Austin set for June 17, 2012

[call_me_andrew]

F1 returns to US for 21-race 2012 season - Yahoo! News (http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20110603/ap_on_sp_au_ra_ne/car_f12012_schedule)

That's just over one year from now, and looking at Austin's weather forcast for this week, the lowest high temperature predicted will be 98°F (37°C). I have a bad feeling about this.

[Kevincal]

my mom's birthday, June 17th. She passed from cancer last year. :( Im a big F1 fan so maybe it means something, I also live in the USA. Lets hope for the best. :)

[steveaki13]

my mom's birthday, June 17th. She passed from cancer last year. :( Im a big F1 fan so maybe it means something, I also live in the USA. Lets hope for the best. :)


Sorry to hear about your mother.

Are you thinking of going to the Grand Prix?

[Mark]

F1 racing in extreme heat isn't unusual so I don't expect any problems there.

[steveaki13]

No Malaysia and Bahrain in the past must have been as hot or hotter.

And in Malaysia you have the extra factor of the humidity.

That should not be an issue.

More of an issue for me is, what will the track layout be like (hopefully not another bore fest of a modern circuit) and also how many people will turn up.

[airshifter]

I'm hoping I can make plans to make it to the race. I'm excited to see F1 returning to the US.

http://www.formula1.com/assets/pdf/F1%20USGP%20BasicTrack%20LayoutwElevation.pdf

[call_me_andrew]

I think the heat will cause people to think twice before showing up. This is how not to grow a product in a new(ish) market.

[Hawkmoon]

I think the heat will cause people to think twice before showing up. This is how not to grow a product in a new(ish) market.

It's not a new, or even newish, market. They've been racing F1 cars in the States on and off for 50 years. It's an apathetic market and that's worse. Your point stands though. People only slightly interested in F1 aren't going to go to a race and swelter in 40 degree heat.

Until there is a top American driver in a top team I doubt F1 will ever take off in the States.

[Kevincal]

Sorry to hear about your mother.

Are you thinking of going to the Grand Prix?

Thank you, its been rough :( im only 29 and she was only 53. cancer. Well I would love to go but I live in California and that would be one really expensive trip! I actually live only 30 minutes from Infineon Raceway, too bad F1 doesnt race there. Nascar does, but obviously their speeds are much lower. But who knows maybe if i have lots of money in some years I will make a nice trip to Austin for F1. :) Especially if the track turns out to be great. I've never been to an F1 race in my life, surely I will have to go before my time is up.

[nigelred5]

We're making plans, but I"ve been to Austin many times in June. barring some extraordinary meteorological event, it will be brain scorching hot.

[nigelred5]

Ask CART fans what happened with crowds when they raced in Monterrey MX. The effect the heat has on the drivers isn't the concern, it's the fans sitting for hours watching the on track events that will break that event. I sure hope they are planning covered grandstands.

[gloomyDAY]

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=209856022386799&set=a.154237887948613.31828.149408615098207&type=1

The grandstands are covered, mercifully!

I hope I don't have to go anywhere due to the Army. I'd love to attend.

[Don Capps]

A rather different view regarding the proposed Formula 1 event in Austin than what makes it way into the world of race fora: Texas as a model for gutting government programs (http://www.niemanwatchdog.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=background.view&backgroundid=00548). One need not agree with the viewpoint that Johnston takes, but it is a point of view that rarely gets much of a mention in places such as this, where such mundane issues are easily dismissed or simply ignored.

[call_me_andrew]

Johnston had a few good points hotels, but made som false analogies reguarding the British Grand Prix (if UK had a monopoly on GP's in western Europe he'd have a point) and the races at Long Beach, Detroit, and Watkins Glen went on without F1 (Indy is a different story).

[steveaki13]

Thank you, its been rough :( im only 29 and she was only 53. cancer. Well I would love to go but I live in California and that would be one really expensive trip! I actually live only 30 minutes from Infineon Raceway, too bad F1 doesnt race there. Nascar does, but obviously their speeds are much lower. But who knows maybe if i have lots of money in some years I will make a nice trip to Austin for F1. :) Especially if the track turns out to be great. I've never been to an F1 race in my life, surely I will have to go before my time is up.

I was lucky enough to go to the British GP in 2007 which wasn't the best race and 2008 which was very wet and a great race.

I would really urge you to go to a race, nothing beats the sounds, sights and smells.

I remember the first session I watched and after watching on TV for years, I thought I had an idea about fast they look, but seeing it live as they went into Copse and Stowe made me realise you have no idea how fast 190mph is until you are standing next to it.

Hope you get to see your first F1 race soon. Either in Austin or if F1 moves elsewhere in USA.

[tstran17_88]

It sure beats the weather in Montreal today! I've been in Texas, but usually in the fall. If it's dry like Vegas or Phoenix in the summer...it shouldn't be an issue. I just don't like the humidity.

[52Paddy]

That track actually looks quite good. There is some extreme elevation changes and a healthy store of potential overtaking opportunities. Best of all, if that facebook link is anything to go by, it's not a typical American street track.

[call_me_andrew]

It was 104°F (40°C) in Austin today. And that was with wind and clouds.

[Tazio]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A8tLbjd7Vo4]VIDEO0031.mp4 - YouTube
A lap of CotA +.
I could really do with a commentary that is not so anoying.
Just made a couple of courtesy holds for lodging. I'm in like Flintstone :up:

[zako85]

A rather different view regarding the proposed Formula 1 event in Austin than what makes it way into the world of race fora: Texas as a model for gutting government programs (http://www.niemanwatchdog.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=background.view&backgroundid=00548). One need not agree with the viewpoint that Johnston takes, but it is a point of view that rarely gets much of a mention in places such as this, where such mundane issues are easily dismissed or simply ignored.

I am familiar with the point of view expressed in the link. However, based on this, every state and country in the world should stop sponsoring high profile sports events such as Olympics or football cups in order to fund its education and social programs.

Overall, the article seems like a biased and misleading piece. The author can't conceal his left-ward bias despite trying to employ elaborate arguments. A lot of strange analogies are in there. For example, he seems to be unhappy that the track construction can costs as much as $22 million per mile and then mentions that building rural roads in a southern state costs no more than $6 million per mile. Excuse me, but how many miles long is a Formula 1 track? 1-2 miles? So this is built at the cost of only about 8 miles of rural roads or less? I would say the that that's not a bad trade-off at all in order to bring a world class sports event here. Strangely, Bernie Ecclestone is referred to as a "British Monopolist" and the event fee as a "monopoly fee". Say what? This is really perplexing. Is this time to call FTC and complain to them about "Formula 1" monopoly? While at it, we could also complain about IndyCar, NASCAR, and NBA monopolies and their monopoly fees.

[truefan72]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A8tLbjd7Vo4]VIDEO0031.mp4 - YouTube
A lap of CotA +.
I could really do with a commentary that is not so anoying.
Just made a couple of courtesy holds for lodging. I'm in like Flintstone :up:

thank you for that

I am planning on going to austin in november

[Tazio]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GxHu_71sU1E

snap

[Tazio]

Meanwhile things are going swimmingly in Austin.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Zn_susU3X4


Due to an overwhelming demand two grandstands have been added to facilitate it.




Here are the locations of the additional grandstands, which CotA says are available now at $285 for 11 and $315 for 9 for all three days.
http://media.ticketmaster.com/tm/en-us/tmimages/venue/maps/dal/44176s_a.gif

Turn 9 and Turn 11 West will be offered as Grandstand bleacher seating. These two extremely unique turns offer outstanding views of Formula 1 racing!

Turn 9 slopes toward Turn 10 (the second highest elevation) and gives an incredible view of the cars as they speed downhill towards Turn 11.

Turn 11 West is the perfect location to spot overtaking cars as they rush down the hill from Turn 10 at speeds of 180 MPH to take the hairpin Turn 11 before accelerating full throttle down the longest straightaway on the track.



Historic Grand Prix, a series that features classic Formula One cars raced by private owners, will be a support race during November’s planned F1 race near Austin, circuit officials said today.

The series is the first support race announced for the weekend of Nov. 16 through 18.

Formula One races generally have several support series as part of a full day of events. Other series are possible during race weekend, circuit spokeswoman Ali Putnam said, though she could not say what else was planned.
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[Tazio]

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[Tazio]

http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-snc6/251807_427607323946641_714058119_n.jpg
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See ya' 'awl boys there


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ffHcGlF0xDw

[Tazio]

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.484051604942723.122831.157330087614878&type=1

https://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-snc6/252725_484051641609386_2141835760_n.jpg

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https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/581054_484051871609363_511564949_n.jpg

[Tazio]

http://www.yallaf1.com/wp-content/gallery/20120621-circuit-of-the-americas-construction/dne1218ju713.jpg

[Tazio]

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/529368_485927164766962_776338713_n.jpg
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[aryan]

Nice pictures, thanks for sharing them here.

[Tazio]

Thanks! The following pics have me slightly perplexed. They have built something that will be the pit lane, that I'm trying to put a name on. Perhaps this is part of a drainage system; however it looks like a keyed footing that is too high up into the terrain, and out of place.


http://photos.gpupdate.net/large/201961.jpg


http://photos.gpupdate.net/large/201947.jpg

[Tazio]

http://photos.gpupdate.net/large/201946.jpg

[Tazio]

“We have experienced incredible demand for reserved grandstand seating tickets, and customers have quickly purchased our available inventory,” Circuit Vice President of Public and Community Relations Julie Loignon said. “As such, we are considering installing more reserved seats between Turns 9 and 10 and between Turns 11 and 12 in place of other types of seating that had been planned for those areas. We will release more information about new grandstand inventory and when additional reserved seats might be available for purchase as soon as possible.
“We continue to see steady sales of personal seat licenses with premium seating and on-site parking at the Circuit,” Loignon added. “We are extremely pleased with how things are going overall, since our public ticket sales began less than a week ago.”
The FORMULA 1 UNITED STATES GRAND PRIX marks the return of the F1™ racing series to the United States for the first time in five years. To purchase three-day tickets to the event, visit Buy your 2012 F1 US Grand Prix tickets now (http://www.cotausgp.com) or call the Ticketmaster hotline at 800.745.3000.

[TheFamousEccles]

Great pics, Doc. Very interesting to see.

[Tazio]

http://c279842.r42.cf1.rackcdn.com/1000_4feb2b4bb1331blogpost3.jpg

[Firstgear]

Thanks! The following pics have me slightly perplexed. They have built something that will be the pit lane, that I'm trying to put a name on. Perhaps this is part of a drainage system; however it looks like a keyed footing that is too high up into the terrain, and out of place.

To me, it looks like it's angling up towards the building. Maybe the toe/base of a grand stand.

[Firstgear]

http://photos.gpupdate.net/large/201946.jpg
That's quite the tyre wall they're building there. :p
Boy those Texans are tough!

[Tazio]

http://photos.gpupdate.net/large/201946.jpg
That's quite the tyre wall they're building there. :p
Boy those Texans are tough! ;)

Usually Free-stack retaining walls have a continuous lap for evenly absorbing pressure. The thing about this southwest motif wall is that it appears to be being built flush to the plumb-sticks effectively creating the type of stress-joints you find in concrete walls. I believe that possibly this wall is built for repair in order to avoid more stringent building codes for the former.

http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-snc7/391205_488107307870486_1190057495_n.jpg

Circuit Of The Americas -rFactor Quick Lap - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2cHCkTRpFQQ)


I have a feeling this course is going to border on the insane as far as judging it from a drivers perspective. Look at the immense technicality of the first corner alone, wide, with different cambers along the road, that alone is a huge setup challenge. Not to mention the abrupt undulations as well as the lack of clearly defined apexes plus elevation changes, in addition to it's high speed nature will definitely push drivers from a mental standpoint. I guess we will see in a few months ;)

[TheFamousEccles]

It looks like a real challenge - I would be very keen to go for a gallop around this track on my 900SS - or just about anything else for that matter... :lips:

[Tazio]

It looks like a real challenge - I would be very keen to go for a gallop around this track on my 900SS - or just about anything else for that matter... :lips:

:up: Freakin' sweet!! I hope it lives up to the hype!

Chill to the smooth latin sounds of CotA :dork:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6oxPjrRdPKc

[Tazio]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=btc7VhvH-A4

:s ailor: Snap, in a Scottish, dykey, (diesel, and fem.) lesbotronic kind of way) :p

[Tazio]

http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/480985_488810127800204_2105489396_n.jpg
http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/399229_488146837866533_1327661893_n.jpg


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wDQANmQO2g0

[jarrambide]

Any time there is a huge event at a city that is not huge (Paris, New York, London), you usually have to suffer with hotels trying to get a big piece of the pie, just ask the fans of Athletic Club Bilbao and Atletico de Madrid trying to book a hotel in Bucharest, and that wasn´t even the Champion´s League.

Unfortunately, hotels in the Austin area and hotels in every town relatively near to Austin are trying to get a huge piece of the pie, prices are 3 or 4 times their usual rate.

If you are attending, I have great news for you, San Antonio is one of the top 5 cities when it comes to receiving tourists in the US, they are so busy thinking about their own tourist activities, that aparently many hotels didn´t pay attention to the Austin GP, I just booked a hotel at the regular rate after 3 hours of looking at hotels and motels in Bastrop, La Grange, Georgetown, etc, etc, etc.

[Tazio]

I booked mine in june through CotA.

Accommodations:
Check-in:
Thursday, November 15, 2012
Check-out:
Monday, November 19, 2012
Rooms:
1
Property Policies:
Check-in Time:
15:00:00
Check-out Time:
11:00:00
Room Description:
Self, DOUBLE BEDS with micro fridge, 32"flat screen tv, free breakfast. Rate based on occupancy of 2 persons per room. Extra adult fee $10.00 (per night, per room) for occupants age 18 and over.
Room Rates Per Night:
Thursday, November 15, 2012:
120.00 (USD)
Friday, November 16, 2012:
120.00 (USD)
Saturday, November 17, 2012:
120.00 (USD)
Sunday, November 18, 2012:
120.00 (USD)
Charges:
Purchase Date:
Monday, June 11, 2012
Room Cost:
480.00 (USD)
Tax Recovery Charges and Service Fees:
72.00 (USD)
Total:
552.00 (USD)


http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=GDA708XlFIo

:s ailor: snap!!

[jarrambide]

Unlike you, I am a procrastinator :( and was about to pay the price, luckily for me, San Antonio came to the rescue, I hope this info will help other procrastinators.

[Tazio]

Unlike you, I am a procrastinator :( and was about to pay the price, luckily for me, San Antonio came to the rescue, I hope this info will help other procrastinators.I hope so too bro, see you there :up:



http://photos.gpupdate.net/large/201991.jpg

http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/168846_488142321200318_736367531_n.jpg




http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7TmgaOzps2M

[Tazio]

Any time there is a huge event at a city that is not huge (Paris, New York, London), you usually have to suffer with hotels trying to get a big piece of the pie, just ask the fans of Athletic Club Bilbao and Atletico de Madrid trying to book a hotel in Bucharest, and that wasn´t even the Champion´s League.

Unfortunately, hotels in the Austin area and hotels in every town relatively near to Austin are trying to get a huge piece of the pie, prices are 3 or 4 times their usual rate.

If you are attending, I have great news for you, San Antonio is one of the top 5 cities when it comes to receiving tourists in the US, they are so busy thinking about their own tourist activities, that aparently many hotels didn´t pay attention to the Austin GP, I just booked a hotel at the regular rate after 3 hours of looking at hotels and motels in Bastrop, La Grange, Georgetown, etc, etc, etc.




FWIW this is who I booked my room through:
PRESS RELEASE: COTA and Hotels for Hope | hotelsforhope.org (http://www.hotelsforhope.org/circuit-of-the-americas-teams-with-hotels-for-hope-to-raise-money-for-central-texas-youth-focused-charities/)

All My Rowdy Friends Are Coming Over Tonight- YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XZyUq9rgLJo)

[Tazio]

CotA has some new construction photos up on their website:

COTA JULY CONSTRUCTION UPDATE | Circuit of The Americas - Home of the F1 US Grand Prix | Nov. 16-18, 2012 | Austin TX- Circuit of the Americas (http://circuitoftheamericas.com/articles/cota-july-construction-update)

[ShiftingGears]

I think the layout is pretty good bar that useless Hockenheim stadium section. A totally pointless addition to an otherwise fast and flowing circuit.

[Tazio]

I think the layout is pretty good bar that useless Hockenheim stadium section. A totally pointless addition to an otherwise fast and flowing circuit.Agreed! They should have at least done something like this IMO

http://oi50.tinypic.com/wswaau.jpg[/quote]

[TheFamousEccles]

Am digging the Soggy Bottom Boys as I write. Excellent movie, and being a guitar player (not guitarist sadly, I'm not that good ;) ) I have had a crack at this 'un. I get the impression your a fan of both types of music, Doc?

[Tazio]

Am digging the Soggy Bottom Boys as I write. Excellent movie, and being a guitar player (not guitarist sadly, I'm not that good ;) ) I have had a crack at this 'un. I get the impression your a fan of both types of music, Doc?

Off topic of course but I will say that both types of music (country, and western) rate about third on my list after Blues, and Rock and Roll. I did have the good fortune of having a close friend that was the Director of Special Events at Caesars Palace comp me into (beside some great boxing matches) some of the best Country, and Western Acts of the late 70's, and early 80's, when I worked there for 5 years. Merle Haggard, Willie Nelson, Hank Jr, CDB, Chrystal Gayle, Waylon Jennings, Ronnie Millsap, and probably a few I've forgotten. The natives in Las Vegas were very country, you might even say Cowboys, and I did gain an appreciation of C&W back then that I never lost. If you noticed my choice in artists, they are quite dated to that period with the exception of The Soggy Bottom Boys. However they are not a real band only the talented musicians put together for (as you have stated a most excellent movie) and modern satirical cinematic take on Homer's "The Odyssey". You might be surprised to know that song in the YouTube "Man of Constant Sorrow" is a traditional folk song that is at least 125 years old and probably much older. Most cool isn't it!! :up: :s mokin:

[Tazio]

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http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HIFxGGRmpoo

[zako85]

For those who will be driving from San Antonio to Austin, I suggest to leave as early as possible. The traffic between San Antonio and Austin can be heavy, probably even more so on weekends. This is not an issue normally, as the vehicles are usually moving fast. However, there is an accident on the road, that could be a major delay. San Antonio's historic downtown and its River Walk are a nice place to spend a few days, and hence the higher tourist flux compared to Austin. Austin's city center, on the other hand, has more of a university town vibe. One big issue is the summer heat. Get ready for daily 100F temperature in the afternoons.

[Tazio]

For those who will be driving from San Antonio to Austin, I suggest to leave as early as possible. The traffic between San Antonio and Austin can be heavy, probably even more so on weekends. This is not an issue normally, as the vehicles are usually moving fast. However, there is an accident on the road, that could be a major delay. San Antonio's historic downtown and its River Walk are a nice place to spend a few days, and hence the higher tourist flux compared to Austin. Austin's city center, on the other hand, has more of a university town vibe. One big issue is the summer heat. Get ready for daily 100F temperature in the afternoons. This is the kind of temperature I'm expecting. You may not know that the event date is changed. I just hope I don't freeze my @ss off:

Temperature


Minimum Temperature

36.0 °F



Mean Temperature

49.9 °F



Maximum Temperature

72.0 °F

[Tazio]

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=508312402516643
:rotflmao:
George Jones - The Race Is On - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ERW8z8Y6MHk)

[A FONDO]

I think the layout is pretty good bar that useless Hockenheim stadium section. A totally pointless addition to an otherwise fast and flowing circuit.

For me the perfect track must consist of all different sections so nobody get an advantage. In order to win you must have a completely balanced car, setup and driver. India's been my fav but looks like Austin's gonna become my new one.

[Knock-on]

Ok, so it's going to happen. Who's going?

[jarrambide]

This is the kind of temperature I'm expecting. You may not know that the event date is changed. I just hope I don't freeze my @ss off:

Temperature


Minimum Temperature

36.0 °F



Mean Temperature

49.9 °F



Maximum Temperature

72.0 °F

You San Diego dwellers are so spoiled, that´s not cold, not nearly close to being cold, because you have perfect weather 80% of the time everything seems hot or cold :D

[Tazio]

You San Diego dwellers are so spoiled, that´s not cold, not nearly close to being cold, because you have perfect weather 80% of the time everything seems hot or cold :D

Dude that's a secret, don't tell anyone ;) But seriously those temperatures are the average temperatures for the 16th.
My comment was meant to suggest that 49F isn't cold, but if it's cooler than the average it could be kind of cold if it's near the lower number (36F). I’m staying there 4 nights and didn't want to pack winter gear. Plus you know how inconvenient it is when you’re used to wearing short pants 365 day a year ;)


@Knockie, Good question. I lucked into high end tickets right at turn one, highest ground on the course. Is anyone else on this forum except going besides jarrambide? :)

[Knock-on]

Well, I will be there. Should be a good party. You'll have to let me know the best bars in Town. I know Houston pretty well but not Austin.

[jarrambide]

Well, I will be there. Should be a good party. You'll have to let me know the best bars in Town. I know Houston pretty well but not Austin.

Austin is pretty much a College town, meaning you will get lots of bars with live music, and unlike Houston, where you can drive at full speed for a whole hour and you are still inside the metro area, Austin is not that big geographically wise.

If you don't mind partying with college students, throw a rock and you will hit at least 2 good bars, if you don't like the "party till you puke" scene, avoid most of the places on 6th street.

If you are into beer, go to the Draught House, you want spiritual drinks and food, go to Peche, you want music, just ask who and where they are playing that weekend, you can find indie groups, rock, blues, jazz, country (obviously), any weekend.

[Knock-on]

Great info. Thanks. The Draught House it is then!

[jarrambide]

Great info. Thanks. The Draught House it is then!

The last time I told someone to go to the Draught House, they ended up going to The Alamo Drafthouse, which has a lot of beers, many home brewed, but I don't think watching a movie and drinking is what you are looking for, so make sure your Texan cab driver understands your non Y'all accent.

If you want to eat before getting there, may I suggest what Austin does good, upscale food trucks, I know, I know, I know, upscale and food trucks should not be together on the same sentence, but I love this new movement that is only in a handful of American cities, (it is just beginning here in Houston), food trucks with great food, not your typical taco stand (I love tacos, but you get my drift).

Since I'm not from Austin, I use this page to choose what 2 or 3 trucks I will try to catch when I'm there:

foodtrailersaustin (http://www.foodtrailersaustin.com/)

My fave truck is Pachamama's, a Peruvian food truck.

You will probably need to check the Twitter accounts of the trucks you want to eat at to see when and where you can find them (some move a lot, some don't)

[Knock-on]

Is there a Fudruckers in Austin? If you're from H do you know the Burlup Barrel just off Westheimer (I think). Redneck bar and a den of depravity. Loved it :)

[jarrambide]

Is there a Fudruckers in Austin? If you're from H do you know the Burlup Barrel just off Westheimer (I think). Redneck bar and a den of depravity. Loved it :)

Austin has one and only one Fuddruckers, it's on South Lamar, I think they have 1 or 2 on the northern suburbs, but on proper Austin, only the one on South Lamar.

I love Fuddruckers, I have 2 very close to my home, but I'm in my Red Robin phase, if you like Fuddruckers, you should give Red Robin a try, Austin has one right on the I-35.

Burlup Barrel?, I know the Burlap Barrel, but that one is almost on the I-10, I suppose for Houston standards it is very close to Westheimer, I don't know about the depravity part, I'm already used to the Texans' ways, which means that maybe I already have a high standard for depravity, they do have fair prices, and lots of things to do, pool, shuffle board, they even have a ping pong table, it is indeed a dive, but dives are very popular in H town.

[Tazio]

http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/556607_520743481285330_109562385_n.jpg

http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/249648_520743514618660_1837562707_n.jpg

http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/260102_520743541285324_1393606332_n.jpg

http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/485798_520743627951982_1939854161_n.jpg

http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/183361_520743674618644_1110902530_n.jpg

[Tazio]

http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/284548_520743687951976_1707040516_n.jpg

http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/564241_520743707951974_1719592094_n.jpg

Sweet Dreams - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b35SkJdDGV4)

[TheFamousEccles]

Looking good! I would love to go, but I am afraid of the consequences from the Minister for Finance aka my beautiful and talented wife.... besides, the ESP are convening at Phillip Is this year and I am a foundation memeber {its a long story :D }.

[gloomyDAY]

Wow! Now I'm getting excited for this race.

One complaint: I just don't like the room for error that this track gives drivers. If a mistake is made at a corner, then they can pull a Kimi-curve and gas out of their problem.

[Tazio]

Here are 85 more pictures:
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=521518127862737&set=a.521518087862741.131985.157330087614878&type=3&theater

[wedge]

Esses! Elevation changes!

According to Rick Parry turn one is the place to be.

[Tazio]

^^^ Check out the first sentence second paragraph of post# 57 :s ailor:
Still no word as to who will be headlining the post-race concert.

[Tazio]

Nice track video riding around the circuit with Tilke engineers:



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kvQV-l8JWJ0


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qxEmry5lRKk&feature=related I'm pretty sure Bubba meant "won" ;) :s tareup:

[Tazio]

Now that it's looking good they want the credit, HAHAHAHAHAHA!!
Tilke disconnected?????
Did you notice that one of them said that they don't know how to build a Football Stadium in Texas.




http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_7U_IkL1sges/S8IKL2Btc0I/AAAAAAAABcg/1qpotLJEHqw/s1600/texas+stadium+9.JPG


http://www.bwduncanville.com/images/CommanFile/EVTCowboy_StadiumCowboys_Stadium_2.jpg


Patsy Cline - Crazy - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K-wJNpWgss8)

[call_me_andrew]

Cowboys Stadium isn't as much a football stadium as it is a monument to Jerry Jones' ego.

[Tazio]

Be that as it may andy, the guy was an all american @Arkasas, on the same team with the Hall of Fame wide receiver for The San Digo Chargers Lance "Bambi" Alworth :)
I don't think it is a coincedene this facility rocks due to minimum input from the Tilke :laugh:
They could go across town and their is the Stadium at The University of Texas at Austin This older Venue seats 120,000. Who's ego is that a monument to, Stephen F. Austin? ;)

http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/474598/dkr.jpg



Willie Nelson - My Heroes Have Always Been Cowboys - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DvSpVz2hLkw)

[Tazio]

There have been a flurry of releases in the last 24 hours reporting artists playing at different venues and at different times during the week, including Willie Nelson, Asleep at the Wheel, Aerosmith & Cheap Trick Friday at the Frank Erwin Center, Ghostland Observatory, Flo Rida, Juanes, Lupe Fiasco, & the Wailers. The Wallflowers will play the “Official After Party” at the BobBullock Texas State History Museum.

Austin sports news and Longhorns | Statesman.com (http://www.statesman.com/blogs/content/shared-gen/blogs/austin/racing/entries/2012/09/19/_rapper_flo_rida_latin.html)

[gloomyDAY]

Doesn't anyone have the fookin' directions to get to the actual circuit?!

[Tazio]

Actual parking at the circuit it limited and only certain packages include onsite parking. ;)
Shuttles will be running full time from Austin, and that may be why the directions are not readily available. Could be wrong though.

[Tazio]

Actual parking at the circuit it limited and only certain packages include onsite parking. ;)
Shuttles will be running full time from Austin, and that may be why the directions are not readily available. Could be wrong though.Here is more info on parking, and the park and ride option.
There are a limited number of on site parking passes left for $200.00
Two Ways to Get to the Track in November (http://us2.campaign-archive2.com/?u=42033ee992adfbf528d5855f5&id=1c4851cbde&e=0b18e4db26)

[kfzmeister]

Another good link i saw today:

Transportation | Circuit of The Americas - Home of the Formula 1 US Grand Prix | Nov. 16-18, 2012 | Austin TX (http://circuitoftheamericas.com/transportation)

[gloomyDAY]

Here is more info on parking, and the park and ride option.
There are a limited number of on site parking passes left for $200.00
Two Ways to Get to the Track in November (http://us2.campaign-archive2.com/?u=42033ee992adfbf528d5855f5&id=1c4851cbde&e=0b18e4db26)Yeah, you're right. Thanks bro.

[Tazio]

FIA technical delegate Charlie Whiting returns to inspect Circuit of the Americas this week...
F1: FIA's Whiting In Austin For COTA Inspection (http://formula-one.speedtv.com/article/f1-fias-charlie-whiting-in-austin-for-cota-inspection/)


Circuit of The Americas hits another major milestone in its construction process with the completion of the third and final layer of pavement around the 3.4-mile course!......

Dr. Hart who works closely with Tilke as a consultant, has paved most of the F1 circuits around the world and his knowledge and expertise was crucial to the overall success of this project. The last minutes of the paving process were crucial and Hart was actively involved with Austin Commercial technicians to make sure the surface was even and the joints of pavement on top of Turn 1 were up to the highest standard.

Tilke engineers Oliver Liedgens and Frank Both were supervising the paving process. After completion, both were smiling from ear to ear. “When we came to Austin a little over 2 years ago, we came to the site for the first time and all we saw was mud and trees,”Liedgens and Both said.“It was really hard to imagine that a track would sit on this piece of land and the only source of imagery that we had was a couple of renders. Today is the first time we get to see the final product and this makes us very happy.”

The paving process at COTA took a little over 4 months. Each layer was specifically designed to meet FIA standards and to support local weather conditions. The first layer, or “base course,” is meant to support the vertical forces of the cars. The second layer, or “binder course,” is designed to support the horizontal forces of the cars during acceleration and breaking. The final layer, or “wearing course,” is meant to provide grip at high speeds.
COTA COMPLETES TRACK PAVEMENT WITH SUCCESS | Circuit of The Americas - Home of the Formula 1 US Grand Prix | Nov. 16-18, 2012 | Austin TX (http://circuitoftheamericas.com/articles/cota-completes-track-pavement-with-success)


"We go around parts of Asia, South America and Europe - one could plonk a grand prix down and there's a natural fanbase. It's been easy for us and I think we've taken it too easy.

"Whereas in America, they have lots of great sports they've got lots of entertainment opportunities other than Formula One.

"I think it's important to remember that America's important to us but America doesn't need us," Whitmarsh said.

"And therefore we've got to go there with the appropriate humility recognising that we haven't done the greatest job for Formula One there in the past, for a host of different reasons that we know of, from the tyre fiasco in Indianapolis and the venues we've been to, the inconsistency.

"I think we've got to go there now and have a proper five-year programme which is concentrating on getting people enthused about it."

Button said Austin was a good place for F1 to attempt to get a foothold.

"Having it in Austin is great because it's a very young city and that's what we need, to get young fans into the sport," Button said. "That's the way to grow the sport in the States and hopefully we will do that,"
Whitmarsh warning for US | Sporting Life - F1 News | Italian Grand Prix, Jenson Button, Lewis Hamilton (http://www.sportinglife.com/formula1/news/article/669/8108602/whitmarsh-warning-for-us)
Wise words from Whitmarsh.

[Tazio]

The virtual lap of the Hermann Tilke-designed track, which draws inspiration from circuits including Silverstone and Istanbul Park, suggested drivers were in for a challenging lap and the FIA chief agrees that there certainly are a handful of clear overtaking places – while the uphill run to the turn one left-hander certainly caught his eye.

“There are 3-4 corners that are very likely to see overtaking,” he said. “If you look at Turn 1, you’ll see that the turns have been designed so that they’re extremely wide and the apex is very short. It’s a very modern approach to slow corners where we hope overtaking will take place. So I’m very confident it will work well.

“Turn 1 is awesome! It’s the only word I can think of to describe it, and I think drivers and teams coming here for the first time will say the same thing.”
Whiting hails (http://www.jamesallenonf1.com/2012/09/whiting-hails-fantastic-circuit-of-the-americas-as-venue-gets-green-light-for-race/)

[Knock-on]

Hey Mr A. What size T shirt are you. I'm back in the UK for a week and will get it ready :p

[Tazio]

Men’s Large! It will be an honor to wear a T’ of that great competitor as long as it doesn't include any disparaging comments on it. I look forward to being an ambassador of good will to Britt’s visiting the great state of Texas, as least the women :)
One more thing; I think a white field would be nice as it will compliment a tan ;)

[Knock-on]

A disparaging remark on it???

What would be the point of it otherwise ;)

[Tazio]

I would just hate to see you go through all that trouble for nothing.
Maybe you should go back and check what I agreed to (A T' with Jenson's "grill" on it, or the royal family) any editorial comments will be subject to a right of refusal. :angel:

[Tazio]

Mario Andretti, and Jerome D'Ambrosio takes laps of CotA. The audio kinda' really sucks :(

Circuit of the Americas First Lap - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S5gLoxNE7ms&feature=player_embedded)

EDIT: I almost forgot, my package includes a lap in this bad boy VVV :s mokin:

http://img.gawkerassets.com/img/182vlt2mdgys6jpg/xlarge.jpg

[Tazio]

MORE PICS OF OPENING DAY AT CotA
http://img.gawkerassets.com/img/182vlxod72uzfjpg/xlarge.jpg

http://img.gawkerassets.com/img/182vlogw0n9ztjpg/xlarge.jpg

http://img.gawkerassets.com/img/182vltw7vatq5jpg/xlarge.jpg

http://img.gawkerassets.com/img/182vlvdhutmuojpg/xlarge.jpg

http://img.gawkerassets.com/img/182vlw543d5nvjpg/xlarge.jpg

[Tazio]

http://img.gawkerassets.com/img/182vm1ck8g518jpg/xlarge.jpg

http://img.gawkerassets.com/img/182vm456r7zc5jpg/xlarge.jpg

http://img.gawkerassets.com/img/182vm9els2bpojpg/xlarge.jpg

http://img.gawkerassets.com/img/182vml0w7gjmkjpg/xlarge.jpg

https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-snc7/293884_426205074108998_1584795800_n.jpg

[Tazio]

https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/553702_538740069473876_1016821627_n.jpg

https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/426259_538740349473848_1583125776_n.jpg

https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/598900_538740449473838_41120625_n.jpg

https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-snc6/281442_538740949473788_182822246_n.jpg

[Tazio]

https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/522888_538739822807234_1011046934_n.jpg

https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/315696_538739699473913_2060430396_n.jpg

https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/59835_538739776140572_1031524938_n.jpg

https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/644731_538739866140563_841997222_n.jpg

https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-snc6/185052_538739419473941_681310144_n.jpg

[The Black Knight]

First lap in an F1 car of COTA: Watch the first lap at the Circuit of the Americas | United States Grand Prix | Formula 1 news, live F1 | ESPN F1 (http://en.espnf1.com/usa/motorsport/story/92506.html)

[Malbec]

First lap in an F1 car of COTA: Watch the first lap at the Circuit of the Americas | United States Grand Prix | Formula 1 news, live F1 | ESPN F1 (http://en.espnf1.com/usa/motorsport/story/92506.html)

Clearly the Americans have no respect for F1 heritage, don't they realise its traditional for new tracks to finish construction in a blind panic only days before FP1? What is it with this finishing off the circuit with weeks to spare, sitting round twiddling thumbs nonsense!

Looks like a good track, to all those going to see the race have fun!

[Tazio]

Not to worry, as you can see from the image below there is still work to be done, and I expect that it will take right up to the race for viewing and concession facilities to be completed. ;)

https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/522888_538739822807234_1011046934_n.jpg

[Tazio]

http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk110/jraymond91vette/2012Schedule_zps4301be6d.jpg

[kfzmeister]

http://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/579376_4094254076337_617411801_n.jpg

[kfzmeister]

http://img.gawkerassets.com/img/182vlt2mdgys6jpg/xlarge.jpg

Will Batman himself pilot that thing?? Lol. I bet that will be awesome.

[Tazio]

Will Batman himself pilot that thing?? Lol. I bet that will be awesome.The ride is actually at a place called "The Driveway at Austin" which is supposed to be a pretty nice facility.
Here is more info:


Circuit of The Americas and Pirelli will also host the Formula GP Experience, the only Formula One™ riding experience for fans in North America. This will serve as the ultimate in F1 experiences and will allow racing fans to ride alongside an F1™ driver inside a modified 3-seater F1 race car. Only four of these cars exist in the world, two of which will be used in Austin, Texas, at the Driveway Austin during race weekend in November.

The cars allow ardent fans the chance to experience what it’s like to be an F1 driver. The cars go from 0 to 60 miles per hour in only 1.8 seconds, and they reach top speeds of more than 220 miles per hour. Customers can expect an exciting, safe experience as they ride along with some of the most experienced drivers in the world. Formula GP Experience drivers include Derek Hill, F3000 driver and son of Phil Hill, the first US F1™ world Champion; former Indy Car Driver Eric Bachelart; current Red Bull F1 Driver Jaime Alguersuari; and former F1 drivers Paul Belmondo, Eric Van De Poele, and Tiago Monteiro
I'm just glad that list doesn't include Takuma Sato :uhoh: It should be an exciting ride, I'm hoping not to soil myself! :p :

[steveaki13]

Great pics and details Taz. Thanks alot.

[Tazio]

No Santander trademark trophy for Austin :dozey:

https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/c0.109.843.403/p843x403/374055_546077318751946_642938760_n.jpg

[Tazio]

More pics, and a video...see ya''awl boys there :)
Jared Tennant Photography | CoTA (http://www.jtpics.com/cota)

[donKey jote]

not awl I'm afraid :(

have a great one :beer: :up:

give billy a :kiss: from his missus :p

[Tazio]

not awl I'm afraid :(

have a great one

give billy a :kiss: from his missus :p OK I'll have a grid girl lay one on him from her!
BTW I'm the one that taught his missus how to chirp in the key of yodel :dork: :p :

[Tazio]

I just took my tickets for a tour around my back yard :dork:

http://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/s320x320/18090_368931806528599_4763986_n.jpg

http://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/s320x320/552432_368935003194946_1913858846_n.jpg


http://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-snc7/s320x320/387935_368935066528273_880958976_n.jpg

http://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/s320x320/304435_368935099861603_1613647385_n.jpg

[gloomyDAY]

I just took my tickets for a tour around my back yardDon't get any of those Southern belles pregnant!! :laugh:


I'm sorry I couldn't go with you.

[Tazio]

Don't get any of those Southern belles pregnant!! :laugh:


I'm sorry I couldn't go with you.

We'll always have that dive pub in the Gaslamp District where we saw "The Boss" narrowly edge out Felipe for the WDC!......................Bro's for life bro :cool:

[Tazio]

Gear starting to arrive in Austin.

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.548585651834446.149302.219399881419693&type=1

[Bagwan]

Are ya excited at all , Taz ? Hee hee .

I wish I could be there with ya , man .
I was there at Indy the first time F1 came there , using the V10 alarm clock in the Redneck alley camping area across the blvd .

Now , granted , this isn't set in the hallowed halls of Indy , a place with a pretty ingrained Bubba flavour , but you should still have fun seeing the wonder in eyes watching the sport for the first time .
It was a real culture shock for some , and the sheer excitement of it being the first event at a brand-new facility made the observation of the people attending a close second to the race , itself .

I hope you've got lot of memory capacity in the camera you're taking .

Have huge fun , and don't stop the reporting about the event .
We're relying on you , as our roving reporter , to actively seek out the dirt in the paddock .

We want to see the long lens shots of the furrowed brows on the faces of team principles , and the secret spy shots of rubber noses and such .
We're counting on you to have a quiet word with Jaime(one of the batman car drivers)about whether he thinks jumping out of the way of the finger moved him up the ladder .
We want you to ask about how Mark stole the fuel out of the other car without anyone noticing .

And , of course , we need you to talk some sense into Bernie .

Have huge , large , fast fun .

[Tazio]

LoL, I told billybob that we may be able to coerce our driver into taking that three seater as fast as they are allowed to if we convince them that we are fearless in these matters. In his typical low key Texas drawl he responded that it shouldn't be a problem if we get Jaime Alguersuari by saying "Jaime only last year you had an F1 seat, now you’re a taxi driver”? :p :
As for being your on site reporter, I wouldn't hold my breath. I'm not even bringing a laptop with me, and I don't believe in hand held internet devices. As far as sending back images my head hurts from reading the PDF of instructions for my camera, and so far have not taken pics in anything other than auto mode, let alone shutter bursts and HD video. TBH I wouldn't expect too much info while I'm at the event, but I'm sure I will find some time to send some thing’s if they are really juicy. Thanks for your kind words I think it should be a real kick in the pants. :up:

[Bagwan]

"I don't believe in hand held internet devices" .

You aint foolin' me with that Luddite stuff .
I can't even post a damn picture , and you've got that down cold .

I take it ol' Billybob don't cotton to no bein' hand-held either ?

Just the juicy stuff , man .
Have a big ol' time .

[Tazio]

Actually he is a very successful Dallas attorney and among others represented Manny Pacquiao in a law suit. He is bringing a laptop a couple cameras and other sundry items. I would be surprised if he doesn't have a hand held. I just want to enjoy the event much more than keeping a running journal of it. I don’t enjoy that type of multi-tasking.


Manny Pacquiao has asked a Texas court to dismiss a lawsuit filed against him by a Mexican American promoter, Edmundo Lozano or Imperial Ed Promotions in Texas.

The lawsuit seeks damages over $1.8 million for a breach of contract. Lozano claimed Pacquiao failed to appear in various events in McAllen, Texas in September.

Lozano claimed that he had advanced Pacquiao the amount of $100,000. In response to this lawsuit, a Texas court then issued a restraining order on the $1.5 million of Pacquiao’s winnings from his most recent fight against Antonio Margarito on November 13.

Pacquiao’s Defense attorney, Xxx Xxxxxx said the restraining order has expired. He spoke to Balitang America via phone to give further details. Watch the video to hear more of what he said.
Surprise surprise surprise :s tareup: :idea: :s mokin:

[kfzmeister]

Panoramic view of track from observation tower.
F1 Observation Tower - Photosynth (http://photosynth.net/view.aspx?cid=68ff56e0-8419-4102-a339-499fd2d0d868)

[IceWizard]

Panoramic view of track from observation tower.
F1 Observation Tower - Photosynth (http://photosynth.net/view.aspx?cid=68ff56e0-8419-4102-a339-499fd2d0d868)
Great to see the track and F1 going back to the States. The circuit looks a lot more interesting that some of the other Tilkedromes. Hopefully the racing will match it.

[Tazio]

An interesting read:


Is Sunday's F1 race weird enough for Austin, Texas?

AUSTIN, Texas (Reuters) - As the Texas capital prepares to host the first Grand Prix in the United States in five years, some in laid-back Austin say this weekend's glamorous race clashes with the city's soul.

In this environmentally-conscious college town of 800,000, where the bumper stickers say "Keep Austin Weird" and there are no professional sports teams, there is widespread opposition to the Formula One race.

Some skeptics have come around, embracing the race and the sleek parties that come with it, while others are still shaking their heads over fears of clogged streets, noisy helicopter traffic and a negative impact on the environment, all for a ritzy event they say is simply un-Austin.

"For a lot of us longtime Austinites, Formula One is hard to swallow," City Council Member Chris Riley wrote in the Austin American-Statesman last year. "We're not that big on fast cars; we're more into hybrids, electric vehicles, bikes and public transit."

Since then, Riley has warmed to the idea, mostly because the city and Circuit of the Americas signed an environmental agreement that calls for purchasing carbon offsets, limiting traffic, providing access for cyclists, planting trees, recycling and composting, and allowing electric vehicle research at the track.

The City Council's support of the project was needed to qualify the event for $25 million in state subsidies that race officials can seek after it happens.
Is Sunday's F1 race weird enough for Austin, Texas? | Sports | Reuters (http://ca.reuters.com/article/sportsNews/idCABRE8AB13J20121112?rpc=401&feedType=RSS&feedName=sportsNews&rpc=401&pageNumber=2&virtualBrandChannel=0)

[Knock-on]

If they want weird, they haven't met me yet :D

Oh well, get the beers on Ice and I'll be there Wednesday. Leave some of those young Ladies for me mate!!

:)

[kfzmeister]

If they want weird, they haven't met me yet :D

Oh well, get the beers on Ice and I'll be there Wednesday. Leave some of those young Ladies for me mate!!

:)

I'm bringing my bike. Planning on parking somewhere near downtown and riding my bike to the track. Should get darn close and free shuttle the rest of the way. That's my green contribution. Hope to make it by FP2 on Friday. Have around 900 miles to drive after work Thursday....Catch you fellas at the track.

[zako85]

Have around 900 miles to drive after work Thursday....

Wow.. That's 11 hours with the average speed of 72mph. Not that it is not doable, but this will be a long day/night.

[Tazio]

I'm bringing my bike. Planning on parking somewhere near downtown and riding my bike to the track. Should get darn close and free shuttle the rest of the way. That's my green contribution. Hope to make it by FP2 on Friday. Have around 900 miles to drive after work Thursday....Catch you fellas at the track.
That's a big 10-4 good buddy. :)