Message from the Chief Steward

Dear Competitors:

Welcome to the 2009 Chicago Region June Sprints® and thank you for participating. Whether you’re a Sprints rookie or an old hand, there are changes to the Road America facility that will require your attention. The track is in the midst of preparing for the Runoffs® and we will be trying to follow as much of the plan for that event as properly fits the Sprints. Two of the most important changes require all competitors to exit the pits at the far south end (toward turn 1) where the Black Flag Stewards have been relocated.

I can not emphasize enough the importance of adhering to GCR 6.8.1. On Course Driver Conduct A. It is the responsibility of all drivers to avoid physical contact between cars on the race track. This applies to bump drafting (including team mates,) no less than deliberate, hostile contact or any other contact between cars. We also expect you to exercise good judgment and show your fellow competitors the same respect you want to receive from them.

There were two incidents last year of competitors hitting the rear of safety trucks under waving yellow flags resulting in injury to one of the Road America safety crew, heavy damage to one of the trucks and requiring a red flag. Due to the high speeds, Road America presents a unique challenge in dealing with incidents requiring safety team response. The flags are your first line of communication about these situations. It is imperative that you respect them.

We expect you to contribute to disciplined starts. Our procedure is to begin the pace lap at pace speed until all cars have cleared the grid. In the case of a split start, each pace car group will be handled separately. The pace car will then pick up speed to help you establish sufficient separation to scrub tires and heat brakes on the track, not in pit lane. Between corner station 11 & 12 (depending on race group/split start,) the pace car will slow to final pace speed. At this point all scrubbing/heating will stop and you will get into line. The pace car lights will go out at 13. Our goal is for everyone to be in perfect columns and rows with even separation and traveling at the same speed until the green flag is displayed by the starter. There will be no pulling out of line for a better look at the starter, creeping acceleration prior to the start or lagging the pack. These and other tactics are part of racing. You are not racing before the official start.

I expect to spend as much time as possible between the grid and the Black Flag Stewards, and, of course, in tech. The major exception will be on Friday during the individual group driver’s meetings. Should you need to find me, the easiest way is to approach any race official with a radio and ask them to contact me through Race Control. It will be easier for me to come to you.

I’ve always thought a good weekend is completing all laps and rolling the car back on the transporter almost ready to do another race. I want to see that for everyone this weekend.

Sincerely,

Peter Olivola, Chief Steward

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