2006 Surveys - Farr Out Slot Car Racing

2006 Surveys

For this year’s feedback we had 91% of the people who raced respond, in one way or the other. Looking at the total races these people were in, they represented 486 of the 535 people who raced in 2006. We even had feedback from 5 people who plan to race in 2007 who have not been with us in 2006!

We really love ourselves…..except me of course! I clearly need therapy….

Bill S. I liked everything. I’d be happy if we didn’t change anything,
Anonymous. I think you guys have done a great job of focusing on FUN and not so much on competition! Once the “work on the car all the time” mentality takes off– racing groups decline!
Alvin. Keep up the great work Stephen. My absence has been a scheduling problem, with three teenage sons who are on three different sports teams that all play on Saturday, as well as my church duties on some Saturdays. I really hope to see you guys soon.
Bruce. This is a good group. In the brief time that I have been a member, you have all been extremely gracious and generous, sharing your knowledge and information about the little cars. As I have told SFJ, sometimes I just enjoy hanging out and being a turn marshal and keeping my ears open.
Tim. I think Thomas should sing more and tell more jokes. I think Stephen should be more abusive and Rene more sarcastic. I think Dennis should be grumpier. I wish Chris Chan and Stan Smith wouldn’t get so “worked-up” about stuff. I think Bracher’s a troublemaker. Other than that: CARRY ON!!!
Michael. I think this club is the best group of guys in an activities club I’ve seen in all my years of belonging to car clubs, racing associations, and groups. I’d specify, but it’d take too long and include great things about each and everyone.
Jim Wolfe. This works! I walk into the race with a smile and I leave with a bigger smile and priceless memories. Thank you for all your hard work. The members of this club are outstanding in every way. You’re all in first place in my book. I’m very proud to be a member
Jim Hansen. I think the OTH Gang is perhaps the best club I have ever seen. In my two associations with the sport spanning over 40 years, I’ve seen no club be so affable, enjoyable, organized, and downright fun. You guys get it. I know that whenever I can race with you I will be in for a great afternoon. I just wish I were closer so that I could race more often. One of the things I like best is that I know that I am welcome whenever I am in town…something I not all clubs do for out-of-towners. I love the level of competition (unless I am beaten badly), level of humor (often necessary when I am being trounced), and general good will that exists among the group. I find the diversity of classes to be a major plus, and I would love to race Slot.it with some tuning and silicones, too. Ditto on the tracks. You do need to have an occasional routed one as well, though. The rest is not terribly important. The leadership that got the group to this point will doubtlessly keep it on course.

Richard. Well since I’m here in sunny S. Florida, I won’t be racing with you fine gentlemen any longer. But if I WERE, here are my answers. Again, thank you to everyone for making this such an enjoyable experience. Over the last few years I have always looked forward to race day. It is SO rare that a group of men can get together for something competitive and have it always be congenial, fun and uplifting. The concept of Benevolent Dictatorship has worked so well. It is a testament to Stephen’s good nature and to everyone else’s spirit of fun and sportsmanship. Truly a rare thing is this day and age. Even on the rare occasion when someone DOES get out of hand, the rest of the group has a way of evening things out. It’s been interesting to watch and a joy to be a part of. I will miss you all very much. Keep up the fun and sportsmanship, the world needs that kind of positive energy. You are all fine gentlemen in my book
Jim Wiseman. As usual I have been impressed with the well-thought out answers of our articulate club members and the fact that most of the group answered the survey immediately, at any hour, day or night. It took me reading the fresh perspective of one of our newest members, Laurent, to finally understand the nature of our club when he called us a great bunch of “gang-members!” We do have some colorful characters; I particularly enjoyed Russell’s response
Mike Pawl. We as a club are extremely lucky and truly blessed. We have currently 8 gentlemen & their families that welcome us into their homes/garages every two weeks. So that we can race on their tracks, drink and have fun while enjoying our hobby. How many other clubs of all kinds do you know of that have this kind of generosity?. This year the racing has been brought to a level that I have not seen before. The competition has been fierce and unless you brought your A+-game you weren’t going to come in first that day. However, because of the fierce competition, the knowledge and tricks only known to a few of our members has been passed on to all of our members through the web site and in the pits. So some good has come with this change. I would like to thank you all for the good times and fun that we have enjoyed this year. To all the hosts, I would like to thank you as well for providing the club with great venues to race at. My only hope is that 2007 is as fun and exciting as 2006 has been thus far.
Ed Beer. I would like to become active and participate in the club events. My overall thoughts are 1. First of all it should be fun. 2. Friendly competition is the name of the game. 3. I for one love to be competitive and in doing so I am always looking for technology to improve the cars performance (within club guidelines). This should also include race prep and practice. 4. This leads me back to my original question regarding the F40. If there are cars that are out of the box superior performers, why wouldn’t anyone wanting to compete consider obtaining one. Being competitive should be a combination of both driving skills and car preparation. I look forward to your comments and seeing you all soon
Stephen. I think the club has seriously lost its way in 2006. Attendance stats are good and I am proud of how much better absolutely everyone drives, how much more knowledge we have gained both as individuals and as a group and how much better the cars at the top, the cars overall and the loaners are prepared. However……….

o I have a personal point of view that today’s manufacturers – without exception including all modern cars made up until this very day – have lost the plot: incredibly beautiful and ever more detailed bodies; but ever more needlessly powerful motors; with under-developed poor chassis that are crap and need a magnet to hide their deficiencies when using those over-powered motors – as a prime example look at the beautiful but un-drivable Scalextric Cooper Climax and Ferrari 156 Sharknose
o When we started I choose classes that had multiple evenly matched cars in them, that were relatively forgiving to drive, that needed no weight or special tires and I remind everyone that I did choose classes with magnets as well. Certainly they worked better (and still do) the more work you put into them BUT you didn’t have to work on them endlessly to have fun closely matched racing with a minimum of effort.
o Now I had the advantage of choosing from over 40 years of Scalextric, SCX and Ninco production with no limit on how many cars I could field BUT I was easily able to find several classes that handled moderately well out of the box without a magnet. Today I struggle to find a modern car class that I can honestly recommend under the original goals of having fun with a minimum of time investment in fixing cars that should have been right from the start.
o Then along came 2006: 3 classes with weight; a new class that is beautiful but over-powered. Net result: a MASSIVE increase in the work needed to get the available cars in the 3 weighted classes in question to run well. Forget what Daniel and Michael have successfully done (in fact congratulations to them for doing the majority of the work and sharing it, car-by-car, class-by-class), they are not the issue. It is the fact that getting the cars to work well with weight is a quantum increase in workload because of the need to setup each car in the class in a rigorous step-by-step super fine-tuning method.
o So I feel the club has seriously lost its way because the amount of work need to have fun has increased way out of proportion with the amount of fun returned.
o Doesn’t mean I don’t like the club, doesn’t mean I don’t like the people, doesn’t mean I don’t have fun, doesn’t mean I won’t continue to play with my little plastic toy cars, doesn’t mean I see anyone but myself at fault, but someone was silly enough to ask me to share my feedback….. J

Louis Vignali. You will see me in 2007…..

A. Attendance:
Summary – Good, some concern on timing when more than 12 – 16 racers. No action needed
· Bob. I’m ok with things as they are
· Dennis. The fact that we have a steadily increasing average attendance per race with a decreasing number of total entrants means that those who are racing are committed, and that’s a good reflection of the acceptance of the Club’s formula amongst the members. One missing stat would be the number of repeat members from year to year. My guess is it will be a bit lower than expected, so we might want to look into why we lose members each year as much as understanding how we manage to replace them with newbie’s each year. [SFJ: Mike P calculated what percentage of drivers we have retained from yearr to year: 2002-2003 = 33%; 2003-2004 = 56%; 2004-2005 = 61%; 2005-2006 = 66%]

Eric. I haven’t raced in ages – I miss it dearly. Will be back soon, I promise!
Anonymous. I will come racing some next year– and I’m deciding on a track to build now!
Bruce. In the limited time that I have been a member, I’ve seen good turnouts. To get sixteen people to hang out and race on a Saturday for four to five hours is very good, given all the other activities competing for our limited time. As I’ve said to you on more than one occasion, I almost enjoy hanging out with enthusiasts more than the actual racing. So I think attendance is fine. We have ten great venues and the members who are serious show up. I wouldn’t change a thing.
Anonymous. Impressed by quantity and quality of all.
Craig. Attendance is good. 14-16 drivers seems optimum to me. We have at least three new regulars from this year, so growth is good. Too much growth could have bad consequences (too many drivers) and ultimately reduce attendance.
Tim. Mine’s been terrible since the beginning of summer !
Nigel. It seems to be working out fine… As long as there are 3 other drivers and a guy to start the race, I’m happy…
Daniel. I think 12 is a good number of attendees, with 16 being the maximum. With more than 16 racers it seems to slow down the flow of the races quite a bit.
Michael. 16 participants on race day is the magic number.
Thomas. Not exactly a question; more like a stat. What it could lead to would be a reduction in warm-up time–say, with 16+ drivers we’d need to limit pre-heat practice to 60 seconds for all heats
Russell. Yeah I can usually make the scene unless there’s a bit of totty about, or I have a date with some moistened bint! But not if there’s a sale going on…
Richard. Not sure what the question is. If you’re talking about limiting the # of entrants in a race, while that seems like a good way to speed up the day, I think it would be discouraging to some racers. I know that for myself many times a last minute change of plans happens and I am free to race when I thought I couldn’t. I would vote for not changing anything about that.
Jim Wiseman. Don’t restrict it, we seem to have leveled off at a good number. When it gets over 20 the meets aren’t as good, though
Mike Pawl. Astounding that we have had as many people running more than twenty races this year.
Gary. I hope we can maintain an average or better. But all are welcome as long as they bring a smile and a kind word
Stephen. I have no real concerns here. I can always take a secret vote by myself and cull the herd when needed – as has been done quietly and effectively in the past…….. J

B. When and How often We Race:
Summary – Saturday’s work with minor preferences over precise timing, which will remain the Host’s decision. A formal “season” of 24 weeks is supported with a definite opening for people to host other informal races in mid week or non-race weekends.

Bill S. Works for me as well as anything
Stan. Every two weeks has worked out very well for me, as does the current timing. So I wouldn’t change a thing.
Bob. Works good. How about a week night at Victory station or ?
Dennis. The schedule has been successful for a number of years and needs no change. I wonder though whether the idea of evening races in the summer has much support? To me, this was not an ideal situation.
Chris. Schedule works fine for me. We were a little unfortunate to have such a hot summer and having to jumble venues around.
Laurent. Every two weeks works fine for me
Eric. Saturdays work best for me, even though I’ve been a slave to prior commitments for most of the year.
Alvin. I like the schedule as it is.
Bruce. I’m okay with 24 race days. I would even lobby for additional “Special or Theme Events” like planning something around the running of the 24 Hours of Le Mans or the anniversary of the 1955 Stirling Moss Mille Miglia Victory or whatever. I think there is always room for more creativity. I’m betting that one or more of our “Host” tracks would offer to have a special event that had absolutely nothing to do with the race season. Saturday afternoons are fine but I think we would all benefit with a few Saturday evening races that would free up our day time activities.
Anonymous. Every 2 weeks is good.
Craig. Every second weekend is good, though planning to attend each race may be optimistic. I enjoyed the night races and it helps with the heat, but a set time and day for each race may be best for all. I think Saturdays, practice at 11:00, race at noon is best
Tim. The current schedule still works for me (when it DOES work for me !) I’d like to see some “one-offs” as others have suggested. That P4 Enduro we did at Chris’ place was a blast.
Nigel. Unless we all race at my beck and call (good idea I think) it’s about as good as it can get. I can host a night / midweek if needed
Daniel. 24 race days on Saturday seems to work out well. I would like to see more early morning times if possible.
Michael. Stephen’s thoughtful and brilliant calendar has made the frequency manageable. Kudos to him for building a track, prepping loaners, and officiating with so little help to get the club going the first few years
Thomas. For point-scoring races, I agree that the frequency is good. We should also have some informal races (on whatever day/night) as experiments on cars, race procedures (e.g. lag-goal races versus timed), etc.
Anonymous. The schedule is fine as it has worked the past.
Russell. One hates to rush…but as long as I’m done by 5’ish…need time for a brushup before I go out parading. I’m cool with Saturday’s but with a thought on the weather, for the warmer months, an evening meet would be appreciated.
Richard. Just right. However the occasional Friday night race is always fun.
Jim Wiseman. It’s OK, but I can’t make it to enough races. Have we tried evenings enough? I used to like that but maybe traffic has made it impossible.
Mike Pawl. Calendar is just fine, but would prefer a way to eliminate the 3 week gaps we occasionally have. Saturday afternoons are fine. If we tried to have the races on any other day I believe the attendance would be far lower than the 16 person average
Gary. Every other Saturday between 11:00 am and 5:00 pm has worked for the last 5 years for most of us.
Stephen. I think Saturday’s, 24 weekends a year works very well for the club. I do think it would be beneficial to settle on one time rather than switching between late morning, early afternoon and evening starts, no matter what the temperatures (you weaklings)! However I personally won’t be attending 24 weekends a year in the future. It is not due to anything at the club but after missing 2 or so races in 4 years, it simply takes too much out of trying to make time for the family – effectively taking out 1 of every 4 available weekend days. Also with the advent of the kid’s sports, the mistress and the goat, Saturday’s are now far tougher for me, but I don’t think Sunday’s will work for everyone else.

C. Where We Race:
Summary – We really like the variety. 4 Digital tracks are coming and while interested in Digital we are not sure it is part of what we want to formally do, yet. Logically the new digital tracks are a great place for informal mid-week or non-race day weekend races…. but your opinionated leader strongly suspects the long-term digital future is Ninco and not the other systems.

Bill S, Works for me. I like the variety. Digital Targa Florio is in progress.
Stan. I like all the tracks…and it’s great to have the variety. Now that I have my own track, maybe I can at least get a little home track advantage…
Bob. Of the tracks I have run on, I have no complaints. However, Slot-its are difficult at best on any track and I suggest we not race them on Carrera or Artin as those tracks offer less traction by design. Digital could be interesting. More like real racing if there are only two lanes
Chris C All of the eight tracks are great (Stan’s track will be great) and provide a nice variety and unequalled hospitality. Michael has the best food by a wide margin. For those of us on the other side of the hill it is nice to have three tracks over here
Laurent. I saw 4 tracks since I joined the gang. All of them were great, I like the variety and the fact that we meet at different locations. That’s great!
Anonymous. Lot’s of tracks are not a problem— some will not want to hold a race— but variety is the spice of life!!
Alvin. I have not raced most of the tracks, but I do hope to do so.
Anonymous. I’m excited to see “all” the tracks. It’s a drive but during 2007 I plan on see each track at least once.
Craig. What can I say? Are the gods shining on us, or what? Eight great tracks to race on, with eight great hosts. I must say a big thank you to all of you who built and own tracks. Digital racing at one track does not seem to fit with the club format, since special cars are required. I would like to try a non-championship race on the digital though. I would like to see some side races with metal chassis cars like Dennis brings out sometimes. Lexan, plastic or resin scale bodies with no magnets. These cars are beautiful and fast.
Tim. It just keeps getting better doesn’t it!
Daniel. I think we are very fortunate to have 8 tracks to race on. nice variety
Michael. I greatly appreciate all the tracks and I’m looking forward to trying the digital thing. Each has unique characteristics and challenges that add interest to our series.
Thomas. The more locales, the merrier says I. (I still think we should sponsor a float in the Doo-Dah parade with an in-progress race.) How we’re going to handle the digital track as a points event, though, is a concern.
Anonymous. In all honesty for me a few tracks are enough
Russell. WHAT I WANT TO KNOW IS WHEN THOMAS IS GOING TO GET HIS FINGER OUT AND BUILD THE TRACK OF HIS DREAMS AT HIS MUM’S?. DIGITAL….SCMIDIGITAL… WHATEVER… I’M NOT GOING TO START ANOTHER RE-CONVERSION ON ALL MY CARS, BUGGER THAT! NO OFFENCE BRUCE, BUT S.F.J. HAS ALREADY PUT THE WORD OUT…SURE, WHATEVER. JUST AS LONG AS I’M NOT REQUIRED TO DO ANYTHING LIKE MARSHALING. AFTER A STRESSFUL RACE HEAT IT DOES ONE GOOD TO HAVE A NICE SIT WITH A COOL LIBATION AND A CHIN WAG……. YOU FILCHED ME OUT OF A FIVER, SO PISS OFF AND DON’T INTERRUPT ME MAN!
Richard. Not sure if there are too may tracks yet. It’s nice to race on the same track often so as to know the turns better, but certainly more of a realistic challenge to race different tracks. My opinion (for what it’s worth).

Jim Wiseman. I like racing on a track often enough to get to know it, and the only one that comes close to that for me is Farrout Raceway. I have raced on 6 of the 8 tracks listed and have my favorites but so much goes into making a track available that all I want to do is thank the eight people that built them. I like the variety. I like tracks with good traction and without inner inner turns. I don’t think I would want to race (for points) on more than 6 or 8 total tracks. Of course, if I ever get one built for the group that would be one more that I would want to race on.
Mike Pawl. Although I would like to race as many tracks as possible myself, I believe that for the club, we should keep it at 8 tracks and no more. This allows some variety and keeps the racing from becoming boring. 3 visits per year is fine
Gary. I like racing on all of the tracks. I think they all have a lot of fun to offer
Stephen. I enjoy the number of tracks, both for variety and for allowing me not to host all the time! I do think that much more than 8 tracks/3 hosts does not make much sense. I would also like to point out that with the possible exception of Chris I believe this was the first permanent 4 lane track built by each host…..

Stephen’s Farrout Raceway – Classic Scalextric

Dennis. Good for some classes (those that can handle the bumps!), not for others, a little too much scenery for safe turn marshalling, IMO.
Eric. Love the scenery, vibe and neighborhood and readily available tools.
Bruce. First club track I raced on. Great use of space. Challenging course layout. I would respectively suggest that the lanes be completely striped because in the heat of battle and given the levels of high anxiety from some racers towards turn marshals when their cars come off, the last thing one needs to be searching for is a 1/4″ red line for the red lane.
Craig. Challenging layout. Great looking. We need at least one track that is cluttered with scenery and we have it! I heard Laurent say “Wow” the first time he saw it..
Tim. The original fun place to hang. I dig the scenery on tracks and his collection is ridiculous
Nigel. the original, hard to beat
Daniel. Toughest track for me by far. Well thought-out track. Demands 100% concentration at all times
Russell. CRAMPED, TOO MUCH DISTRACTION FROM HELLION LIKE CHILDREN. WAY TOO MUCH SALT-LADEN TIDBITS. NO LOCK ON THE BATHROOM DOOR, MRS S.F.J. IS ANTI-SOCIAL BUT SHE’S A WHIZZ-BANG IN THE KITCHEN AND MR S.F.J. HECKLES AND BADGERS ME. RUNS THE WHOLE SHOW LIKE A CONCENTRATION CAMP. HARD TO RELAX.

Richard. One of my favorites.(you always remember your first) Always
Mike P. A fast, but challenging track. This track continues to keep you on your toes, there are six areas that if you are not concentrating you will come out and lose time. The track is well maintained and the scenery around the track helps to let you feel your at a real race track
Stephen. Ok I guess but as I never practice on it, I still don’t know how to race on it.

Rene’s SSI Raceway – Sanded Ninco

Dennis. Rene’s layouts always have a nice flow to them, and the fact that he has changed the track a few times makes it interesting too. I’m not sure that the sanding was a success, though.
Eric Perfect.
Bruce. I must pay attention here. Challenging course layout. And love the elevation changes.
Craig. Probably my favorite. I like the traction and the elevation changes
Tim. Love the design, the surfboards, real cars, and record collection
Nigel. first class track, first class cars
Daniel. nice competitive track, I have Ninco also so I had hoped my results would have been better, maybe the sanding had something to do with it. 🙂
Russell. A BIT DICEY DURING THE RAINY SEASON (MAKE SHIFT ROOF LEAKS!), THE POWER CAN BE DODGEY AT TIMES, THE DANK, DUNGEON LIKE ” TRADESMEN” TOILET WITH INADEQUATE LIGHTING OUT BACK MAKES ME NERVOUS. I MEAN, WHATS WITH ALL THE HOOKS? POOL NEEDS WORK, IN DESPERATE NEED OF A TOPIARY GARDEN, TOO MUCH CLUTTER IN THE MAIN HOUSE ITSELF, QUESTIONABLE READING MATERIAL IN THE MASTER TOILET, POOR CHOICE OF TOILETRIES, THE “HAI KARATE” AND “YARDLEY’S OLDE ENGLISH VIOLETS” HAVE GONE A BIT OFF AND SMELL A BIT MANKEY, BEVERAGES SEEM TO RUN OUT QUICKLY…I’M NOT JUDGING ANYONES LIFESTYLE HERE BUT IT REALLY NEEDS A WOMENS TOUCH…..OVER-ALL”VIBE” IS WAY TOO “BUTCH” WHICH MAKES IT EVEN MORE DUBIOUS?…..LIKE THE TRACK THOUGH.
Richard. An excellent track. However for some reason I can’t put my finger on, I don’t seem to have as much fun racing there.

Mike P. A fast and well thought out racing challenge. Rene has spent allot of time and effort in providing a well balanced and thought out racing experience. Each time we race at Rene’s your not quite sure if anything has been changed or upgraded on the track, so it keeps you on your toes each time. The track is well maintained and the additional scenery also gives you a real race track feel
Stephen. I like it much more since Rene sanded it, a genius move, and love that it has the Goodwood chicanes.

Gary’s Woodside Raceway – Scalextric Sport

Dennis. A nice layout given the severe space restrictions, just way too far from my house for regular attendance I’m afraid.
Eric Some complain about the blind spot, but it’s easy to feel your way through. I like it overall
Craig. A special challenge. Adequate space. Looking forward to another race there.
Tim. Man do I suck on this track
Nigel. Unique (like Monaco) a different approach is needed completely!
Daniel. my favorite track of all. very compact with everything in eye’s view. much harder than it looks. i hope the next race is there as scheduled. 🙂
Russell. PARKING’S A PROBLEM, BRUTAL IN THE SUMMER MONTHS ALTHOUGH GARY PROVIDES ADEQUATE SHADE APPLIANCES, OTHERWISE A GOOD TRACK.
Richard. Great track, challenging, but definitely a winter and/or night time track
Mike P. A great use of limited space for a four lane track. It is extremely fast and with the minimum use of squeeze track, he has created a fun track to drive. Since it is small and compact however, I feel that we should not hold a 3 hr. race on this track. The track is also well maintained and the additional sound effects add a realistic sound to the experience
Stephen. The revised version is so much better than the first, a tight but fair track demanding as much concentration as Bruce’s

Chris C’s Mr. Model Car Raceway – Scalextric Sport

Dennis. Not the most interesting layout in the world, and very difficult to turn-marshal in the hairpin. Also not a lot of pit space when there’s a crowd.
Bruce. I love Riverside Raceway. Actually went to one of the LA Times Grand Prix races in the 60’… I think the size and scope is appropriate to the venue. Love the long straight but would like to see more attention to detail and like to see elevation and banking.
Craig. Love the long straightaway. I agree with Bruce, elevation changes and some corner contouring would make it even better. Great place to race at with comfortable back patio away from the fray.
Tim. Maybe I’m in the minority, but I love Chris’ track. It’s a fun hang. I like to test there. It’s 15 minutes from my house. It adapts well to magnet or non-magnet formats. It is a bit visually sterile but I can really get into a groove there.
Nigel. A great club version of a ‘home’ track. It is also air conditioned (hot summers) and has good food nearby
Daniel. as Chris says, his track requires ultra-smooth throttle input, and he ain’t kiddin’. good tire truing skills are a must for good results. nice ‘open’ track that can get you into trouble if you underestimate it.
Russell. AUSTERE SURROUNDINGS, ALL THAT TAPPING DOWN THE HALL THROWS MY RHYTHM OFF, AIR CONDITIONING A PLUS, VIEWS OF THE OCEAN, A GREAT TRACK, EVERY CLASS RUNS WELL THERE. CHRIS IS NO MINCER, HE’S NOT AFRAID TO PUSH THE ENVELOPE AND YOU CAN SAY WORDS LIKE PUSSY WITHOUT PUTTING SOME PEOPLE OFF!
Richard. Good track, the s-turns seem a little twitchy for me (but I suck). The A/C is WELL appreciated and who doesn’t love Arby’s!
Mike P. A fast track, where the challenge lies in not coming out of your lane while racing. The additional four feet of track recently added, while allowing better turn marshaling also allowed you to go faster through that portion of the track as well. This is more of a personal issue than a problem, but due to my size I find it difficult to get around the pit side ( between the track and new car case ) of Chris’s track comfortably. On the plus side the track is also well maintained
Stephen. I think this is very good for what it is, a simple easy to maintain personal and shop track that is still a challenge to drive fast.

Nigel’s Nigelstone – Scalextric Sport

Dennis. Very nice layout, lots of space, etc. A pity I couldn’t make it there more often.
Eric I’ve missed every weekend that this track has hosted and I really regret it. Looks great in the pictures
Craig. Fun challenging track. I find this the most difficult track. Nice straightaway, with the killer kink.
Tim. Great, fun track. Nice ambiance
Nigel. What is there to say? Perfection!
Daniel. a very nice layout with more than enough nooks and crannies to drive ya nuts. make sure you stay alert on this one !!!
Russell. WELL…HE’S A GEEZER INNT HE!! IT’S CLOSE TO MY GAFF, PARK-LIKE ATMOSPHERE HE’S THOUGHT OF EVERYTHING, BLESS HIM

Richard. Only raced on it once, but I love it
Mike P. He has designed a fast and challenging track. It seems the track is designed more from a mixture of all the other tracks above and his own creative ingenuity. I was skeptical of the in turn crossovers when I first saw them, however they have worked well and I actually feel that they are even harder to navigate than the Goodwood Chicane. Like Chris’s track, I have a personal issue regarding the amount of space to walk around Nigel’s track, especially in the racers area (where the controllers are). The track has also been well maintained
Stephen. There is something about this track that makes me loose it, but the track itself is really nice and always feels huge and I particularly appreciate the back-to-back criss-cross corner chicane

Michael’s Riverside Raceway – Carrera

Dennis. Great layout, wonderful use of elevation changes, again it’s a long way for me but it is worth it.
Eric Love it.
Craig. Michael’s track wins some kind of award. It is fun and frustrating at the same time, which I find very realistic. Great food too. I was very sorry to miss a race there
Tim. Mike’s track is silly great. Amazing. I’ve only raced there once but it was extremely challenging. The elevation changes are really noticeable as part of the challenge
Nigel. Great in every way.- good food.
Daniel. get a good nights rest before you attempt this one. peaks and valleys make this track quite a challenge and loads of fun.
Russell. BEING A JEW I’M A BIT EDGY ABOUT BEING SO FAR NORTH WITHOUT A GOOD DELI, COMFORTABLE GAFF, ONE CAN SEE WHO WEARS “THE PANTS” OVER THERE. OTHERWISE I DIG THE TRACK. MIKE IS VERY HELPFUL ONCE HE’S BACK ON THE MEDS!

Richard. Absolutely the BEST!!! Dude, that is one cool track, even down to he block and tackle to lift it to the ceiling. You are a geek in the best sense of the word and one hell of a nice guy to boot. And of course one can not talk about this track without mentioning Quenna’s cooking! Hot damn them’s some good eats!
Mike P. Personally I love Michael’s track. This is a fast track where the challenge in this track is not forced upon you by the Goodwood Chicane, in turn Crossovers, or squeeze track, it is in the change of elevation. This is also a well maintained track, though with sparse scenery it really gives you the feel of actually racing at the old Riverside Raceway track
Stephen. The track is great to race on, specially with the elevation changes

Bruce’s TalaMonaco – routed wood

Dennis Can’t comment yet, but what’s not to like about a wood track!
Bruce. In listening to racer’s comments during our inaugural race in September, we have added a Driver’s station for the Orange (outside) lane for better sight lines. On race day, adequate fencing was not up and more than a few cars sailed out into the stratosphere like Darth Vader at the end of Star Wars Pt I (Michael S). That too has been taken care of. We are in the process of landscaping, with a Targa Florio/Mille Miglia theme complete with unruly spectators in and on the track in the end sweeping turn which means we will have to slow down to avoid killing someone even if they are plastic. I don’t know if I’m actually going to incorporate that into and on the track but it’s a thought. Heh, heh… That may prevent cars from skipping out of lanes before hitting the dead strip lap counter. The comments regarding the squeeze lanes in the esses have been very favorable with most have ended with the phrase, “…You gotta pay attention!”
Craig. Bruce, it’s genius. You did such a nice job for a first time. I think the drivers were uncertain until they tried it, and then we all had a great time racing on it. Great traction and so smooth. I would like to see another routed track on the circuit.
Tim Haven’t had the pleasure. Looking forward
Daniel. this track provides a wonderful change of pace for the club with its converging lanes that severely punish drivers who try to take quick naps between laps. very challenging !
Russell. I’M WORRIED ABOUT SPLINTERS. MISSED THE RACE EVENT

Richard. VERY cool track. What I like about it may be why it might not be the best for the club, but then again it might be a GOOD idea. The fact that it is a challenge to pass benefits us “lesser” drivers. It’s kinda like an equalizer. That said, I had a blast racing there
Mike P. This is a very fast track, the grip on this wood track is great. However, this track relies far too heavily on squeezing lanes to make it a challenge. For about half the track two if not three of the lanes are in a constant state squeeze with one another which means the only passing available is in the 2 short and 1 long straight away. Due to turning sub 5 second laps and if you do come out you lose an entire lap, I feel that this track should also not be used for a 3 hr race as well
Stephen. This one has me completely freaked out, I cannot race it! However it is a really, really great build and has great traction

Stan’s Autodromo Baia Del Sud – Artin

Dennis. Great potential once the kinks are ironed out, and it’s close to home!!!
Bruce. I am excited for this venue and look forward to some intense racing. The layout and size is spectacular. That said, there are issues specific to this venue that will have to be addressed: Moisture, Electrical Conductivity, track surface preparation and grip. This site has the potential for being the centerpiece of our racing schedule. I will gladly volunteer to help with the problem solving.
Craig. Very, nice layout. I’m guessing we will have some exciting races there soon.
Tim. Ditto for Stan’s track. The pictures really had me excited. Team race inaugural…not so much
Nigel. Like the man, it will be first class
Daniel. this track will be one of the top contenders for ‘best track in the club’ when up and running. i would even like to see that “rising portion of track” included if possible.
Russell. ONE DAY THAT BOY IS GOING TO SNAP SOMETHING FIERCE!! SORRY TO HAVE MISSED THE INAGURAL RACE…HEARD IT WAS A COCK UP BUT LOOKING FORWARD TO THE NEXT ONE. BUT I DIG YOU STAN!
Richard. Once the kinks are worked out this should be great. Awesome location, great circiut layout, even better snacks! However it is quite slippery.I’m told that will change over time? Maybe some thought as to what classes we race there is in order
Mike P. For the short time we raced on this track, I feel this will be a fast track. The challenge in this track will be in not coming out of your lane. I will stall on any other comment until we see the finished version of this track. I am kind of hoping he puts the original hump track bridge back in and remove the flying bridge
Stephen. Has all the potential to be great

Victor’s Wood Track:

Dennis. I think we should take a cue from Victor’s total absence this year. I don’t think Victor is going to be back any time soon, so let’s not count on anything, much to all our disappointment.
Jim Wiseman. I love Victor’s track but don’t think it is available
Stephen. I would love to see Victor back but he has been busy with his family. This is a great routed track

Victory Station:

Dennis. Not even an option IMO. Every one of the home tracks we use is in better condition, better laid out, better powered, with better lap scoring……

Bruce. I have seen the new track at Victory Station but have not turned a lap. The layout is very nice and has the potential to be an excellent venue for some late night racing
Craig. Some non-championship evenings at Victory Station could be fun.
Daniel. i raced there on the old track and was not impressed. think i read one person’s email where they now have a new track. would not mind adding it into the rotation if vast improvements have been made.
Russell. ANYONE TALK TO BOB ON THIS? AS IN MOST CASES HE’S THE LAST TO KNOW. BUT I’D WELCOME GOING THERE. BEING THE FACT THAT HE SELLS “STOCK” HE’LL BE CONCERNED WITH THEFT. I WOULD TOO…I MEAN LOOK AT SOME OF THE DRECH WE ACCOMODATE AT SOME OF OUR MEETS? I ELECT TO START BACKGROUND CHECKS ON PROPOSED NEW MEMBERS. I’LL BE PACKING A GAT IN 07′
Jim Wiseman. I have no hopes for Victory Station
Mike P. In the current configuration with both tracks (Carrera & Scalex Sport) being back to back there is no space for turn marshals to reach all of the track. Also the turn marshals would have to stand in between all of the drivers, thus making line of sight visibility impossible
Stephen. Great to see the creation of two different tracks but I have not used these yet. I do not see us racing here unless the new tracks have significantly improved power, consistency, lap-counting and marshalling space, something I also think would help commercial rental of the track. Also addition of any track does sort of imply some other track not being used

Bill’s Digital Targa:

Dennis. This is going to be a spectacular track, but being digital I can’t see it being more than just an occasional venue for some fun with loaner cars, as people may not want to incur the expense of converting their current stables to digital.
Nigel. Of the 3 Bill’s is the only viable option I feel – and let’s face it… We are not short of tracks anymore. I very strongly lobby to the utmost to have a race at Bill’s. I have raced on his old track and I know how brilliant the new one will be. It would be good for everybody to have a different challenge – I also suspect it may be the only race that might bring an ‘upset’ to the podium! Face it -digital is here
Daniel. not sure how the digital format could be incorporated into our style of club racing, but very willing to give it a try if something can be figured out. that’s what makes this all fun….the various challenges.
Bill S. I’d love to have the guys over to race on my “Targa Florio” track when it’s done, it will certainly be operational by Jan/Feb, but the full scenic details will take many more months
Richard. I’m curious as to how we would work racing on a digital track?
Mike P. If we add any digital tracks to the club, the cars used for this type of track are more than likely to be just loaner cars. I can’t see that many people buying a digital car or conversion kit for just one track. A nice thought though
Stephen. I am pleasantly surprised to see how many digital tracks are being built and I think it will be part of the club in the future. However I am willing to bet money that Ninco’s overall system will win and that the first regular use of digital racing in the club will happen with the easy plug and play system from Ninco that works on ANY car available.

Terry Hayes and Mark Stewarts’s Digital Sports

Mark Stewart and Terry Hayes have a Scalextric Sport Digital Track of 2 lanes, about 46 feet each, with 3 lane change points and are located near LAX. They are open to hosting…..

Eric’s Scalextric Digital Track

Eric I’m also building a Scalextric Digital layout. My thoughts we’re to host occasional Wednesday night NON-CHAMPIONSHIP races. I don’t want to throw a wrench into a successful formula, so I have no illusions of hosting Saturday championship races.

Anonymous Digital Track

I’m deciding on a track to build now! What do you think of digital racing? I’ve had a LOT of fun with it— but that’s with a few people on a small track. I’ve not experienced it with 6 at a time or 12 on a 4 lane track. I’m anxiously awaiting the first Ninco Digital so I can try that before I commit to building a track. I think I’ll be building a digital track because I really enjoy changing lanes with traffic– but I’m waiting to get hold of the Ninco system to see if it’s that’s much better than Scalextric! Sounds like with Ninco — I could have a selection of “chips” ready to install — and in a few minutes, anyone could install them in their cars and be RTR the same day. That way, you could race your own cars on the digital track.

D. How We Race:
Summary – Good balance between team and individual races but opportunity to increase to 7 classes by separating Team races from class championships’. Or keep 6 classes and keep team races in class championships. Decide by vote

Bill. S: I’d suggest less practice before each heat.
Stan. Love the arrangement. The only thing I might change is having a few more team races (they get everybody involved and I can actually be on a podium occasionally!).
Bob. Okee Dokee with me

What do you like? The group!
What do you want more of, FUN,
what don’t you like? Slot.it Group C cars without a magnet.
Do you have new ideas for race formats? Box stock class other then normal tuning. If it has a magnet keep it. .
We could have race days where we do only one class but have 10 min per lane? YES!!!!,
We could just drink? Okee Dokee

Dennis. I think the current formula works fine – there’s a good balance between individual and team races.
Chris. The mix of classes and formats seems well planned and functioning smoothly. The enduro we ran at Mr. Model Car had a “dark” period where we ran with lights that was fun.
Eric. I like the variety of classes the current format allows, even though I don’t care for a few of the classes. It works, it keeps it interesting.
Alvin. Remain the same.
Bruce. I am struck by the number of race formats. I would suggest cutting it down to three or four.
Anonymous. Fine with me
Craig. I like the format. Ten minute heats also sounds good, as long as we get more than one or two each. Team races are fun, but individual races are better. Keep both.
Tim Format should stay as is. As I’ve said before I either show up or I don’t.
Nigel. Don’t bother asking in the future -Just write it into the FarrOut constitution. Maybe running a loaner class only might change a few results – but what happens when a car breaks etc…Let’s clear up the rule on loaning cars between members for next year please – it seems to change constantly. I can’t think of any better race formats – but that is what a life of sex, drugs and rock ‘n’ roll does for you
Daniel. I think 24 days, 6 classes, and the 3 minute heats work well. I’m not much for the team races. instead of one team race for each class I would like to have an individual race where everyone uses the loaner cars.
Michael. I like the format as is, especially with ample practice time before each heat because that is when I have the most fun. Recognition for heat winners would be nice, however, I think it’s important to remember that this club is about having fun, not about winning. I strayed to the dark side due to the addiction of seeing the wins add up and got a little too serious.
Thomas. Spread among the classes, it’s a good mix; let the team races, though, be teams of two (three with an odd man), and let the lowest-ranked racer draft his partner (odd man picks any team) and race 15 or 20 minutes per lane with mandatory pit stops every 30 laps (20 on a 3-man team) with driver change happening (so each driver does more than one stint), no mandatory stop but freedom to stop as needed to clean tires. (SFJ: Concept needs further explanation)
Russell. FAST AND RECKLESS SUITS MY STYLE WITH A MINIMUM OF SERENADING BY THOMAS. WESTON DIGS IT THOUGH, PERHAPS HE’LL STOP “BOGARTING” AND “FIRE UP” SOME OF THAT TUNESIAN BLACK OPIATED HASHISH AND ACCOMPANY THOMAS ON HIS AUTOHARP? (TUNE IN AND DROP OUT BRO..)
Russell (again!) On race structure: SAME OLD CRAP AGAIN…EMPTY PROMISES, BROKEN DREAMS, THE USUAL….WEEK AFTER WEEK, YEAR AFTER YEAR…..NOTHINGS GOING TO CHANGE. DON’T KID YOURSELF!
Richard. Don’t change this at all. A brilliant scheme (except maybe including more drinking)
Jim Wiseman. Leave it the same
Mike P. Keep the format as is. We need to standardize how we are going to allow practice. Before a race, between heats, during turnover from one class to next. When we have a team race, we only have the practice before the race not during.
Gary. 24 races, is that all, I thought I had a lot more fun then that. Oh that’s right I did! Stephen what can I say except you are the man! What do I like? I like to race! As far as new formats and Ideas go: I like team racing the best. That and of course the mandatory two drink minimum per heat or is that per race. I can’t remember, bartender another round if you please! (Hick-up*#$@%!). Who won that race? I’ll have what he’s drinking.
Stephen. Personally I see little opportunity for improvement in this area, and think the team/individual race balance is right.

However, in the spirit of trying to make improvements, we could have 7 classes instead of 6! Right now we have 6 class championships of 7 races each (6 individual races and 1 team race) = 42 races. Change that to 7 classes of 6 races (still 42) each BUT the 7^th class is a Team Race Class where the cars raced changes every one of the 6 races – they could be the same as the other classes or 6 entirely different sets of cars. It would mean reducing all class championships by 1 race, to 6. See below for example of both systems.

Current Format: 24 Meets & 6 Classes	Sprint (20 Pts Win)	Team (20 Pts Win)	Actual Races	Races Count As	Total Points Available	Min to Rank	Keep Best	Drop Worst
4WD SCX	6	1	7	7	140	3	5	2
Le Mans GT1 Ninco	6	1	7	7	140	3	5	2
F1 70/80s SCX	6	1	7	7	140	3	5	2
2WD SCX	6	1	7	7	140	3	5	2
Slot.it Group C 1980/90’s	6	1	7	7	140	3	5	2
Ninco 50/60’s	6	1	7	7	140	3	5	2
	36	6	42	42		18	30	12
Maximum Points	720	120		24 Meets	840

Other Option: 24 Meets & 7 Classes	Sprint (20 Pts Win)	Team (20 Pts Win)	Actual Races	Races Count As	Total Points Available	Min to Rank	Keep Best	Drop Worst
4WD SCX	6		6	6	120	3	4	2
Le Mans GT1 Ninco	6		6	6	120	3	4	2
F1 70/80s SCX	6		6	6	120	3	4	2
2WD SCX	6		6	6	120	3	4	2
Slot.it Group C 1980/90’s	6		6	6	120	3	4	2
Ninco 50/60’s	6		6	6	120	3	4	2
Team Class (above or others)		6	6	6	120	3	4	2
	36	6	42	42		21	28	14
Maximum Points	720	120		24 Meets	840

E. Points and Championships
Summary – Points are fine as is and should continue, possibly add heat points, have a minimum of 1 point & separate the team races from the class championships. Each of these 3 will be decided by vote.

Bill S. We need to figure out some system that will get me out of the cellar. Aside from more practice or drinking…
Stan. Like the points the way they are. Like NASCAR, everybody can score :^) And yes, Stephen, I pay attention to the charts. I notice that while everyone else is improving, I’m getting worse. So thanks for archiving my failures…
Bob. Points for heat races too. It would be like points for laps lead. I like your points system. I have won a few heats, but only one race and it was a team race. I was lucky to be on Mike’s team.

In many forms of racing you do not automatically get into a main or final race. You qualify based on position in a heat race. Points are provided to the heat race drivers as if it is a separate race. 4 heats= 4 chances to get points. Overall winner of the day still gets the final win points.
Example: points for heat win- 4 for 1st, 3 for 2nd, 2 for 3rd and 1for 4th. Main or final winner of the day gets heat points as well as race win points, but the gap is closer to the others as there are more opportunities to get points.
NASCAR provides points for every lap lead and low qualifier. This adds to how racers earn points. This keeps an overall winner from getting a huge overall lead and keeps people in the chase for the championship. Unless the overall winner is just out classing everyone.
In our case, how well you did at the end of the day is not really the story of how you did throughout the day. There have been days where I may have won a heat or two, but had a bad heat in a particular lane. Overall I dropped to 8th, but I really didn’t have a bad day, just a bad heat. One or two laps may have made the difference between getting points or not getting points.
I know this may add additional work, but it may also reward some of us that every once in a while have a good run, but not a stellar day.

Dennis. The actual points assignment is fine

Personally I would like to see event points scored according to the best three of four heats rather than all four, as I think that eliminates a lot of the stress we see some race days, and preserves the fragile relationships between drivers and turn marshals a little.
I think we need to retain the log and the Series Championships.
IMO the Team races should count towards a Team Series Championship, not towards the individual championships, but perhaps we already changed that? (SFJ: in 2006 Team race counts as 1 race toward class championship)

Chris I was told there would be no MATH! The only one who should vote on this is the one who has to keep track of it.
Laurent. Like the points the way they are. May be we could sort reversely? that will put me at the top :))))
Eric. I like the points system and I do keep track, even though it’s quite futile, given my general lack of talent.
Alvin. Remain the same.
Bruce. I think the points system is fine and would change nothing.
Anonymous. Perfect
Tim. I always check the results. I like the competition. As long as I’m beating Bracher everything else is cake
Nigel. Are you joking? This has to be kept! It’s what it’s all about! Otherwise we might as well say “after you, why don’t you take the chicane first” and “Oh, I am so sorry fellow racer.. Marshall, please put his car on first before mine”! There are championships within the championships… Currently, we have Michael, Daniel and Rene fighting out one, and lower down we have Chris leading a pack with Thomas, John, Bob, Jim, Stan, Gary and myself. There are other groupings. I think this year Stephen you are in a kind of limbo between the top and second grouping, ( you could have done with Dennis and others around a bit more) and so therefore you might not feel as caught up with trying to beat certain peers as some of us do.
Daniel. I think the point system is great. rest assured that Stephen is probably the only person who knows and follows the point system more than i do. 🙂
Michael. Points system is very well done. I could live without the point’s championships all together if it would prevent too much seriousness.
Thomas. Point system is fine; the only other alternatives I could think of would be the current Champ Car one or the FIM system (25,20,16,13,11,etc. down to 1 for 15th)
Russell. BUNCH OF OLD CODSWALLOP THAT HAS NEVER MADE ANY SENSE TO ME, WHICH IS WHY I’M SO CAVALIER IN MY RETORTS! IF I’M IN THE LEAD..FINE….IF NOT I’M DISRUPTIVE IN THE “GOODWOOD CHICANE”..

What do you like? MORE VARIED BEVERAGES
What do you want more of ICE, DRINKING CUPS, COASTERS, NAPKINS, AIR CONDITIONING, COVERED PARKING, AREA HEATERS, NO CHILDREN ABOUT, THE CLUB T-SHIRTS WE WERE PROMISED, COMFY CHAIRS
What don’t you like? QUIT BEING TOLD WHAT TO DO!…. NO CHUCKING OF CARS!!

F. What We Race
Summary – Not too much wrong, likely only 1 or less likely 2 complete class changes, voting is next step to determine exactly what will happen in terms of what class is dropped and which class will run under what specs. Pack away your SCX 2WD’s boys.

Bill S. Non-magnet. Six classes enough. In addition to the Ninco 50/60s, I’d like to see the GT40s, Porsche 906s, 908s, and Ferrari P3/P4s included in a new class. My favorite cars are the older cars.
Stan. I’m fond of the classes we have now, but would like to be able to race some of my Fly cars. If there were a way to run them without magnets… Perhaps a “spec” class, where we’re allowed to put another chassis—say a TSRF without magnet—underneath some of these great bodies, that would please me. But if there are no changes whatsoever, I wouldn’t mind
Bob.I’m just fine with life as it is
- SCX 4WD: Not my favorite, I could do without it.
- SCX F1 1970/80’s: Ok, but open it to any make mfg. Not an F1 Fan in general.
- SCX 2WD: This is cool
- Ninco GT1 Le Mans : Okee Dokee
- Ninco 1950/60’s Le Mans : I like it because of the body variety we have
- Slot.it Group C Le Mans : Nice looking cars, not fun to drive w/o magnets
- How about a class that is just based on body/class type. Open mfg, chassis tires, motor. A true tuner class. Sedans like the Fly Alpha, Monogram Cortina, etc. Vintage Le Mans that allows all slot car mfg cars, but limit the model years. How about a Carrera or a Monogram class?
- Frankly, I’m getting a little bored with Ninco. In full scale racing they don’t all use the same chassis/motor/tires (except NASCAR – it’s a southern thing).

Dennis. I agree with Stan that a Fly class of some sort would be nice, but perhaps as a replacement for one of those where cars are more difficult to obtain. I think that the Slot-it class needs to be opened up a bit to allow weight and perhaps even different tires, like Ortmann’s or silicones, so that we can run these cars on 12 or 13 volts instead of the measly 10 we use now. Of the current classes I think that the SCX F1 and SCX 2WD are becoming outdated and could be considered for replacement. I think the SCX 4WD class has suffered from the change of tire and should be re-set to stock tires. I think one NC-1 class is enough and we could consider replacing the motors in the Ninco GT! class with NC5s for a bit more fun.
Chris. I now have an SCX F40 to go along with my Slot.it Sauber, Ninco BMW LMR and what’s left of a Ninco Corvette for four of the six classes. I’d like to see Ninco/Scalextric Super GT’s added in non-magnet form. They are readily available and would provide the tuners out there something they can fiddle with. MRC/Ninco has already shown an interest in promoting the class and there is a nice array of Prorace options. The NC-6 motor used in the Nationals is not really a good option, given the tracks we race on. I’d like to race current F.1 cars, but they seem to be a little too quick and fragile for most of the tracks.
Laurent. Perfect for me, would it be possible to mix different brands with a common defined chassis for instance?
Eric. I don’t care for SCX 2WD and Ninco Le Mans. Mainly due to the model details (or lack thereof) and the amount of prep work. SCX 4WD is fun to race, in spite of the cars being crude. New class suggestion: Scalextric Mini Cooper – non-magnet w/ Indygrips. Lots of paint schemes, fun to race (although the pickups get dislodged easily on snap oversteer). Readily available, little prep required, may negate a need for loaners in this class. I love the 70s/80s F1 class, but wish there were more cars to chose from.
Anonymous. I like your class’s— keeping driving as a premium can always help– loaner cars are a great idea. But why ignore magnet cars? I DO love the emphasis on driving— but you still have to drive magnet cars to go fast as well. If you used a gauss meter and have a minimum height requirement — it wouldn’t take a lot of time to “tune” cars to work well with magnets. I’m driving both on my tracks — Scalextric and Ninco.
Alvin. I Vote for NASCAR. But I like everything in the club.
Bruce. I vote for:
- SCX F1 1970-80 Non Magnet
- Ninco GT1 Le Mans Non Magnet
- Slot-It Group C Le Mans Non Magnet
- SCALEXTRIC and FLY Sebring/Targa Florio 1966-1972, out of the box with magnet
- I also suggest two “Special Event Races” I mentioned earlier. I would like to see a true “Vintage” format. As an example, I’m interested in Monogram and Revell cars from the 60s. I would like to suggest a team and individual championship series for Monogram/Revell cars from the 60s. Here’s the basic idea:

i. We have four teams, made up of Monogram or Revell car owners.
ii. Ferrari 275P, Porsche 904, King Cobra, Corvette or Ferrari GTO
iii. Because of the scarcity and prohibitive cost of these cars, each car owner picks three drivers for the team. Total drivers per team: Four. With four teams, sixteen drivers can race.
iv. Each team campaigns the same car for the whole race series
v. Teams race on each member track for the team and individual championship in a series of endurance races where each team driver races for ten minutes. Score is kept as to the winner of each ten minute race.
vi. At the end of the series, driver with most wins is the individual champion and driver points on each team (1st, 2nd 3rd, 4th) are added up and team with most points is declared Overall Team winner.

I would also like to acknowledge magnet cars. Scalextric and FLY have some exciting cars that have basically been dismissed. I would like to see a Scalextric/FLY race featuring GT cars from 1966-1972.
Craig. I prefer to race without the magnets.

I really like the F1 class and think we need to have that. Newer formula cars might look nice, but the SCX cars are durable and perform well.
I like all of the classes, but if we were to loose one, I would choose SCX 2WD.
The Slot-It cars look great, but they do not handle like they should. I vote for a tire change for the Slot-It class. If we were to add a magnet class these cars should be considered for it.
Closest to box stock equipment is best so parts aren’t thrown away. Tuning is good.

Tim. I’m tired of SCX 2 wheel and Ninco Le Mans. It feels like that’s all we race. I know it isn’t of course but it feels that way. I’d like to race TSRF chassis. I’d like to race Revell/Monogram and Fly. I’d like to race modern AND vintage F1. I like magnets but I see the direction the club is going. It’s cool. I can hang
Nigel. I Feel strongly we should stick to the original remit of the clubs rule “out of the box” as closely as possible. The fact that at the moment we have 3 classes nowhere near that mandate is heresy! I think if we could have a few suggestions put together by SFJ, (after he has consulted with whoever he sees fit) from the various recommendations made by Club members, then it might make it a little easier to focus on what the ‘real’ options might be! ( SFJ, I have ordered those Artin ‘stockers’) Knowing what the viable options are will help in deciding what to get rid of. I also suggest voting the F1’s the first class into the FarrOut hall of fame, therefore guaranteeing they will always be raced! You know me… I have always advocated a class where we all run the same car (just like the team race) Remember me and the GT40’s!
Daniel. I know it’s not practical, but I would like to see all new classes for next year. Classes I think would be interesting……

o Open class (magnet)
o Ninco Japanese GTC (with or without magnet)
o Fly M3, (with or without magnet)
o Fly truck. {never owned one, but look like fun to drive}
o Vanquish MQ: CanAm (Shadow) or F1 cars (not sure if any come with magnet, but run well without magnets)
o Scalextric NASCAR’s (with or without magnets, possibly silicones?)
o Auto Art (any type of car ?????)
o Scalextric Modern endurance car (Lister, Lola, or Maserati MC120) without magnet/silicone tire

Thomas. As I only use loaner cars, this doesn’t apply to me much; I like the classes as they are, but would suggest one small change to the Slot-It class: run them REALLY heavy (>250g); maybe they’ll grip more! As for grip, run silicones on tracks where no rubber has been laid down so there’ll be no rubber for the tires to pick up. Just a thought. Also, NO MAGNETS!!! EVER!!!
Anonymous. I vote for a return to basics, all non-magnet
- SCX 4WD no weight
- Classic F1
- Ninco Lemans, no weight, no magnet
- Ninco DTM cars, no weight
- Ninco 50/60’s no weight
Michael. Same classes as this year, SCX 2/WD, SCX 4/WD, SCX 70s/80s, and Slot.it; except as follows:
- No added weight for Ninco GT1 Le Mans
- Broaden Classics class to provide two races each for a variety of classics.

i. Two races for Ninco roadsters 49-62
ii. Two races for GT40s, Lola T-70s, Porsche Carrera, Ferrari P4 and the like (voltage TBD)
iii. Two races for Trans Am (voltage TBD)
iv. Two races for Revell/Monogram/Carrera cars such as Mustang GT350, Corvette, etc.(voltage TBD)

If I have to change classes then choices in order are

i. Fly Classic Le Mans
ii. Japanese Touring Cars

FLY CARS of ’04. It’s difficult to see ourselves through the eyes of a newbie but it was not so long ago that I was brand new to this and now I know how little I knew. You let me take a handful of Fly cars home to play with on my Scalextric home track and I loved them. They were just plain fun and that experience was the best ever. It is what hooked me on the club and the hobby. Now I can’t understand why you think they were a failure. Yes, every fly car must be prepped prior to use including complete disassembly and careful reassembly with consideration for axle movement, gear mesh, and truing, after which they run very well.
Ortmann Tires: As you might expect, I played with Ortmann’s on a couple of my Lola T70s. I deliberately did so without obsessive effort in an attempt to evaluate them objectively. First, I slapped them on with out so much as a slight sanding and they definitely need careful truing. They gripped so well that under steer became a huge problem that I’ve yet to work out short of getting into my obsessive analyses to “to find out what the car wants” as I like to say. On the upside, they eliminate concerns about chemical tampering by providing more than enough traction for the full duration of a long run and they reduce the importance of perfect wheels. I’ve yet to test their long term effect on the track but I’ll get to it eventually.
Stephen. What I think we should race is (clearly all non-magnet!):

o SCX 4WD: Keep it as is, no change.
o SCX F1 1970/80’s: Keep it as is, no change.
o SCX 2WD: Replace it: only readily available car is the F40; weight is way too much work and made no real difference to the F40’s dominance; no point in having what is effectively a one-make series.
o Ninco GT1 Le Mans: Keep it; get rid of all weight – way too much work for zero real gain; they don’t need it now our driving has improved so markedly; don’t add a magnet; keep NC-1; get rid of BMW V12 because it is NOT a GT1 car (and never was, it is a Le Mans Prototype) leaving 4 great equally balanced cars (Mercedes, McLaren, Porsche, Ferrari), 2 of which are still being produced and all of which are easily available.
o Ninco 1950/60’s Le Mans: Keep it as is, no change; only class with weight allowed (only because I like picking my battles, not because the class needs it). Actually – stuff it – get rid of the weight! The only car heavily hurt by that would be the Porsche 356.
o Slot.it Group C Le Mans: Keep it; consider changing rear tires to non-silicones that do not strip rubber off the tracks (possibly Ortman’s?); do NOT for goodness sake add weight (why make a potentially great simple off the shelf class complicated?)
o SFJ’s New Class Options if one class is replaced or one class is added
o Ninco and/or Scalextric Japanese Touring SuperCars: As much as possible as they come; NC-5; no magnet; no weight; test some common tires only if absolutely necessary. Honestly I found them very point and squirt and not to my liking in the Ninco Championship but if we need a new class…… Oh and (subject to real testing) allow not just the 3 Japanese cars from Ninco but the Ferrari 360 GTC and Mosler MT900 AND (subject to real testing) from Scalextric allow the 4 Japanese cars, the Scalex Aston Martin DBR9, the Dodge Viper, the Jaguar Performance XKR, the Porsche 911 GT3, the TVR T400R, the Maserati MC12 and possibly the Mercedes SLR McLaren and Maserati Trofeo. Now having said that I STRONGLY suspect that the Ninco’s and Scalextric cars will not be equal in performance and that the non-Japanese cars from both Ninco and Scalextric will be slower than their other endurance cars so then we are back to 3 or 4 bodies (350z, NSX, Supra, Skyline) with 10 or 12 liveries L.
o Fly Classic Le Mans: in some sort of non-magnet option, not sure how that is possible given 2 failed attempts so far, maybe the magic Ortman’s can prevent having to do anything else?
o Modern DTM (German Touring Cars) SCX or Scalextric or Carrera equivalents: Not enthusiastic about it but have to suggest something; I am sure that the manufacturers cars are not compatible in performance terms and then we have few cars to choose from and then…… L
o Scalextric Historic F1: in some sort of non-magnet option. Of course the Maserati and the Vanwall would be outclassed by the Cooper Climax and the Ferrari 156 Sharknose so now it is a two car class before we start……L Or we could just race the McLaren M23 and Ferrari 312T coming later this year, that’s just two cars too……. L
G. Loaner Cars
Summary: keep exactly as is.

Bill S. I like the present system.
Stan. I think that the “loaners” are one of the best things about the club. For those like me who don’t have the time for extensive prep (though I hope that will change, now that I have something to practice on), they’re a real lifesaver, and Michael, Stephen, Daniel and Rene have been *extremely* generous in donating their time, resources and especially expensive cars to the greater good of the club. My hat’s off to all of you.
Bob. This is great we should keep providing them as some of us are tuning challenged, but we should pay more to race if we are running a rental. Should all classes be loaner “club” cars only? NO Should the Top 4 in the rankings only race loaner cars? NO
Dennis. While I understand the need for loaner cars and applaud those who provide them, I feel that they should be restricted to visitors and newbies and others should be encouraged to prepare and run their own cars. To me this is a big part of the hobby.
Chris. The loaner cars are fantastic. Michael and Daniel have done an excellent job.
Laurent. As I have already read in the previous answers, I also think that the “loaners” are one of the best things about the club. They’re a real lifesaver. Thanks guys for your time, resources I loved the loaners.
Eric. I love loaner cars. The cars I have purchased and prepped don’t hold a candle to the loaner cars (and I’m an engineer for crying out loud!)
Anonymous. Newbies or visitor’s should have them but the regular racers should be able to prepare their own cars. IMHO!
Alvin. Remain the same.
Bruce. We need to keep this as it does allow everyone to race.
Anonymous. Very nice feature
Craig. Loaner cars are part of the heart of the club. Thank you very much to all of the loaner car providers. As there are so many classes I think loaner cars are essential to attracting and retaining members. If there is a desire to further encourage ownership, possibly the rules would allow championship points to be accumulated only if you fielded a car for some specified number of races, not necessarily in that class, but for some class or classes.
Tim. Loaner cars are wonderful. Thanks to the prep guys. It’s the great equalizer
Nigel. Loaners are a must! Without them a lot of newbies wouldn’t come. And let’s face it… I would have probably done a lot better using them, than the ill prepared pieces of plastic I bring every fortnight.
Daniel. i think loaner cars are a definite plus for the club. i feel they encourage newbies to attend and join in the fun. and i must give Michael S. his credit………he is the one that spends many hrs. preparing the loaner cars to be as good or better than his own car. i just slap a bit of oil on my loaner cars and send her out to run as she will. so for all you guys using the loaners, make sure she has the MIGHTY FORD label on the chassis. 🙂 No, on everyone using the loaners.( except on the races mentioned earlier). No, on the top four in the ranking using the loaners.
Michael. Love the loaner car format as it provides cars for newbies and a chance to see four different marques on the grid. I think having the top four in the rankings use loaner cars would be good for everyone.
Thomas. One more thought on loaner cars – I liked the concept of coming early and trying different cars on different lanes, since some do better on one than another; maybe an amalgam of the loaner rules could be tried, like a “dibs” rule. I’ll elaborate in person.
Anonymous. Are they too good? Why would anyone want to buy cars now?
Russell. MOST OF ALL IT WILL CUT DOWN THE SURPLUS OF THE MEMBERSHIP, IT’S A NICE THOUGHT AND VERY GENEROUS, BUT DON’T EXPECT IT FROM ME. DON’T EVEN LOOK AT MY LIVERY OF CARS LET ALONE TOUCH THEM BOYO! WESTON FEELS THE SAME BUT HE’S TOO MUCH OF A NANCY BOY TO OPEN HIS CAKE HOLE!
Richard. While I was against this last year, it has proven to work pretty well. I don’t think I’d change it at all. (and I’ll add my thanks to those who supply and prepare excellent cars. As far as the top 4 using loaners….interesting idea, but not fair to those who own cars. Besides, the do use them in team races!
Jim Wiseman. I love the loaner cars on lanes and very much thank all of you who provide and prepare them
Mike P. We need to keep the loaner cars available, our club by-laws state that you don’t need to own your own car to race with us. No to making all classes loaner cars. Only if someone other than the top 4 drivers prepped the cars.
Gary. They are needed for new growth in the club.They are also need for when racers bring there racing pit-kit only to find out they left the days class of cars at home. Ops!
- The one thing I found using loaner cars this year is that it’s pot-luck as far as being better or worse then what you have in your inventory. Remember in most cases the loaner car is not going to bet the person who set them up. This year I setup and tuned my own cars. I have learned and applied the tips and common sense to my cars and they are fast. This year for me has been like trying to control jet cars. I do real good in the straight but you didn’t won’t to be on my out side in a turn. To all of you I Nerfed and I think I Nerfed all of you, all I can say is Ops! Did I do that? You know how it goes; don’t dish it out if you’re not willing to take it.
- The main thing I have observed this year is there are good days and there are bad days. If you learn this you can learn to have fun too. What I mean is there was a day racing at Stephen and my car drove through every crash hair pin and obstacle free and clear. I mean not a scratch, bump, or de-slot the whole race in both races. I took third place twice that day. It was as if the waters had parted and God smiled on me that day. Then there was the days when I could not drive 2 feet with out a de-slot. I mean what the #@$%! With this new under standing, it has helped me cope with the anger and rage I have when I have a bad day. Now, I tell my self, oh this is a bad day and I know I am going to get bad scores. So I can just race as good as I can and not let it get under my skin. And you know what, I have more fun and enjoy my self more and some times it gets better. Bartender another round if you please! (Hick-up*#$@%!).
Stephen. I think Loaner Cars are at the heart of this club. While I am surprised some have chosen to basically only use loaner cars, it is never a majority (always 5 to 8 out of 14 to 20 racers) and it does not vary much by class. So long as people mainly (and eventually) choose to setup and run – with or without help – their own cars I believe loaners are good and help newbie’s enter and old-timers’ have a back-up option if they don’t get around to preparing their own that week. I also – being a true socialist – believe all should have the opportunity to race even without ever buying a car. I don’t think people should be forced to use them in any circumstances. Finally I don’t understand Nigel’s obsession about using someone else’s car as your car for the day or even about switching between loaners and your own car or switching between your own cars. Actually there are classes where I would want to race 4 different of my own cars, just so I can drive them all in competition!

H. Car Preparation Knowledge, Skills and Time
Summary: While it may feel very different, semi-objectively, we are not really a group of “preparers” outside of 2 clear groups: Heavy are Michael; Daniel; Gary; Moderate are Dennis; Mike; Stephen; Chris R; “Touch-Up” Bob, Bruce, Stan, Tim, Nigel, Russell, Chris C and Anonymous. The rest (about 7 to 12 core racers) effectively do not significantly prepare cars. However the knowledge has been shared and it is either an available time issue or practical training issue. The same 3 who prepare a lot also practice a lot. Most others do not.

Do you prepare your cars before race days? Do you have a sense of the time you spend?

Bill S. I have only prepared a Ninco Classic. Spent maybe an hour on it. I did terrible
Stan. I sometimes have spent a couple of *minutes* prior to a race preparing the car, but as for actual real prep, I’ve not done anything near what needs to be done. Somehow, my stats seem to prove that out….
Bob. I do prepare, an hour or so per car. I prep a couple per race. Not knowing which will run best on a particular track. This not to say I’m doing it right or well.
Dennis. I do most of my preparation when I first buy a car. Thereafter it is usually just maintenance unless the car is uncompetitive, in which case I will work on it further. My initial preparation time is usually one to two hours per car.
Eric . I prep before the season and touch up as I go.
Alvin. I have no preparation time, and no practice.
Bruce. I love to tune my cars and pay attention to all details.
Anonymous. Will elaborate once I get more experience in the club. Currently I race cars pretty much right out of the box.
Craig. Preparation and honing of the skills is inevitable. Each driver wants to win. If I have a car for the class I try to prepare it to some level.
Tim. I’m like Stan here. I open the case the night before a race and I look and say to myself: “these cars are so NOT ready to race!” Then I’ll go on a parts/tune-up binge and to the best of my ability, I’ll try and get my cars in shape. I guess I’m just not that much of a slot-head.
Nigel. LOL – you are joking right.. Seriously… I do half hour on each car – so about an hour
Daniel. Yes, I do prepare my cars before race days. Prep time can vary from a few hrs to a bunch of hrs depending on the track being raced on, type of car being raced, and my ranking in the particular class. i tend to spend a lot more time prepping/ practicing on the classes I’m not doing well in.
Michael. When I don’t tune and practice with my cars just before race day, I’m often surprised at how poorly they run from the previous race. I spend about two hours per car for initial preparation out of the box. Tuning before each race is about an hour per car depending on what I find wrong with it (tires, braids, guide, bearings, motor cleaning, etc.). There’s always more to learn (and remember).
Thomas. I can’t prep as I don’t have the facilities for it; if you (or anyone else) were to sponsor more “tuning days” during the year, that might help (besides, I don’t mind helping you get loaner cars in condition because it’s a good skill to have and I enjoy doing it, as well as the camaraderie [well, 80% of that, anyway.])
Russell. Yes, 2 hours pre-race day; 1 hour of Kabbalah study; 1 hour just looking at them the morning of the race
Richard. Well, with one class exception I’m a loaner car user. I don’t really know that much, but on Ninco Le Mans day there is always some nice person to help me out. Daniel is particularly generous, Dennis is always helpful. Michael Smalley has always been ready to lend a hand as is Stephen
Jim Wiseman. I do prepare if I have a track set up which is now rarely. I almost always use loaners now
Mike P. I try to, but it doesn’t always happen. I spend about 2 hours to prep both cars for that weeks racing. This only changes if I have broken something or replacing worn out parts.
Gary. I spent a lot of time prepping my cars this year. I most often I prep at least 4 cars in each class. The reason for this big expense is because I open my track up to the kids in my neighborhood on Sunday afternoon to race. I want them to race the same class and I supply the car. This works to my advantage because I get to find the fastest car & it helps burn in the car.
Stephen. I try to but reality is I have always spent more time preparing loaners than my own cars. Usually I have no more than 2 hours and up until recently that was spent across 10 loaners and my 2 race cars (10 mins each, half of which was truing tires). Now it is more like 30 minutes in total on my two cars.

If you prep, what items do you prep: motor; tires; axles/bearings; braids, chassis/body, other?

Bob. I lube axles, motor. True tires, clean chassis and braids.
Dennis. Items prepped for a race day: Braids cleaned and set, tires checked for roundness and cleaned, all bearings cleaned and re-oiled, general check for damage, finally check on how the body is mounted (screws the right amount loose, etc). I think I have an adequate amount of knowledge. I don’t always have the time tom apply everything I know I could do, but then again, I’m not that worried about winning. I have read the tips on the website – there’s always something new to learn.
Chris C. Cleaning braid and tires are it. Occasional lubrication (bearings and palette).
Anonymous. Just true the tires and oil the car and clean the braids, box stock original car.
Russell. Yes all the above, sometimes Weston fails to do his own .. then I’m enlisted to help at the last minute. He nicks my “spares” and drops my expensive virgin steel AMG/Mercedes Teflon coated tools due to his excessive palsy-like shaking (it’s the “sauce”) thus ruining them. I feel so used and put out sometimes, then I start to get resentful!
Mike P. Everything listed and also make sure that my pit box has most replacement parts in it for emergencies.
Gary. Before I throw my cars to wolves (the kids) I spend a day or two tearing them down. I go through everything: tires, wheels, axels, gears, and most of all motors. I do a lot.
Stephen. Check and clean everything, always re-glue (hot glue) motor, true tires to remove oxidation (thank you Michael), try new bearings, re-glue bearings

Do you feel you have enough knowledge about what and how to prep? Have you read all the articles on the club website?

Stan. I “know” what I should do to prepare…but knowing and doing seem to be mutually exclusive. I think the idea of a “test day” and a “pass on your secrets” day was a good one for this year, and the articles on tuning on the website are real treasures for those who want to step up their performance.
Bob. Read them, but I’m not a perfectionist so I don’t go to the level of a Daniel or Michael.
Laurent. I plan to improve my skills on that topic, I sure with the website data and your feedbacks I will fastly evolve in the right way. I already got a holders set & plan to invest in a contact pen…
Alvin. I do usually read the articles, and check the website, which I like very much.
Bruce. I have read the articles on the Farr Out site and additional ones on the internet. As an aside, I found the internet was very useful when building my routed wooden track. I too believe that attention to detail results in winning cars and great tracks.
Craig. I have read much of the tuning information available on or through the website.
Daniel. I feel i have a decent amount of prep. knowledge. yes, I have read all the website articles and other articles on the internet. {but you have to keep in mind I have no life. J}
Russell. Uh…yes and no .. I don’t feel that what I’m told in answer to my questions is anything but miss-leading falsehoods!
Mike P. You can never have enough knowledge about how to prep a car, the only way you learn is by watching how others prep their cars. Then you take what you saw and either add it to what you do or modify something you are currently doing. Yes, I have read and printed all the articles posted on the web site and have found them very useful.
Stephen. Yes and yes

Bill S. I did practice outside race days before I sold my last rally track and started to build my new one. It makes a huge difference. As it happens, I enjoy doing the scenery work more than doing a lot of work on preparation of cars. Hopefully, everyone will get to see some of my scenic work on the new “Targa” track
Bob. Yep. It is a mental relaxation method, but my track is short and Carrera so I’m not sure it does me any good.

Dennis. Not much. Do I race a lot? Yes, as much as I can, but some of that racing might actually be counterproductive as the cars and tracks are so different. Do I win anything? Not usually. Do I have fun? Most of the time.
Chris C. Practice? Get serious!!
Eric. Yeah. I practice all the time at home but for some reason my layouts just seem so different dynamically, that what works well on my home tracks just don’t work at all on the club tracks and vice versa.
Bruce. Now that I have my track, I am practicing more.
Craig. I sometimes have a small Scaley track set-up at home that I can practice and tune on. Going to Buena Park Raceway has helped me improve my driving. The value of practice cannot be overestimated.
Nigel. I practice a bit, but not much. I like to be hungry for race day!
Daniel. I will run anywhere between 2000-5000 practice laps. I once asked Chris R. why he is so good. He replied I try not to fall off. pretty basic answer I thought at the time, but reading between the lines I guess another way of saying that is too, Practice.
Michael. I practice every chance I get. I love it. When I don’t practice, I don’t win either (not that winning is important mind you)
Anonymous. I don’t practice
Russell. Sometimes, but I’m usually too busy shagging
Mike P. I used to have a small layout set-up outdoors to practice on, but after 2 years of rain water finding its way below the tarps and ruining half of my track, I no longer do. Would I like to practice more, YES….
Gary. I practice; wide open down the straight-a-way, brake at the last moment, sometimes hard sometimes light then a little juice through the curve and then after my back end clears the curve and not before, It’s wide open again over and over.
Stephen. Never, not even in setting up the loaner’s because they get exactly 5 laps each. Actually I fib, I practiced once this year, 150 laps with both class cars – got my worst ever results on my own track in both classes that day! If I was going to practice I would want people around to play with because that is what I am doing on race day, playing not racing….! I know it sounds strange to others but I really do never get out into my garage to actually race cars around the track, basically guilt over the 24 weekends (plus all the email/organization time) kicks in and I spend the time with the family instead.

I. Weight:
Summary – A divisive subject with about 2/3rds in favor (although some for 50’s Ninco’s only) and 1/3 definitely against. We will decide by class but there won’t be weight on more than 2 of 6 classes or 3 of 7, and yes, the Benevolent Dictator is back.

Bill S. I liked it, but have no idea how to do it properly…
Stan. Weight is essential for proper handling on most cars. I like it.
Bob. No problems with this for me. Just gotta learn more and Mike has helped whenever I ask a question. However, for Chris, it made no difference, he beats us all regardless of weight. He is just a great driver. I agree with Michael. I like the classes with weight added and the learning curve was quick and Michael is a great help and not bashful to help. When many of us raced as kids on wood tracks weight was the only way. You learned to race. Even with magnets you have to learn to race. Magnets do make it easier as the location and strength is predetermined.
Dennis Lots more in the cars, lots less on some of the drivers might be a good idea! See my comments further up about weight and tires.
Chris. Are we talking car or driver weight?
Laurent. Just like it is, weight really improve cars without magnet. I like it.
Eric. In regards to weight, magnets and tires I generally prefer whatever makes the car handle predictably. Weight usually involves too much trial/error with marginal gain. At home I’ve learned to love non-magnet racing, although I find certain cars are just better with magnets (i.e. Le Mans Classics w/ magnets are NOT ridiculous. They are still plenty tail happy at least on Scalextric sport. I run Indygrips and magnets and they still slide nicely.) I prefer simple ‘bolt-on’ upgrades like better tires (Indygrips don’t need sanding!)
Alvin. I am okay with weights.
Bruce. I think that weight is necessary in some of the cars.
Craig. Damned if you do and damned if you don’t. Some cars work much better with weight, but more tuning time is needed to optimize performance with weight. Some classes may be more tedious than fun without the weight. Leave it on 50/60’s Ninco at least. All the others may be fine without weight.
Tim. Weight seems to be necessary but a magnet would solve ALL of that tuning time. Get the picture?
Nigel. Sod that crap! I hate all this weight rubbish – let’s keep it as simple as possible. Who cares if the cars drive like crap – most of the drivers do as well! And…. I have fun!
Daniel. I would like to give the weight a rest for next season’s races. even as much as I like prepping, trying to determine the amount and position of the lead was a headache much of the time
Michael. Without magnets, some cars simply do not have the weight to handle well. We should keep the same non-magnet with weight rules except specify the weight size/location to eliminate guesswork and provide ground clearance (Pre-cut weight provided by club maybe?). Weight range for our type cars should be between 80 and 90 grams total. The heaviest non-magnet cars that we race are about 90 grams and I believe that for our classes no cars should weight more than that.
Thomas. Make the Slot-Its HEAVY; as per discretion with the other classes
Anonymous. Initially when weight was introduced I thought it was just to keep the cars from being to light up front and de-slotting and racing in their box stock configuration. What guys in the club have done to these cars is more in the line of Buena Park and I am sure it is not what the manufacturer had intended. The same goes for the motor development. I like to do this for fun and enjoyment and as a stress relief and not to turn it into competitive work which I in all honesty have no desire to do. The cars are way too heavy and non-responsive with the excessive lead being used
Russell. I’m with Nigel on this one, “sod that crap”
Richard. Again, after initial resistance, weight in the Ninco Le Mans class has certainly made up for the loss of magnet. Maybe even an improvement
Jim Wiseman. I like it very much if it is in the right place. Don’t change it
Mike P. The addition of weight has somewhat evened out the playing field for all the classes that allow weight. The exception being the 2wd F-40 & Gt-1 BMW V12, even with the weight added to all the cars in their respective classes these two cars still dominated
Gary. The reason for weight is to make the cars handle better and to make them even. It is not to give you an unfair advantage. Getting the correct weight and balance on your car has been a real challenge but I think we have it dialed in and the cars run good. The thing is when we run cars with weight on a new class there is a learning curve we go through. The thing with this curve is we need to share information with each other on what works. The whole reason to race is to win, if we have fun that’s a bonus. I think this is the way some of us look at it down deep. Remember club rule #1
Stephen. I think weight is the single worst thing that has happened to this club in the 5 years we have existed. It makes more of a gap between those in the know and those who are not (something we have “solved” by making the information freely available on the “best” setup’s); it takes more time to find the right setup for your style own of driving; it is clear to me that the one thing most club members do not have is time and therefore weight tuning becomes a very slippery slope very quickly. Also while it is fine for the experienced club members who have been racing for years to propose and support weight I simply do not see it in the spirit of the clubs goals to have fun with a minimum of effort and I would also point out that those who do have the experience are nowhere near the majority – and neither are the newbie’s, the semi-experienced, the here for fun etc. To me keeping it simple means truing tires, praying the wheels are round and sanding them if they are not, carefully setting up the braid, gluing in the motor, gluing in the best bushings you can get, shimming the axles horizontally and vertically, and then having a beer. I never want to weigh a car again.
Michael S’s response to Stephen’s weight comments

o Here’s the thing. Yes, things have gone awry this year but I think it’s a disservice to blame ballast and lose its benefits. We’re about to realize the possibilities and if we give up now it will be lost to the paradigm that weight is bad. The added work that you mention is not from ballast, but rather the result of increased competition and especially the intense rivalry between Daniel and myself as evidenced by the facts. Moreover, Daniel and I have done as well in non-ballast classes and the required effort is the same. Trust me on this as I’ve learned from preparing loaners, weight classes require no more work than non-weight classes. There was a significant learning curve for weight tuning in the beginning, but thanks to the efforts and comprehensive testing by Daniel and myself, weight is no more work than slapping on a sticker. The work level depends on the quality consistency of components such as motors, wheels, axles, etc. Rene’s way was to keep trying cars until he got one with best quality components that worked well and he drove them well. The new way is to make all the components as perfect as possible which equals work, especially on the cars with room for improvement. More work but better results for the masses without as much waste. Here is how I see weight improving things:
o EASIER TO DRIVE: As for the benefits, I vehemently believe that it helps the lesser experienced in driving and car preparation much more than it helps the best guys which in turn helps to equalize the competition. It just doesn’t seem like it because Daniel and I have been so dominant this year, for which weight tuning is taking too much blame. Weight tuning makes the cars easier to drive especially for newbie’s because heavier cars are less twitchy accelerating, slowing, and less tippy in the turns.
o LESS WORK: As for prep, heavier cars are more forgiving of wobbly wheels, poorly adjusted braids, harder tires, and sloppy axles so if anything weight tuning helps the more time challenged more than it helps the obsessed. I think the misconception is from people not feeling confident about how to use weight or if they are doing it right. I’m normally very reserved about making a stand but I’ve done the research and the testing and it’s just not that big a deal to slap on about the right amount in about the right place and move on to the basics that are important regardless. Let me reiterate the added workload is because we’ve raised the game, not because of weight. It’s a mistake to think that eliminating weight will bring back the days of less work because the only thing that will do that is to handicap the guys that are too fast.
o MORE CARS: Your (SFJ’s) Maserati was un-drivable without ballast. It is my expert opinion (what a difference a year makes) that most of the cars you now deem worthless can handle predictably and be fun to drive without magnets and without a lot of work with simple use of ballast. The only things wrong with the new cars are poor quality wheels, magnet optimized guide weight, narrow track width and poor overall weight balance. F40s for example, run so well because they weigh 90 grams with excellent balance between CG, trackwidth, lateral traction, and front/rear weight bias. The narrower the track width, the more important CG becomes, which is why it’s critically important for Classics cars and SCX 2/WD cars other than F40. Similarly, increased lateral traction increases the importance of CG (which means for example that Ortmann tires will not work well on non-magnet Fly Le Mans cars without weight).

J. How Much it Costs to Race:
Summary – We likely need to keep a lid on costs incurred by the hosts by having people bring stuff with them, rather than increasing the price to play.

Bill S. $5 is cheap. I’m sure it costs more than $80 to the host — you’re not even counting the enormous time and money that goes into creating and maintaining a track. It’s a great burden to host, but I appreciate the wonderful tracks and the great people in the club.
Stan. $5 seems reasonable; it’s not a great burden for most (it’s the cost of a Mickey D’s lunch, for goodness’ sake) and whatever we can do to help those who host is certainly worth it. I’d be willing to pay more.
Bob. The host SHOULD break even. We should all start bringing food/drink or pay more so that the food is covered.
Dennis $5 is just right, but if the hosts feel that this is not covering their costs, or if there is damage to loaner cars to be repaired than perhaps we need to contribute a bit more. Perhaps the Team races, where all the cars are loaners, should cost s little more with some going to the host and some to those providing the loaners
Chris I would be more than willing to ante up $10.00. For as much fun as I’m having it’s the bargain of the century.
Eric. I’m willing to ante up a few more bucks. If I were in a position to host, I’d also be willing to eat some of the cost.
Alvin. The price is not a problem, and I could support an increase if deemed necessary.
Bruce. I think that the $5.00 is a nice gesture to the host, and you’re right no one ever breaks even. However, to me it’s not about the money, this is the host’s contribution to the club. Meanwhile… I must strongly disagree regarding feeding people. It’s a question of etiquette. I will take the position that you cannot host 16 or 18 grown men for five or six hours snacking on only chips and nuts. You have to feed people. And if we can spend $40++ bucks on a slot car, we can spend a few extra dollars on hot dogs and hamburgers.
Anonymous. $5 or $10 is no problem. We are lucky to have an option.
Craig. Thank you to the hosts. I think $5 to $7 is good, but would pay more. Certainly the kitty does not cover the whole banana, but if hosts are spending more than the kitty on refreshments, non-voluntarily, then we should consider asking those who want to drink beer to rotate in bringing beer. $50 should cover chips, soda and water, but the beer adds up. Lunch, or food, is certainly not necessary in any way. A special thank you to those who did provide a little more grub; that was great. If the club needs funds (for the website, or race hosts) it could charge $2-4 to use a loaner car payable to the club, or have annual dues.
Tim. $5.00 seems right. Nobody needs to feed me. Soft drinks are cool. I drink at home AFTER losing
Nigel. I have no objection to a small increase, but it’s obviously important to keep costs down. I think that the best approach might be for the host, who normally has a rough idea of the likely attendance and budget, to provide what he is comfortable with.
Daniel. I feel $10 would be justifiable to the host on race day.[but i do like the $5 J] I have personally never hosted but I can imagine what a tough job it must be to prepare everything properly for the races to carry- on smoothly. and providing drinks and appetizers definitely justifies the cost. I agree with Stephen about the host not being required to feed everybody. we are there to race not eat. eat before you leave the house. i think it’s a very kind gesture for any host to provide food but definitely shouldn’t be expected. I really think the donation amount should be voted on by all the hosts at the annual meeting. They are the ones who do all the work and know firsthand all the work that goes into it.
Michael. Keep it at $5. It’s a nice token and should remain so. I wouldn’t like to pay the going rate for track time.
Thomas. The cost is fine; as for snacks, soda/beer and chips is all we ever need
Russell. WESTON DOESN’T ALWAYS PONY UP! SOMETIMES I CAN’T BE BOTHERED EITHER, DEPENDS IF I’M HIGH OR NOT. MAYBE THE HOST’S OFFERED RACE CUISINE OF SALTY TRAIL MIX, CUTTLEFISH AND DAY OLD BAKED GOODS IS JUST PLAIN SHIT. JUST ONCE I’D LIKE TO SEE A NAPKIN OR SERVIETTE? MIGHT AS WELL PROVIDE THE MAALOX AS WELL?

Richard. While $5 is a good entry fee, I agree it is not the host’s job to feed and lubricate people. Although it is always appreciated and I try to show my appreciation by helping to clean up at the end of the day. It’s also nice to show up with some snacks or beer too. Just a thought
Jim Wiseman. I would spend a little more ($7?) but I never really thought we were trying to totally pay back the host, as harsh as that sounds. I think part of the money should go to lane stickers and tape, so hosts, go easy on providing the food and drinks. I would be glad to bring snacks and I don’t think the host has to “feed 16+ hungry men.” The host is already dealing with 16+ urinating men. “Hey shotgun, next time bring a funnel!” An occasional informal race with pot luck and barbecue would be fun
Mike P. If we are not covering the cost of the food, drink & track use, then we need to increase the amount. The Host should never have to go into debt so we can race. I personally have paid an additional $5 when the host has provided more than chips & drinks. I know sometimes it should have been more, but I thought of it as “it’s the thought that counts” kind of a thing. Also as grown men if we can’t find a food joint or eat at home before we go racing, it’s our own fault if were hungry and the chips don’t help. I have seen Jim Wolfe leave between races to go get food when he was hungry
Gary.I think new members for the first year should only pay 5$ and that is with loaner cars or not. I think this should also apply to anyone who is going through hard times. For every one else it’s $10 and if you don’t want to buy your own car and you have been racing for more then a year and you want to use loaner cars then you will have to pay $15 to race. This is fair and just. With this system you pay what you can afford and you don’t have to be embarrassed at the kitty. The thing to remember is if you can pay more then pay more if you can’t then don’t, after all this is an honor system.
Stephen. I think the cost should be $5. While I agree with Bruce’s point on proper etiquette, in this case I take the contrary view and perceive that it is a massive privilege to be invited to someone’s home to play for most of one day of a weekend and consequently every single attendee should be doing everything they can to make it easier on the host. I say that knowing full well that not one single time in all the times I have hosted have either Virginia or I had a single cause to complain about the behavior, attitude or manners of any one of you. This point of view likely derives from my perception that preparing to host is a very major undertaking, one that usually takes me from 8AM of the host day through to people arriving at 1PM (by the way thanks for the offers of help during that time – I have declined the only because I try to also make time that into a “playing” session with the kids during setup). So I think that the host should only provide a cooler, ice and a couple of bags of chips and you folks should bring soft-drinks, beer, wine coolers, hookah’s or whatever else you need to get through the day. I love you all and I want to play with you, I just don’t want it turning into an ever bigger production for the hosts. Therefore I propose you all figure a way for that to happen!

K. The Website:
Summary – Needs to continue but be updated and maintained by someone else (it’s easy but time consuming if you don’t have a big upload pipe to the internet)

Bill S. WWW site is great. I know it takes a lot to keep it updated, but it’s really useful.
Stan. I’m sure most of us have no appreciation of the work you’ve put into the site…but I DO find it useful and refer to it quite often, if nothing else for race reports and standings. So I say keep it going as-is.
Bob. It’s kewl. I refer people to it all the time.
Dennis. Great. I don’t go there much as I haven’t raced much this year, but I visit each time new results are posted, especially when there are photos.
Chris The website is a valuable tool in showing people that there are indeed other crazy individuals out there
Laurent. Great, remember I meet all of the gang members with your great site SF-J.
Eric. Love the website, reference it occasionally.
Alvin The Website is great.
Bruce. Best website out there but I think you (SFJ) are working too hard. Too many statistics. The stats have stats. My hat is off to you for your organizational skill. Less statistics and maybe we could feature our members or their collections or if someone has a rare car, etc.
Anonymous. Website is awesome!!!!!!
Craig. The website is the club’s one single asset shared by all. It is the greeting card for new members. It is the time, schedule and statistics repository for the existing members. I go there often. It does not need to change regularly, except hopefully the standings, but it should be there as long as we have a club. IMHO. Plus where else would you guys show off your great tracks?
Tim. The web site is great
Nigel . The website is amazing! This has been a Godsend and is a great tool in so many ways. The wealth of information is amazing and vital for a newbie at the club – besides, do you want everyone calling you like the old days? I love reading the race reports. I go there often. Is it possible to have a ‘message board’? And… I have given you feedback, so you are fibbing (again).
Daniel. i love the website. one of the best things in the club. i can’t imagine what else could be added to make it any better.
Michael. Website is awesome. I am very proud to steer people to it when they talk with me about the hobby. Let me know how to help out more. I loved the race reports that Stephen used to write after each event.
Thomas. Haven’t gone there in some time; it never strikes me to do so, but I shall just to take a look
Anonymous. It’s a great site but not on it much
Russell. MORE CANDID PHOTO’S? I ENJOY IT….WHEN THERE’S TIME…..THAT’S IT…I’VE SPIT ME DUMMY OUT!!!
Richard. It’s great (although reducing pic resolutions is always appreciated by us dial up Luddites)
Jim Wiseman. Stephen, the website is fantastic and I like to go there as time allows, especially for race reports. Keep up the great work
Mike P. YES, very useful. I go there at least 2 or 3 times between races to see if anything new has been added. Don’t know what more it needs. You have provided a web site that like you said has a lot of information, but it is all extremely beneficial and I thank you for it
Gary. The Website is very good. It opens a door to the world into our club and it promotes our hobby in a way that is a model to anyone else. Stephen, what you have done for this club with your time and money is worthy of an award of some kind. I know if I hadn’t run in to you 4 and a half years ago I would have lost interest and missed out on something I really love to do and I would have missed out on the best group of guys I have ever known. I see you all as brothers, granted some as red headed step children but brothers just the same. I love you guys and miss all who move on. May their laps be faster and there days be better. Bartender another round if you please! (Hick-up*#$@%!). I think I’m ready to race now!
Stephen. I think the website is crucial to the health of the club. However overall it takes too much effort. So we need to find a remedy.

L. Stephen’s 2007 Plans.
I plan to host as many times as I can get away with! When I said “I won’t be running any race days – again others can do it better” I meant that I won’t be Race Director (except for when I am the host) on a race-day basis. Also I just noticed that I was clearly asleep when I wrote the last point. It should have read: “I will be having fun at every race just as I have had fun at every race I have been to at this club”. So the updated diatribe now reads:

o I won’t be updating the website, it should be done but it won’t be me – I am sure there are others who can, want to and can do it better than me

o I won’t be Race Director except for when I host – again others can do it better

o I won’t be entering results after each race heat on race day– others can do it better

o I won’t be trying to win – I have more fun trying to come 5th

o I won’t be writing race reports – again others can do it better

o I won’t be doing the spreadsheet tracking all the points, it’s already automated – others can do it better

o I won’t be practicing, except while racing

o I won’t be at every race, I am hoping to make 18 of 24 race dates

o I will bring a 6 pack of beer wherever I go

o I will adjudicate if you need it, but you should never need it because if you are arguing you are not having fun!

o I will set the calendar and maintain it

o I will help the host announce, track attendees and manage the setup for race-day

o I will prepare/organize loaners

o I will facilitate the process of choosing classes and how we do things

o I will continue to lovingly abuse anyone who crosses my eyesight, but specially Russell

o I will marshal to the best of my abilities

o I will thank those who marshal me every single time I come offI will be having fun at every race just as I have had fun at every race I have been to at this club

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FarrOut Slot Cars

FarrOut Slot Cars Annual Surveys 2006 Survey

Bill S. I liked everything. I’d be happy if we didn’t change anything,
Anonymous. I think you guys have done a great job of focusing on FUN and not so much on competition! Once the “work on the car all the time” mentality takes off– racing groups decline!
Alvin. Keep up the great work Stephen. My absence has been a scheduling problem, with three teenage sons who are on three different sports teams that all play on Saturday, as well as my church duties on some Saturdays. I really hope to see you guys soon.
Bruce. This is a good group. In the brief time that I have been a member, you have all been extremely gracious and generous, sharing your knowledge and information about the little cars. As I have told SFJ, sometimes I just enjoy hanging out and being a turn marshal and keeping my ears open.
Tim. I think Thomas should sing more and tell more jokes. I think Stephen should be more abusive and Rene more sarcastic. I think Dennis should be grumpier. I wish Chris Chan and Stan Smith wouldn’t get so “worked-up” about stuff. I think Bracher’s a troublemaker. Other than that: CARRY ON!!!
Michael. I think this club is the best group of guys in an activities club I’ve seen in all my years of belonging to car clubs, racing associations, and groups. I’d specify, but it’d take too long and include great things about each and everyone.
Jim Wolfe. This works! I walk into the race with a smile and I leave with a bigger smile and priceless memories. Thank you for all your hard work. The members of this club are outstanding in every way. You’re all in first place in my book. I’m very proud to be a member
Jim Hansen. I think the OTH Gang is perhaps the best club I have ever seen. In my two associations with the sport spanning over 40 years, I’ve seen no club be so affable, enjoyable, organized, and downright fun. You guys get it. I know that whenever I can race with you I will be in for a great afternoon. I just wish I were closer so that I could race more often. One of the things I like best is that I know that I am welcome whenever I am in town…something I not all clubs do for out-of-towners. I love the level of competition (unless I am beaten badly), level of humor (often necessary when I am being trounced), and general good will that exists among the group. I find the diversity of classes to be a major plus, and I would love to race Slot.it with some tuning and silicones, too. Ditto on the tracks. You do need to have an occasional routed one as well, though. The rest is not terribly important. The leadership that got the group to this point will doubtlessly keep it on course.

Richard. Well since I’m here in sunny S. Florida, I won’t be racing with you fine gentlemen any longer. But if I WERE, here are my answers. Again, thank you to everyone for making this such an enjoyable experience. Over the last few years I have always looked forward to race day. It is SO rare that a group of men can get together for something competitive and have it always be congenial, fun and uplifting. The concept of Benevolent Dictatorship has worked so well. It is a testament to Stephen’s good nature and to everyone else’s spirit of fun and sportsmanship. Truly a rare thing is this day and age. Even on the rare occasion when someone DOES get out of hand, the rest of the group has a way of evening things out. It’s been interesting to watch and a joy to be a part of. I will miss you all very much. Keep up the fun and sportsmanship, the world needs that kind of positive energy. You are all fine gentlemen in my book
Jim Wiseman. As usual I have been impressed with the well-thought out answers of our articulate club members and the fact that most of the group answered the survey immediately, at any hour, day or night. It took me reading the fresh perspective of one of our newest members, Laurent, to finally understand the nature of our club when he called us a great bunch of “gang-members!” We do have some colorful characters; I particularly enjoyed Russell’s response
Mike Pawl. We as a club are extremely lucky and truly blessed. We have currently 8 gentlemen & their families that welcome us into their homes/garages every two weeks. So that we can race on their tracks, drink and have fun while enjoying our hobby. How many other clubs of all kinds do you know of that have this kind of generosity?. This year the racing has been brought to a level that I have not seen before. The competition has been fierce and unless you brought your A+-game you weren’t going to come in first that day. However, because of the fierce competition, the knowledge and tricks only known to a few of our members has been passed on to all of our members through the web site and in the pits. So some good has come with this change. I would like to thank you all for the good times and fun that we have enjoyed this year. To all the hosts, I would like to thank you as well for providing the club with great venues to race at. My only hope is that 2007 is as fun and exciting as 2006 has been thus far.
Ed Beer. I would like to become active and participate in the club events. My overall thoughts are 1. First of all it should be fun. 2. Friendly competition is the name of the game. 3. I for one love to be competitive and in doing so I am always looking for technology to improve the cars performance (within club guidelines). This should also include race prep and practice. 4. This leads me back to my original question regarding the F40. If there are cars that are out of the box superior performers, why wouldn’t anyone wanting to compete consider obtaining one. Being competitive should be a combination of both driving skills and car preparation. I look forward to your comments and seeing you all soon
Stephen. I think the club has seriously lost its way in 2006. Attendance stats are good and I am proud of how much better absolutely everyone drives, how much more knowledge we have gained both as individuals and as a group and how much better the cars at the top, the cars overall and the loaners are prepared. However……….

Louis Vignali. You will see me in 2007…..

Eric. I haven’t raced in ages – I miss it dearly. Will be back soon, I promise!
Anonymous. I will come racing some next year– and I’m deciding on a track to build now!
Bruce. In the limited time that I have been a member, I’ve seen good turnouts. To get sixteen people to hang out and race on a Saturday for four to five hours is very good, given all the other activities competing for our limited time. As I’ve said to you on more than one occasion, I almost enjoy hanging out with enthusiasts more than the actual racing. So I think attendance is fine. We have ten great venues and the members who are serious show up. I wouldn’t change a thing.
Anonymous. Impressed by quantity and quality of all.
Craig. Attendance is good. 14-16 drivers seems optimum to me. We have at least three new regulars from this year, so growth is good. Too much growth could have bad consequences (too many drivers) and ultimately reduce attendance.
Tim. Mine’s been terrible since the beginning of summer !
Nigel. It seems to be working out fine… As long as there are 3 other drivers and a guy to start the race, I’m happy…
Daniel. I think 12 is a good number of attendees, with 16 being the maximum. With more than 16 racers it seems to slow down the flow of the races quite a bit.
Michael. 16 participants on race day is the magic number.
Thomas. Not exactly a question; more like a stat. What it could lead to would be a reduction in warm-up time–say, with 16+ drivers we’d need to limit pre-heat practice to 60 seconds for all heats
Russell. Yeah I can usually make the scene unless there’s a bit of totty about, or I have a date with some moistened bint! But not if there’s a sale going on…
Richard. Not sure what the question is. If you’re talking about limiting the # of entrants in a race, while that seems like a good way to speed up the day, I think it would be discouraging to some racers. I know that for myself many times a last minute change of plans happens and I am free to race when I thought I couldn’t. I would vote for not changing anything about that.
Jim Wiseman. Don’t restrict it, we seem to have leveled off at a good number. When it gets over 20 the meets aren’t as good, though
Mike Pawl. Astounding that we have had as many people running more than twenty races this year.
Gary. I hope we can maintain an average or better. But all are welcome as long as they bring a smile and a kind word
Stephen. I have no real concerns here. I can always take a secret vote by myself and cull the herd when needed – as has been done quietly and effectively in the past…….. J

Bill S. Works for me as well as anything
Stan. Every two weeks has worked out very well for me, as does the current timing. So I wouldn’t change a thing.
Bob. Works good. How about a week night at Victory station or ?
Dennis. The schedule has been successful for a number of years and needs no change. I wonder though whether the idea of evening races in the summer has much support? To me, this was not an ideal situation.
Chris. Schedule works fine for me. We were a little unfortunate to have such a hot summer and having to jumble venues around.
Laurent. Every two weeks works fine for me
Eric. Saturdays work best for me, even though I’ve been a slave to prior commitments for most of the year.
Alvin. I like the schedule as it is.
Bruce. I’m okay with 24 race days. I would even lobby for additional “Special or Theme Events” like planning something around the running of the 24 Hours of Le Mans or the anniversary of the 1955 Stirling Moss Mille Miglia Victory or whatever. I think there is always room for more creativity. I’m betting that one or more of our “Host” tracks would offer to have a special event that had absolutely nothing to do with the race season. Saturday afternoons are fine but I think we would all benefit with a few Saturday evening races that would free up our day time activities.
Anonymous. Every 2 weeks is good.
Craig. Every second weekend is good, though planning to attend each race may be optimistic. I enjoyed the night races and it helps with the heat, but a set time and day for each race may be best for all. I think Saturdays, practice at 11:00, race at noon is best
Tim. The current schedule still works for me (when it DOES work for me !) I’d like to see some “one-offs” as others have suggested. That P4 Enduro we did at Chris’ place was a blast.
Nigel. Unless we all race at my beck and call (good idea I think) it’s about as good as it can get. I can host a night / midweek if needed
Daniel. 24 race days on Saturday seems to work out well. I would like to see more early morning times if possible.
Michael. Stephen’s thoughtful and brilliant calendar has made the frequency manageable. Kudos to him for building a track, prepping loaners, and officiating with so little help to get the club going the first few years
Thomas. For point-scoring races, I agree that the frequency is good. We should also have some informal races (on whatever day/night) as experiments on cars, race procedures (e.g. lag-goal races versus timed), etc.
Anonymous. The schedule is fine as it has worked the past.
Russell. One hates to rush…but as long as I’m done by 5’ish…need time for a brushup before I go out parading. I’m cool with Saturday’s but with a thought on the weather, for the warmer months, an evening meet would be appreciated.
Richard. Just right. However the occasional Friday night race is always fun.
Jim Wiseman. It’s OK, but I can’t make it to enough races. Have we tried evenings enough? I used to like that but maybe traffic has made it impossible.
Mike Pawl. Calendar is just fine, but would prefer a way to eliminate the 3 week gaps we occasionally have. Saturday afternoons are fine. If we tried to have the races on any other day I believe the attendance would be far lower than the 16 person average
Gary. Every other Saturday between 11:00 am and 5:00 pm has worked for the last 5 years for most of us.
Stephen. I think Saturday’s, 24 weekends a year works very well for the club. I do think it would be beneficial to settle on one time rather than switching between late morning, early afternoon and evening starts, no matter what the temperatures (you weaklings)! However I personally won’t be attending 24 weekends a year in the future. It is not due to anything at the club but after missing 2 or so races in 4 years, it simply takes too much out of trying to make time for the family – effectively taking out 1 of every 4 available weekend days. Also with the advent of the kid’s sports, the mistress and the goat, Saturday’s are now far tougher for me, but I don’t think Sunday’s will work for everyone else.

Bill S, Works for me. I like the variety. Digital Targa Florio is in progress.
Stan. I like all the tracks…and it’s great to have the variety. Now that I have my own track, maybe I can at least get a little home track advantage…
Bob. Of the tracks I have run on, I have no complaints. However, Slot-its are difficult at best on any track and I suggest we not race them on Carrera or Artin as those tracks offer less traction by design. Digital could be interesting. More like real racing if there are only two lanes
Chris C All of the eight tracks are great (Stan’s track will be great) and provide a nice variety and unequalled hospitality. Michael has the best food by a wide margin. For those of us on the other side of the hill it is nice to have three tracks over here
Laurent. I saw 4 tracks since I joined the gang. All of them were great, I like the variety and the fact that we meet at different locations. That’s great!
Anonymous. Lot’s of tracks are not a problem— some will not want to hold a race— but variety is the spice of life!!
Alvin. I have not raced most of the tracks, but I do hope to do so.
Anonymous. I’m excited to see “all” the tracks. It’s a drive but during 2007 I plan on see each track at least once.
Craig. What can I say? Are the gods shining on us, or what? Eight great tracks to race on, with eight great hosts. I must say a big thank you to all of you who built and own tracks. Digital racing at one track does not seem to fit with the club format, since special cars are required. I would like to try a non-championship race on the digital though. I would like to see some side races with metal chassis cars like Dennis brings out sometimes. Lexan, plastic or resin scale bodies with no magnets. These cars are beautiful and fast.
Tim. It just keeps getting better doesn’t it!
Daniel. I think we are very fortunate to have 8 tracks to race on. nice variety
Michael. I greatly appreciate all the tracks and I’m looking forward to trying the digital thing. Each has unique characteristics and challenges that add interest to our series.
Thomas. The more locales, the merrier says I. (I still think we should sponsor a float in the Doo-Dah parade with an in-progress race.) How we’re going to handle the digital track as a points event, though, is a concern.
Anonymous. In all honesty for me a few tracks are enough
Russell. WHAT I WANT TO KNOW IS WHEN THOMAS IS GOING TO GET HIS FINGER OUT AND BUILD THE TRACK OF HIS DREAMS AT HIS MUM’S?. DIGITAL….SCMIDIGITAL… WHATEVER… I’M NOT GOING TO START ANOTHER RE-CONVERSION ON ALL MY CARS, BUGGER THAT! NO OFFENCE BRUCE, BUT S.F.J. HAS ALREADY PUT THE WORD OUT…SURE, WHATEVER. JUST AS LONG AS I’M NOT REQUIRED TO DO ANYTHING LIKE MARSHALING. AFTER A STRESSFUL RACE HEAT IT DOES ONE GOOD TO HAVE A NICE SIT WITH A COOL LIBATION AND A CHIN WAG……. YOU FILCHED ME OUT OF A FIVER, SO PISS OFF AND DON’T INTERRUPT ME MAN!
Richard. Not sure if there are too may tracks yet. It’s nice to race on the same track often so as to know the turns better, but certainly more of a realistic challenge to race different tracks. My opinion (for what it’s worth).

Jim Wiseman. I like racing on a track often enough to get to know it, and the only one that comes close to that for me is Farrout Raceway. I have raced on 6 of the 8 tracks listed and have my favorites but so much goes into making a track available that all I want to do is thank the eight people that built them. I like the variety. I like tracks with good traction and without inner inner turns. I don’t think I would want to race (for points) on more than 6 or 8 total tracks. Of course, if I ever get one built for the group that would be one more that I would want to race on.
Mike Pawl. Although I would like to race as many tracks as possible myself, I believe that for the club, we should keep it at 8 tracks and no more. This allows some variety and keeps the racing from becoming boring. 3 visits per year is fine
Gary. I like racing on all of the tracks. I think they all have a lot of fun to offer
Stephen. I enjoy the number of tracks, both for variety and for allowing me not to host all the time! I do think that much more than 8 tracks/3 hosts does not make much sense. I would also like to point out that with the possible exception of Chris I believe this was the first permanent 4 lane track built by each host…..

Stephen’s Farrout Raceway – Classic Scalextric

Dennis. Good for some classes (those that can handle the bumps!), not for others, a little too much scenery for safe turn marshalling, IMO.
Eric. Love the scenery, vibe and neighborhood and readily available tools.
Bruce. First club track I raced on. Great use of space. Challenging course layout. I would respectively suggest that the lanes be completely striped because in the heat of battle and given the levels of high anxiety from some racers towards turn marshals when their cars come off, the last thing one needs to be searching for is a 1/4″ red line for the red lane.
Craig. Challenging layout. Great looking. We need at least one track that is cluttered with scenery and we have it! I heard Laurent say “Wow” the first time he saw it..
Tim. The original fun place to hang. I dig the scenery on tracks and his collection is ridiculous
Nigel. the original, hard to beat
Daniel. Toughest track for me by far. Well thought-out track. Demands 100% concentration at all times
Russell. CRAMPED, TOO MUCH DISTRACTION FROM HELLION LIKE CHILDREN. WAY TOO MUCH SALT-LADEN TIDBITS. NO LOCK ON THE BATHROOM DOOR, MRS S.F.J. IS ANTI-SOCIAL BUT SHE’S A WHIZZ-BANG IN THE KITCHEN AND MR S.F.J. HECKLES AND BADGERS ME. RUNS THE WHOLE SHOW LIKE A CONCENTRATION CAMP. HARD TO RELAX.

Richard. One of my favorites.(you always remember your first) Always
Mike P. A fast, but challenging track. This track continues to keep you on your toes, there are six areas that if you are not concentrating you will come out and lose time. The track is well maintained and the scenery around the track helps to let you feel your at a real race track
Stephen. Ok I guess but as I never practice on it, I still don’t know how to race on it.

Rene’s SSI Raceway – Sanded Ninco

Dennis. Rene’s layouts always have a nice flow to them, and the fact that he has changed the track a few times makes it interesting too. I’m not sure that the sanding was a success, though.
Eric Perfect.
Bruce. I must pay attention here. Challenging course layout. And love the elevation changes.
Craig. Probably my favorite. I like the traction and the elevation changes
Tim. Love the design, the surfboards, real cars, and record collection
Nigel. first class track, first class cars
Daniel. nice competitive track, I have Ninco also so I had hoped my results would have been better, maybe the sanding had something to do with it. 🙂
Russell. A BIT DICEY DURING THE RAINY SEASON (MAKE SHIFT ROOF LEAKS!), THE POWER CAN BE DODGEY AT TIMES, THE DANK, DUNGEON LIKE ” TRADESMEN” TOILET WITH INADEQUATE LIGHTING OUT BACK MAKES ME NERVOUS. I MEAN, WHATS WITH ALL THE HOOKS? POOL NEEDS WORK, IN DESPERATE NEED OF A TOPIARY GARDEN, TOO MUCH CLUTTER IN THE MAIN HOUSE ITSELF, QUESTIONABLE READING MATERIAL IN THE MASTER TOILET, POOR CHOICE OF TOILETRIES, THE “HAI KARATE” AND “YARDLEY’S OLDE ENGLISH VIOLETS” HAVE GONE A BIT OFF AND SMELL A BIT MANKEY, BEVERAGES SEEM TO RUN OUT QUICKLY…I’M NOT JUDGING ANYONES LIFESTYLE HERE BUT IT REALLY NEEDS A WOMENS TOUCH…..OVER-ALL”VIBE” IS WAY TOO “BUTCH” WHICH MAKES IT EVEN MORE DUBIOUS?…..LIKE THE TRACK THOUGH.
Richard. An excellent track. However for some reason I can’t put my finger on, I don’t seem to have as much fun racing there.

Mike P. A fast and well thought out racing challenge. Rene has spent allot of time and effort in providing a well balanced and thought out racing experience. Each time we race at Rene’s your not quite sure if anything has been changed or upgraded on the track, so it keeps you on your toes each time. The track is well maintained and the additional scenery also gives you a real race track feel
Stephen. I like it much more since Rene sanded it, a genius move, and love that it has the Goodwood chicanes.

Gary’s Woodside Raceway – Scalextric Sport

Dennis. A nice layout given the severe space restrictions, just way too far from my house for regular attendance I’m afraid.
Eric Some complain about the blind spot, but it’s easy to feel your way through. I like it overall
Craig. A special challenge. Adequate space. Looking forward to another race there.
Tim. Man do I suck on this track
Nigel. Unique (like Monaco) a different approach is needed completely!
Daniel. my favorite track of all. very compact with everything in eye’s view. much harder than it looks. i hope the next race is there as scheduled. 🙂
Russell. PARKING’S A PROBLEM, BRUTAL IN THE SUMMER MONTHS ALTHOUGH GARY PROVIDES ADEQUATE SHADE APPLIANCES, OTHERWISE A GOOD TRACK.
Richard. Great track, challenging, but definitely a winter and/or night time track
Mike P. A great use of limited space for a four lane track. It is extremely fast and with the minimum use of squeeze track, he has created a fun track to drive. Since it is small and compact however, I feel that we should not hold a 3 hr. race on this track. The track is also well maintained and the additional sound effects add a realistic sound to the experience
Stephen. The revised version is so much better than the first, a tight but fair track demanding as much concentration as Bruce’s

Chris C’s Mr. Model Car Raceway – Scalextric Sport

Dennis. Not the most interesting layout in the world, and very difficult to turn-marshal in the hairpin. Also not a lot of pit space when there’s a crowd.
Bruce. I love Riverside Raceway. Actually went to one of the LA Times Grand Prix races in the 60’… I think the size and scope is appropriate to the venue. Love the long straight but would like to see more attention to detail and like to see elevation and banking.
Craig. Love the long straightaway. I agree with Bruce, elevation changes and some corner contouring would make it even better. Great place to race at with comfortable back patio away from the fray.
Tim. Maybe I’m in the minority, but I love Chris’ track. It’s a fun hang. I like to test there. It’s 15 minutes from my house. It adapts well to magnet or non-magnet formats. It is a bit visually sterile but I can really get into a groove there.
Nigel. A great club version of a ‘home’ track. It is also air conditioned (hot summers) and has good food nearby
Daniel. as Chris says, his track requires ultra-smooth throttle input, and he ain’t kiddin’. good tire truing skills are a must for good results. nice ‘open’ track that can get you into trouble if you underestimate it.
Russell. AUSTERE SURROUNDINGS, ALL THAT TAPPING DOWN THE HALL THROWS MY RHYTHM OFF, AIR CONDITIONING A PLUS, VIEWS OF THE OCEAN, A GREAT TRACK, EVERY CLASS RUNS WELL THERE. CHRIS IS NO MINCER, HE’S NOT AFRAID TO PUSH THE ENVELOPE AND YOU CAN SAY WORDS LIKE PUSSY WITHOUT PUTTING SOME PEOPLE OFF!
Richard. Good track, the s-turns seem a little twitchy for me (but I suck). The A/C is WELL appreciated and who doesn’t love Arby’s!
Mike P. A fast track, where the challenge lies in not coming out of your lane while racing. The additional four feet of track recently added, while allowing better turn marshaling also allowed you to go faster through that portion of the track as well. This is more of a personal issue than a problem, but due to my size I find it difficult to get around the pit side ( between the track and new car case ) of Chris’s track comfortably. On the plus side the track is also well maintained
Stephen. I think this is very good for what it is, a simple easy to maintain personal and shop track that is still a challenge to drive fast.

Nigel’s Nigelstone – Scalextric Sport

Dennis. Very nice layout, lots of space, etc. A pity I couldn’t make it there more often.
Eric I’ve missed every weekend that this track has hosted and I really regret it. Looks great in the pictures
Craig. Fun challenging track. I find this the most difficult track. Nice straightaway, with the killer kink.
Tim. Great, fun track. Nice ambiance
Nigel. What is there to say? Perfection!
Daniel. a very nice layout with more than enough nooks and crannies to drive ya nuts. make sure you stay alert on this one !!!
Russell. WELL…HE’S A GEEZER INNT HE!! IT’S CLOSE TO MY GAFF, PARK-LIKE ATMOSPHERE HE’S THOUGHT OF EVERYTHING, BLESS HIM

Richard. Only raced on it once, but I love it
Mike P. He has designed a fast and challenging track. It seems the track is designed more from a mixture of all the other tracks above and his own creative ingenuity. I was skeptical of the in turn crossovers when I first saw them, however they have worked well and I actually feel that they are even harder to navigate than the Goodwood Chicane. Like Chris’s track, I have a personal issue regarding the amount of space to walk around Nigel’s track, especially in the racers area (where the controllers are). The track has also been well maintained
Stephen. There is something about this track that makes me loose it, but the track itself is really nice and always feels huge and I particularly appreciate the back-to-back criss-cross corner chicane

Michael’s Riverside Raceway – Carrera

Dennis. Great layout, wonderful use of elevation changes, again it’s a long way for me but it is worth it.
Eric Love it.
Craig. Michael’s track wins some kind of award. It is fun and frustrating at the same time, which I find very realistic. Great food too. I was very sorry to miss a race there
Tim. Mike’s track is silly great. Amazing. I’ve only raced there once but it was extremely challenging. The elevation changes are really noticeable as part of the challenge
Nigel. Great in every way.- good food.
Daniel. get a good nights rest before you attempt this one. peaks and valleys make this track quite a challenge and loads of fun.
Russell. BEING A JEW I’M A BIT EDGY ABOUT BEING SO FAR NORTH WITHOUT A GOOD DELI, COMFORTABLE GAFF, ONE CAN SEE WHO WEARS “THE PANTS” OVER THERE. OTHERWISE I DIG THE TRACK. MIKE IS VERY HELPFUL ONCE HE’S BACK ON THE MEDS!

Richard. Absolutely the BEST!!! Dude, that is one cool track, even down to he block and tackle to lift it to the ceiling. You are a geek in the best sense of the word and one hell of a nice guy to boot. And of course one can not talk about this track without mentioning Quenna’s cooking! Hot damn them’s some good eats!
Mike P. Personally I love Michael’s track. This is a fast track where the challenge in this track is not forced upon you by the Goodwood Chicane, in turn Crossovers, or squeeze track, it is in the change of elevation. This is also a well maintained track, though with sparse scenery it really gives you the feel of actually racing at the old Riverside Raceway track
Stephen. The track is great to race on, specially with the elevation changes

Bruce’s TalaMonaco – routed wood

Dennis Can’t comment yet, but what’s not to like about a wood track!
Bruce. In listening to racer’s comments during our inaugural race in September, we have added a Driver’s station for the Orange (outside) lane for better sight lines. On race day, adequate fencing was not up and more than a few cars sailed out into the stratosphere like Darth Vader at the end of Star Wars Pt I (Michael S). That too has been taken care of. We are in the process of landscaping, with a Targa Florio/Mille Miglia theme complete with unruly spectators in and on the track in the end sweeping turn which means we will have to slow down to avoid killing someone even if they are plastic. I don’t know if I’m actually going to incorporate that into and on the track but it’s a thought. Heh, heh… That may prevent cars from skipping out of lanes before hitting the dead strip lap counter. The comments regarding the squeeze lanes in the esses have been very favorable with most have ended with the phrase, “…You gotta pay attention!”
Craig. Bruce, it’s genius. You did such a nice job for a first time. I think the drivers were uncertain until they tried it, and then we all had a great time racing on it. Great traction and so smooth. I would like to see another routed track on the circuit.
Tim Haven’t had the pleasure. Looking forward
Daniel. this track provides a wonderful change of pace for the club with its converging lanes that severely punish drivers who try to take quick naps between laps. very challenging !
Russell. I’M WORRIED ABOUT SPLINTERS. MISSED THE RACE EVENT

Richard. VERY cool track. What I like about it may be why it might not be the best for the club, but then again it might be a GOOD idea. The fact that it is a challenge to pass benefits us “lesser” drivers. It’s kinda like an equalizer. That said, I had a blast racing there
Mike P. This is a very fast track, the grip on this wood track is great. However, this track relies far too heavily on squeezing lanes to make it a challenge. For about half the track two if not three of the lanes are in a constant state squeeze with one another which means the only passing available is in the 2 short and 1 long straight away. Due to turning sub 5 second laps and if you do come out you lose an entire lap, I feel that this track should also not be used for a 3 hr race as well
Stephen. This one has me completely freaked out, I cannot race it! However it is a really, really great build and has great traction

Stan’s Autodromo Baia Del Sud – Artin

Dennis. Great potential once the kinks are ironed out, and it’s close to home!!!
Bruce. I am excited for this venue and look forward to some intense racing. The layout and size is spectacular. That said, there are issues specific to this venue that will have to be addressed: Moisture, Electrical Conductivity, track surface preparation and grip. This site has the potential for being the centerpiece of our racing schedule. I will gladly volunteer to help with the problem solving.
Craig. Very, nice layout. I’m guessing we will have some exciting races there soon.
Tim. Ditto for Stan’s track. The pictures really had me excited. Team race inaugural…not so much
Nigel. Like the man, it will be first class
Daniel. this track will be one of the top contenders for ‘best track in the club’ when up and running. i would even like to see that “rising portion of track” included if possible.
Russell. ONE DAY THAT BOY IS GOING TO SNAP SOMETHING FIERCE!! SORRY TO HAVE MISSED THE INAGURAL RACE…HEARD IT WAS A COCK UP BUT LOOKING FORWARD TO THE NEXT ONE. BUT I DIG YOU STAN!
Richard. Once the kinks are worked out this should be great. Awesome location, great circiut layout, even better snacks! However it is quite slippery.I’m told that will change over time? Maybe some thought as to what classes we race there is in order
Mike P. For the short time we raced on this track, I feel this will be a fast track. The challenge in this track will be in not coming out of your lane. I will stall on any other comment until we see the finished version of this track. I am kind of hoping he puts the original hump track bridge back in and remove the flying bridge
Stephen. Has all the potential to be great

Victor’s Wood Track:

Dennis. I think we should take a cue from Victor’s total absence this year. I don’t think Victor is going to be back any time soon, so let’s not count on anything, much to all our disappointment.
Jim Wiseman. I love Victor’s track but don’t think it is available
Stephen. I would love to see Victor back but he has been busy with his family. This is a great routed track

Victory Station:

Dennis. Not even an option IMO. Every one of the home tracks we use is in better condition, better laid out, better powered, with better lap scoring……

Bruce. I have seen the new track at Victory Station but have not turned a lap. The layout is very nice and has the potential to be an excellent venue for some late night racing
Craig. Some non-championship evenings at Victory Station could be fun.
Daniel. i raced there on the old track and was not impressed. think i read one person’s email where they now have a new track. would not mind adding it into the rotation if vast improvements have been made.
Russell. ANYONE TALK TO BOB ON THIS? AS IN MOST CASES HE’S THE LAST TO KNOW. BUT I’D WELCOME GOING THERE. BEING THE FACT THAT HE SELLS “STOCK” HE’LL BE CONCERNED WITH THEFT. I WOULD TOO…I MEAN LOOK AT SOME OF THE DRECH WE ACCOMODATE AT SOME OF OUR MEETS? I ELECT TO START BACKGROUND CHECKS ON PROPOSED NEW MEMBERS. I’LL BE PACKING A GAT IN 07′
Jim Wiseman. I have no hopes for Victory Station
Mike P. In the current configuration with both tracks (Carrera & Scalex Sport) being back to back there is no space for turn marshals to reach all of the track. Also the turn marshals would have to stand in between all of the drivers, thus making line of sight visibility impossible
Stephen. Great to see the creation of two different tracks but I have not used these yet. I do not see us racing here unless the new tracks have significantly improved power, consistency, lap-counting and marshalling space, something I also think would help commercial rental of the track. Also addition of any track does sort of imply some other track not being used

Bill’s Digital Targa:

Dennis. This is going to be a spectacular track, but being digital I can’t see it being more than just an occasional venue for some fun with loaner cars, as people may not want to incur the expense of converting their current stables to digital.
Nigel. Of the 3 Bill’s is the only viable option I feel – and let’s face it… We are not short of tracks anymore. I very strongly lobby to the utmost to have a race at Bill’s. I have raced on his old track and I know how brilliant the new one will be. It would be good for everybody to have a different challenge – I also suspect it may be the only race that might bring an ‘upset’ to the podium! Face it -digital is here
Daniel. not sure how the digital format could be incorporated into our style of club racing, but very willing to give it a try if something can be figured out. that’s what makes this all fun….the various challenges.
Bill S. I’d love to have the guys over to race on my “Targa Florio” track when it’s done, it will certainly be operational by Jan/Feb, but the full scenic details will take many more months
Richard. I’m curious as to how we would work racing on a digital track?
Mike P. If we add any digital tracks to the club, the cars used for this type of track are more than likely to be just loaner cars. I can’t see that many people buying a digital car or conversion kit for just one track. A nice thought though
Stephen. I am pleasantly surprised to see how many digital tracks are being built and I think it will be part of the club in the future. However I am willing to bet money that Ninco’s overall system will win and that the first regular use of digital racing in the club will happen with the easy plug and play system from Ninco that works on ANY car available.

Terry Hayes and Mark Stewarts’s Digital Sports

Mark Stewart and Terry Hayes have a Scalextric Sport Digital Track of 2 lanes, about 46 feet each, with 3 lane change points and are located near LAX. They are open to hosting…..

Eric’s Scalextric Digital Track

Eric I’m also building a Scalextric Digital layout. My thoughts we’re to host occasional Wednesday night NON-CHAMPIONSHIP races. I don’t want to throw a wrench into a successful formula, so I have no illusions of hosting Saturday championship races.

Anonymous Digital Track

I’m deciding on a track to build now! What do you think of digital racing? I’ve had a LOT of fun with it— but that’s with a few people on a small track. I’ve not experienced it with 6 at a time or 12 on a 4 lane track. I’m anxiously awaiting the first Ninco Digital so I can try that before I commit to building a track. I think I’ll be building a digital track because I really enjoy changing lanes with traffic– but I’m waiting to get hold of the Ninco system to see if it’s that’s much better than Scalextric! Sounds like with Ninco — I could have a selection of “chips” ready to install — and in a few minutes, anyone could install them in their cars and be RTR the same day. That way, you could race your own cars on the digital track.

Bill. S: I’d suggest less practice before each heat.
Stan. Love the arrangement. The only thing I might change is having a few more team races (they get everybody involved and I can actually be on a podium occasionally!).
Bob. Okee Dokee with me

What do you like? The group!
What do you want more of, FUN,
what don’t you like? Slot.it Group C cars without a magnet.
Do you have new ideas for race formats? Box stock class other then normal tuning. If it has a magnet keep it. .
We could have race days where we do only one class but have 10 min per lane? YES!!!!,
We could just drink? Okee Dokee

Dennis. I think the current formula works fine – there’s a good balance between individual and team races.
Chris. The mix of classes and formats seems well planned and functioning smoothly. The enduro we ran at Mr. Model Car had a “dark” period where we ran with lights that was fun.
Eric. I like the variety of classes the current format allows, even though I don’t care for a few of the classes. It works, it keeps it interesting.
Alvin. Remain the same.
Bruce. I am struck by the number of race formats. I would suggest cutting it down to three or four.
Anonymous. Fine with me
Craig. I like the format. Ten minute heats also sounds good, as long as we get more than one or two each. Team races are fun, but individual races are better. Keep both.
Tim Format should stay as is. As I’ve said before I either show up or I don’t.
Nigel. Don’t bother asking in the future -Just write it into the FarrOut constitution. Maybe running a loaner class only might change a few results – but what happens when a car breaks etc…Let’s clear up the rule on loaning cars between members for next year please – it seems to change constantly. I can’t think of any better race formats – but that is what a life of sex, drugs and rock ‘n’ roll does for you
Daniel. I think 24 days, 6 classes, and the 3 minute heats work well. I’m not much for the team races. instead of one team race for each class I would like to have an individual race where everyone uses the loaner cars.
Michael. I like the format as is, especially with ample practice time before each heat because that is when I have the most fun. Recognition for heat winners would be nice, however, I think it’s important to remember that this club is about having fun, not about winning. I strayed to the dark side due to the addiction of seeing the wins add up and got a little too serious.
Thomas. Spread among the classes, it’s a good mix; let the team races, though, be teams of two (three with an odd man), and let the lowest-ranked racer draft his partner (odd man picks any team) and race 15 or 20 minutes per lane with mandatory pit stops every 30 laps (20 on a 3-man team) with driver change happening (so each driver does more than one stint), no mandatory stop but freedom to stop as needed to clean tires. (SFJ: Concept needs further explanation)
Russell. FAST AND RECKLESS SUITS MY STYLE WITH A MINIMUM OF SERENADING BY THOMAS. WESTON DIGS IT THOUGH, PERHAPS HE’LL STOP “BOGARTING” AND “FIRE UP” SOME OF THAT TUNESIAN BLACK OPIATED HASHISH AND ACCOMPANY THOMAS ON HIS AUTOHARP? (TUNE IN AND DROP OUT BRO..)
Russell (again!) On race structure: SAME OLD CRAP AGAIN…EMPTY PROMISES, BROKEN DREAMS, THE USUAL….WEEK AFTER WEEK, YEAR AFTER YEAR…..NOTHINGS GOING TO CHANGE. DON’T KID YOURSELF!
Richard. Don’t change this at all. A brilliant scheme (except maybe including more drinking)
Jim Wiseman. Leave it the same
Mike P. Keep the format as is. We need to standardize how we are going to allow practice. Before a race, between heats, during turnover from one class to next. When we have a team race, we only have the practice before the race not during.
Gary. 24 races, is that all, I thought I had a lot more fun then that. Oh that’s right I did! Stephen what can I say except you are the man! What do I like? I like to race! As far as new formats and Ideas go: I like team racing the best. That and of course the mandatory two drink minimum per heat or is that per race. I can’t remember, bartender another round if you please! (Hick-up*#$@%!). Who won that race? I’ll have what he’s drinking.
Stephen. Personally I see little opportunity for improvement in this area, and think the team/individual race balance is right.

However, in the spirit of trying to make improvements, we could have 7 classes instead of 6! Right now we have 6 class championships of 7 races each (6 individual races and 1 team race) = 42 races. Change that to 7 classes of 6 races (still 42) each BUT the 7^th class is a Team Race Class where the cars raced changes every one of the 6 races – they could be the same as the other classes or 6 entirely different sets of cars. It would mean reducing all class championships by 1 race, to 6. See below for example of both systems.

Current Format: 24 Meets & 6 Classes	Sprint (20 Pts Win)	Team (20 Pts Win)	Actual Races	Races Count As	Total Points Available	Min to Rank	Keep Best	Drop Worst
4WD SCX	6	1	7	7	140	3	5	2
Le Mans GT1 Ninco	6	1	7	7	140	3	5	2
F1 70/80s SCX	6	1	7	7	140	3	5	2
2WD SCX	6	1	7	7	140	3	5	2
Slot.it Group C 1980/90’s	6	1	7	7	140	3	5	2
Ninco 50/60’s	6	1	7	7	140	3	5	2
	36	6	42	42		18	30	12
Maximum Points	720	120		24 Meets	840

Other Option: 24 Meets & 7 Classes	Sprint (20 Pts Win)	Team (20 Pts Win)	Actual Races	Races Count As	Total Points Available	Min to Rank	Keep Best	Drop Worst
4WD SCX	6		6	6	120	3	4	2
Le Mans GT1 Ninco	6		6	6	120	3	4	2
F1 70/80s SCX	6		6	6	120	3	4	2
2WD SCX	6		6	6	120	3	4	2
Slot.it Group C 1980/90’s	6		6	6	120	3	4	2
Ninco 50/60’s	6		6	6	120	3	4	2
Team Class (above or others)		6	6	6	120	3	4	2
	36	6	42	42		21	28	14
Maximum Points	720	120		24 Meets	840

Bill S. We need to figure out some system that will get me out of the cellar. Aside from more practice or drinking…
Stan. Like the points the way they are. Like NASCAR, everybody can score :^) And yes, Stephen, I pay attention to the charts. I notice that while everyone else is improving, I’m getting worse. So thanks for archiving my failures…
Bob. Points for heat races too. It would be like points for laps lead. I like your points system. I have won a few heats, but only one race and it was a team race. I was lucky to be on Mike’s team.

In many forms of racing you do not automatically get into a main or final race. You qualify based on position in a heat race. Points are provided to the heat race drivers as if it is a separate race. 4 heats= 4 chances to get points. Overall winner of the day still gets the final win points.
Example: points for heat win- 4 for 1st, 3 for 2nd, 2 for 3rd and 1for 4th. Main or final winner of the day gets heat points as well as race win points, but the gap is closer to the others as there are more opportunities to get points.
NASCAR provides points for every lap lead and low qualifier. This adds to how racers earn points. This keeps an overall winner from getting a huge overall lead and keeps people in the chase for the championship. Unless the overall winner is just out classing everyone.
In our case, how well you did at the end of the day is not really the story of how you did throughout the day. There have been days where I may have won a heat or two, but had a bad heat in a particular lane. Overall I dropped to 8th, but I really didn’t have a bad day, just a bad heat. One or two laps may have made the difference between getting points or not getting points.
I know this may add additional work, but it may also reward some of us that every once in a while have a good run, but not a stellar day.

Dennis. The actual points assignment is fine

Personally I would like to see event points scored according to the best three of four heats rather than all four, as I think that eliminates a lot of the stress we see some race days, and preserves the fragile relationships between drivers and turn marshals a little.
I think we need to retain the log and the Series Championships.
IMO the Team races should count towards a Team Series Championship, not towards the individual championships, but perhaps we already changed that? (SFJ: in 2006 Team race counts as 1 race toward class championship)

Chris I was told there would be no MATH! The only one who should vote on this is the one who has to keep track of it.
Laurent. Like the points the way they are. May be we could sort reversely? that will put me at the top :))))
Eric. I like the points system and I do keep track, even though it’s quite futile, given my general lack of talent.
Alvin. Remain the same.
Bruce. I think the points system is fine and would change nothing.
Anonymous. Perfect
Tim. I always check the results. I like the competition. As long as I’m beating Bracher everything else is cake
Nigel. Are you joking? This has to be kept! It’s what it’s all about! Otherwise we might as well say “after you, why don’t you take the chicane first” and “Oh, I am so sorry fellow racer.. Marshall, please put his car on first before mine”! There are championships within the championships… Currently, we have Michael, Daniel and Rene fighting out one, and lower down we have Chris leading a pack with Thomas, John, Bob, Jim, Stan, Gary and myself. There are other groupings. I think this year Stephen you are in a kind of limbo between the top and second grouping, ( you could have done with Dennis and others around a bit more) and so therefore you might not feel as caught up with trying to beat certain peers as some of us do.
Daniel. I think the point system is great. rest assured that Stephen is probably the only person who knows and follows the point system more than i do. 🙂
Michael. Points system is very well done. I could live without the point’s championships all together if it would prevent too much seriousness.
Thomas. Point system is fine; the only other alternatives I could think of would be the current Champ Car one or the FIM system (25,20,16,13,11,etc. down to 1 for 15th)
Russell. BUNCH OF OLD CODSWALLOP THAT HAS NEVER MADE ANY SENSE TO ME, WHICH IS WHY I’M SO CAVALIER IN MY RETORTS! IF I’M IN THE LEAD..FINE….IF NOT I’M DISRUPTIVE IN THE “GOODWOOD CHICANE”..

What do you like? MORE VARIED BEVERAGES
What do you want more of ICE, DRINKING CUPS, COASTERS, NAPKINS, AIR CONDITIONING, COVERED PARKING, AREA HEATERS, NO CHILDREN ABOUT, THE CLUB T-SHIRTS WE WERE PROMISED, COMFY CHAIRS
What don’t you like? QUIT BEING TOLD WHAT TO DO!…. NO CHUCKING OF CARS!!

Bill S. Non-magnet. Six classes enough. In addition to the Ninco 50/60s, I’d like to see the GT40s, Porsche 906s, 908s, and Ferrari P3/P4s included in a new class. My favorite cars are the older cars.
Stan. I’m fond of the classes we have now, but would like to be able to race some of my Fly cars. If there were a way to run them without magnets… Perhaps a “spec” class, where we’re allowed to put another chassis—say a TSRF without magnet—underneath some of these great bodies, that would please me. But if there are no changes whatsoever, I wouldn’t mind
Bob.I’m just fine with life as it is
- SCX 4WD: Not my favorite, I could do without it.
- SCX F1 1970/80’s: Ok, but open it to any make mfg. Not an F1 Fan in general.
- SCX 2WD: This is cool
- Ninco GT1 Le Mans : Okee Dokee
- Ninco 1950/60’s Le Mans : I like it because of the body variety we have
- Slot.it Group C Le Mans : Nice looking cars, not fun to drive w/o magnets
- How about a class that is just based on body/class type. Open mfg, chassis tires, motor. A true tuner class. Sedans like the Fly Alpha, Monogram Cortina, etc. Vintage Le Mans that allows all slot car mfg cars, but limit the model years. How about a Carrera or a Monogram class?
- Frankly, I’m getting a little bored with Ninco. In full scale racing they don’t all use the same chassis/motor/tires (except NASCAR – it’s a southern thing).

Dennis. I agree with Stan that a Fly class of some sort would be nice, but perhaps as a replacement for one of those where cars are more difficult to obtain. I think that the Slot-it class needs to be opened up a bit to allow weight and perhaps even different tires, like Ortmann’s or silicones, so that we can run these cars on 12 or 13 volts instead of the measly 10 we use now. Of the current classes I think that the SCX F1 and SCX 2WD are becoming outdated and could be considered for replacement. I think the SCX 4WD class has suffered from the change of tire and should be re-set to stock tires. I think one NC-1 class is enough and we could consider replacing the motors in the Ninco GT! class with NC5s for a bit more fun.
Chris. I now have an SCX F40 to go along with my Slot.it Sauber, Ninco BMW LMR and what’s left of a Ninco Corvette for four of the six classes. I’d like to see Ninco/Scalextric Super GT’s added in non-magnet form. They are readily available and would provide the tuners out there something they can fiddle with. MRC/Ninco has already shown an interest in promoting the class and there is a nice array of Prorace options. The NC-6 motor used in the Nationals is not really a good option, given the tracks we race on. I’d like to race current F.1 cars, but they seem to be a little too quick and fragile for most of the tracks.
Laurent. Perfect for me, would it be possible to mix different brands with a common defined chassis for instance?
Eric. I don’t care for SCX 2WD and Ninco Le Mans. Mainly due to the model details (or lack thereof) and the amount of prep work. SCX 4WD is fun to race, in spite of the cars being crude. New class suggestion: Scalextric Mini Cooper – non-magnet w/ Indygrips. Lots of paint schemes, fun to race (although the pickups get dislodged easily on snap oversteer). Readily available, little prep required, may negate a need for loaners in this class. I love the 70s/80s F1 class, but wish there were more cars to chose from.
Anonymous. I like your class’s— keeping driving as a premium can always help– loaner cars are a great idea. But why ignore magnet cars? I DO love the emphasis on driving— but you still have to drive magnet cars to go fast as well. If you used a gauss meter and have a minimum height requirement — it wouldn’t take a lot of time to “tune” cars to work well with magnets. I’m driving both on my tracks — Scalextric and Ninco.
Alvin. I Vote for NASCAR. But I like everything in the club.
Bruce. I vote for:
- SCX F1 1970-80 Non Magnet
- Ninco GT1 Le Mans Non Magnet
- Slot-It Group C Le Mans Non Magnet
- SCALEXTRIC and FLY Sebring/Targa Florio 1966-1972, out of the box with magnet
- I also suggest two “Special Event Races” I mentioned earlier. I would like to see a true “Vintage” format. As an example, I’m interested in Monogram and Revell cars from the 60s. I would like to suggest a team and individual championship series for Monogram/Revell cars from the 60s. Here’s the basic idea:

I would also like to acknowledge magnet cars. Scalextric and FLY have some exciting cars that have basically been dismissed. I would like to see a Scalextric/FLY race featuring GT cars from 1966-1972.
Craig. I prefer to race without the magnets.

I really like the F1 class and think we need to have that. Newer formula cars might look nice, but the SCX cars are durable and perform well.
I like all of the classes, but if we were to loose one, I would choose SCX 2WD.
The Slot-It cars look great, but they do not handle like they should. I vote for a tire change for the Slot-It class. If we were to add a magnet class these cars should be considered for it.
Closest to box stock equipment is best so parts aren’t thrown away. Tuning is good.

Tim. I’m tired of SCX 2 wheel and Ninco Le Mans. It feels like that’s all we race. I know it isn’t of course but it feels that way. I’d like to race TSRF chassis. I’d like to race Revell/Monogram and Fly. I’d like to race modern AND vintage F1. I like magnets but I see the direction the club is going. It’s cool. I can hang
Nigel. I Feel strongly we should stick to the original remit of the clubs rule “out of the box” as closely as possible. The fact that at the moment we have 3 classes nowhere near that mandate is heresy! I think if we could have a few suggestions put together by SFJ, (after he has consulted with whoever he sees fit) from the various recommendations made by Club members, then it might make it a little easier to focus on what the ‘real’ options might be! ( SFJ, I have ordered those Artin ‘stockers’) Knowing what the viable options are will help in deciding what to get rid of. I also suggest voting the F1’s the first class into the FarrOut hall of fame, therefore guaranteeing they will always be raced! You know me… I have always advocated a class where we all run the same car (just like the team race) Remember me and the GT40’s!
Daniel. I know it’s not practical, but I would like to see all new classes for next year. Classes I think would be interesting……

Thomas. As I only use loaner cars, this doesn’t apply to me much; I like the classes as they are, but would suggest one small change to the Slot-It class: run them REALLY heavy (>250g); maybe they’ll grip more! As for grip, run silicones on tracks where no rubber has been laid down so there’ll be no rubber for the tires to pick up. Just a thought. Also, NO MAGNETS!!! EVER!!!
Anonymous. I vote for a return to basics, all non-magnet
- SCX 4WD no weight
- Classic F1
- Ninco Lemans, no weight, no magnet
- Ninco DTM cars, no weight
- Ninco 50/60’s no weight
Michael. Same classes as this year, SCX 2/WD, SCX 4/WD, SCX 70s/80s, and Slot.it; except as follows:
- No added weight for Ninco GT1 Le Mans
- Broaden Classics class to provide two races each for a variety of classics.

If I have to change classes then choices in order are

i. Fly Classic Le Mans
ii. Japanese Touring Cars

FLY CARS of ’04. It’s difficult to see ourselves through the eyes of a newbie but it was not so long ago that I was brand new to this and now I know how little I knew. You let me take a handful of Fly cars home to play with on my Scalextric home track and I loved them. They were just plain fun and that experience was the best ever. It is what hooked me on the club and the hobby. Now I can’t understand why you think they were a failure. Yes, every fly car must be prepped prior to use including complete disassembly and careful reassembly with consideration for axle movement, gear mesh, and truing, after which they run very well.
Ortmann Tires: As you might expect, I played with Ortmann’s on a couple of my Lola T70s. I deliberately did so without obsessive effort in an attempt to evaluate them objectively. First, I slapped them on with out so much as a slight sanding and they definitely need careful truing. They gripped so well that under steer became a huge problem that I’ve yet to work out short of getting into my obsessive analyses to “to find out what the car wants” as I like to say. On the upside, they eliminate concerns about chemical tampering by providing more than enough traction for the full duration of a long run and they reduce the importance of perfect wheels. I’ve yet to test their long term effect on the track but I’ll get to it eventually.
Stephen. What I think we should race is (clearly all non-magnet!):

Bill S. I like the present system.
Stan. I think that the “loaners” are one of the best things about the club. For those like me who don’t have the time for extensive prep (though I hope that will change, now that I have something to practice on), they’re a real lifesaver, and Michael, Stephen, Daniel and Rene have been *extremely* generous in donating their time, resources and especially expensive cars to the greater good of the club. My hat’s off to all of you.
Bob. This is great we should keep providing them as some of us are tuning challenged, but we should pay more to race if we are running a rental. Should all classes be loaner “club” cars only? NO Should the Top 4 in the rankings only race loaner cars? NO
Dennis. While I understand the need for loaner cars and applaud those who provide them, I feel that they should be restricted to visitors and newbies and others should be encouraged to prepare and run their own cars. To me this is a big part of the hobby.
Chris. The loaner cars are fantastic. Michael and Daniel have done an excellent job.
Laurent. As I have already read in the previous answers, I also think that the “loaners” are one of the best things about the club. They’re a real lifesaver. Thanks guys for your time, resources I loved the loaners.
Eric. I love loaner cars. The cars I have purchased and prepped don’t hold a candle to the loaner cars (and I’m an engineer for crying out loud!)
Anonymous. Newbies or visitor’s should have them but the regular racers should be able to prepare their own cars. IMHO!
Alvin. Remain the same.
Bruce. We need to keep this as it does allow everyone to race.
Anonymous. Very nice feature
Craig. Loaner cars are part of the heart of the club. Thank you very much to all of the loaner car providers. As there are so many classes I think loaner cars are essential to attracting and retaining members. If there is a desire to further encourage ownership, possibly the rules would allow championship points to be accumulated only if you fielded a car for some specified number of races, not necessarily in that class, but for some class or classes.
Tim. Loaner cars are wonderful. Thanks to the prep guys. It’s the great equalizer
Nigel. Loaners are a must! Without them a lot of newbies wouldn’t come. And let’s face it… I would have probably done a lot better using them, than the ill prepared pieces of plastic I bring every fortnight.
Daniel. i think loaner cars are a definite plus for the club. i feel they encourage newbies to attend and join in the fun. and i must give Michael S. his credit………he is the one that spends many hrs. preparing the loaner cars to be as good or better than his own car. i just slap a bit of oil on my loaner cars and send her out to run as she will. so for all you guys using the loaners, make sure she has the MIGHTY FORD label on the chassis. 🙂 No, on everyone using the loaners.( except on the races mentioned earlier). No, on the top four in the ranking using the loaners.
Michael. Love the loaner car format as it provides cars for newbies and a chance to see four different marques on the grid. I think having the top four in the rankings use loaner cars would be good for everyone.
Thomas. One more thought on loaner cars – I liked the concept of coming early and trying different cars on different lanes, since some do better on one than another; maybe an amalgam of the loaner rules could be tried, like a “dibs” rule. I’ll elaborate in person.
Anonymous. Are they too good? Why would anyone want to buy cars now?
Russell. MOST OF ALL IT WILL CUT DOWN THE SURPLUS OF THE MEMBERSHIP, IT’S A NICE THOUGHT AND VERY GENEROUS, BUT DON’T EXPECT IT FROM ME. DON’T EVEN LOOK AT MY LIVERY OF CARS LET ALONE TOUCH THEM BOYO! WESTON FEELS THE SAME BUT HE’S TOO MUCH OF A NANCY BOY TO OPEN HIS CAKE HOLE!
Richard. While I was against this last year, it has proven to work pretty well. I don’t think I’d change it at all. (and I’ll add my thanks to those who supply and prepare excellent cars. As far as the top 4 using loaners….interesting idea, but not fair to those who own cars. Besides, the do use them in team races!
Jim Wiseman. I love the loaner cars on lanes and very much thank all of you who provide and prepare them
Mike P. We need to keep the loaner cars available, our club by-laws state that you don’t need to own your own car to race with us. No to making all classes loaner cars. Only if someone other than the top 4 drivers prepped the cars.
Gary. They are needed for new growth in the club.They are also need for when racers bring there racing pit-kit only to find out they left the days class of cars at home. Ops!
- The one thing I found using loaner cars this year is that it’s pot-luck as far as being better or worse then what you have in your inventory. Remember in most cases the loaner car is not going to bet the person who set them up. This year I setup and tuned my own cars. I have learned and applied the tips and common sense to my cars and they are fast. This year for me has been like trying to control jet cars. I do real good in the straight but you didn’t won’t to be on my out side in a turn. To all of you I Nerfed and I think I Nerfed all of you, all I can say is Ops! Did I do that? You know how it goes; don’t dish it out if you’re not willing to take it.
- The main thing I have observed this year is there are good days and there are bad days. If you learn this you can learn to have fun too. What I mean is there was a day racing at Stephen and my car drove through every crash hair pin and obstacle free and clear. I mean not a scratch, bump, or de-slot the whole race in both races. I took third place twice that day. It was as if the waters had parted and God smiled on me that day. Then there was the days when I could not drive 2 feet with out a de-slot. I mean what the #@$%! With this new under standing, it has helped me cope with the anger and rage I have when I have a bad day. Now, I tell my self, oh this is a bad day and I know I am going to get bad scores. So I can just race as good as I can and not let it get under my skin. And you know what, I have more fun and enjoy my self more and some times it gets better. Bartender another round if you please! (Hick-up*#$@%!).
Stephen. I think Loaner Cars are at the heart of this club. While I am surprised some have chosen to basically only use loaner cars, it is never a majority (always 5 to 8 out of 14 to 20 racers) and it does not vary much by class. So long as people mainly (and eventually) choose to setup and run – with or without help – their own cars I believe loaners are good and help newbie’s enter and old-timers’ have a back-up option if they don’t get around to preparing their own that week. I also – being a true socialist – believe all should have the opportunity to race even without ever buying a car. I don’t think people should be forced to use them in any circumstances. Finally I don’t understand Nigel’s obsession about using someone else’s car as your car for the day or even about switching between loaners and your own car or switching between your own cars. Actually there are classes where I would want to race 4 different of my own cars, just so I can drive them all in competition!

Do you prepare your cars before race days? Do you have a sense of the time you spend?

Bill S. I have only prepared a Ninco Classic. Spent maybe an hour on it. I did terrible
Stan. I sometimes have spent a couple of *minutes* prior to a race preparing the car, but as for actual real prep, I’ve not done anything near what needs to be done. Somehow, my stats seem to prove that out….
Bob. I do prepare, an hour or so per car. I prep a couple per race. Not knowing which will run best on a particular track. This not to say I’m doing it right or well.
Dennis. I do most of my preparation when I first buy a car. Thereafter it is usually just maintenance unless the car is uncompetitive, in which case I will work on it further. My initial preparation time is usually one to two hours per car.
Eric . I prep before the season and touch up as I go.
Alvin. I have no preparation time, and no practice.
Bruce. I love to tune my cars and pay attention to all details.
Anonymous. Will elaborate once I get more experience in the club. Currently I race cars pretty much right out of the box.
Craig. Preparation and honing of the skills is inevitable. Each driver wants to win. If I have a car for the class I try to prepare it to some level.
Tim. I’m like Stan here. I open the case the night before a race and I look and say to myself: “these cars are so NOT ready to race!” Then I’ll go on a parts/tune-up binge and to the best of my ability, I’ll try and get my cars in shape. I guess I’m just not that much of a slot-head.
Nigel. LOL – you are joking right.. Seriously… I do half hour on each car – so about an hour
Daniel. Yes, I do prepare my cars before race days. Prep time can vary from a few hrs to a bunch of hrs depending on the track being raced on, type of car being raced, and my ranking in the particular class. i tend to spend a lot more time prepping/ practicing on the classes I’m not doing well in.
Michael. When I don’t tune and practice with my cars just before race day, I’m often surprised at how poorly they run from the previous race. I spend about two hours per car for initial preparation out of the box. Tuning before each race is about an hour per car depending on what I find wrong with it (tires, braids, guide, bearings, motor cleaning, etc.). There’s always more to learn (and remember).
Thomas. I can’t prep as I don’t have the facilities for it; if you (or anyone else) were to sponsor more “tuning days” during the year, that might help (besides, I don’t mind helping you get loaner cars in condition because it’s a good skill to have and I enjoy doing it, as well as the camaraderie [well, 80% of that, anyway.])
Russell. Yes, 2 hours pre-race day; 1 hour of Kabbalah study; 1 hour just looking at them the morning of the race
Richard. Well, with one class exception I’m a loaner car user. I don’t really know that much, but on Ninco Le Mans day there is always some nice person to help me out. Daniel is particularly generous, Dennis is always helpful. Michael Smalley has always been ready to lend a hand as is Stephen
Jim Wiseman. I do prepare if I have a track set up which is now rarely. I almost always use loaners now
Mike P. I try to, but it doesn’t always happen. I spend about 2 hours to prep both cars for that weeks racing. This only changes if I have broken something or replacing worn out parts.
Gary. I spent a lot of time prepping my cars this year. I most often I prep at least 4 cars in each class. The reason for this big expense is because I open my track up to the kids in my neighborhood on Sunday afternoon to race. I want them to race the same class and I supply the car. This works to my advantage because I get to find the fastest car & it helps burn in the car.
Stephen. I try to but reality is I have always spent more time preparing loaners than my own cars. Usually I have no more than 2 hours and up until recently that was spent across 10 loaners and my 2 race cars (10 mins each, half of which was truing tires). Now it is more like 30 minutes in total on my two cars.

If you prep, what items do you prep: motor; tires; axles/bearings; braids, chassis/body, other?

Bob. I lube axles, motor. True tires, clean chassis and braids.
Dennis. Items prepped for a race day: Braids cleaned and set, tires checked for roundness and cleaned, all bearings cleaned and re-oiled, general check for damage, finally check on how the body is mounted (screws the right amount loose, etc). I think I have an adequate amount of knowledge. I don’t always have the time tom apply everything I know I could do, but then again, I’m not that worried about winning. I have read the tips on the website – there’s always something new to learn.
Chris C. Cleaning braid and tires are it. Occasional lubrication (bearings and palette).
Anonymous. Just true the tires and oil the car and clean the braids, box stock original car.
Russell. Yes all the above, sometimes Weston fails to do his own .. then I’m enlisted to help at the last minute. He nicks my “spares” and drops my expensive virgin steel AMG/Mercedes Teflon coated tools due to his excessive palsy-like shaking (it’s the “sauce”) thus ruining them. I feel so used and put out sometimes, then I start to get resentful!
Mike P. Everything listed and also make sure that my pit box has most replacement parts in it for emergencies.
Gary. Before I throw my cars to wolves (the kids) I spend a day or two tearing them down. I go through everything: tires, wheels, axels, gears, and most of all motors. I do a lot.
Stephen. Check and clean everything, always re-glue (hot glue) motor, true tires to remove oxidation (thank you Michael), try new bearings, re-glue bearings

Do you feel you have enough knowledge about what and how to prep? Have you read all the articles on the club website?

Stan. I “know” what I should do to prepare…but knowing and doing seem to be mutually exclusive. I think the idea of a “test day” and a “pass on your secrets” day was a good one for this year, and the articles on tuning on the website are real treasures for those who want to step up their performance.
Bob. Read them, but I’m not a perfectionist so I don’t go to the level of a Daniel or Michael.
Laurent. I plan to improve my skills on that topic, I sure with the website data and your feedbacks I will fastly evolve in the right way. I already got a holders set & plan to invest in a contact pen…
Alvin. I do usually read the articles, and check the website, which I like very much.
Bruce. I have read the articles on the Farr Out site and additional ones on the internet. As an aside, I found the internet was very useful when building my routed wooden track. I too believe that attention to detail results in winning cars and great tracks.
Craig. I have read much of the tuning information available on or through the website.
Daniel. I feel i have a decent amount of prep. knowledge. yes, I have read all the website articles and other articles on the internet. {but you have to keep in mind I have no life. J}
Russell. Uh…yes and no .. I don’t feel that what I’m told in answer to my questions is anything but miss-leading falsehoods!
Mike P. You can never have enough knowledge about how to prep a car, the only way you learn is by watching how others prep their cars. Then you take what you saw and either add it to what you do or modify something you are currently doing. Yes, I have read and printed all the articles posted on the web site and have found them very useful.
Stephen. Yes and yes

Bill S. I did practice outside race days before I sold my last rally track and started to build my new one. It makes a huge difference. As it happens, I enjoy doing the scenery work more than doing a lot of work on preparation of cars. Hopefully, everyone will get to see some of my scenic work on the new “Targa” track
Bob. Yep. It is a mental relaxation method, but my track is short and Carrera so I’m not sure it does me any good.

Dennis. Not much. Do I race a lot? Yes, as much as I can, but some of that racing might actually be counterproductive as the cars and tracks are so different. Do I win anything? Not usually. Do I have fun? Most of the time.
Chris C. Practice? Get serious!!
Eric. Yeah. I practice all the time at home but for some reason my layouts just seem so different dynamically, that what works well on my home tracks just don’t work at all on the club tracks and vice versa.
Bruce. Now that I have my track, I am practicing more.
Craig. I sometimes have a small Scaley track set-up at home that I can practice and tune on. Going to Buena Park Raceway has helped me improve my driving. The value of practice cannot be overestimated.
Nigel. I practice a bit, but not much. I like to be hungry for race day!
Daniel. I will run anywhere between 2000-5000 practice laps. I once asked Chris R. why he is so good. He replied I try not to fall off. pretty basic answer I thought at the time, but reading between the lines I guess another way of saying that is too, Practice.
Michael. I practice every chance I get. I love it. When I don’t practice, I don’t win either (not that winning is important mind you)
Anonymous. I don’t practice
Russell. Sometimes, but I’m usually too busy shagging
Mike P. I used to have a small layout set-up outdoors to practice on, but after 2 years of rain water finding its way below the tarps and ruining half of my track, I no longer do. Would I like to practice more, YES….
Gary. I practice; wide open down the straight-a-way, brake at the last moment, sometimes hard sometimes light then a little juice through the curve and then after my back end clears the curve and not before, It’s wide open again over and over.
Stephen. Never, not even in setting up the loaner’s because they get exactly 5 laps each. Actually I fib, I practiced once this year, 150 laps with both class cars – got my worst ever results on my own track in both classes that day! If I was going to practice I would want people around to play with because that is what I am doing on race day, playing not racing….! I know it sounds strange to others but I really do never get out into my garage to actually race cars around the track, basically guilt over the 24 weekends (plus all the email/organization time) kicks in and I spend the time with the family instead.

Bill S. I liked it, but have no idea how to do it properly…
Stan. Weight is essential for proper handling on most cars. I like it.
Bob. No problems with this for me. Just gotta learn more and Mike has helped whenever I ask a question. However, for Chris, it made no difference, he beats us all regardless of weight. He is just a great driver. I agree with Michael. I like the classes with weight added and the learning curve was quick and Michael is a great help and not bashful to help. When many of us raced as kids on wood tracks weight was the only way. You learned to race. Even with magnets you have to learn to race. Magnets do make it easier as the location and strength is predetermined.
Dennis Lots more in the cars, lots less on some of the drivers might be a good idea! See my comments further up about weight and tires.
Chris. Are we talking car or driver weight?
Laurent. Just like it is, weight really improve cars without magnet. I like it.
Eric. In regards to weight, magnets and tires I generally prefer whatever makes the car handle predictably. Weight usually involves too much trial/error with marginal gain. At home I’ve learned to love non-magnet racing, although I find certain cars are just better with magnets (i.e. Le Mans Classics w/ magnets are NOT ridiculous. They are still plenty tail happy at least on Scalextric sport. I run Indygrips and magnets and they still slide nicely.) I prefer simple ‘bolt-on’ upgrades like better tires (Indygrips don’t need sanding!)
Alvin. I am okay with weights.
Bruce. I think that weight is necessary in some of the cars.
Craig. Damned if you do and damned if you don’t. Some cars work much better with weight, but more tuning time is needed to optimize performance with weight. Some classes may be more tedious than fun without the weight. Leave it on 50/60’s Ninco at least. All the others may be fine without weight.
Tim. Weight seems to be necessary but a magnet would solve ALL of that tuning time. Get the picture?
Nigel. Sod that crap! I hate all this weight rubbish – let’s keep it as simple as possible. Who cares if the cars drive like crap – most of the drivers do as well! And…. I have fun!
Daniel. I would like to give the weight a rest for next season’s races. even as much as I like prepping, trying to determine the amount and position of the lead was a headache much of the time
Michael. Without magnets, some cars simply do not have the weight to handle well. We should keep the same non-magnet with weight rules except specify the weight size/location to eliminate guesswork and provide ground clearance (Pre-cut weight provided by club maybe?). Weight range for our type cars should be between 80 and 90 grams total. The heaviest non-magnet cars that we race are about 90 grams and I believe that for our classes no cars should weight more than that.
Thomas. Make the Slot-Its HEAVY; as per discretion with the other classes
Anonymous. Initially when weight was introduced I thought it was just to keep the cars from being to light up front and de-slotting and racing in their box stock configuration. What guys in the club have done to these cars is more in the line of Buena Park and I am sure it is not what the manufacturer had intended. The same goes for the motor development. I like to do this for fun and enjoyment and as a stress relief and not to turn it into competitive work which I in all honesty have no desire to do. The cars are way too heavy and non-responsive with the excessive lead being used
Russell. I’m with Nigel on this one, “sod that crap”
Richard. Again, after initial resistance, weight in the Ninco Le Mans class has certainly made up for the loss of magnet. Maybe even an improvement
Jim Wiseman. I like it very much if it is in the right place. Don’t change it
Mike P. The addition of weight has somewhat evened out the playing field for all the classes that allow weight. The exception being the 2wd F-40 & Gt-1 BMW V12, even with the weight added to all the cars in their respective classes these two cars still dominated
Gary. The reason for weight is to make the cars handle better and to make them even. It is not to give you an unfair advantage. Getting the correct weight and balance on your car has been a real challenge but I think we have it dialed in and the cars run good. The thing is when we run cars with weight on a new class there is a learning curve we go through. The thing with this curve is we need to share information with each other on what works. The whole reason to race is to win, if we have fun that’s a bonus. I think this is the way some of us look at it down deep. Remember club rule #1
Stephen. I think weight is the single worst thing that has happened to this club in the 5 years we have existed. It makes more of a gap between those in the know and those who are not (something we have “solved” by making the information freely available on the “best” setup’s); it takes more time to find the right setup for your style own of driving; it is clear to me that the one thing most club members do not have is time and therefore weight tuning becomes a very slippery slope very quickly. Also while it is fine for the experienced club members who have been racing for years to propose and support weight I simply do not see it in the spirit of the clubs goals to have fun with a minimum of effort and I would also point out that those who do have the experience are nowhere near the majority – and neither are the newbie’s, the semi-experienced, the here for fun etc. To me keeping it simple means truing tires, praying the wheels are round and sanding them if they are not, carefully setting up the braid, gluing in the motor, gluing in the best bushings you can get, shimming the axles horizontally and vertically, and then having a beer. I never want to weigh a car again.
Michael S’s response to Stephen’s weight comments

Bill S. $5 is cheap. I’m sure it costs more than $80 to the host — you’re not even counting the enormous time and money that goes into creating and maintaining a track. It’s a great burden to host, but I appreciate the wonderful tracks and the great people in the club.
Stan. $5 seems reasonable; it’s not a great burden for most (it’s the cost of a Mickey D’s lunch, for goodness’ sake) and whatever we can do to help those who host is certainly worth it. I’d be willing to pay more.
Bob. The host SHOULD break even. We should all start bringing food/drink or pay more so that the food is covered.
Dennis $5 is just right, but if the hosts feel that this is not covering their costs, or if there is damage to loaner cars to be repaired than perhaps we need to contribute a bit more. Perhaps the Team races, where all the cars are loaners, should cost s little more with some going to the host and some to those providing the loaners
Chris I would be more than willing to ante up $10.00. For as much fun as I’m having it’s the bargain of the century.
Eric. I’m willing to ante up a few more bucks. If I were in a position to host, I’d also be willing to eat some of the cost.
Alvin. The price is not a problem, and I could support an increase if deemed necessary.
Bruce. I think that the $5.00 is a nice gesture to the host, and you’re right no one ever breaks even. However, to me it’s not about the money, this is the host’s contribution to the club. Meanwhile… I must strongly disagree regarding feeding people. It’s a question of etiquette. I will take the position that you cannot host 16 or 18 grown men for five or six hours snacking on only chips and nuts. You have to feed people. And if we can spend $40++ bucks on a slot car, we can spend a few extra dollars on hot dogs and hamburgers.
Anonymous. $5 or $10 is no problem. We are lucky to have an option.
Craig. Thank you to the hosts. I think $5 to $7 is good, but would pay more. Certainly the kitty does not cover the whole banana, but if hosts are spending more than the kitty on refreshments, non-voluntarily, then we should consider asking those who want to drink beer to rotate in bringing beer. $50 should cover chips, soda and water, but the beer adds up. Lunch, or food, is certainly not necessary in any way. A special thank you to those who did provide a little more grub; that was great. If the club needs funds (for the website, or race hosts) it could charge $2-4 to use a loaner car payable to the club, or have annual dues.
Tim. $5.00 seems right. Nobody needs to feed me. Soft drinks are cool. I drink at home AFTER losing
Nigel. I have no objection to a small increase, but it’s obviously important to keep costs down. I think that the best approach might be for the host, who normally has a rough idea of the likely attendance and budget, to provide what he is comfortable with.
Daniel. I feel $10 would be justifiable to the host on race day.[but i do like the $5 J] I have personally never hosted but I can imagine what a tough job it must be to prepare everything properly for the races to carry- on smoothly. and providing drinks and appetizers definitely justifies the cost. I agree with Stephen about the host not being required to feed everybody. we are there to race not eat. eat before you leave the house. i think it’s a very kind gesture for any host to provide food but definitely shouldn’t be expected. I really think the donation amount should be voted on by all the hosts at the annual meeting. They are the ones who do all the work and know firsthand all the work that goes into it.
Michael. Keep it at $5. It’s a nice token and should remain so. I wouldn’t like to pay the going rate for track time.
Thomas. The cost is fine; as for snacks, soda/beer and chips is all we ever need
Russell. WESTON DOESN’T ALWAYS PONY UP! SOMETIMES I CAN’T BE BOTHERED EITHER, DEPENDS IF I’M HIGH OR NOT. MAYBE THE HOST’S OFFERED RACE CUISINE OF SALTY TRAIL MIX, CUTTLEFISH AND DAY OLD BAKED GOODS IS JUST PLAIN SHIT. JUST ONCE I’D LIKE TO SEE A NAPKIN OR SERVIETTE? MIGHT AS WELL PROVIDE THE MAALOX AS WELL?

Richard. While $5 is a good entry fee, I agree it is not the host’s job to feed and lubricate people. Although it is always appreciated and I try to show my appreciation by helping to clean up at the end of the day. It’s also nice to show up with some snacks or beer too. Just a thought
Jim Wiseman. I would spend a little more ($7?) but I never really thought we were trying to totally pay back the host, as harsh as that sounds. I think part of the money should go to lane stickers and tape, so hosts, go easy on providing the food and drinks. I would be glad to bring snacks and I don’t think the host has to “feed 16+ hungry men.” The host is already dealing with 16+ urinating men. “Hey shotgun, next time bring a funnel!” An occasional informal race with pot luck and barbecue would be fun
Mike P. If we are not covering the cost of the food, drink & track use, then we need to increase the amount. The Host should never have to go into debt so we can race. I personally have paid an additional $5 when the host has provided more than chips & drinks. I know sometimes it should have been more, but I thought of it as “it’s the thought that counts” kind of a thing. Also as grown men if we can’t find a food joint or eat at home before we go racing, it’s our own fault if were hungry and the chips don’t help. I have seen Jim Wolfe leave between races to go get food when he was hungry
Gary.I think new members for the first year should only pay 5$ and that is with loaner cars or not. I think this should also apply to anyone who is going through hard times. For every one else it’s $10 and if you don’t want to buy your own car and you have been racing for more then a year and you want to use loaner cars then you will have to pay $15 to race. This is fair and just. With this system you pay what you can afford and you don’t have to be embarrassed at the kitty. The thing to remember is if you can pay more then pay more if you can’t then don’t, after all this is an honor system.
Stephen. I think the cost should be $5. While I agree with Bruce’s point on proper etiquette, in this case I take the contrary view and perceive that it is a massive privilege to be invited to someone’s home to play for most of one day of a weekend and consequently every single attendee should be doing everything they can to make it easier on the host. I say that knowing full well that not one single time in all the times I have hosted have either Virginia or I had a single cause to complain about the behavior, attitude or manners of any one of you. This point of view likely derives from my perception that preparing to host is a very major undertaking, one that usually takes me from 8AM of the host day through to people arriving at 1PM (by the way thanks for the offers of help during that time – I have declined the only because I try to also make time that into a “playing” session with the kids during setup). So I think that the host should only provide a cooler, ice and a couple of bags of chips and you folks should bring soft-drinks, beer, wine coolers, hookah’s or whatever else you need to get through the day. I love you all and I want to play with you, I just don’t want it turning into an ever bigger production for the hosts. Therefore I propose you all figure a way for that to happen!

K. The Website:
Summary – Needs to continue but be updated and maintained by someone else (it’s easy but time consuming if you don’t have a big upload pipe to the internet)

Bill S. WWW site is great. I know it takes a lot to keep it updated, but it’s really useful.
Stan. I’m sure most of us have no appreciation of the work you’ve put into the site…but I DO find it useful and refer to it quite often, if nothing else for race reports and standings. So I say keep it going as-is.
Bob. It’s kewl. I refer people to it all the time.
Dennis. Great. I don’t go there much as I haven’t raced much this year, but I visit each time new results are posted, especially when there are photos.
Chris The website is a valuable tool in showing people that there are indeed other crazy individuals out there
Laurent. Great, remember I meet all of the gang members with your great site SF-J.
Eric. Love the website, reference it occasionally.
Alvin The Website is great.
Bruce. Best website out there but I think you (SFJ) are working too hard. Too many statistics. The stats have stats. My hat is off to you for your organizational skill. Less statistics and maybe we could feature our members or their collections or if someone has a rare car, etc.
Anonymous. Website is awesome!!!!!!
Craig. The website is the club’s one single asset shared by all. It is the greeting card for new members. It is the time, schedule and statistics repository for the existing members. I go there often. It does not need to change regularly, except hopefully the standings, but it should be there as long as we have a club. IMHO. Plus where else would you guys show off your great tracks?
Tim. The web site is great
Nigel . The website is amazing! This has been a Godsend and is a great tool in so many ways. The wealth of information is amazing and vital for a newbie at the club – besides, do you want everyone calling you like the old days? I love reading the race reports. I go there often. Is it possible to have a ‘message board’? And… I have given you feedback, so you are fibbing (again).
Daniel. i love the website. one of the best things in the club. i can’t imagine what else could be added to make it any better.
Michael. Website is awesome. I am very proud to steer people to it when they talk with me about the hobby. Let me know how to help out more. I loved the race reports that Stephen used to write after each event.
Thomas. Haven’t gone there in some time; it never strikes me to do so, but I shall just to take a look
Anonymous. It’s a great site but not on it much
Russell. MORE CANDID PHOTO’S? I ENJOY IT….WHEN THERE’S TIME…..THAT’S IT…I’VE SPIT ME DUMMY OUT!!!
Richard. It’s great (although reducing pic resolutions is always appreciated by us dial up Luddites)
Jim Wiseman. Stephen, the website is fantastic and I like to go there as time allows, especially for race reports. Keep up the great work
Mike P. YES, very useful. I go there at least 2 or 3 times between races to see if anything new has been added. Don’t know what more it needs. You have provided a web site that like you said has a lot of information, but it is all extremely beneficial and I thank you for it
Gary. The Website is very good. It opens a door to the world into our club and it promotes our hobby in a way that is a model to anyone else. Stephen, what you have done for this club with your time and money is worthy of an award of some kind. I know if I hadn’t run in to you 4 and a half years ago I would have lost interest and missed out on something I really love to do and I would have missed out on the best group of guys I have ever known. I see you all as brothers, granted some as red headed step children but brothers just the same. I love you guys and miss all who move on. May their laps be faster and there days be better. Bartender another round if you please! (Hick-up*#$@%!). I think I’m ready to race now!
Stephen. I think the website is crucial to the health of the club. However overall it takes too much effort. So we need to find a remedy.

o I won’t be updating the website, it should be done but it won’t be me – I am sure there are others who can, want to and can do it better than me

o I won’t be Race Director except for when I host – again others can do it better

o I won’t be entering results after each race heat on race day– others can do it better

o I won’t be trying to win – I have more fun trying to come 5th

o I won’t be writing race reports – again others can do it better

o I won’t be doing the spreadsheet tracking all the points, it’s already automated – others can do it better

o I won’t be practicing, except while racing

o I won’t be at every race, I am hoping to make 18 of 24 race dates

o I will bring a 6 pack of beer wherever I go

o I will adjudicate if you need it, but you should never need it because if you are arguing you are not having fun!

o I will set the calendar and maintain it

o I will help the host announce, track attendees and manage the setup for race-day

o I will prepare/organize loaners

o I will facilitate the process of choosing classes and how we do things

o I will continue to lovingly abuse anyone who crosses my eyesight, but specially Russell

o I will marshal to the best of my abilities

o I will thank those who marshal me every single time I come offI will be having fun at every race just as I have had fun at every race I have been to at this club

Despite being run by a benevolent dictator, every year the members of the club are surveyed about what they do and don’t like and are asked to vote for the race classes for the coming year. We then have an annual meeting where any questions about the classes and any back-to-back testing can take place to make the final decisions.

We find that it usually brings forward new ideas and allows us to discuss any problems. Below are the surveys and answers from past years.

Page created from archives 03/12/2023