (or plugin) has pretty much a cakewalk now for the most fuel efficient car. If its rated from 90-118mpge, driving it right will give you at least a 30% if not 50% boost.

The GGP is not just about eco cars though. A good driver with the right technique can easily take the 4cyl, 6cyl or 8cyl stock gas or Diesel. And if you're car is stock, all the better because you compete against a much larger field.

Also, i tried looking for you Grant53!

[brucepick]

Grant-53 pulled into Lakes Gas when my brother topped up his Jeep after the awards dinner Friday. He'd gotten there about 10 am and spent the day assisting with the GGP volunteers. Grant, it was great to see you there.

Grant, I'm thankful you could make it there. Assisting Bob's crew is a fine role for EcoModders. And - when you're ready to drive or navigate in the GGP, we're right behind you on that!