The 2009 Reedy Touring Car Race of Champions concluded practice today with the final 4 rounds. Not a whole lot changed today.
Rick Hohwart (car pictured above) was his usual “finger”. He along with Paul Lemiuex were the most consistent performers from day 1 and day 2.
The best overall 5 minute mod run was put in by AE’s Juho Levanen with 19 labs in 5 :08. There were 3-4 other drivers within 2 seconds of this fast time.
The track seemed slightly slower. We saw drivers go a little faster in the best 5 minute run format, but the fast laps were about the same. In my opinion, the better overall 5 min times were more so a result of people geting used to the track….that the track being faster.
Team Yokomo/LRP driver Ronald Volker (pictured left) seemed to be getting used to his new Yokomo ride. This is Ronald’s first big race with Yokomo. He posted a 19 lapper in 5:10 during one of the practice rounds. This was just a couple of secs off the top times. He seemed to get used to his new ride more and more as the practice continued. During one of the practice runs, the Yokomo mechanical team swapped cars. Ronald tried both of his cars in the same practice heat.
Live R/C was in the house.
Team Top driver EJ Evans (2nd in the background, middle) was blazing fast in 13.5. He put up the fastest time with 18 laps in 5:08. Based on practice, I would be surprised if he didn’t put his car at or near the top of the grid for the Sunday mains
Tyler Vik (above) and Scott Kimbrow (not pictured) seemed to find their stride today. Both of these drivers are coming over from other scales to compete in the event. It will be interesting to see how well they will do in the end.
On Saturday we will see 4 rounds of mod qualifying. Then a resort will take place for the open and invite mod classes. Drivers will be seeded based on qual points. The open mod and invite will run their mains and invite style races on Sunday. Note, only 2 sets of tires are being allowed for Saturday total in the mod class.
13.5 and RCGT will run 3 rounds on Saturday and 1 plus the mains on Sunday.
That’s it for day 2….pretty much more of the same from day 1.
We will be back with Saturday reports.
