If anyone is interested, the SCCA SC Region is having an autocross event at the Michelin test facility in Laurens, SC (near Greenville) on April 18th. If anyone is interested, this is a great location, it is completely flat, with no light poles or curbs so it is very safe. Information on the event can be found at the following link. Best wishes, Andy

http://www.scsportscar.com/blacklake

 

I'm considering coming down to take pictures if possible. Do you know any rules about spectators or photographers going? I can't find any information on the website. I'm new to this, (and MINIs), I'd just like to watch and see what its all about, then join and start in the novice class after I get better at driving manual.

 

If I wasnt' going to be outta town, I'd have a hard time deciding which event to go to. Hot Springs or this.

I went last year, in the fall. Very entertaining and semi-educational too.

I don't think you will have any issues with taking pics. I had my camera out for a little bit and there were others doing the same. Very laid back event, but pay attention to everything when the cars start moving.

Also, a word to the people that are not going to be staying all day. The parking is not the greatest. You have to park among the participants. It is a one-way circuit (no exceptions) and the approach road is kinda long. So, if you want to leave, you must plan ahead. Move your car to the "exit area" and wait till the "heat" is over. They only allow exiting cars after the runs have finished. Oh, yeah, take a chair. And, if it's sunny, a hat. You'll thank me later.

 

I'll be there as usual.

They do have a place for some good pictures, just look for the baricades. Probably have to have a safety steward walk you over to it in the middle of runs but there were people there taking pics the last 2 events.

 

There is that place to the left of the course that has the deck that is elevated slightly above the course that should be excellent for pics...

 

Yep, that's the place I was trying to describe

 

Awesome! I'll definitely be there. Picking up a friend from Lander on the way and we'll both be out there with Nikons. Also convoying with wbarnhill from UpstateMINIs in Greenwood and he will be coming to shoot too.

I'll have links to the photo sets for free downloads to anyone who wants them. If you're racing, better have your ride nice and shiney .

 

Come by and say hi, I'm #21 DSP.

 

Also come by and say hello to me, I will be in #61 Tire GS. You are also welcome to do a ride along if you want to check it out.

Per from Mini of Charleston is registered in Pro class, top notch driver. Red 2005 or 6 Cooper S.

Regarding the pictures, if you talk to the safety steward, he might let you go to one of the worker stations if you have a spotter. Every region is different on this but you can talk to them about it. The primary concern is being safe!

Here is a picture of Per at a previous event. Notice the size of the front tires on the stock wheels!

 

Don't forget me, 66 DSP. I'll echo that Per is a very good SOLO driver. Hope to see you guys in the morning.

 

Ha I just wrote down all the numbers so I can try to find you guys. A ride along would be sweet, I'll have a helmet with me. I'll make sure to get extra shots of you guys.

 

http://www.flickr.com/photos/thomasw...7616979511515/
There's all the good shots from the day. Feel free to download them and post up wherever as long as its for personal use, I threw my website on them in exchange .

I had a blast watching, next time I will be driving.

 

Thanks for the pics!

 

Thanks for the pictures! I love the location and course but did very bad Saturday! I should have put the Falken Azenis on the car!

 

how did Per Olaf do? He has been in our club for awhile, don t know if he is member now or not, did see him and daughter at Lowes AUTOFAIR back 1st of April.

 

Per had some trouble and finished 9th. He is normally in the top 5 at least!

http://www.flickr.com/photos/thomasw...7616979511515/ He is very sideways in this photo!

Per's daughter didn't come down but has gone to a few events.