Tag: The Pit Window

A Huge Thank You as The Pit Window Turns Six

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Today is the sixth anniversary of The Pit Window. I had no idea when I started this little blog in 2015 that it would still be here in 2022. Thanks to this column I have had so many experiences that I never dreamed of in the Indycar world. I love sharing my racing adventures with you.

Inspiration for The Pit Window began after I started taking a writing class at the Life Enrichment Center in Tampa. I was a novice snowbird seeking things to do in the area. I fell in love with the class on the first day and I am still attending the class. Many of you are wondering when it will start helping my writing.

I have met so many great people and have had the opportunity to speak with many stars of the Indycar and sportscar world. I am grateful for every minute.

The Pit Window will be around for at least a couple more years. I want to thank my core of loyal readers and those that find me every now and then. I enjoy discussing racing with you. I appreciate every reader.

Thank yopu to the media relations folks at Indycar for their help in allowing me into some sacred spaces.

I could not have sustained this little venture without the help of several members of the regular Indycar media. You have made me feel welcome, and I have learned so much from all of you. From my first day in the media center, I have been impressed by the media’s dedication and professionalism.

I am not sure if The Pit Window has another six years left, but we will go as long as we can. I can’t thank you enough for your support.

The Pit Window Turns 5

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It began with a reflection on my first 500 Mile Race in the year of the 100th running. I never expected to last through the end of the 2016 season, but here we are. May 9 is the 5th anniversary of The Pit Window’s first post. It has been an amazing journey with lots more to come.

This little blog has taken me places I never dreamed of going, and has given me opportunities to meet and talk with people in the racing world I never thought I would have the chance to be within 10 feet of. I have made some great friendships on this journey.

I mainly enjoy writing the historical pieces. “Bump Tales” is my favorite feature, and it will make a brief appearance in the next week or so. I also enjoy the breaking drama, such as qualifications day in 2018 when Pippa Mann and James Hinchcliffe addressed the media after failing to qualify for the race.

So many people have helped and encouraged me to begin this little adventure, and many more who have helped me along the way. I thank all of you who are too numerous to name. I would leave someone out. .

The biggest thanks,however goes to the fans who continue to read The pit Window. I appreciate your support and thank you for reading.

I will be back tomorrow as we get ready for the opening of IMS and GMR Grand Prix week.

iRacing Update: Open Wheels 500 Weekend Veterans 100, Pit Stop Competition on Tap Today

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Today’s schedule:

“Day Before the 500”

9:00 to 10:00 AM | Today at the 500 streaming show airing
11:00 AM | Optional Drivers Meeting
12:30 to 1:30 PM | Final 500 Mile Race Practice Session (1 hour)
2:00 PM | Veterans 100 Race presented by Goke (40 Laps, 100 Miles)
3:30 PM | Pit Stop Competition presented by The Pit Window (30 Laps, 75 Miles)

Qualifying results for the Veterans 100:

Click to access 2019-Veterans-100-Qualifications-Results.pdf

The Pit Stop Competition is different from the one at the Indianapolis 500.  I actually like this idea better.

Round One- Four heats of 12 laps with the top four in each heat advancing to the final round.

Round Two- The top 16 drivers participate in a 20 lap race.

In each heat and the final, cars have only 17% of full fuel load, necessitating pit stops. When they pit, the car can only be filled to the 17% level, just a bit more than three gallons. According to Race Director Tanner John Watkins, drivers will need to pit every three  or four laps. Stops will be crucial to winning the race.

Action can be viewed on twitchtv. https//twitch.tv/openwheels

Tomorrow the Open-Wheels 500 presented by Mitchell Transmissions begins at 11:45 am EST. The race can be seen on RaceSpot TV. Go to

https.//iRacing.com/live