NG08 Needs Your Advice
As you probably know by now, Memphis is the top choice for NG08. However, after reviewing contracts, we're looking at a HUGE track bill. Given this year's numbers were down, I'm sure everyone can understand why we're a little nervous signing.
Here's what we've proposed. This is NOT saying it's set in stone - no contracts have been signed, and the schedule can certainly change at ANY TIME. Same with the dates.
The dates would be June 17-22. That means starting a day early. That part is still dependent on a possible go-kart track rental. Let's just assume it happens. Drag races would be run at night to help with the heat in Memphis. Road course would be run earlier that day. Both are on Friday. Thursday would be AutoCross. We've changed the schedule for numerous reasons, but mostly because of the number of people that break their cars during the drag races then can't run anything else. Thursday night is open drag races at the track if anyone is interested, so we're leaving that part of the schedule open. Also allows for last-minute tuning after a long drive.
Car show would be Saturday if at all possible, banquet still on Saturday night. Wednesday is reserved for go-karts, if we can find a track that rents the karts out within an hour of our hotel. This has been extensively researched, we're just waiting for call-backs.
Here are a few facts about distance for people, as pulled from MapQuest. All distances and times are as compared to this year's NG in Stevensville, MI.
New York - Drove 730 miles this year, 1096 for Memphis
Atlanta - Drove 739 miles this year, 389 for Memphis
Tampa - Drove 1196 miles this year, 786 for Memphis
Dallas - Drove 1022 miles this year, 452 for Memhis
Chicago - Basically NO DRIVE this year (90 miles), 534 for Memphis
Dynamic Racing - Would've driven 1460 miles this year, 1069 for Memphis
I drove 190 miles this year, and will drive 785 for Memphis at least 3 times.
I included my own mileage just so you guys know that I'm not choosing the most convenient spot for where I am. It'll be far from that... As you can see, some will have to drive further, some wouldn't drive as far.
So here's what I need from you. I need to know if you would SERIOUSLY consider attending the event, as planned right now. Would you be willing to make plans to attend it? Please vote honestly. These contracts are a HUGE financial commitment, and one I can't make without the numbers to back it up. As was stated in another thread, an NG that loses a considerable amount of money is going to be the last. I don't want that to happen. Please follow up your vote with comments and explanations. We need to know your thoughts.
Also... Another question that you can answer in your responses... Would you agree to raising the drag race fee by $10 to accomodate night drags? We're doing everything possible to keep everything else at the same prices as this year. There may be a SLIGHT raise, depending on the results of this poll.
Thanks in advance for answering, and for doing so honestly. We'll announce decisions as they're made, just to keep everyone posted.
Lori
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