murphythebear.com

Two forty-three

Murphy saw the start time for the American Le Mans Series final race at Laguna Seca – 2:43 pm. What?! That’s not a typo. Two forty-three. So, the Bear went to the Naval Observatory site (he knows such things) and there was a partial rationale, at least: Sunset 6:25 p.m., End civil twilight 6:51 p.m. Remember the “into the dark, or dusk, or whatever” thing is a real complicated matter between the track chiefs, racers, television guys, local residents, and others. Just about everyone has an opinion, including the fans, of course. They’d go for about six hours from two p.m., plus or minus an hour, the Bear thinks. Of course everybody else knows why that’s not a practical idea. Wish they’d tell us why it isn’t, just one time. (more…)

Corvettes Cherry Pick

There’s been much speculation about what Corvette will do in 2008. Take this one to the bank: They’ll only race a full ALMS season if they have credible opposition. That means a good two car team. Aston if they can get it. They won’t get Aston Martin Racing (the one run by George Howard-Chappell) unless ol’ George gets his way about special rules to give his DBR9’s an advantage. That absolutely won’t happen. You could get a privateer who has the cajones to race Astons against the Corvettes according to the ACO rules in place. If not, Corvette will “cherry pick.” Expect to see them at Sebring, Detroit and Petit. Meanwhile, Pratt & Miller (along with Corvette) are evaluating both the top and the bottom rungs of the ACO class structure. You can find advocates for almost anything amongst the ranks at P&M, Corvette, GM, and Chevrolet. Nothing is settled, but options will be in place very soon. Expect, as was the case last season, that the final decision on the 2008 program will be made soon after Laguna. (more…)

Heard by the Alligator at Detroit: Not only will Mazda offer it’s new AER-built turbo four cylinder to privateers, Mazda Speed will offer a complete racing package with the Lola chassis, in both North America and Europe. The package will include spares and support. Bid requests from Mazda will go out soon to potential suppliers. Customer contingency award programs will be offered on both continents. (more…)