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Mini Thunder at Thunderhill Raceway Park

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  #1  
Old 09-21-2009, 08:29 PM
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Mini Thunder at Thunderhill Raceway Park

Redwood Empire Mini Enthusiasts
In conjunction with Thunderhill Raceway Park

Presents

The 1st Annual

"MINI Thunder”

Monday Feb. 14-15, 2010

Come join us for the Valentine’s & Presidents Day weekend

Starting with Sunday afternoon/evening at the Colusa Resort Casino for a Car show with prizes, lounging about the pool, gaming, romantic dinner for 2, fun & dancing and a special MINI package price. Valet for all your gear for track day. They even offer a shuttle for “sleepy heads” – with no vehicle to the track on Monday.

Then it’s off to Thunderhill Raceway Park on Monday for a MINI & Friends day at the track. This special package includes day long track time in four race groups, lunch, event T-Shirts, lunchtime parade laps, Coaching and Demo Rides, Raffles & prizes, beverages throughout the day, “The Newlywed Game”, vendor village, and lots more fun.

Track day special group price of $175.00 per car or $250.00 for shared cars (2 different run groups)

There will be plenty of fun and activities for those that do not wish to track their Minis, including parade laps and Demo laps BUT more fun for those that do.

The perfect Christmas Gift for your spouse that you can enjoy as well.

More details and registration forms to be posted shortly. In the meantime email me with any questions: norm@redwoodempiremini.com

www.redwoodempiremini.com
www.thunderhill.com
www.colusacasino.com


Thunderhill Raceway Park, Willows CA.

The Thunderhill Raceway Track is owned, designed and built by the San Francisco Region of SCCA (Sports Car Club of America). “Designed by enthusiasts – for enthusiasts”. This 15 turn – 3 mile – 36 foot wide twisting and challenging road circuit is built to FIA Standards with generous safe run-off areas and hosts some great elevation changes combined with “off camber” turns and a long front straight guaranteed to whiten your knuckles before turn one.

With prime spectator areas, professional food services, air-conditioned Activity Center, overnight camping, race fuel and high octane gas pumps, emergency vehicles, tow trucks, an on-site medical facilities, restrooms, showers and a playground area for your kids, and even an ATM machine, Thunderhill Raceway Park has something to offer every motoring enthusiast.

So whether you are a first timer or a veteran professional race driver, MINI Thunder will offer you the track time, coaching, and opportunity to enjoy the day, sharpen your driving skills, and “bond” with your Mini.

Even is you don’t want to take your Mini on the track, please some out and join us, experience the track, socialize with fellow Mini owners.

Colusa Resort & Casino

Whether you're here for the thrill of playing your favorite games, the excitement of live entertainment, the pleasure of dining on delicious food, a relaxing session in our Spa and Fitness Center, or the adventure of outdoor recreation, Colusa Casino Resort has something for everyone.

As a guest in the hotel you can choose from luxurious standard rooms or deluxe suites loaded with extra creature comforts, and when you're ready to start winning, all you have to do is stroll down to the non-stop gaming action on the casino floor.

If you're looking to enjoy a mouth-watering meal in a casual, family-friendly, yet elegant atmosphere, it doesn't get any better than Wintun Dinnerhouse. Their friendly staff takes great pride in ensuring your satisfaction. The non-smoking bar is a great place to meet friends and the diverse menu is sure to satisfy every appetite. Wintun Dinnerhouse offers plenty of palate-pleasing choices; from tantalizing appetizers and juicy steaks to specialty desserts, as well as a vast wine and liquor selection.

The renowned culinary staff at Wintun Dinnerhouse prepares their signature menu items with only fresh, locally grown ingredients, guaranteeing you an unforgettable meal every time you visit.
 
  #2  
Old 09-23-2009, 07:01 PM
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Wow, what a great sounding event! I was just at Thunderhill with Hooked on Driving last Saturday, running behind a lot of horsepower including a couple of GTR's, a Lambo, an R8, and assorted Ferraris, Porsches, and Vettes - all this in B group - so it will be great to run with other Minis. HOD is a top notch program - even at their rate of $275 I think it's worth it - so $175 or $250 for two is an absolute bargain!

Some questions:

Open to non-members?
Option for the track day only?
Tech inspection requirements?
How many cars per run group?

Looking forward to further details
 
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Old 09-24-2009, 05:51 AM
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Originally Posted by hohod
Some questions:

Open to non-members?
Option for the track day only?
Tech inspection requirements?
How many cars per run group?

Looking forward to further details
^^Seconded. Inquiring minds want to know.
 
  #4  
Old 09-24-2009, 07:56 AM
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Open to non-members? Yes, Any & ALL MINI/Minis from any club or with no club affiliation. Does not matter.

Option for the track day only? Yes, you can do just track time.

Tech inspection requirements? To be posted, but these will be the "normal" requirements.

How many cars per run group? We currently have the day set for four groups, but many increase to five if necessary. So figure that we will have approx. 20+ cars per group. Obviously this will need to be evaluated and adjusted as we get the numbers for first timers, intermediates, advanced, etc.
 
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Old 09-24-2009, 08:41 AM
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Originally Posted by mini pooper
Tech inspection requirements? To be posted, but these will be the "normal" requirements.
"normal" with HOD is a self inspection (no cost). Others (like NASA) require inspection at designated garages which adds cost.
 
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Old 09-24-2009, 08:53 AM
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Sorry - The tech inspection will be a self tech inspection No Cost!
 
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Old 09-24-2009, 09:06 AM
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Cool, you can bet on me being there for sure.
 
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Old 09-24-2009, 10:53 AM
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Way cool, count me in for the track day for sure! Hey, if you get enough interest, can you organize a pulley party for the R53's out there? I'd sign up for that too.
 
  #9  
Old 09-24-2009, 12:33 PM
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Here are the registration forms. SO have at it.

In addition here is a "bonus".

The members of Redwood Empire Mini Enthusiasts and all MINI/Minis have been invited to attend the San Francisco Region "Willows Grand Prix" on the weekend of Oct 24-25, 2009. This is the Championship Points Finale. Our MINIs will be the featured "Marque Car" for the event with Minis Only Corral parking, group tours of the entire Thunderhill facility, parade laps on track at lunch...ALL for FREE!!!!!

If you decide to take your Mini on track you will need to be wearing long pants and close toed shoes. We will be driving at reduced speeds so no helmets are required.

Do to the RDC 4 hour enduro schedule on Sunday, we will be doing our parade laps on Saturday (10/24) at lunch.

We will also have access to the newly constructed grandstands at turn 2 with a great view of the track. So plan to bring a snack lunch and enjoy the day. The Thunderhill Grill will also be open if you get hungry or thirsty.
This weekend will also feature the RDC (Racing Drivers Club) Ilgen 4-Hour Enduro Race as well.

Here is a link to the even webpage. http://www.sfrscca.org/component/option,com_easycalendar/task,view/id,108/Itemid,1/cid,22/

Please sign up on REME RSVP or email me at norm@redwoodempiremini.com soon so we can get a Mini count for the corral and to plan parade laps.
 
Attached Files
File Type: pdf
MINI THUNDERregform.pdf (389.7 KB, 95 views)

Last edited by mini pooper; 09-24-2009 at 01:11 PM.
  #10  
Old 09-27-2009, 05:31 PM
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Application w/payment is in the mail. But got a question regarding helmets. Is a SA2000 still a viable helmet or do we have to go with SA2005? Still have my old Pyrotect open face but its SA2000 rated.
 
  #11  
Old 09-27-2009, 10:04 PM
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SA2000 was fine as of a couple weeks ago, but I'm not sure if that will hold next year. Better check closer to the event.
 
  #12  
Old 09-27-2009, 10:11 PM
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lol..Just had a brain fart. Was thinking that I didn't want to buy a SA2005 since the SA2010 will be coming out in a few years so didn't want to spend the money on something that'll be outdated in a few years. You just reminded me that it is gonna be 2010 next year. Doh. Okay, nvm then. Good excuse to buy a new helmet.
 
  #13  
Old 09-28-2009, 07:22 PM
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Here's a little promo video I put together as a teaser.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nYw2vB9k70o
 
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Old 09-28-2009, 09:09 PM
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Well, looks like I may have to buy a SA2005 helmet after all if my SA2000 helmet isn't good by the time the event happens. After doing a bit of research, the SA2010 helmets aren't being officially sold till Oct 1, 2010 eventhough the MA2010s will be sold starting Oct 1, 2009?!?! Geez.
 
  #15  
Old 10-06-2009, 07:25 AM
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Just to let you know Thunderhill will not be depositing checks or running credit cards for MINI Thunder until early Feb. 2010, so you can go ahead and register and send in payment that will not be processed until then.

This could make a very nice Christmas Gift &/or Valentines Day Gift or both.

I understand that the Colusa Resort Casino does not charge your credit card until you arrive so that doesn't cost you until then. I will try to have the hotel and dinner package information us shortly.
 
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Old 11-23-2009, 09:50 AM
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Wondering what to get for Christmas for that someone special (or yourself)? Don't forget MINI Thunder. It's a great price for a day on the track and you can combine with a Valentines Day dinner at Colusa Resort Casino.

http://redwoodempiremini.com/images/Thunderhill/MINI%20THUNDERregfo...
 
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Old 12-08-2009, 10:33 AM
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Gift Ideas???

How about a registration to MINI Thunder. Just what every Mini enthusiast wants. Great price, easy to wrap, no shipping required, plenty of accessories to go with it. Put a smile on that someone special and get them a day at Thunderhill Raceway Park.

And for those that have spouses that don't want to do a track day...How about MINI Thunder Valentines Day at Colusa Resort Casino...

Make this a weekend package
 
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Old 12-14-2009, 10:26 AM
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There are helmets available for rent at Thuderhill. They are $30 ea for rental.

You will need a SA2000 or SA2005 rated helmet. The "A" is for automobile. You CAN NOT use a M (Motorcycle) rated helmet. It is not covered under insurance.

Hopefully no one will need to use or test their helmets, BUT remember that this is a safety item to protect YOU!!!!!

New helmet ratings will not be coming out until Oct 2010. If I were going to buy a helmet I would buy a SA2005 which MAY still be acceptable after Oct 2010.

Here are some links to helmets for sale:

http://www.soloracer.com/pyroopenfacesa.html
http://www.hptmotorsports.com/pyrote..._rated__open_f...
http://www.soloracer.com/ridgeline.html
http://www.apexperformance.net/CartG...t.asp?scat=274
 
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Old 01-11-2010, 08:54 PM
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Any special rates for the Colusa Casino as far as rooms are concerned?

Also is there a form to register for just the car show portion?
 
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Old 01-12-2010, 04:40 PM
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BigPDub

If you wish to stay at the Casino and NOT attend the Valentines dinner, you can get a rate of near $100 (not sure the exact price).

No forms for the car show. Just show up around noon and we will have an area set up.

Here's a little video we shot this past Sunday:
MiniThunder Adrenilin http://youtu.be/4wNayqhwwZc?a
 
  #21  
Old 01-15-2010, 11:14 AM
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There are some that maybe reluctant to enter their MINI/Mini in a HPDE (High Performance Driving Event) so we just wanted to extend a welcome to all MINI/Minis to come out to Thunderhill - Free of charge - You will be able to roam the paddock area, hike around much for the track, and time permitting, have parade laps or a ride along with an instructor during the lunch hour. This will enable you to "get your toes wet" without making a commitment.

Lunch will be offered at $15. You will need to sign in as you enter the gate. You will not need helmets for the parade laps as these will be at 40-50 mph.

I will be posting updated information about MINI Thunder over the weekend.
 
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Old 01-16-2010, 02:43 PM
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MINI Thunder Update:. Jan 16, 2010

MINI Thunder – Thunderhill Raceway Park, Willows, CA Feb 14-15, 2010

Remember that Sunday Feb 14 is Valentines Day and activities will be at Colusa Casino including the Mini carshow, romantic dinner with champagne and roses.

Feb 15 (Presidents Day) is track dat at Thunderhill

Neillo MINI will be offering FREE tech inspections for all participating Minis.
They will be bringing 3 new MINIs up for display, also will probably have a technician on hand with oil, coolant, torque wrench.

Big O Tires will have a crew there to provide tire & wheel services, checking tire pressures and torque of lug nuts.

Mini Mania will be bringing a trailer full of emergency spares, just in case something breaks. Hoses, belts, trans fluid, oil, etc. They will also be providing each participant with a complimentary copy of the book MOTORING – Getting the Maximum from your new Mini authored by Gary Anderson & Don Racine. They have also offered to deliver any open orders to customers saving shipping charges.

Gotbluemilk.com will be providing event photography. They will be located around the track, taking photos of your Mini and will have them in their trailer for purchase.
http://gotbluemilk.com/


For those of you that are reluctant to enter your Mini in a HPDE (High Performance Driving Event), we welcome you to attend the day for free. Time permitting you will be able to take parade laps, without helmets, so that you can experience driving the track. These will be done during lunch and later in the afternoon. We also offer “ride along” rides with instructors.

Lunch is available to those of you who did not register for MINI Thunder as a participant for $15 each.

Don Racine of Mini Mania is looking to bring 3 Classic Racing Minis and a new MINI
Mike Kearney of Seven Enterprises will be bringing the Yellow Fortech Mini.
Working on Joe Huffaker to bring his as well.

Colusa Casino still has rooms available. There is a package deal for a room, romantic dinner, with champagne and roses for two for $215 per couple. Contact: Jim Boggs @ 530-458-8844 ext 6863

Here are some of the vendor/sponsor/contributors that will be there.

Neillo MINI – Sponsor/Vendor www.neillomini.com
Mini Mania www.minimania.com
MC2 Magazine – Sponsor/Publicity http://www.mc2magazine.com/
Miniology.com - Sponsor/Publicity www.miniology.com
Northbay Bavarian – vendor http://www.bmwnbb.com/
Defenders of Speed – vendor http://defendersofspeed.com/store/
FES Auto http://www.fes-auto.com/
Hooked on Driving – http://www.hookedondriving.com/home_noflash2.cfm
RockAuto.com – Gift Certificates http://rockauto.com/
Gotbluemilk.com www.gotbluemilk.com
Seven Enterprises www.7ent.com
LANGKA Paint Chip/Scratch Repair http://www.langka.com



-----
 
  #23  
Old 01-17-2010, 01:22 AM
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DoS Installs at MINI Thunder . . .

Hi, it's Clint from DoS.

Drop me a PM or email if you will be in attendance and are interested in purchasing and/or having anything that we carry installed on your MINI. I'll be around all day in the paddock area at Thunderhill.

See y'all on 2/15.

-Clint
 
  #24  
Old 01-18-2010, 08:16 AM
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Here's a little preview of what its all about:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B8yTm-BkuF8
 
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Old 01-23-2010, 08:10 AM
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MINI Thunder Registration:

To insure that you get a spot in the field you should register NOW. We will be cutting off registrations as we get full groups. Also it will take a few weeks to make up the T-Shirts as we are ordering them by the sizes listed on your registration and we won't be ordering extras.

Those MINIs that are just coming to watch and take parade laps are not required to register and entry is free, but you will not be getting a T-Shirt and lunch will be $15
 


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