Tag: The Pit Window

A Decade of Drivel-The Pit Window Turns 10

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What started 10 years ago today as a fun little exercise has turned into a labor of love. On this date in 2016 The Pit Window first appeared online. I never thought I would still be writing this little column in 2026, nor would I have believed this space would have taken me the places it has.

In 2016, as I prepared to attend my 50th Indianapolis 500, I wrote a story about my first 500 in 1962 for my writing class at the Life Enrichment Center in Tampa. The story reeceived a positive reaction from the class. They encouraged me to post it online.

I heard from several of my friends in the racing media, who encouraged to write more stories about my race experiences. At that point, I decided to establish a blog. The original title, “The First Fifty Races are the Hardest,” was cumber4some. After about a year I changed the name to The Pit Window, whioch better reflects the theme of my column.

My good friend George Phillips of Oilpressure encouraged me to apply for media credentials. My first race as a media member was at St. Pete. Green Savoree has been very kind to me. In 2018 I earned credentials to IMS.

Writing The Pit Window has allowed to witness and learn much about IndyCar through moments of triumph and tragedy. I have seen the joy of Indianapolis 500 winners in the post race press conferences, felt the pain of drivers bumped from the field., and I was there in 2019 when the Speedway was sold to Roger Penske. I’ll never forget the atmosphere in the media cener that day.

I have many people to thank for both the creation of this blog and its continuing to this point. I apologize if I leave anyone out.

First, the wonderful folks at Life Enrichment Center who have made me a better writer. Without them, especially John, Arleen, Pat, Sherrie, and Cheryl, without them, this space does not exist.

George Phillips, Steve Wittich, and Eric Smith, all of whom gave this awkward media center newbie somemgreat tips on navigating the area.

Finally, my partner Marti Strum, who has always supported my constant travels and the time I spend time writing.

And to all my readers, many of whom have been with me since day one, and those who have come on board since and are still here. Thank you all.

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