Club Arnage

Thinking of going to Sebring this March for first time.  Does anyone have any recommendations, clues, etc. for a newbie?

Like is it any easier to drive in and park on the day than the LM road chaos so can we expect to drive down on the day and get in for example?  Any good places to view? 

Any helpful suggestions appreciated.

I asked a few questions some months back - see http://www.clubarnage.com/forum/index.php?topic=4037.0

Good point on getting there.  I'm assuming we stay in a hotel within an hours drive of the circuit, and sleep in the car, so we can all have a drink.  Or hire a RV, but can we park on circuit all week, do we need a pass  etc.  Harley hire for the day would be good too.

I should know by the end of the week if its on.

I would have to say it would all depend on what level of comfort you are looking for and how long you plan staying in the area.
 Orlando is probably your best bet as far as airports.There are restrooms with hot showers so an rv is not a nesessaty.Keep in mind it gets very hot and can rain like a bitch at a moments notice.In that case a rv is very cool.

I have been the last four years, Amazing Randy even longer, so ask away.

Getting in on the day is fairly easy. However, approaching race time, you may have a long wait if you want to go in the main gate and park inside. There is an alternative, tell them you need to collect your tickets from Will Call and drive down the outer lane and park up in the parking area there for free and then walk in. Its only about a 5 minute walk over where, yoiu would park if you had payed to go in.

Good places to view. Pretty much anywhere. Also don't be affraid to ask the people with large platforms if they wouldn't  mind if you went up to view for a while. Most are friendly and won't mind if you ask nicely.

Like Randy says, It can be bitch hot and also rain like theres no tomorrow, so be prepared for anything ! I have roasted several times and nearly been blown and washed away one year b a two hour hurricane.

Have fun

PE,
I'm an eight year veteran of the Florida classic, most of what you need in the way of info can be found with these guys, Dave & Matt Harper, Chris, Canada Phil Randy, Smokie, etc.  All well versed Sebring vets.  Orlando or Tampa are probably best bets for airports and civilized hotels, if you want to stay close to the circut book now or you'll be camped in a orange grove.  Best to just to stay at the circut for the weekend and take in the practice, qualifying and support race action.  Getting in on race morning can be challenging if you leave it too late.  Best to be in residence by 7-8 A.M. or so, if you leave it much later you could be missing the start sitting in traffic.  We drive down from Orlando and hit the bricks quite early.  Parking in the circut on race morning can be a free-for-all, you sometimes have to be quite creative, fortunately the CA guys usually save us a spot at their campsite.  Bring sunglasses and sunscreen or you'll end up blinded and sunburned within an inch of your life, also you'll want sunglasses if the wind kicks up, the sand can really get blown around. Usually hot as f**ck!
Fax

HI PE,
         Like LM camping at the track is the best way to experience it. RV's can be rented in Orlando or right at the track depending on your budget and desired comfort. Tenting is cheaper as you only need a $10 camping permit for car and tent for the event. gates open Wednesday morning and campsites fill by Friday lunch time. I recommend arriving wed or Thursday in time for night practice. Unlike Le Mans a Full card of racing and practices.
All over bar the drinking Saturday night.
Lorry, You mention Harley Rental.
NOt for Sebring they will not allow you in on a bike.
The week before is Bike week in Daytona where a Harley would be the vehicle of choice. along with black T shirts. Orlando would be a good place to pick up a rental Harley.
Florida is not a great place for Bike Riding in my opinon many other states have much superior bike roads.
Canada Phil 

Haven't quite figured out the not letting bikes in bit.  Must be a Florida thing because at the Rolex 24 Hours a few years ago one of our group brought along a perfectly street legal Kawasaki KE 100 and damn near got hauled off to the pokie by Budford T. Justice.  Seems except for bike week they don't allow bikes at Daytona either.  Most other US venues (including IMS) allow bikes in, Mid-Ohio encourages bringing bikes, they take up less space!
Fax

...and don't forget the information found at www.sebringsfans.com   
There is a good bit of information there and just ask on the forums anything else that comes to mind.   ...and don't forget the beads.   You can also call or write to receive information from the Seb. In't Raceway folks.
 
Sebring International Raceway
113 Midway Drive
Sebring, FL  33870
www.sebringraceway.com
800.626.7223

There, that should do it!!

Just wasted a lot of time trying to book my flight with BA for March - long story, but it still isn't booked...

Would definitely recommend camping at the track, ideally arriving on the Wednesday (more space, and there's plenty going on all tthe time). Buying tents and equipment as disposables isn't too scary as the exchange rate is still OK, and they are cheap enough in Walmart. Or do what JPC, AndyZ etc did last year and buy a huge cooler to pack it all in and bring it all back with you...

Orlando has to be the closest airport but I've never used it. BA direct flights are about the same to Orlando, Miami and Tampa. I could maybe save a few bob (but not much at all) if I 1) left it till the last minute and/or 2) I took an indirect flight but neither of these are appealing to me.

Beware that the car rental companies sometimes levy a surcharge when renting from Miami (not huge, but if every penny counts...) - doesn't apply in Tampa (which seems to be heavily booked already for my dates) or Orlando.

And to answer one of your questions, there are hardly any bad places to view. A wonderful track for actually getting up close...

Yes the spectating is superb, being a old bomber base its flat as a billiard table (as is the rest of Florida) but over the years they've built up spectator mounds and there's very little in the way of debris fencing.  There are many places on the circut where the spectators are right on top of the action, Randy's location out at turn 10 being probably the closest, the hairpin being a great location for catching overtaking plus there's a large video screen and scoring moniter there as well.
If you want to splurge, a pit balcony pass is avilable for the weekend for $200 and is well worth it if you want catch the pit action, the balcony being directly over the pits, the end of last years race was particularly memorable with the CA gang, Mark, Andy, Steve, Rick, Smokie, Phil, Matt & Dave and myself all above the Aston pits.  Paddock admission is free to the public all weekend including during the race.
Fax

And to answer one of your questions, there are hardly any bad places to view. A wonderful track for actually getting up close...



Smokie,

    I think Papa Eric meant good places to view the car racing and not boob flashing  :D,  most of us at CA know that you have practically zero experience as motor racing spectator  ;D

Hi a few questions for the Oracles of Sebring.

I have found Virgin flights for the 14th returning on the 19th for £303 is this likely to be the best dates and cost. Gatwick is best for me as I have to travel from Guernsey first.

Are the deals for cars best left to when arriving in Orlando.

Is there food and drink (Coffee and Beer) on site as I see they do not like BBQ fires etc.

Where are the camping areas and what is the cost (which area are CA'ers normally in)

Is it likely to pour down or if not how hot (not as hot as LM this year I hope)

Is there night entertainment.

Finally, will my wife let me go as I have already booked LM24 & Classic.

Thanks for any answers.

Martini...

Hi Martini,
Not sure about the car rental issue, some of your countrymen who come over are probably well suited for that one.  Plenty of food & drink available at the circut and nearby, ice readily available (unlike LM).  As far as camping goes, the Green Park is a popular, party destination, the Turn 10 gang is out there.  The CA guys usually camp along the pit straight midway near the showers.
Regarding the weather?  Its spring in Florida...Could rain from time to time, the showers tend to be brief but hard.
I've been going for eight years and never been rained on race day but the guys have been soaked earlier in the week a couple of times.  When it gets hot, it gets quite hot, mid-upper eighties kind of temps, sometimes muggy (this is where the rain bit comes in) and usually very bright sunshine, so protect the flesh.
Fax

Maybe 2007.

Sorry to hear that Lorry. A couple of G&T's with a couple of glasses of wine over dinner with a friendly hug and I think I am sorted...mind you she did not know where Sebring was until my daughter told her...she said she was confused because I had mentioned LM and Petit LM. I also told her there was a whole load from LM going along and it was an invitation! Well I did have my fingers crossed at the time and white lies do not count...But thinking about it that is not too far from the truth except I do not know anyone else, unless Nordic is going.

Martin...

Martin,

What time does the Virgin flight to Orlando arrive.

I am arriving on the 14th by Virgin but from Manchester then hiring a car and finding a hotel for the night and then driving down to Sebring Wednesday morning.

Its just me, so if you fancy hooking up and sharing car hire costs etc, then its fine by me. Only problem is i am not traveling back to Orlando on the 19th as i have tickets for the Tampa Bay Lightning ice hockey game that afternoon. 
But arranging a lift back to Orlando with someone should be too much of a problem.

Let me know what you think.

£303 is a good price. I paid £312.40p

Hi

Looking at the flights I have 2 options 15.40 or 16.55. I had a quick look at the Virgin flight from Manchester at it arrives at 14.50 for only...wait for it...£289.10

Martini...

If you are interested, then get in touch, for the sake of an hours difference in flight arrival times at the airport, we could both save ourselves quite a bit of money. I am sure a lift back to Orlando will be no problem as several CA'ers or Turn 10 crew will be going back that way after the race.

Hi Martini,
                Welcome to the Sebring thread. Your dates look good though I expect you will be srry to leave so soon. Looks as though Chris has sorted your car hire problem for you. Open fires are not permitted however BBQ's are.
Food and Drink is available at the track and easy to sort your own from town. Camping gear can be bought cheaply or borrowed. tickets on the gate for both camping and entry so no problem as you are arriving in plenty of time.
Canada Phil 

If anyone needs help with camping gear,I would be happy to pre-shop for such needs.The more people that come to Sebring the BETTER it is.I live in St.Petersburg which is just across the bay from Tampa Airport,so anyone
flying in there Monday prior I could probably help with transportation.I leave my house for Sebring{2hr15mi. trip} early Tues.morning and do not leave{at all} until Sunday morning. ;D

Wow!  Such help. 

We've got a place at Orlando throughout so will be driving down so the times and parking hints really welcomed  :)

Definitely going to go now, sounds a buz.

Thanks all

Hi
Wel it was still on when she sobered up so I have organised time off and booked flights from Guernsey to Gatwick and Gatwick to Orlando.
Leaving LGW 11.15am Tue 14 arrive Orlando 15.40
Leave Orlando 18.05 Sunday 19th

If any one is around at that time good to meet up.
I think I am going to check in to one of the Airport hotels for the night as all the Sebring ones seem booked.

Chris24 thanks for the offer of the car share to the track but I really want to be able to guarantee my return.

Need to have directions for the Walmart if poss please...party on.


Martini...

My advice on parking.

Time your arrival for 7am wed.morning.
Have all your provisions for at least 4 days with you.
Pull in front gate with an idea of where you want to camp.
   [study track maps to locate restrooms/ask veterans where best
      viewing is]
If not ride around until you find somewhere to camp.
Park vehicle.
Assign most responsible person in group to hold keys.
   [that could take awhile]LOL
Do not move vehicle un til Sunday.

Need to have directions for the Walmart if poss please...party on

There is Walmart in Sebring just before the track,as well as plenty of supermarkets.You will be able to get whatever you need in Sebring,which
is only minutes from the track.

Martin & Papa E,
Glad to hear you guys will be coming along, guarantee that you'll enjoy it enormously.
If you need to go into town there are plenty of greasy spoons to grab some grub and said Wally World to purchase supplies.  Here's the usual disclaimer:
By all acounts Johnny Law in the town of Sebring has gotten pretty aggresive in recent years regarding the drinking & driving thing, so if you go into town...wait until you get back to start throwing down coldies.
Fax

Hi Martini,
               WalMart is on the right as you arrive on Hwy 27. Has everything you need ... well Beer, Cooler and Ice and what else could you possibly want ;D
Canada Phil

Hi All

I have found a good site for Orlando car hire, I think, click on this -

http://www.airline-network.co.uk/

then click on car rental - £89 for a small car with insurance & gas for 5 days.

Happy New Year to you all.

Martini...

Martin,

If you are arriving at 15.40 at Orlando on the Tuesday, and i am arriving at 14.50 the same day and also getting my car hire via Airlinenetwork, then i don't mind waiting for you at the airport or in the car hire pick up garage.

We could both collect our cars and then I would suggest driving to the Kissimmee area and finding a hotel for the night in that area. Its far cheaper out there than near the airport. Also there is plenty to choose from. If you don't mind sharing a twin room with me for the night, then it makes it cheaper for the both of us.

Also there is a big Walmart close by to the hotels that I usually travel to that evening to stock up on supplies.

Also the Kissimmee area has plenty of eating establishments in close proxcimity.

I will PM you my phone number if you would like to have a chat.

Regards
Chris

Err, that wouldn't be SMOKIE then would it ! ::) LOL  ;D

IMO car hire is best done this end, before you go. Never tried it on arrival though. There are some very good deals, when your plans are more advanced (and I can think straight!) I will let you know where to rent (the cars have always been Dollar but different agencies give different prices). www.airline-networks.co.uk springs to mind.

£303 is a Good Price. I think the std rate is about £370, but £330 has been available for a while, and BA currently have a January Sale which takes £20 off. The taxes have gone up a lot in three years (now about £120 with BA). You might find that booking a "through" ticket from Guernsey (or was it Jersey?) is cheaper - gab got his end to end flight Munich - Heathrow - Miami (much) cheaper than I paid just for the Heathrow - Miami leg last year, same carrier and flight as me to Florida.


On another note, I was showing Mrs S the race dates for 2006 over Xmas and she said why don't we book a holiday in Turkey to coincide with the 1000km (date to be announced...). Has anyone done Turkey, could it be combined easily with a beach holiday (new thread maybe?)

Silly question...

But are there any particular airlines who are always cheaper, ie No food, or poor service etc etc, i'm not a fussy flyer....

Aeroflot and Air Nigeria should suit your requirements Phil!

Mostly poor service these days, and BA have given up food on their domestic routes since the Gate Gourmet dispute. Not so sure about transatlantic though...

Hi All

Any Idea who/how many going from the Uk, or even Holland, just out of interest.

Talking about the cost of flights, my brother is going over for Daytona Beach bike fest and is really pixxed off because he booked early and paid £74 more than me.

Martini...

Wotcher Robbo!
It's a crossing I do a lot, and to be honest mate, it's pretty well pot luck. I'd say Virgin are consistently better, and I've had some bad experiences with BA, Continental and AA. But also some good ones, apart from BA who I wouldn't go near again, except with possibly a chainsaw and bleach. As for price, just get the best deal you can, and hope it's Virgin.
Having said all that, I could be misreading your post and you're really one of those people blessed with a masochistic streak as long and wide as the centre line on runway 23/05. If that's the case then presumably you're looking for the roughest ride at the most extortionist price. As far as I know, most of the flights offer an enclosed passenger compartment, in fact, they tend to be pretty fussy about it, which is a shame, as a wander round an open deck during the flight would do wonders for your hair and DVT at the same time. It shouldn't be too difficult to get some gin sodden old veteran to get you there in a Messerschmitt with a smoky starboard engine. Have you tried Lydd?
H

Martini

Club Arnage Roll Call so far is (I think)

UK - Chris 24, me, Steve Brown, Rick Cutler (probable), Doris (poss), JPC (poss)
Germany - gab
Canada - Phil
US - Turn 10 (Randy etc, of course), Pidge & his gang (they don't get here much), the Harper Bros & Fax

I'm sure I've missed some, help me out guys.

Phil gab and I caught the last few days of Daytona Bike Week last year. Wonderful stuff. It ends the weekend before Sebring starts in 2006.

Hi again

Found a good site for hotels in Orlando etc. if you are going before the campsite opens. Cheapest so far is £21 for a night! and I think that is for the room as opposed to per person.

http://www.findorlandorooms.com/

Chris24, I will call you soon.


Martini...

Martin,

I had several missed messages on my answer phone when i got in, I don't know if they were from you or not. If they were, then I am in at home now and don't mind calls any time up until about midnight.

Regards
Chris

Sebring flights now booked.

I'll see you happy campers there  ;D

...and guess who is sitting next to Steve on both legs of the journey...and hiring a car toegther...

Yes!! I've booked too!!!  :) :) :)

Just trying to find some holiday accommodation now, for the week following Sebring...

What are you looking to book Smokie? if you want a villa we booked through www.broadwaytravel.com and got a very good deal last year.

Most excellent news to see everyone getting onboard for the 54th running of the 12 Hours of Sebring. Looking forward to seeing everyone at Hendricks Field, the more CA guys the bigger the party.
Fax

Only wish I could, but a disheartening lack of funds prevents it.  Swmbo not too happy at the moment either - I have just spent over 1000 quid on one of my other hobbies  :P :P :P

Del

Ditto unfortunately :'(

Beware of hotels that cost $20 per night.
I live in Orlando and will help anyone coming over for the race if I can.
I have a good corporate rate with Ramada (3 miles west of the airport) and can assist with tix, travel tips and good boozers in O'town (excepting the suggestion of nightclub venue from my loony ex-boss last year - sorry JPC, AZ, Rick and Steve).
If I can be of any help, please feel free to shout up. It's a very, very special event - if there's any chance you can make it, you should grab it!
Matt

Bloody hell Delboy, that a lot of Lap Dances!!!!!  ;D 8)

YFDS will be there in force.  Those who are members of CA are:

Hardpoint
Warlock!
chop456
Downshift62

You can move me from a poss to a definite. 

Flights booked this morning.   ;D ;D ;D

Will you still be a bit thin on top in March?





 ;D

(http://www.artistdirect.com/Images/Sources/AMGCOVERS/music/cover200/drf800/f878/f87893szrq8.jpg)

7 weeks growth so will probably be at 'microphone head' stage.   :o

At 3/4 of an inch per month, that's over an inch and a quarter, more than enough to keep the rain off.

At Sebring its not usually the rain you have to worry about, its protecting the scalp from sunburn.
Would highly recommend a ball cap!
Fax

Is that to go with the ball gown?

Is that anything to do with the nude sunbathing??

Martini...

Reminds me of a Not The None O Clock News sketch - Swedish Chemists shop (the accent helps it along)


Customer: Please can I have a deoderant

Shopman: Ball or aerosol?

Customer: No, I want it for my armpits

Welcome aboard Doris,Looking forward to meeting you.As well as the rest of the CA newbies. :o

Nobody told me I'd have to wear a dress!   :o

You don't have to wear anything at all, then you'll fit right in with some of the Sebring girls :D
Fax

Hi Doris
             Welcome to the Sebring Expedition.
 As Fax has pointed out already. Clothes are optional and sun hats highly recommended ;D
Canada Phil

Doris

You will be pleased to know that we found a particularly good cider in the local store!!!!  :D

Fortunately door frames on tents are quite soft!  ;)

It wasn't so much the door frame that was the problem - rather the lack of one.   ::)

This wouldn't by any chance have any connection to the pre crimbo planning meeting in Holborn would it?

I couldn't possibly comment, Bob.  Tour rules.... 

Let's just say I had a very sore head the next morning (and the whole of the following week come to think of it).

....and good it was, indeed.  Nice for breakfast!!!!!

Hi John,
            Talking of Breakfast are you bringing Larry and his Bambi sausages?
Canada Phil

...hoping to see all three again this March...yum, Bambi sausages for breakfast  :P

Bambi sausages...Ummm
I made Bambi chili last night matter-of-fact.  A buddy got a big buck early in Dec. and had it processed, ended up with some chops and about four pounds of ground venison.
Fax

Sorry guys, can't make it this year.  Larry was hit by hurricane Katrina in August and is still trying to recover.  His place looks like a war zone with the pine trees just twisted off about 15 feet off the ground.
  ..and my wife says we are putting a new roof on the house and redoing the kitchen.  So there goes my $$$$'s.   
But I am planning to go to Houston for the ALMS/Champ car weekend in May.  That's about the time my daughter should be having my first grand child.  It's a little girl from the looks of things. 
Most all my racing this year will be via TV.  No Le Mans either.  Thank goodness for the Speed Channel and CBS.

Updated Sebring rollcall please.How many wonderful CA members are planning to camp in Turn10,when will you be arriving,will you be staying in a tent or rv,any canopies etc.Do you want to try and hold any space?If you can get there early Wed.morning getting prime real estate  is not a problem. ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ::) ;D ;D ;D

Hey Randy,
Self and the Harper clan (Dave, Matt & Nikki) will be there, no definitive plan yet but we'll certainly be consuming beverages at Cunningham Corner :D
Fax

Regret I'm going to have to catch you in France in June Randy. Will be in India watching paint dry, as some might say.

What a harship Andy!  If I wasn't going to Sebring I'd be quite envious.   ::)

Did I mention I met Rick Cutler at Sebring last year? :o

No sh*t  ;D

What ho Randy, I will be once again making an appearance at your beloved 12 Hour race.
Bass again?

Steve I cant wait to see you guys.This promises to be a great year. :o :o :o

Bloody hope so.

This might sound like a very, very silly question, but, do I have to buy bog roll. Ok I know it is silly but it had to be asked.

Martini...any time, any place, aywhere as long I have a bog roll

IIRC, they did run out in the middle of the night.

It may be one of lifes little luxury's, but I never go to a motor race without one!!

Thanks JP, after this type of conversation I do feel I can call you by your first name. I thought that was the answer.


Mr Martini...

See you there Randy  8)

LOL. You'll have a great time Martin, especially if you take your own loo roll!!!!  ;). The hospitality of the Turn 10 guys is something to behold, (try the deep fied Turkey), and the viewing of the track will raise questions in your mind about why we bother with Le Mans. Oh, and the paddock is open to all!! I'm just pig sick that I can't be joining you all this year!!

Randy,

This is a tough question, whether to camp out at Turn 10 and have a riot or camp with Pidge which is quieter and alot nearer to the toilets, showers and paddock areas. Turn 10 is only a short car ride away afterall ! ::)

Randy,

Will be again camping at Pidges site as I did with Smokie and the gang last year. Unfortunately I did not get a lot of time to visit you guys at Turn 10 since I was together with my brother who I had not seen in over two years...had a bit of catching up to due with him. But this year will be another story, saw the brother just a year ago and he is also not getting into Sebring till Friday, so you will probably get tired of seeing me at your place this year. Gettin pumped...see you soon.

Hey gab, sorry I won't be able to make it this year and won't make Le Mans either.  It sounds like you have your brother hooked on endurance racing now and that is a good thing.  Since you and pidge will be the only yanks in the CA campsite (I know the Harper's don't camp) keep 'um honest.  OK.

If a bog roll is the same as a roll of toilet paper,then the answer is yes.It never hurts if you heading to the crapper to take some spares.Just in case.
There is an attendant on duty most of the time,to keep the facility clean and stocked.

Not like Le Mans where you walk in and the attendant hands you a single square of toilet paper.  What the f**ck is up with that?  Is toilet paper a rare commodity if France?
Looking forward to Sebring enormously, will be a blast as always.
For all the first timers though, you should be warned, it will become habit forming...Just ask Smokie ;D
Fax

That's so that you can do a ballerina.

You fold the single sheet in half then again to quarters.
Then tear the middle corner off so that, when opened you have a sheet of paper with a hole in it.
Place the paper over your index finger, a la ballerina, and wipe your arse.

Then use the small piece of paper your tore off to clean under your finger nail.  ;D

I suppose its one of the big secrets of Le Mans, but in each backpack, under all the bottles of beer is a bog roll, or three if you're on the Merguez

Right then, after the tirade of messages posted ref: T Shirts and stickers how about a little "light relief" settle down  JPC.

Right then, which of you has the best travel / bits n' pieces list for Sebring?

And perhaps even a WalMart shopping list, on a per person basis please.

Answers on an A3 postage stamp please.

Martini...

Walmart Shopping list (So Far) !

Garth Brooks CD / DVD box set exclusive to Walmart ( For my dad )

Queensryche - Operation Mindcrime 2 CD provided they stock it. (Out 14th March)

Motley Crue - Carnival of Sins, DVD

Boxes and tins of Swiss Miss hot chocolate for me and my mum. (this is the best hot chocolate in the world)

Playstation PSP if the finances run to it !

Well thats a start !

This just gets better and better.  First the addition of the GT3 cup race and now this.  ;D


http://www.speedarena.com/news/publ...icle_6363.shtml

Barry Wagner Chief Engineer of Autosport Designs Racing (ASDR) announced today that they will be contesting all ten rounds of the 2006 SCCA Speed World Challenge Series with two Aston Martin Racing DBRS9's.

“We are delighted to be involved with Aston Martin’s return to GT racing in the United States with two SCCA World Challenge specification DBRS9’s. We look forward to working closely with Aston Martin Racing during the year to ensure the DBRS9’s success”.

Tom Papadopoulos (USA) and Johnny Mowlem (GB) will drive the Autosport Designs Racing DBRS9’s for the full 2006 World Challenge season. Tom and Johnny bring extensive experience from both sprint and endurance racing to the team.

The DBRS9 is a racing derivative of the critically acclaimed, road going DB9. This new V12 engined race car is expected to be a formidable challenger for the 2006 season.

I will not be able to make it this year  :( :'(

I hope to make it a bi-annual event alternating with the Classic Le Mans.

Hope all you guys have fun there though and look forward to the stories afterwards.

Well that just does it!If Rick C. isn't going then I'm not going either.

Johnny O and Jan are going to be very disappointed with you Randy >:(
Fax

Well then that just too damn bad. >:(

Looks like snow boarding will be the option this year, No sebring for me.

Not enough leave left to do everything.

Sorry to hear you can not make it Robbo,
Canada Phil

My friend, who regularly travels to US, told me about this;

Virgin Atlantic, like other airlines is working in close co-operation with the United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to meet new US requirements relating to Advance Passenger Information (API).

The new requirements of API oblige all airlines to transmit additional information about passengers prior to the departure of flights to the United States.

Specifically, there will be a requirement for all passengers to provide their country of residence and (for non-US residents) details of their full address (street name and number, city, zip code and state) for their first night’s accommodation in the US. Passengers travelling to the US continue to require a machine-readable passport or valid visa.

Not sure if we can say "Pitch No 12 at Sebring"


Martini...

I did last year!!!!  ;D

And it was even more confusing for them as we cleared customs in Newark, and they had no idea what the 12 Hours of Sebring was!!

Well I suggest we put down Matt Harpers address in Orlando. I am sure he won't mind us using it. The customs don't know that we won't be staying there and they can't ask to see proof of booking either as its a personal residence ! ;D

Travel Insurance

Just realised my annual travel insurance is only for europe, did a bit of mooching around and came up with Norwich Union Direct who 'quoted me happy' for £25.50 then got it reduced to £21.60  by booking on line. Seems reasonable to me.


Martini...

I assume that is just for the one trip and not annual at that price !

Hi, yes that is for 7 days which is quite reasonable, I think.


Martini...

Bollxxks,

Just found a cheaper insurance on  http://www.insuranceaffiliate.com/B2C/index.aspx?ref=airlinenetwork

Oh well!

Martini...

A bit late for you Martini, but if anyone else is after insurance try this site.
http://www.moneysupermarket.com/

You also have a cooling off period, so you could cancel your existing if it amounts to a worthwhile amount of cash.

Hi Martini,
                Assuming your passport /country qualifies for a verbal visa. UK does.
Camping at the track with this address will keep them happy.
Sebring International Raceway
113 Midway Drive
Sebring, Florida 33870
 Canada Phil

How about New Zealand passports?   ???

What, here or there.  You don't think they'll let you back in.  And one look at the hair on the passport photograph and you're in big trouble

How about New Zealand passports?   ???
Hi Doris,
             I expect Kiwi's are in their good books but best check with the US Embassy. Travel agents should know too. I do know that not every country has this privelege.
 I have been told that if you look like your Passport photo you are not well enough to travel ;D Looking forward to seeing you at Sebring. Sunhat required 8)
Canada Phil

Guaranteed strip search I'd say!!!!!  ;)   Now where are the marigolds???  ;D

Randy,
If your checking in today.  After consultation with the Harpers, Dave, Matt & I have elected to pass on the pit balcony passes this year and instead spend the money on some quality food & drink to contribute to your gathering out at Cunningham Corner. Any room for us out there?
Fax

John,
Are you down for just Saturday ........... or CAMPING  :o

I think we're coming down Saturday morning but crashing at the circut after the race, probably just bring some tents along.  We're too old for those 3:00 AM death drives back up to O-town. :P
Fax

Hi Phil,

I'm never entirely sure where NZ stands with the US government.  We're not in their good books because we won't let their ships into our waters (nuclear free and all that), yet we're on the visa waiver programme.

As for looking like my passport photo.  No chance.  Got no hair now so possibly look worse.   :o  Sunhat and sun screen at the ready. 

See you there.    :)

Dx

Fax you just come on. ;D

Thanks Randy!
We'll be there, booze & grub in hand.  Really looking forward to seeing you guys again!
Fax

Hi Fax,
          Bringing the tent makes so much sense.
Why not come down on Friday for some racing and beer swilling. I have appreciated the balcony pass in the past but rather a loy of $$$.
 Send me an email so i can follow up on West Virginia bike trip.
Canada Phil
 

Hi Martini,
               Could you make room for a Guernsey Gache in your luggage? To  share after the morning Cider and before the noon time Beer ::)
are you travelling independently? Will you  be joining us at the Pidge compound?
Canada Phil

Hi

Glad to hear someone appreciates good food, and you spelt it right, I take it you want me to bring some Guernsey Butter as well. How will I stand with foodstuff in the luggage? I do not think there is a problem except for meat and plants, but will bring some anyway.

As far as the travelling goes I am travelling by myself (i'm a virgin on virgin) and picking up a car at Orlando Intl plus meeting Chris24 (who will have his own car as he is leaving on a different day) then looking for somewhere to stay. Chris24 suggested reasonable hotels at Kissimee.

Is there normally a gathering for some beer on the wed night?

I am arriving from LGW on the wed 15.40 and leaving on sunday 18.05.

When is the best time for a Gache fest?

I think I will be staying in the Pidge area as Chris24 said this is a good area to be in.


Martini...

Hi Martini
Don't bring any foodstuffs into the US - certainly not dairy products. You'll deffo get a tug.
I live in Orlando - close to the scareport and would be pleased to meet you guys for a light aperitif prior to the slog down to the track. I can also score you a corp rate at my local Ramada Inn if you need it.
I've caved-in and will be staying at the track after the race. I'll be bringing Truckosaurus 2 - a LWB Suburban - so will not requre a tent - and can accommodate an indoor volleyball game, should the weather turn inclement.
Let me know if I can help....

Martini - Steve Brown, Doris and myself also arrive in Orlando on Wed (Virgin flight, not sure of time - maybe the same as yours). We have a car booked.

Steve has booked us a hotel somewhere in rlando for the Wed, then we scoot to the track on Thurs am.

I'm in Aberdeen right now so don't have information to hand but drop me a PM if you want more info about our plans.

Matt's corp rate might be better than what we have. IIRC we are paying about £60 for a three person room. We could look at a different distribution of people and see if it works... (Steve - I wonder if Matt's rate saves us money???)

Sorry I screwed up. I am arriving on tuesday night not wed! and moseying to the track wed.

If youa re looking for acccomm check this out   http://www.findorlandorooms.com/

Martini...VIP pass holder (2005)

Ok so I will not bring the Guernsey Butter but what about the Gache which is like a fruit loaf

Martini...

What you loose on the swings you gain on the roundabouts.  As I see it, you won't get b&b off season in Blackpool for £20 each nowadays.

Martin, we're on the VS 027 flight, arriving in Orlando at 15:40 on Wednesday 15th.

Hi Martini,
                I would risk the cake as it is cooked not too likely to get them bent out of shape. US butter is pretty good They get upset about meat and dairy products as well as fruit and veg. Matt can sort you out for tuesday night in Orlando. I plan to arrive at the track around noon on Wednesday and Pidge may not get there much sooner so do not dispare if you do not find us right away. Cars will be on track and the paddock will be open so lots to see and do.
May not wait until night for a beer :P
When you pick up supplies remember to get bottled water to drink too.
Canada Phil

OK British Sebring visitors - here's what I can do re- accomodation.
The hotel I use is The Ramada Inn & Suites www.ramada-orlando.com
I use this hotel to accommodate visiting customers, so it's clean, well run and close to OIA.
It's also minutes from I-Drive, BeeLine Expressway and within walking distance of the best damn tit-bar in O'town (though it doesn't mention this on it's website, for some bizarre reason). I only know this because people have told me about it - I've never been there myself, you understand...
I can secure twin rooms for $59 (about 35 quid) and two room suites for $75 (again, around 45 quid). I live very close by, so can chaparone, keep you out of bother/get you in bother as the need arises.
I'll help in any way I can.
Regards
Matt

Hi Matt

Is the "chap 'r one" offer for the tuesday, wednesday or both?

Martini...

Hi Martini
Like I said, I live within sight (almost) of this hotel and would be happy to meet with you guys on either or both days.
I'm English, but have lived here for 4 years, so have it pretty much figured-out. Last year 4 CA travelers (JPC, Andy Zarse, Steve Brown and Rick Cutler) came over to O'town prior to the race and we had a couple of fun evenings before they headed south to the circuit.
Because of my work and reluctance to sleep outdoors unless absolutely necessary, I don't venture down to Hendrick Field until race day morning. My brother Dave H and (as good as brother) Fax fly down from the mid-west on Friday. We have a few lagers and hit the bricks early on Sat morning. I live on a large chain of lakes and we will be doing a spot of boating/fishing on Sunday post race and you're welcome to join us, if you are so inclined.
Feel free to PM me and we can make arrangements to meet....
Regards
Matt

People that show only for the race are Day Fags. :o

Yes indeed, Randy, you have pointed this out to me on NUMEROUS occasions.
I shall counter by stating that people who drink lite are beer pansies.
Rightbackatchamofo!!!

Randy,

Anything to do around Tampa or St Petes on Sunday evening after i have been to the TBL ice hockey game. Do you fancy meeting up and showing us the the sights or do you need to make up with the misses for leaving her for the previous 4 days ?

Matt, will let you know about the hotel. Could be up for a few beers before we head to Sebring Wednesday morning. Hotel price is not too bad if Martini and i are splitting it.

Is there a Walmart near by that we can drive to for a few essentials.

Also please PM me your full address just in case we decide to get a hotel on spec on arrival. I am guessing you won't mind if we provide your address if customs want to know where we are staying the first night in order to let us travel if they get picky. They aren't to know that we won't be there, but it will keep em happy.

Regards
Chris

Fine by me

Martini...

Ybor City just to NE of downtown Tampa is a fun night out.
The hotel price is very good, for the quality and location. Respectfully, Kissimmee is a shithole full of English people with shaved heads, tattooed necks and football shirts, known locally as 'tourons'. It's got precisely nowt going for it.
There is a Super Wal*Mart 5 miles west of the hotel (intersection of Sand Lake Rd and John Young Pkwy)

Hi Amazing, Matt Dave & Fax are indeed Day Fags .... however having said that they drink more beer in one day/session than the average attendee at Sebring manages all week AND.. they Drink proper Beer, not that watery Coors  light  ;D
Canada Phil

Hey Phil,
Thanks for getting our backs...
Just that Dave, Matt & I have spent sooo many years camped in the most primitive conditions at racing circuts all over fricking world that, at our advanced years, we've earned the right to pass on sleeping in the dirt (which is just what I did at the Petit, thanks guys for not stepping on me in the middle of the night on the way to the pisser)
 :P
Fax

I thought that might stir the soup just a bit.LOL You guys heve earned the right to sleep wherever and whenever you want.As for my choice of beer,Iwill have know that I am in training right now.I have been drinking only imports and micro-brews to build my tolerance up to resemble what it might have been in earlier years.But when it come race week.(you will notice I did not say race weekend),I will be pounding the wimpy sh*t like there no tomorrow.Can not wait  too see Matt,Nikki,Fax,and of coarse Dave H. even it it will only be for Friday night and Sat. ;D ;D ;D

Hey Phil does make an above average attendee?I hope. ;D

I'll be arriving 13th at 18:30 in Orlando with a friend of mine. We're haven't decided yet on RV or compact car/tent. Are any of you interested in sharing an RV? By the way, we'll be returning to Amsterdam the 23rd, so probably you'd have to return the RV yourselves as my friend and I will stay longer than most of you.

Hi Pieter,
              As I tent it I can assure you it is fine however an RV is a lot more comfortable. You are ofcourse welcome at the CA encampment where Pidge will make breakfast every morning. As ICE is readily available the whole electric thing is a non issue.
 Canada Phil

I'll bring some cold ones!