As many of you know, last weekend I drove down to Las Vegas to compete in a PRO/AM qualifier. I wanted to get experience on a new track and give myself both a preliminary shot at an invitation to Nationals and a preview of what a Formula D & PRO/AM combined event looks and feels like.
I wasn't prepared for what I would face there.
The 110 degree weather presented me with major overheating problems. On Friday I qualified 3rd despite hitting a 125c temp. We decided the car was in dire need of better cooling for the main event. Forest Wang (the driver who took 1st) sold me a set of dual flex-a-lite cooling fans and my team vented my hood Saturday morning to amp up my cooling system. However, even with the augmentations my car still didn't want to stay cool; I was unable to make any practice runs before going into the tandem elimination rounds.
Compared to my practice runs on Friday, I had much better speeds and lines in my tandem rounds, getting much closer to the wall and keeping my foot planted more firmly. In the end I took 4th place, earning my invitation to the PRO/AM National Championship.
One of the lessons I learned at this event is just how important it is to run a good tire setup! While I kept the same tires on the front of my car, I was severely limited by my rear tires; I've been using old used tires of various types and sizes on the rear. This forces me to learn my tire limits every time I drift, taking away focus and ability. I need to get a tire sponsor so I can start using good, consistent new tires on my car.
Along the way I picked up a new sponsor, K&N Filters, and became aquainted with some of the FD drivers, teams and vendors. We hung out at the pool afterparty at the Aliante and chilled with Joon Maeng, and I put a dollar in a slot machine and won $50! Before heading off for the 1,200 mile return trip we visited the strip, rode the New York, New York rollercoaster and enjoyed some great food at Nine Fine Irishmen. All in all it was a great trip; I learned a lot and had an awesome time.
Now I'm looking hard for sponsors and getting excited for the PRO/AM at FD Round 5 in Washington! I can't wait to drift on my home track and show everyone what I can do when my car isn't going crazy!