PDA

View Full Version : Great Lakes Grand Prix!



Coach
07-29-2009, 07:33 AM
Let's get behind Jason... :)

Just a week to go!

Ten days til the race up here and we're getting really excited.
We've got a great entertainment lineup with block parties on Friday and Saturday nights at the race site ...

Chuck Wells and Stone Cold Blues, from Louisville playing on Friday night and Midwest Hype, from Chicago, playing on Saturday night. Two awesome bands that will knock your socks off!

VIP parties Friday and Saturday night and a VIP tented brunch on the beach Sunday during the race.

Great dry pit area for spectators to walk around in and a whole mess of great local restaurants serving as our food vendors.

Anyone interested in VIP packages let me know. Otherwise, we'll see you all next week!

Make sure to come to the LaPorte County CVB booth near the food court and say hi. I'd love to meet you guys.

Thanks,
Jason

Coach
07-31-2009, 08:57 AM
A boat racing fans dream come true!

:26:

jmill36
07-31-2009, 05:20 PM
Thanks Coach.
As of today we're a week away.
Looks like we've got at least 30 boats tentatively registered so this is gonna blow em away.
Everybody come out Friday at 4 p.m. on Franklin Street for the boat parade.
Gonna be awesome.

Coach
08-05-2009, 05:31 PM
:driving:

Coach
08-06-2009, 10:58 AM
Today
Mostly sunny. Highs around 80...except in the mid 70s near Lake Michigan. Northwest winds 5 to 10 mph.

Friday
Partly cloudy in the morning then becoming mostly cloudy. A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Highs in the lower 80s. South winds 5 to 10 mph.

Saturday
Partly sunny with a 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Highs in the upper 80s. Southeast winds 5 to 10 mph. Heat index readings 92 to 97.

Sunday
Mostly sunny. Highs in the lower 90s.

Marine Forecast:

Gary To Burns Harbor-Burns Harbor To Michigan City-

Today
Variable...mainly northwest winds 5 to 10 kt turning onshore early this afternoon. Mostly sunny. Waves 1 ft or less.

Tonight
Variable winds 5 to 10 kt becoming southeast toward morning. Fair this evening...then becoming mostly cloudy. Waves 1 ft or less.

Friday
Southeast winds around 10 kt. A chance of showers and thunderstorms. Waves around 1 ft.

Friday Night
Southeast winds 10 to 20 kt. Showers and thunderstorms likely. Waves 1 to 2 ft.

Doesn't seem to be any reason for much of a change over the weekend...

Coach
08-07-2009, 08:51 AM
Today
Southeast winds 10 to 15 kt. Chance of showers in the morning...then a chance of showers and thunderstorms in the afternoon. Waves around 1 ft.

Tonight
South winds 10 to 15 kt increasing to 15 to 20 kt overnight. Chance of showers and thunderstorms. Waves 1 to 2 ft.

Saturday
Southwest winds 15 to 20 kt. Chance of showers and thunderstorms in the morning. Waves 1 to 2 ft.

Saturday Night
Southwest winds 10 to 20 kt. Partly cloudy. Waves 1 to 2 ft.

Still no sign of any major changes....

Pete B
08-07-2009, 08:55 AM
Ok so you have the weather report up to date, how about some pit pics, or anything that those you cant make it can see!!

wstultz
08-07-2009, 11:06 PM
Ok so you have the weather report up to date, how about some pit pics, or anything that those you cant make it can see!!

x2 on the pics. I was there two weeks ago and it is a great site for a race. My uncle keeps his boat on some private docks at the end of the channel. It should be a great time, wish i was there.

Coach
08-08-2009, 06:51 AM
Ok so you have the weather report up to date, how about some pit pics, or anything that those you cant make it can see!!

Pics? Anyone, Anyone...

Today
South winds 10 to 20 kt increasing to 15 to 25 kt this morning. Chance of showers and thunderstorms in the morning. Waves 1 to 3 ft.

Tonight
Southwest winds 15 to 25 kt diminishing to 15 to 20 kt this evening. Partly cloudy. Waves 1 to 2 ft.

Sunday
Southwest winds 15 to 25 kt. Sunny. Waves 1 to 3 ft. A Small Craft Advisory may be needed.

Sunday Night
Southwest winds 10 to 15 kt. Partly cloudy. Waves 1 to 2 ft.

Ratickle
08-08-2009, 10:16 AM
Pics? Anyone, Anyone...

Today
South winds 10 to 20 kt increasing to 15 to 25 kt this morning. Chance of showers and thunderstorms in the morning. Waves 1 to 3 ft.

Tonight
Southwest winds 15 to 25 kt diminishing to 15 to 20 kt this evening. Partly cloudy. Waves 1 to 2 ft.

Sunday
Southwest winds 15 to 25 kt. Sunny. Waves 1 to 3 ft. A Small Craft Advisory may be needed.

Sunday Night
Southwest winds 10 to 15 kt. Partly cloudy. Waves 1 to 2 ft.

We just came in from salmon fishing out of Muskegon.Just a little over 100 miles north of Michigan City. Had to outrun a badazz thunderstorm, didn't quite make it....:ack2: Sucks watching lightning hit the lake and shore within a mile of the boat.....


Anyway, I'd say solid 3's to 4's out of the southwest. Would have been a great race in that.......

Wahoo 214
08-08-2009, 11:09 AM
Coach,

You told us 30 boats. Who are they? You got any pics? What's going on other than the weather?

I know Gieco is going, may be Teague, Peppers, Simmons.

Coach
08-08-2009, 03:05 PM
Jason is the CVB rep. that's cutting his teeth on this one... I'm down here in Clearwater, plugging in gaps, and just helping him cover a few requests that are out there, where I can.

I want to see pics as well...

Ratickle
08-08-2009, 03:25 PM
Chris is there, just got off the phone with him. He said there's quite a few boats, doesn't know how many. He was in the wet pits.

They were just sparking a Turbine so he couldn't talk long.

I'll be there tomorrow am.

ThrottleUp Props
08-08-2009, 05:52 PM
Thanks Ratickle....I appreciate you posting this!

Julie

Ratickle
08-08-2009, 05:58 PM
Chris called back said he was told 30 there also.

Wahoo 214
08-08-2009, 08:37 PM
Pics! I wanna see the Mystic run.

waybomb
08-08-2009, 08:47 PM
Miss Geico broke a, I think it's called, a tunnel flap. It went up into the rudder support.

My kid goes up to the Geico team and asks them if they need a vacuum pump for the glass repair. What they need is a 36" wide 3/8" thick piece of aluminum cut out, bent, welded, etc. So my kid drives back to Baroda, makes the part, and is probably delievring it right now.

That's cool, my 21 year old kid helping Miss Geico run tomorrow.

Hope he made exactly what they needed and they give him a plug here.

Anybody need any one off pieces fabricated, welded, turned, milled, etc?

Ps, that new boat is sweet.

Ratickle
08-08-2009, 09:42 PM
Are you gonna be there tomorrow? Randy and Marc are as good as they come. Just walk up and tell them who you are.

And tell your boy thanks from all of us. I'll be there in Serious Shirt of a white Tee or Red Polo.

waybomb
08-08-2009, 09:52 PM
Yup, I'll be there. I'll look for you.

I'll have a yellow shirt with PV on it, and my wife will have a blue striped shirt on with PV on it.

waybomb
08-08-2009, 09:54 PM
Kev called me back, says the part he made is on the boat.

Makes me proud..........

DAREDEVIL
08-08-2009, 10:21 PM
Kev called me back, says the part he made is on the boat.

Makes me proud..........

COOL....u have all rights to be proud.
I wish i could be there.

Oh well.........next year .

MOBILEMERCMAN
08-08-2009, 10:39 PM
No BS update.

Entry list:

Aqua Mania
Geico

CMS

WHM

Peppers

Panasonic

Mikkosukee cat
OPA

Hardrock
Rockstar

Davis Motorsports
Rockstar
Global warming 42' fountain ex Predator boat

Don't Blink

National Guard
Crazy Chicken
Simmons Racing

TKO

Traffic light expected hasn't made it yet.

Ratickle
08-08-2009, 10:41 PM
Thanks Jim.

MOBILEMERCMAN
08-08-2009, 10:44 PM
Almost forgot

1 race 1 o:clock

DAREDEVIL
08-08-2009, 10:47 PM
Almost forgot

1 race 1 o:clock

17 sofar,,,not bad for this econemy and that far north.
I think.

Ratickle
08-08-2009, 10:47 PM
Almost forgot

1 race 1 o:clock

:confused:

The flyer shows 11:00 and 1:00.

AUGUST 9, 2009 (Sunday) – Race Day

7:30am-8:30am
Physicals: Washington Park

8am-4pm
Launching: Washington Park

9am
Mandatory Drivers Meeting: Washington Park

10am
FAA pilots meeting: Memorial Hospital Property

9am-4pm
Powerboats Dry Pits: Washington Park

10:45am
Boats of 1st Race: Parade to Mill Area

11am
Start of 1st Race: Washington Park

12:45pm
Boats of 2nd Race: Parade to Mill Area

1pm
Start of 2nd Race: Washington Park

5pm
Awards Presentation: Washington Park

Ryan Beckley
08-08-2009, 11:25 PM
17 Boats, 1 Race, 1PM , Great Facility, Nice Town, Nice People, Well Organized, Lots of Spectator Boats Today, Bumpy Water, Cool Water, Nice Weather......Looking Forward to Racing Tommorrow.

Ratickle
08-09-2009, 06:45 AM
Thanks Ryan. Will be good to see you again.

Coach
08-09-2009, 07:26 AM
17 Boats, 1 Race, 1PM , Great Facility, Nice Town, Nice People, Well Organized, Lots of Spectator Boats Today, Bumpy Water, Cool Water, Nice Weather......Looking Forward to Racing Tomorrow.

Good to get the facts!

Ratickle
08-09-2009, 07:28 AM
17 sofar,,,not bad for this econemy and that far north.
I think.

I'll fill you in tonight. It's disappointing to me.


I figured two races with that many boats in each one. That's what was in Harrison. And in St Clair there were three races with that many in each. And those are farther north by a little. Just a three hour drive from this site.

palmtree1
08-09-2009, 11:13 AM
Good Luck Ryan! thanks for the update!

phragle
08-09-2009, 11:23 AM
Good to get the facts!


with all of your posts in the last few days on several sites, your not there?????????? :huh:

Wahoo 214
08-09-2009, 07:14 PM
Those are all nice boats, I wish they were is just 2 classes so there wouldn't be so many 1 or 2 boat classes. I hope the turnout doesn't taint the city for future events it is a great site and Lake Michigan deserves an offshore race.

phragle
08-09-2009, 07:29 PM
it's 7:30 wheres the results???

SHARKEY-IMAGES
08-09-2009, 08:03 PM
I want to see pics as well...

Just what is the latest status on taking pics at the SBI events ?

Are Professional Photographers welcome to come shoot the events with intent to sell and promote the events, or is a fee and a demand for the copyrights still being requested ?

Just curious, incase I am in the mood to come to New York..... :USA:

SHARKEY-IMAGES
08-09-2009, 08:05 PM
If status quo, then it explains why no one has seen pics on this thread...

Just my guess.

MOBILEMERCMAN
08-09-2009, 08:09 PM
Huge Spectator turn out rivaling Sarasota. Town loved it. Some said to have signed 1200 autographs. Race day rough and rougher at one end.

Obviously un official

Aqua Mania
Gieco DNF

WHM wins un challenged

Peppers wins unchallenged

CMS wins but problems early

Mikkosukee
OPA

Hard Rock wins worked on engines test day and never tested
Global Warming
Davis Motorsports led early but had problems DNF
Rockstar DNF

Panasonic ran hard led over all for part. Wins

Don't Blink wins

Crazy Chicken and Simmons raced hard not sure who won
National Guard dnf

TKO wins

Traffic Light no show

Ratickle
08-09-2009, 08:09 PM
Just what is the latest status on taking pics at the SBI events ?

Are Professional Photographers welcome to come shoot the events with intent to sell and promote the events, or is a fee and a demand for the copyrights still being requested ?

Just curious, incase I am in the mood to come to New York..... :USA:

I wish I had a good answer. The photogs I spoke with were antsy to say the least.

Ratickle
08-09-2009, 08:11 PM
Huge Spectator turn out rivaling Sarasota. Town loved it. Some said to have signed 1200 autographs. Race day rough and rougher at one end.

Obviously un official

Aqua Mania
Gieco DNF

WHM wins un challenged

Peppers wins unchallenged

CMS wins but problems early

Mikkosukee
OPA

Hard Rock wins worked on engines test day and never tested
Global Warming
Davis Motorsports led early but had problems DNF
Rockstar DNF

Panasonic ran hard led over all for part. Wins

Don't Blink wins

Crazy Chicken and Simmons raced hard not sure who won
National Guard dnf

TKO wins

Traffic Light no show

Simmons won if there was no breakout. They ran a sweet race.

phragle
08-09-2009, 08:33 PM
Hey Rat, saw on the other site something about a couple boats inside the swimn area on a corner...any clue??

Ratickle
08-09-2009, 08:45 PM
Hey Rat, saw on the other site something about a couple boats inside the swimn area on a corner...any clue??

Not inside, but within 10 feet. And people were there.

Ratickle
08-09-2009, 08:46 PM
Some pre-race pit pics......

Ratickle
08-09-2009, 08:49 PM
Some more....

Ratickle
08-09-2009, 08:52 PM
More....

Ratickle
08-09-2009, 08:55 PM
Still more....:)

jayboat
08-09-2009, 08:55 PM
Is Dan racing the Fountain??? :sifone:

Ratickle
08-09-2009, 09:00 PM
And a couple more.....

Ratickle
08-09-2009, 09:04 PM
Mikey getting Caveman out to the Pits......:sifone: :26: :sifone:

Ratickle
08-09-2009, 09:10 PM
Up the beach/course shot of the crowd....


http://i730.photobucket.com/albums/ww310/ptrose/IMG_0532.jpg

Ratickle
08-09-2009, 09:12 PM
Looking towards end of pier/south end of course.

http://i730.photobucket.com/albums/ww310/ptrose/IMG_0516.jpg

Ratickle
08-09-2009, 09:16 PM
See if this works,


Mikey in Caveman........:sifone:


How do I get it to do this correctly?


http://i730.photobucket.com/albums/ww310/ptrose/th_MVI_0519.jpg (http://s730.photobucket.com/albums/ww310/ptrose/?action=view&current=MVI_0519.flv)

ThrottleUp Props
08-09-2009, 09:18 PM
:)Thanks for sharing the pics!! :)

Ratickle
08-09-2009, 09:19 PM
Gettin ready....

Ratickle
08-09-2009, 09:21 PM
And starting the race.....:)

Ratickle
08-09-2009, 09:25 PM
People in the water were a tad bit too close. I thought Aquamania and Geico were gonna eat a couple for lunch......

Ratickle
08-09-2009, 09:27 PM
Geico only ran one hard lap and the gearcase puked.

http://i730.photobucket.com/albums/ww310/ptrose/IMG_0546.jpg

Ratickle
08-09-2009, 09:30 PM
Strong running boat.....



http://i730.photobucket.com/albums/ww310/ptrose/IMG_0583.jpg

phragle
08-09-2009, 09:31 PM
This would explain the big empty spot on the beach.....

Ratickle
08-09-2009, 09:32 PM
WHM Ran Strong too.....


http://i730.photobucket.com/albums/ww310/ptrose/IMG_0581.jpg

Ratickle
08-09-2009, 09:33 PM
This would explain the big empty spot on the beach.....

Stecz was there too.......:sifone:

Ratickle
08-09-2009, 09:36 PM
More racing....

Ratickle
08-09-2009, 09:42 PM
The Outboard Cats ran tight the entire race......

Ratickle
08-09-2009, 09:45 PM
Few more. Crazy Chicken and Simmons were tight the entire race also. Simmons kept pulling ahead on the corners a little each lap.

Ratickle
08-09-2009, 09:53 PM
Found an interesting boat in the pits after the race.......

Gorgeous boat I think......

http://i730.photobucket.com/albums/ww310/ptrose/IMG_0638.jpg

http://i730.photobucket.com/albums/ww310/ptrose/IMG_0637.jpg

http://i730.photobucket.com/albums/ww310/ptrose/IMG_0639.jpg

Ratickle
08-09-2009, 09:59 PM
Then there was this bum on a boat in the channel running away......

From the cops was my guess........

His probation officer probably doesn't know he left NJ......

http://i730.photobucket.com/albums/ww310/ptrose/IMG_0635.jpg

http://i730.photobucket.com/albums/ww310/ptrose/IMG_0634.jpg

Ratickle
08-09-2009, 10:05 PM
Huge Spectator turn out rivaling Sarasota. Town loved it. Some said to have signed 1200 autographs. Race day rough and rougher at one end.

Obviously un official

Aqua Mania
Gieco DNF

WHM wins un challenged

Peppers wins unchallenged

CMS wins but problems early

Mikkosukee
OPA

Hard Rock wins worked on engines test day and never tested
Global Warming
Davis Motorsports led early but had problems DNF
Rockstar DNF

Panasonic ran hard led over all for part. Wins

Don't Blink wins

Crazy Chicken and Simmons raced hard not sure who won
National Guard dnf

TKO wins

Traffic Light no show

I believe CMS broke on lap two.

I pretty sure there were 17 boats that started, 12 boats that finished, 10 classes total, may have been 11. But not absolutely positive.

Ratickle
08-09-2009, 10:07 PM
I've got some film from my other camera I dropped off on the way home. I'll see what I have there tomorrow.

Terri took almost all of these.

ApachePete
08-09-2009, 11:27 PM
Lots of spectators, but so few race boats, in so many different classes,that it was simply a BIG FLOP, IMO.

I think that the "death of offshore" has been accurately reported . . . at least for SBI.

The only real drama came in the first turn on the first lap, when the new Geiko and Aquamania cats came in so fast that they swung wide in the turn and then RAN INSIDE THE SWIMMING BUOYS, coming frighteningly close to taking out dozens of swimers just off the beach.

After that near disaster, both boats practically slowed to a stop around that mark. The single engine V's were taking the turn faster.

Then either Geiko or CMS over-compensated in the same turn, and ran inside the second turn-buoy, effectively missing the turn. Then they both broke/quit, and Aquamania ran around the course at what looked like 70 MPH for the remainder.

LAMO.

There was only one big cat ( WHM), and it was soundly spanked by several Fountains which looked to be running at least 10-20 MPH faster. I guess there's no need to actually "race" when you're the only entrant in your class.

Not much fun to watch.

Fans started leaving 40 minutes after the start.

Sad.

ApachePete
08-09-2009, 11:40 PM
Not inside, but within 10 feet. And people were there.

WAY inside!

No question.

Saw it from directly behind from the East pier-head.

Check the CBS film.

SHARKEY-IMAGES
08-10-2009, 12:04 AM
WAY inside!

No question.

Saw it from directly behind from the East pier-head.

Check the CBS film.

Most likely CBS will edit it out.... :)

catastrophe
08-10-2009, 01:09 AM
Most likely CBS will edit it out.... :)

Too bad they can't "edit in" some more entrants.

Broke..broke..only one in class...ran whole race at 70mph !!??

Is this a prelude to KW ?? BBBOOOORRRINNNG

boatme
08-10-2009, 04:04 AM
I believe CMS broke on lap two.

I pretty sure there were 17 boats that started, 12 boats that finished, 10 classes total, may have been 11. But not absolutely positive.



This is very disturbing 17 boats handing out 10 checkered flags this plain has got to stop

This just makes our favorite sport look like "The Clampets put on a boat race"

I feel so bad for the great racers that put their heart, soul, and MONEY into this sport only to have it put together in such a fasion that it diminishes their efforts

:(:willy_nilly::(

Ratickle
08-10-2009, 06:31 AM
WAY inside!

No question.

Saw it from directly behind from the East pier-head.

Check the CBS film.

Will do, I should have it on film. I was half way between buoy four and the pierhead not more than 200 feet from that swim buoy and watched the guys scrambling to get out of the way.

I was watching the guys trying to walk on water more than the buoy though. And the othe two, Geico and CMS, had already made the corner and pushed him wide.

Ratickle
08-10-2009, 06:36 AM
This is very disturbing 17 boats handing out 10 checkered flags this plain has got to stop

This just makes our favorite sport look like "The Clampets put on a boat race"

I feel so bad for the great racers that put their heart, soul, and MONEY into this sport only to have it put together in such a fasion that it diminishes their efforts

:(:willy_nilly::(

I talked with a lot of spectators, handed out a bunch of flyers for those who didn't know about the site, they were very disappointed. Many had come early to see the 11:00 race, and since I had my OPA drivers ID on they asked me lots of questions.

One group of older people, (my age:)), said this was the biggest event there in years and they were hoping for a ggod show. They were trying to re-vitalize the towns beach life because of it's close proximity to Chicago. They were disappointed, but hope there will be another attempt.

It is a very nice beach.

redhotsommer
08-10-2009, 07:38 AM
We had an awesome time at the event...Michigan City has an awesome facility for certain. The crowd was pretty big...spectator fleet was huge...

I can see how people may have been disappointed in the size of the fleet...plus, it's not easy to just watch boats run in a circle without knowing what's going on...once the initial shock and amazement wear off and the racers space out...it's not exactly like watching NASCAR or a drag race. IMO...that's other people's problem...I LOVED it!

We had a big bunch of bad influence peeps onhand, and made a bunch of new friends as well.

Even got to meet the great Sunkin and Stecz...and STILL had a good time!

I really hope they come back again.

Ratickle
08-10-2009, 07:45 AM
The spectator fleet, as well as the number of spectators on shore, was huge. Sorry didn't catch up with you guys.

DrGaryDC
08-10-2009, 07:52 AM
Once again, cant wait for Patchogue, NY

boatman574
08-10-2009, 08:19 AM
I talked with a lot of spectators, handed out a bunch of flyers for those who didn't know about the site, they were very disappointed. Many had come early to see the 11:00 race, and since I had my OPA drivers ID on they asked me lots of questions.

One group of older people, (my age:)), said this was the biggest event there in years and they were hoping for a ggod show. They were trying to re-vitalize the towns beach life because of it's close proximity to Chicago. They were disappointed, but hope there will be another attempt.

It is a very nice beach.

I talked with you down at the Crane, Thanks for this Link, it is GREAT. Thank for the CD on the Don Arnow Story, Watched it Last Night. I traveled an Hour, rushed to make the 11:00 Race, was Disappointed it Didn't Happen.



It was a Good Race, VERY disappointed they didn't REALLY Race, but to most who have never seen these Races before it was GREAT. I hope you Guys come back Next Year, but Race a little Farther out, THEY did Come up in the Swim Area, I was on the Pier and Think I have Video of it.

Ratickle
08-10-2009, 08:24 AM
I talked with you down at the Crane, Thanks for this Link, it is GREAT. Thank for the CD on the Don Arnow Story, Watched it Last Night. I traveled an Hour, rushed to make the 11:00 Race, was Disappointed it Didn't Happen.



It was a Good Race, VERY disappointed they didn't REALLY Race, but to most who have never seen these Races before it was GREAT. I hope you Guys come back Next Year, but Race a little Farther out, THEY did Come up in the Swim Area, I was on the Pier and Think I have Video of it.

Nice chatting with you, welcome to the site. I certainly hope there's a race there next year as well. Nice site, always need a little tweaking when it's a first time.

Thank Jeff, Freezeframe Video, for the DVD. He has his own section in the Media area and shot the St Clair race I was telling you about, while SHarkey has a section and shot the Harrison race we chatted about.

Have a great time here. Lot's of great people and good info. If you have video, I'm sure some of the guys here will help you post it to a link if you don't know how. You can see above I didn't do to well.

DAREDEVIL
08-10-2009, 08:39 AM
Well,,,,,,,,,,,the way i see it ,,,its again about racing united and the only people that can change a low boat count are the racers.
They had an OPA event 3 hours from there a week prior and some of them actually are legal to run SBI races.
Some of them even live close,,,and still NO SHOW.

Thats what is dissapointing in my book.

U can't plame the org. for having a poor boat count ,+ its a new venue up there so some went up there to kind of check it out.
If i would not live 20 hours away ,,i would of been there and raced.

Again,,,i feel next year it will be better and better.

ALSO CONGRATS TO SIMMONS FOR HIS WIN AND EFFORT TO RACE EVERYWHERE !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Offshore Racing need more like him and it will get better fast !!

Scott

Magic Medicine
08-10-2009, 08:56 AM
Is Dan racing the Fountain??? :sifone:

Yes big Dan was racing with Billy Anchor on the sticks! The local boys go boys go!!!!!!!

Magic Medicine
08-10-2009, 09:03 AM
We had an awesome time at the event...Michigan City has an awesome facility for certain. The crowd was pretty big...spectator fleet was huge...

I can see how people may have been disappointed in the size of the fleet...plus, it's not easy to just watch boats run in a circle without knowing what's going on...once the initial shock and amazement wear off and the racers space out...it's not exactly like watching NASCAR or a drag race. IMO...that's other people's problem...I LOVED it!

We had a big bunch of bad influence peeps onhand, and made a bunch of new friends as well.

Even got to meet the great Sunkin and Stecz...and STILL had a good time!

I really hope they come back again.

I have no compliants! We had a great time but we bring the party where every we go, Bad Influence style! Most of the boaters we talk to had a great time and they hope the racers come back! Michigan City is my home town and I grew up in the marina! I was very happy to see the race, and I HOPE you guys come back! Thanks for coming to MC and we hope you will be back! :driving::driving:

Ratickle
08-10-2009, 09:06 AM
Here's a pic of the Fountain boat I found. Will pick up more later to check.

Magic Medicine
08-10-2009, 09:18 AM
Here's a pic of the Fountain boat I found. Will pick up more later to check.

Thats Big Dan's boat with Billy on the sticks

boatme
08-10-2009, 09:47 AM
i dont blame the org for low boat count i blame the orgs for having that many classes It dilutes the entire deal

All it makes out to the public, is a bunch of cool boats going roundy round then most everyone gets a checkerd flag and goes home

Trust me i felt this way when i was one of the guys putting on the races and we had half as many classes to deal with

I think it diminishes the racing

I have said it before when one of the icons of the sport coes to a race and looks at me at the end totaly confused as to who won there is a problem

tstuck
08-10-2009, 09:50 AM
I was a little disappointend in the boat count also but still had a great time. We were standing in the water close to the turn at the south end of the course. From what I heard they will be back next year so I hope it's true. It's about two hours away to Michigan City so it's worht the drive to see the race.

My brother in-law was standing beside me when we were looking at Simmons boat and I told him I was pretty sure when we were in Grand Haven several years ago when they raced there that that was the same boat that got damged and a lady was walking by as I was saying that and she stopped and said yep it's the same boat so we talked to here. I believe it was the drives wife but not sure and she gave of there hero card they had.

DrGaryDC
08-10-2009, 09:52 AM
It looked like there was much confusion at that turn in which Aqua Mania's lead turned into 3rd place. Thankfully no swimmers were injured

boatme
08-10-2009, 09:55 AM
I was a little disappointend in the boat count also but still had a great time. We were standing in the water close to the turn at the south end of the course. From what I heard they will be back next year so I hope it's true. It's about two hours away to Michigan City so it's worht the drive to see the race.

My brother in-law was standing beside me when we were looking at Simmons boat and I told him I was pretty sure when we were in Grand Haven several years ago when they raced there that that was the same boat that got damged and a lady was walking by as I was saying that and she stopped and said yep it's the same boat so we talked to here. I believe it was the drives wife but not sure and she gave of there hero card they had.

Same boat

I have pictures somwhere ot the holes that blew through the boat My wife and I put on the races in GH back in the day At that time the boat was called Twisted Sticks drivin by Bob and Threasa Ubanks

Ratickle
08-10-2009, 10:13 AM
Chris remembers it with the entire side blown out also. It is a beautiful, and well running, boat. And the team running it is also at the head of the game..

Ratickle
08-10-2009, 10:15 AM
It looked like there was much confusion at that turn in which Aqua Mania's lead turned into 3rd place. Thankfully no swimmers were injured

It was interesting. All of us were talking before the race that the turn was too narrow and they should get the swimmers out of the water.

I kinda figured there would be a pace boat there to keep them slow at the start and then they'd space out some, but have no idea what happened with that.

DAREDEVIL
08-10-2009, 10:16 AM
i dont blame the org for low boat count i blame the orgs for having that many classes It dilutes the entire deal

All it makes out to the public, is a bunch of cool boats going roundy round then most everyone gets a checkerd flag and goes home

Trust me i felt this way when i was one of the guys putting on the races and we had half as many classes to deal with

I think it diminishes the racing

I have said it before when one of the icons of the sport coes to a race and looks at me at the end totaly confused as to who won there is a problem

boatme,,,,,,whats your idea of classes ????
Sorry ,,i think this belongs in the other thread .

And about Simmons ,,,yes Jim is a cool guy. AND I WILL BEAT HIM !!:sifone:

Ratickle
08-10-2009, 10:18 AM
boatme,,,,,,whats your idea of classes ????
Sorry ,,i think this belongs in the other thread .

And about Simmons ,,,yes Jim is a cool guy. AND I WILL BEAT HIM !!:sifone:

Crazy Chicken ran a heck of a race on Jim's azz too.

Sean H
08-10-2009, 10:22 AM
It was interesting. All of us were talking before the race that the turn was too narrow and they should get the swimmers out of the water.

I kinda figured there would be a pace boat there to keep them slow at the start and then they'd space out some, but have no idea what happened with that.

SBI doesn't do a full pace lap, mill at one end and get them lined up and as soon as they are they are released.

Like I said on OSO, I can't believe that courses aren't laid out for testing on Saturday. How do you ever expect a team to accurately and safely race a course they haven't seen until the first lap of the race? Problems with the course can also be worked out on Saturday when you have a marked, closed and patrolled course for real testing. Radius of corners, proximity to beaches, spectators other obstacles can all be evaluated before the actual race that way.

If you don't have the same setup for testing as you do racing it's pretty much a joke at best (not to mention pretty unsafe).

boatme
08-10-2009, 10:25 AM
boatme,,,,,,whats your idea of classes ????
Sorry ,,i think this belongs in the other thread .
sifone:

I have no class that is why they call me "summer vacation"

DAREDEVIL
08-10-2009, 10:27 AM
SBI doesn't do a full pace lap, mill at one end and get them lined up and as soon as they are they are released.

Like I said on OSO, I can't believe that courses aren't laid out for testing on Saturday. How do you ever expect a team to accurately and safely race a course they haven't seen until the first lap of the race? Problems with the course can also be worked out on Saturday when you have a marked, closed and patrolled course for real testing. Radius of corners, proximity to beaches, spectators other obstacles can all be evaluated before the actual race that way.

If you don't have the same setup for testing as you do racing it's pretty much a joke at best (not to mention pretty unsafe).

The watercondition change ,,so why would u think it has to do with set up ????
On the saftey issue with how close to the spectators it is ,,i kind of agree.
But then again its the thing of the racers to know how to take it and make it safe.
Me personaly ,,i never test anyways.
I rather break racing then testing,,look what happend to Guy and Ray in Sarasota ?!
They could of won that race if they did not flip on saturday testing.
Just my 2 c.
But what do i know.
Sean,,,get a boat and race,,then u can smack talk all u want.:kiss:

DAREDEVIL
08-10-2009, 10:28 AM
I have no class that is why they call me "summer vacation"

LOL,,,u know what i ment.:rofl:

Sean H
08-10-2009, 10:34 AM
The watercondition change ,,so why would u think it has to do with set up ????
On the saftey issue with how close to the spectators it is ,,i kind of agree.
But then again its the thing of the racers to know how to take it and make it safe.
Me personaly ,,i never test anyways.
I rather break racing then testing,,look what happend to Guy and Ray in Sarasota ?!
They could of won that race if they did not flip on saturday testing.
Just my 2 c.
But what do i know.
Sean,,,get a boat and race,,then u can smack talk all u want.:kiss:


you pay for your parts yet?

Magic Medicine
08-10-2009, 10:52 AM
Crazy Chicken ran a heck of a race on Jim's azz too.

The crazy chicken team was awesome!!! They ran hard in practice and the race! I talked with a few of the crew and they were great people!

Ratickle
08-10-2009, 10:58 AM
SBI doesn't do a full pace lap, mill at one end and get them lined up and as soon as they are they are released.

Like I said on OSO, I can't believe that courses aren't laid out for testing on Saturday. How do you ever expect a team to accurately and safely race a course they haven't seen until the first lap of the race? Problems with the course can also be worked out on Saturday when you have a marked, closed and patrolled course for real testing. Radius of corners, proximity to beaches, spectators other obstacles can all be evaluated before the actual race that way.

If you don't have the same setup for testing as you do racing it's pretty much a joke at best (not to mention pretty unsafe).

I know when the course was laid out on Saturday in Harrison, then we ran the first lap with Dean, it was changed because of the turn from Buoy two to Buoy 3.

ApachePete
08-10-2009, 10:59 AM
Will do, I should have it on film. I was half way between buoy four and the pierhead not more than 200 feet from that swim buoy and watched the guys scrambling to get out of the way.

I was watching the guys trying to walk on water more than the buoy though. And the othe two, Geico and CMS, had already made the corner and pushed him wide.

The 3 boats were throwing up WALLS of water, so it was difficult to tell exactly where every one of the bouys were.

But from my vantage point, it sure looked like they heading inside. Then just spray everywhere. Water, and people trying to walk on water.

In any case, it scared the $hit out of me and everyone around me on the pier.

Ratickle
08-10-2009, 11:00 AM
Sean,,,get a boat and race,,then u can smack talk all u want.:kiss:


you pay for your parts yet?

Guys, different thread or PM's please.......

Ratickle
08-10-2009, 11:02 AM
The 3 boats were throwing up WALLS of water, so it was difficult to tell exactly where every one of the bouys were.

But from my vantage point, it sure looked like they heading inside. Then just spray everywhere. Water, and people trying to walk on water.

In any case, it scared the $hit out of me and everyone around me on the pier.

I was positive they were coming inside too, but then the team must have seen the people in front of them because they practically took it completely off plane and turned sharp behing the others. I didn't think they were inside the buoy, but as I said, I was watching the people, not the buoy, saying Oh Schit.....

redhotsommer
08-10-2009, 11:12 AM
Saturday when they were out testing, I couldn't believe how many of them ran through the spectator fleet. I was idling along and Straight Jacket says "You might wanna watch out behind you..." Turned around and saw Miss Geico at about 100 mph...kinda scared me. Saw the Sutphen come off plane rapidly and start chining like mad...thought they were gonna dump it. Don't know why they didn't just set up the course and marshal it like on race day...either that or the race teams could've gone offshore about 2 miles and had the whole lake to themselves.

Warlock28SXT
08-10-2009, 11:25 AM
We had an awesome time at the event...Michigan City has an awesome facility for certain. The crowd was pretty big...spectator fleet was huge...

I can see how people may have been disappointed in the size of the fleet...plus, it's not easy to just watch boats run in a circle without knowing what's going on...once the initial shock and amazement wear off and the racers space out...it's not exactly like watching NASCAR or a drag race. IMO...that's other people's problem...I LOVED it!

We had a big bunch of bad influence peeps onhand, and made a bunch of new friends as well.

Even got to meet the great Sunkin and Stecz...and STILL had a good time!

I really hope they come back again.

Well said. It was good meeting you guys this weekend as well as everybody else that I may or may not remember. I had a blast. With so much going on, meeting new people, dry pits, wet pits, coolers etc, I was like a kid in a candy store. I hope as well they come back. MC did a great job with it. Oh and I have to give a shout out to Bad Influence Offshore

Warlock28SXT
08-10-2009, 11:30 AM
The crazy chicken team was awesome!!! They ran hard in practice and the race! I talked with a few of the crew and they were great people!

Hell yes it was great to watch them, and all the race teams practice. Andy thanks for everything I owe you one bro.

DrGaryDC
08-10-2009, 11:46 AM
Michigan City was a great location. I believe everyone learned what needs to be fixed for next year

Coach
08-10-2009, 12:01 PM
FYI...

http://thenewsdispatch.com/main.asp?...rticleID=25068

Check Out what the locals think...

This is the front page article this morning

SC288
08-10-2009, 12:05 PM
What a great weekend....I have to give it up to the teams that showed up for this event!!! The local organization that put on the event said this morning that they had over 90,000 spectators between Friday and Sunday which does not include all of the people that were spectating from stop 2 - 20. There were also roughly 200 or so boats spectating yesterday. This is the first year for this so of course they will learn how to improve on some aspects of the weekend. They should setup the course for practice on Saturday....besides that I felt that everything went very well. For anyone that thinks 90,000 + people and 200 + boats is a flop let me know what type of turnout you get at your other venues. BTW it was great to meet Chris on Saturday....he introduced me to the legend Bobby Saccenti. Thanks Chris!

redhotsommer
08-10-2009, 12:12 PM
Well...I think we put a few dollars in Matey's pockets again this weekend!

Good to meet you Jason...we'll have to hook up when the water gets hard and white this winter and dual our SRX700s!

Coach
08-10-2009, 01:01 PM
I caught up with Paul Kemiel the sports photographer the CVB locally was utilizing for the weekend... http://www.paulkemielphotographics.com

Paul is my cousin's husband and has covered racing events for decades!

His comment that is pounding in my mind is " most of the spectators at the race were new race fans, having never seen an offshore event before" he said it was an incredible spectacle! A whole fleet of powerboat enthusiasts from Chicago area came over in mass! Hundreds of pleasure craft and hot boats!

I think the event was a smash hit! Home-run out of the ballpark!

Great Job SBI, and all the teams who made the race a reality...

Coach

Magic Medicine
08-10-2009, 02:19 PM
MICHIGAN CITY - While thousands of spectators enjoyed the Great Lakes Grand Prix super boat race Sunday, others were making sure the crowds were safe, orderly and refreshed with food and drink.

Jason Miller, sports development manager for the La Porte County Conventional and Visitors Bureau, credited the area police, fire and emergency management departments as well as the Michigan City Park & Recreation Department for their contributions to the event's success.

"When you put on an event like this, you really learn who understands the economic importance to the city," Miller said. "Everybody understands the impact on the city."

Miller said the CVB will come up with a rough estimate of the race's financial contribution to local businesses in a few weeks. He coordinated the event with the Super Boat International organization, and said the attendance Sunday far exceeded expectations.

"I've never seen this many people in Michigan City in my life," he said. "I think 20,000 were here yesterday and there are four times that many here today. This was beyond our expectations."

Race day turned out to be a sunny, scorchingly hot August day, tempered by a steady breeze off Lake Michigan. After it rained on the opening day parade, Miller was pleased with the weather during the remainder of the weekend.

"It's perfect," he said. "You couldn't ask for better."

Parks superintendent Jan Orlich said the crowd size was similar to the estimated 40,000 people who attended this year's fireworks show, but there were fewer problems Sunday.

"It's a nice crowd," she said Sunday. "We've had a few parking problems with people upset because they couldn't get in and gave our parking staff a hard time."

The number of drivers trying to get into Washington Park was so large, the line reached from the entrance booth over the bridge and back to U.S. 12. Police shut off vehicle traffic about 12:30 p.m., according to Brandi Graves, assistant parking supervisor for Washington Park.

"It's amazing to see how many people are coming down here for this event," she said. "We sold a lot of daily park passes (for $6 apiece)."

Michigan City police officer Greg Radiger patrolled on a four-wheeler and thought visitors were well-behaved.

"The crowds were very cooperative today and there were no major problems," he said. "Traffic flowed smoothly."

Bob Greaney, with St. Anthony Memorial, was posted at the emergency preparedness incident command center in the parking lot next to the marina boat launches. He thought the crowd was bigger than what he was told to expect - 7,000 to 10,000. He was keeping people out of the parking lot to allow movement of emergency vehicles. At the same location, volunteers Scott Foster and Willie Moore, with the Emergency Management Association, were helping boat trailers get in and out of the water and were ready to assist anyone suffering from heat stroke or other health conditions. When the race was over, they would control the crowd and make sure people got out of the area safely.

Refreshments were readily available, with local companies doing a steady business on Sunday. Stephanie Balch, with McGinnis Pub, had a constant flow of customers at the beer tent. Similarly, Emily Blitstein said business was good at the Lakeshore Coffee booth. Popular items were turkey avocado wraps, smoothies and all the iced drinks, she said.

"It's been really busy," she said. "They're keeping us on our toes."

Moe Mroueh, owner of Sahara Restaurant, said business on Sunday was much better than the two preceding days. His best seller was kefta, a mixture of ground beef and lamb grilled and served on a pita with cucumbers, lettuce and a tahini sauce.

Mroueh said his restaurant was really busy over the weekend as well.

"Any activity like this that brings people here is welcome," he said. "They should advertise the heck out of it."

Zach Martin, of Bubbles Ice Cream Parlor, said they scooped a lot of ice cream over the three days. He talked to a number of visitors from out of state - Florida, Texas, New York - who are super boat fans and travel the race circuit.

"I think if Michigan City can get more things like this, it will put such a positive spin on the city," Martin said. "We need a million things like this in the summer."

Contact Laurie Wink at lwink@thenewsdispatch.com.

Magic Medicine
08-10-2009, 02:20 PM
Hell yes it was great to watch them, and all the race teams practice. Andy thanks for everything I owe you one bro.

Anytime bro anytime, you are always welcome on the Magic Medicine! I told you our crew partied hard:sifone:

Ratickle
08-10-2009, 02:59 PM
Here's one I found. Simmons moving in on a tight corner......:sifone:


http://i730.photobucket.com/albums/ww310/ptrose/MICitySimmonsCCCrop.jpg

Ratickle
08-10-2009, 03:08 PM
Buoy 3/4 corner just before end of lap 1. Then Geico puked a gearbox.:(



http://i730.photobucket.com/albums/ww310/ptrose/MiCitySLap1.jpg

XtremeRacing
08-10-2009, 04:14 PM
Just got home and i have to say it was an awsome place race. I have never seen fans come out like they did day after day.The beach and Lake are beautiful , and the park was packed . The town was behind it 100% and what a great group to work with, they are so helpful. I see this race getting bigger and better evey yr!!!!

SVL66
08-10-2009, 04:20 PM
it makes a big difference when the town is 100% behind it. Biloxi, Cumberland, Sarasota, St Clair, Mich City, Ocean City, Patchogue all great venues. Its nice when everyone looks forward to the race coming to town and coming out to support it 100%.

Warlock28SXT
08-10-2009, 05:05 PM
Well...I think we put a few dollars in Matey's pockets again this weekend!

Good to meet you Jason...we'll have to hook up when the water gets hard and white this winter and dual our SRX700s!


Anytime bro anytime, you are always welcome on the Magic Medicine! I told you our crew partied hard:sifone:

Good Stuff Mike. I will represent BIO best I can, thanks for letting me be a part of the crew:cool:. I'm representing today. I think the truck has a vacant window:) Sleddin sounds good to me.(after some more boating though, we finally got summer, no pun intended)

Thanks Andy as was talked about, I was a bit off Sat due to, well me. I didn't feel like myself that night.I was :willy_nilly: Had a good time hanging out with all.
Jason

boatman574
08-10-2009, 05:48 PM
As I was Leaving the Race an Ambulance was Coming in, guess Someone had a Heart Attack. People were all Saying The Boats Hit Someone in the Water on the First Lap, that kind of BS will Ruin it for next Year.

Ratickle
08-10-2009, 06:09 PM
As I was Leaving the Race an Ambulance was Coming in, guess Someone had a Heart Attack. People were all Saying The Boats Hit Someone in the Water on the First Lap, that kind of BS will Ruin it for next Year.

The race would have been flagged until proper medical attention had been put into place. With all the choppers and safety rescue boats, a person in the water hurt would be treated the same as if there were an injured racer in the water. No difference, that's why the communications and pace boats are there.

RACESDAD
08-10-2009, 06:12 PM
great race site

TCEd
08-10-2009, 06:12 PM
"For anyone that thinks 90,000 + people and 200 + boats is a flop let me know what type of turnout you get at your other venues"

Think they would come back to see one race and seventeen boats again ?

ed

Ratickle
08-10-2009, 06:15 PM
great race site

Yes it is. We drove down 3 weeks ago to check everything out compared to the course map on the website. An obvious great location. I was hoping for a Southwest wind instead of a Southeast though. The wave direction on Saturday would have made for an incredible race.

XtremeRacing
08-10-2009, 06:31 PM
"For anyone that thinks 90,000 + people and 200 + boats is a flop let me know what type of turnout you get at your other venues"

Think they would come back to see one race and seventeen boats again ?

ed

The fans loved it and didnt hear one complain, the most asked question from the fans after the race was if we were for sure going to come back next yr.

XtremeRacing
08-10-2009, 06:33 PM
Lets also not forget to thank all the venders, Bands , and local that worked so hard to put this race together. This is one of the biggest events they have ever put on and Jason and all his crew did a first class job....we all thank you.

Magic Medicine
08-10-2009, 07:17 PM
As I was Leaving the Race an Ambulance was Coming in, guess Someone had a Heart Attack. People were all Saying The Boats Hit Someone in the Water on the First Lap, that kind of BS will Ruin it for next Year.

:cuss:

:icon_bs:

:icon_bs:

Magic Medicine
08-10-2009, 07:18 PM
The fans loved it and didnt hear one complain, the most asked question from the fans after the race was if we were for sure going to come back next yr.

Hope to see everyone back next year! All the boaters I talked too including the rag baggers enjoyed the race! Thanks for the awesome entertainment!!!!!:driving::USA:

Ratickle
08-10-2009, 07:40 PM
As I was Leaving the Race an Ambulance was Coming in, guess Someone had a Heart Attack. People were all Saying The Boats Hit Someone in the Water on the First Lap, that kind of BS will Ruin it for next Year.


The race would have been flagged until proper medical attention had been put into place. With all the choppers and safety rescue boats, a person in the water hurt would be treated the same as if there were an injured racer in the water. No difference, that's why the communications and pace boats are there.

As said earlier.

Ratickle
08-10-2009, 07:40 PM
Here are a few more pics. Enjoy.

http://i730.photobucket.com/albums/ww310/ptrose/R1-18A.jpg

Ratickle
08-10-2009, 07:42 PM
.....

Ratickle
08-10-2009, 07:45 PM
,,,,,,

Ratickle
08-10-2009, 07:48 PM
Simmons really liked that corner he said, (not).....

XtremeRacing
08-10-2009, 08:13 PM
I guess it wasnt as close as everyone said,looked like the boats never got close.

Ratickle
08-10-2009, 09:31 PM
I guess it wasnt as close as everyone said,looked like the boats never got close.

Check the Big Boys start thread.

SC288
08-10-2009, 09:55 PM
As I was Leaving the Race an Ambulance was Coming in, guess Someone had a Heart Attack. People were all Saying The Boats Hit Someone in the Water on the First Lap, that kind of BS will Ruin it for next Year.

Were you at the race?

SC288
08-10-2009, 09:59 PM
Think they would come back to see one race and seventeen boats again ?

ed[/QUOTE]

Were you at the race? 17 boats running at once was almost too much to watch. There will be more people next year.

boatman574
08-10-2009, 10:04 PM
Were you at the race?

Yes I was

XtremeRacing
08-10-2009, 11:34 PM
No one was hit by any race boat, dont even know why you would say something like that?

Eaton Photos
08-11-2009, 05:50 AM
The feedback has been tremendous, for this Event. I spent the better part of the Weekend shooting around the pits, documenting (photographing) the repairs to Geico's Mystic, and shooting wherever, I could find a location, including, going out on Caveman with Mikey, for the Race on Sunday. Its 5:30 AM (Been home an hour), and I am sorting through pics, and I will, get some posted here of MI City, and still get some posted of St. Clair. 2 Days, is not much time, to dump/ edit/ post, before driving for the next race :)

From the Fan perspective, the turn-out was amazing. It was a shame, more teams, could not participate, for whatever reasons. However, for those, that did show up, they put on a good show for the crowd. The beach was packed for the better part of a mile, (straightaways were 2.5 miles long), then there were pockets of crowds the rest of the way. The Spectator Fleet was huge. I estimated 200+, and many of them were, rather good sized Crusiers :)

It was a pleasure, to meet & greet, most of the teams, & make new friends. Already previewing my sorting, I've got some awesome shots of (Geico & Aqua Mania Mystics, WHM, Lucas Oil, Simmons, CMS, Crazy Chicken, OPA & Miccosukee going Deck to Deck, ETC.
Every boat that raced), the Light House, Jetty, Crowds, Marina, Pits (Wet & Dry), Sunset on Saturday, an old Wooden Chris, & Many more. It was a terrific weekend. Looking forward to Next Year.

Good Night... Or Morning for some....

Guess, I should have identified myself??? My name is James Eaton. I am a photographer, based in Louisville, KY. I have attended several races this season, and had the pleasure of meeting many of the teams, owners, fans & members' on this & the OSO boards (of which I am also a member, by the same User ID). I've had several conversations with Ratickle, and will be getting some galleries going soon, of Lake Cumberland, Detroit, St. Clair, now Michigan City, & whichever races, I can make the rest of the season. Now, I'm definitely going to get some sleep.

SHARKEY-IMAGES
08-11-2009, 06:20 AM
2 Days, is not much time, to dump/ edit/ post, before driving for the next race :)
Finally someone else understands what goes into trying to do this...
I look forward to seeing your photos.
Thanks for being there.

boatman574
08-11-2009, 08:36 AM
No one was hit by any race boat, dont even know why you would say something like that?

You missed What I SAID, People were Saying the Boats Hit Someone. I NEVER said that, if you look back at the Start of this Thread you will see I SAID I was in the Turn and Saw the Boats come Close. But PEOPLE Starting this BS in the Pits, Venders and Such will RUIN it for Years to Come. One of the People Talking about it was a Lady directing Traffic, she was Wearing an official Shirt, so Guess she Worked for the Beach

Ratickle
08-11-2009, 08:54 AM
He was trying to help us with spin control. It's appreciated so any rumors can be squelched before being spread..

boatman574
08-11-2009, 10:15 AM
RIGHT, I was Just trying to Help

jayboat
08-11-2009, 11:56 AM
Finally someone else understands what goes into trying to do this...


Second that. :cool:

Wish I coulda made it- sounds like a great venue.

DAREDEVIL
08-11-2009, 12:27 PM
http://www.seriousoffshore.com/forums/showthread.php?p=293207#post293207


OK,,,this is a tat close,,but people on the beach need to also be aware of stuff can happen at all times anyway,,so being in the water is not safe at all.

Just my 2 c.

boatman574
08-11-2009, 02:19 PM
We all know the dangers because most of us are educated on it but Joe Public does not.

SHARKEY-IMAGES
08-11-2009, 11:57 PM
He was trying to help us with spin control. It's appreciated so any rumors can be squelched before being spread..

Too late.... :(

Calls aready coming in from the USCG on the east coast concerned for their future races here... :ack2:

The answer is simple, you want to run a course that close to a swimming area, CLOSE THE WATER OFF TO SWIMMERS during the races. An hour or so is a small price to pay when it could be putting your life on the line...:(

boatman574
08-12-2009, 08:00 AM
I agree. I was Surprised Swimmers Were in the Water During the Race.

Ratickle
08-12-2009, 09:35 AM
Look guys, I want to clear up a few things going on for those who weren't there........

Could something have gone wrong and something bad have happened, yep. Did it, nope. If any of you don't think the organization, the safety crews, and the race teams do not review these types of things after EVERY race, you are wrong.

An error was made, In My Opinion, but I've gone to numerous races, used to race when I was young, and raced recently. The fans are not to blame.

There was a patrol ski there almost the entire time, a picture is attached.

Be thankful the sport enjoys good drivers, good equipment, and well coordinated oversight. All of that worked and Nothing happened.

That reviews are being conducted for other future events is what is supposed to happen. And the only place I would have closed the water was on the outside of that one corner for ? amount of distance. But that's my opinion, not the experts who review these things with the teams and organizations.

The location was impressive, the amount of shore and boat spectators was impressive, and I hope it comes back with better racer participation. If there are any other questions I can answer, let me know. I'll try.

http://i730.photobucket.com/albums/ww310/ptrose/2009-08-11_0012.jpg

boatman574
08-12-2009, 09:42 AM
I was talking about Common Sense of the Swimmers. I have Seen what Happens at other Motor Sport Events, JUST GLAD NOTHING HAPPENED HERE

Ratickle
08-12-2009, 09:47 AM
I was talking about Common Sense of the Swimmers. I have Seen what Happens at other Motor Sport Events, JUST GLAD NOTHING HAPPENED HERE

I know, it's just that being even (or a little out) with the safety officer in charge of control makes you think you're safe. I can understand that from fans who've never seen a big offshore boat up close and personal.

XtremeRacing
08-12-2009, 10:05 AM
I'm sure changes will be made next yr, in that corner. Might be best to close the swim area in that corner next yr. This was thier first race and Jason and the city did an great job, and next yr will be bigger and better.
Looks like the cop on the Jet Ski was getter some good footage.

Wahoo 214
08-12-2009, 10:10 AM
http://www.seriousoffshore.com/forums/showthread.php?p=293207#post293207


OK,,,this is a tat close,,but people on the beach need to also be aware of stuff can happen at all times anyway,,so being in the water is not safe at all.

Just my 2 c.

It would be nice if people would take self responsibilty, but the Swim Zone is THEIR water. If someone were to get run over in that zone, Offshore Racing would be over every where. The lawsuits would be insane and swimmers taking self responsibilty would never be mentioned. It was clearly a mistake to set up a course so close to an OPEN beach and that mistake will complicate the permit process in the future. Not only do I place blame on the event managers but also the Coast Guard for approving that layout. They always ask for the exact Lat and Lon for the course prior to approval.

XtremeRacing
08-12-2009, 10:42 AM
Dean,
Thanks we got your point well taken.
The more u beat it to death its not going to change.
The race was a huge sucess and the fans and city are very happy. I'm sure there will be changes next yr and it will be bigger and better. SBI, TDC, Police and CG will do thier jobs and do what needs to be done.
Thanks for your in-put....

Ratickle
08-12-2009, 11:00 AM
Looks like the cop on the Jet Ski was getter some good footage.

I noticed that too.......:sifone:

XtremeRacing
08-12-2009, 11:49 AM
Sharkey,
Do you know what CG stations was getting calls and a contact of who i could speak to? I would like to follow up and find out their concerns.

Wahoo 214
08-12-2009, 12:56 PM
Dean,
Thanks we got your point well taken.
The more u beat it to death its not going to change.
The race was a huge sucess and the fans and city are very happy. I'm sure there will be changes next yr and it will be bigger and better. SBI, TDC, Police and CG will do thier jobs and do what needs to be done.
Thanks for your in-put....

Sorry Frank,

I didn't mean to beat a dead horse, I was simply repling to a careless and uniformed post.

Magic Medicine
08-12-2009, 08:05 PM
:cuss::cuss::beatdeadhorse5::beatdeadhorse5:

If you never make any mistakes you have nothing to learn from!

SHARKEY-IMAGES
08-12-2009, 08:07 PM
Sharkey,
Do you know what CG stations was getting calls and a contact of who i could speak to? I would like to follow up and find out their concerns.
I PM'd you a contact....

Coach
08-16-2009, 07:58 AM
What a great thread, thanks everyone who chimed in...